Leazell, you don't have to pay for the +1 button, it's similar to the Facebook 'Like' button (you'll see them around, they're even on the posts here at VAF). It's a way to help get more exposure for your site/content/info by giving people a way to promote/like/+1 whatever it is.
You just need a Google account and the snip of code added to your site,
click here to get more info directly from Google.