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Learn to Buy Crypto with a Credit Card Like a Pro in Minutes
Buying cryptocurrency with a credit card is a fast and convenient way to access digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more. This method comes with unique benefits, risks, and costs that every investor should understand. Our handy guide covers everything you need to know, including how to buy crypto with a credit card, which platforms work best, and a few other tips you should keep in mind.
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Where Can You Buy Crypto with a Credit Card?
Most reputable exchanges will allow you to fund your account with the use of a credit card. Some of our favorite options include:
How to Buy Crypto with a Credit Card: A Quick and Simple Guide
The days when securing your digital assets felt like completing a shady deal in some alleys are now (fortunately) well behind us! Now you can purchase your tokens in just a few simple steps.
Of course, the exact method will differ from platform to platform, but generally you can expect the process to work as follows:
1. Choose an exchange: Select a reputable exchange that supports credit card purchases (we suggest sticking to our top picks, listed at the top of this page).
2. Create and verify your account: Complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) process to verify your true identity.
3. Add your credit card: Link your credit card as a payment method. Some platforms may require 3D Secure authentication.
4. Select the coin: Choose the asset you want to buy (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
5. Enter the amount: Specify how much you would like to purchase in your local currency or token amount.
6. Review fees: Carefully review the transaction, including all platform and card-related fees.
7. Confirm and complete purchase: Approve the transaction. Your coins will be credited to your exchange wallet, often within minutes.
That’s pretty much all there is to it, which is why selecting a trustworthy and well-suited platform is absolutely essential for the smoothest possible purchasing experience. For more information on buying Bitcoin specifically, visit our Buy Bitcoin page.
A Closer Look at the Top Crypto Exchanges for Credit Card Deposits
Coinbase
Coinbase is one of the largest and most trusted exchanges, known for its user-friendly interface and regulatory compliance. Coinbase supports a wide range of digital currencies and offers both a web platform and a mobile app. The platform supports credit card deposits through Visa and Mastercard.
Why choose Coinbase?
- Beginner-friendly: The interface is designed for newcomers, with clear instructions and educational resources.
- Security: Coinbase employs industry-leading security measures, including insurance on custodial assets and two-factor authentication.
- Regulation: As a publicly traded company, Coinbase complies with strict US regulations, providing transparency and trust.
- Liquidity: High trading volumes ensure competitive pricing and fast order execution.
My Experience Using Coinbase:
“I like how easy it is to use Coinbase for both storing and purchasing cryptocurrency. I like that it is a well-known and trusted name in the space and that they offer fantastic security.”
- Earn $200 in free crypto after completing sign-up process. Terms apply.
- Variety of products including exchange, staking, wallet
- Advanced Trading options for experienced traders
Kraken
Kraken is a global exchange established in 2011. Kraken offers a wide range of products and services, including spot trading, margin trading, futures trading, over-the-counter trading, staking, perpetuals, and an NFT marketplace. It’s incredibly easy to get started on the platform, with credit card purchases conveniently listed on the “Buy Crypto” menu.
Why choose Kraken?
- Security: Kraken uses proof of reserves and hot and cold wallet storage kept under surveillance to keep assets safe.
- Advanced tools: Kraken offers spot, margin, and futures trading, and advanced order types.
- Global reach: Kraken supports users in over 190 countries, with credit card purchases available in most regions outside the US.
- Reputation: One of the oldest and most respected names in the industry.
My Experience Using Kraken:
“Kraken’s amazing security and support, coupled with beautiful simplicity and ease of use and low fees, make it clear why they are the fourth-biggest exchange in the world in trading volume, with millions of happy users worldwide.”
- Exceptionally secure exchange with proof of reserves
- Supports many different funding options
- Accepts users from across the globe including USA and Canada
- Very high trading volume
Crypto.com
This is a global cryptocurrency platform offering an exchange, a Visa debit card, and a mobile app for buying, selling, and earning virtual assets. You can use your credit card to top up your crypto.com card, or to make purchases directly on the platform.
Why choose Crypto.com?
- Integrated ecosystem: Combines trading, DeFi, payments, and rewards in one platform.
- Crypto.com Visa card: This card enables you to spend coins and earn cashback in CRO tokens.
- Rewards: Generous rewards for cardholders, including rebates on streaming services and airport lounge access for higher tiers.
- User experience: The app is designed for ease of use, with features for beginners and advanced users.
My Experience Using Crypto.com:
“All in all, I would definitely recommend anyone to invest and trade using this platform. I mostly liked the fact that there’s so much to do on the site, be it investments or learning to earn.”
- One-stop shop for crypto with built-in exchange, app, lending platform, debit card and more
- Native CRO token gives users a huge variety of perks and can be staked for over 10% APY
- Potential for earning high amount of interest when storing digital assets on Crypto.com
- A long-term goal of building cryptocurrency adoption on whole
eToro
eToro is a multi-asset trading platform that offers coins, stocks, ETFs, and more. eToro is known for its social trading features, enabling you to copy the trades of successful investors. It is also one of only a few platforms to offer credit card deposits and withdrawals, making it a top choice for quick and easy transactions.
Why choose eToro?
- Social trading: Unique copy trading feature lets you follow and automatically replicate the strategies of top traders.
- Multi-asset platform: Trade your assets alongside stocks, commodities, and other assets.
- Regulation: eToro is regulated in multiple jurisdictions, providing an added layer of trust.
- Simple onboarding: Accepts credit card deposits, making it easy for new users to get started.
