Blood Type Compatibility Chart — Donor & Recipient Guide
Check blood type compatibility for transfusions. Select your blood type to see who you can receive from, who you can donate to, and plasma compatibility. Includes a full 8×8 compatibility matrix. Free, instant, no sign-up.
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Frequently asked questions about blood type compatibility.
Which blood type is the universal donor?
O negative (O-) is the universal red blood cell donor — it can be given to any blood type in emergencies. AB positive (AB+) is the universal plasma donor.
Which blood type is the universal recipient?
AB positive (AB+) is the universal recipient for red blood cells — people with AB+ can receive blood from all 8 blood types.
What does Rh positive and negative mean?
The Rh factor is a protein on the surface of red blood cells. Rh+ means the protein is present; Rh- means it is absent. People who are Rh- can only safely receive Rh- blood to avoid an immune reaction.
Is plasma compatibility different from red cell compatibility?
Yes — plasma compatibility is essentially the reverse of red cell compatibility. AB blood types are universal plasma donors because their plasma lacks A and B antibodies that would attack recipient cells.
Can I donate blood if I don't know my blood type?
Yes — blood banks will test your blood type before using your donation. If you want to know your blood type, you can request it from your doctor or use a home blood-typing kit.