Key Takeaways
- To send crypto you need the recipient's address, the correct network and enough of the native coin to pay fees.
- Choosing the wrong network or skipping a required memo or destination tag can cause funds to be lost.
- Always double-check the address and send a small test transaction first for large transfers.
- Crypto transactions are irreversible once confirmed.
Sending crypto is one of the most basic things you'll do, whether moving coins from an exchange to your own wallet or paying someone. It only takes a minute, but small mistakes can be permanent. This guide walks you through doing it safely.
What you need
- The recipient's address: a long string of letters and numbers, or a QR code.
- The correct network: many tokens exist on several blockchains, such as USDC on Ethereum, Solana or a layer 2.
- Enough for fees: network fees are paid in the blockchain's native coin, such as ETH on Ethereum.
- A memo or destination tag, if the recipient requires one (common for XRP and some other coins sent to exchanges).
How to send crypto: step by step
- Get the receiving address. In the recipient's wallet or exchange, choose "Receive" or "Deposit," select the coin and network, and copy the address or scan the QR code.
- Match the network. In the sending app, choose exactly the same network the recipient selected. This is the most common cause of lost funds.
- Paste and verify the address. Check at least the first and last several characters. If you're using a hardware wallet, confirm the address on the device screen.
- Add the memo or tag if required.
- Enter the amount and review the fee.
- Send a small test first for any significant amount, and confirm it arrives.
- Send the rest and save the transaction ID (hash) so you can track it on a block explorer.
Understanding network fees
Every transaction pays a fee to the network. Fees vary by blockchain and congestion: Bitcoin and Ethereum fees can rise when busy, while Solana and Ethereum layer 2 networks are usually much cheaper. Exchanges usually charge a flat withdrawal fee instead. Learn more in crypto fees explained.
How long does a transfer take?
It depends on the network and on how many confirmations the recipient requires. Solana and many layer 2 transfers arrive in seconds; Ethereum often takes under a minute; Bitcoin may take 10 minutes to an hour for multiple confirmations. Exchanges may also hold withdrawals for security review.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Wrong network: sending a token on a network the recipient doesn't support.
- Missing memo or destination tag when sending to an exchange.
- Address poisoning: scammers send tiny transactions from addresses that look similar to ones you've used, hoping you'll copy the wrong one from your history. Always copy from the recipient, not your transaction history.
- Clipboard malware: malicious software can swap a copied address. Verify before sending.
- No gas money: holding tokens but no native coin to pay fees.
- Sending to a smart contract address by mistake.
Read more in 10 tips to keep your crypto safe.
What if something goes wrong?
- Transaction pending: check its status on a block explorer using the transaction ID. Low fees can cause delays.
- Sent to the wrong network on an exchange: contact the exchange's support; some can recover funds for a fee, but it's not guaranteed.
- Sent to the wrong address: unless you control that address or know the owner, it usually can't be reversed.
Frequently asked questions
Can I cancel a crypto transaction?
Once confirmed, no. Some networks let you speed up or replace a pending transaction by paying a higher fee, but confirmed transactions are final.
Is it safe to share my wallet address?
Yes. Your public address only lets people send you funds. Never share your private key or seed phrase.
What is a transaction hash?
A unique ID for your transaction that you can look up on a block explorer to see its status and confirmations.
Moving funds to a wallet for the first time? Read what is a crypto wallet.
This guide is for educational purposes only and is not financial advice.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not financial advice. Cryptocurrency investments are volatile and risky. Some links may be affiliate links — see our disclosure.