My Experience Using eToro:
“I appreciate eToro’s social trading features, which allow me to learn from experienced traders. Their platform is user-friendly, and their regulation provides a sense of security.”
- Great for crypto beginners
- Solid crypto/general trading platform
- Reliable company with solid trust in the community
- Fully supports credit cards for deposits and withdrawals
Should You Use Your Card to Buy Digital Assets?
The answer to this question really depends on your personal spending habits. Purchasing assets this way is best for users who prioritize speed and convenience. Those who understand the risks, and can pay off their balance in full each month to avoid high-interest charges. Be sure to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of this method, before making your decision.
Pros
Speed and convenience: Credit card purchases are processed instantly, enabling you to take advantage of market opportunities without waiting for bank transfers to clear.
Beginner-friendly: Most platforms make it easy to buy tokens with a credit card, even for first-time users.
Rewards: Some linked credit cards and exchanges offer cashback or other rewards for purchases.
Accessibility: Credit cards are widely accepted and can be used globally on many exchanges.
Cons
High fees: Expect to pay transaction fees, cash advance fees, and possible foreign transaction fees.
Privacy: You may need to provide more personal information to buy cryptocurrency with a credit card
Debt Risk: Using borrowed funds to buy coins can lead to losses and increased debt if the market moves against you.
Potential for overspending: The ease of using a credit card can tempt you to invest more than you can afford to lose.
What Are the Fees for Card-based Payments?
You can expect to see a few different fees associated with this kind of deposit, depending on the exchange you choose. Some of the most common fees you might come across, include:
- Exchange fees: Usually around 2 – 4.5% per transaction.
- Cash advance fees: Some credit card networks are charging 3 – 5% of the transaction amount, often with immediate interest accrual (no grace period).
- Foreign transaction fees: Up to 3% if the exchange is based outside your country.
To give you a better idea of what you can expect to pay, we have rounded up the typical credit card fees charged on the most popular exchanges:
Exchange
Fees
Coinbase
3.99% per transaction
Kraken
3.75% + $0.25 per transaction
Binance
3.5% of the transaction amount or $10, whichever is higher
Crypto.com
2.99% (though this varies) and 2.99% fee for card top-ups
eToro
No fees for credit card deposits
Which Major Card Providers Allow You to Buy Cryptocurrency?
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted on major exchanges. However, it is important to note that the transaction’s approval depends on your issuing bank’s policies, and your region. American Express can occasionally be used to buy tokens, but it is much less commonly supported and often subject to additional restrictions or higher fees, with many exchanges declining Amex transactions altogether.
Which Brands Don’t Allow It?
- Major US banks: Wells Fargo, Citibank, Bank of America, and others typically block digital asset purchases with their credit cards.
- Issuer policies: Even if the card network (Visa/Mastercard) allows the purchase, your issuing bank may decline the transaction or treat it as a cash advance, incurring extra fees.
A Few Expert-Backed Tips for Buying Safely and Avoiding Extra Fees
Figuring out how to buy crypto with a credit card, is really not all that different from any other deposit method. However, if you do run into trouble along the way – be sure to refer to this tried-and-tested advice:
- Many card issuers block these purchases by default, so transactions can be declined. If this happens, contact your bank or try a different card.
- All reputable exchanges require users to complete identity verification (KYC) before allowing credit card purchases, so have your documents ready if this is your first try.
- Platforms and card issuers may impose daily, monthly, or per-transaction spending limits that can restrict the amount you can buy at one time. For security reasons, some exchanges place temporary holds on withdrawals, sometimes up to 72 hours, after a purchase made with a credit card. Make sure to factor these possible delays into your plans.
- Always use a secure network to complete your transactions to avoid any unwanted prying eyes.
- Once you purchased your new assets, consider moving them to a wallet for more secure long-term storage. Take a look at our picks for the safest crypto wallets, while you’re at it.
CryptoVantage tip: If this is your first time using your card as a payment method, start out with a small purchase to test the system. This will help you to identify possible issues before you move up to larger amounts.
What Are Some Alternatives to Buying Crypto with a Credit Card?
If this method doesn’t work for you, don’t panic, there are several alternatives to consider.
Debit cards are popular, since this method involves lower fees and is less likely to be treated as a cash advance by your bank. Bank transfers generally offer the lowest fees, though they can take longer to process. Peer-to-peer (P2P) marketplaces enable you to buy assets directly from other users, using a variety of payment methods. This offers flexibility, but requires careful attention to security. Cryptocurrency ATMs provide a way to purchase tokens with cash, although they typically charge higher fees than online platforms. Some mobile payment apps, like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and MoonPay, now even support instant purchases.
A Few Last Words to Help You Buy with Confidence
Buying crypto with a credit card is fast and accessible. As long as you work through a well-known exchange, this can be a very convenient way to make deposits and build up your portfolio.
The process is not difficult, but we still recommend that you always check your card’s terms, understand the risks, and consider alternatives – before you hit that “Buy” button.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, many exchanges support credit card purchases. This includes reputable exchanges, like Coinbase, Kraken, Binance, Crypto.com and eToro.
Remember that the final approval of the transaction depends on your card issuer and their platform policies.
Each payment method has its own pros and cons. Bank transfers generally offer the lowest fees. Debit cards are faster but may have slightly higher fees. Credit cards are the fastest, but have higher fees and may incur cash advance charges. It is important to do your research to decide which payment method is best for you.
Chase Bank customers can use their Chase debit cards or transfer funds to regulated exchanges to buy digital assets. Chase credit cards typically do not support the purchasing of digital assets.
