What's with the entitlement? How about being thankful that they have a free plan you can use, that's useful, and continues to be available?
A referral is - unless an arrangement has been made - a service to the person you're referring, in that you're making a recommendation built on trust and aren't misleading someone.
I don't think nthj was being ungrateful. Referral fees are a service to both parties, and companies often pay referral fees as a thank-you. nthj was merely pointing out that he takes his referral fee in the form of free hosting for tiny projects, so he doesn't need to feel any guilt.
You are probably being downvoted for being unnecessarily caustic. Your point wasn't a bad one, even if I think you're wrong; consider rephrasing with an edit?
A referral is - unless an arrangement has been made - a service to the person you're referring, in that you're making a recommendation built on trust and aren't misleading someone.