If you’ve ever wondered, “How do I buy crypto in the U.S.?”—this straightforward guide is just what you need.
What is crypto?
Crypto is essentially digital money. Instead of physical coins or bills, it exists in the online world. The most well-known types are Bitcoin and Ethereum. People typically buy them to invest, trade, or sometimes even spend.
Can you legally buy crypto in the U.S.?
Absolutely! Buying crypto is legal in the U.S. as of 2025. Just keep in mind that regulations can differ from state to state, and not every app is accessible everywhere. But don’t stress—there are plenty of secure options available.
Step 1: Choose a trusted app or exchange
Think of an exchange as a shop where you can purchase crypto. For those just starting out in the U.S., some of the most popular choices are
Coinbase—super beginner-friendly.
Gemini—known for strong security and compliance.
Kraken—offers slightly lower fees.
Binance. US—available in many states, though not all.
Make sure to pick one that operates in your state (you can verify this on the app’s official website).
Step 2: Create an account
Download the app or head to the website. You’ll need to:
Sign up using your email and create a password.
Verify your identity (this usually means uploading an ID and sometimes your SSN—it’s a standard requirement under U.S. law).
Step 3: Add money
You can’t buy crypto until you fund your account. Common payment methods include:
Bank transfer (ACH)—takes 1–3 days but usually has low fees.
Debit card—instant but may come with higher fees.
Wire transfer—quicker for larger amounts, but not necessary for beginners.
Start small—even $10 or $20 works just fine.
Step 4: Buy your first crypto
Once your funds are in the app:
Search for Bitcoin or Ethereum (great choices for beginners).
Tap “Buy.”
Enter the amount you want to spend (for example: $20).
Confirm your purchase.
Congratulations—you’re now a crypto owner!
Step 5: Keep it safe
You can leave your crypto in the app, but many people move it to a wallet for extra safety.
- Exchange wallet—easy, but the app controls it.
- Personal wallet—you control it. The best option is a hardware wallet (like Ledger or Trezor).
For small amounts, leaving it in the app is fine to start. But if you buy more, think about a personal wallet.
Step 6: Remember taxes
In the U.S., crypto is taxed like stocks. If you sell or trade, you may owe taxes. Keep records of what you buy and sell and when. Many apps let you download this info at tax time.
Beginner mistakes to avoid
- Don’t invest money you can’t afford to lose.
- Don’t fall for scams or “too good to be true” offers.
- Don’t share your wallet password or recovery phrase with anyone.
- Don’t forget to turn on two-factor authentication for account security.
FAQ
- How much crypto should I buy as a beginner?
- Start small—even $10–$50 is fine to learn how it works.
- Which crypto is best for beginners?
- Bitcoin and Ethereum are the most trusted starting points.
- Is crypto safe?
- It can be safe if you use regulated apps, enable security features, and avoid scams.
Final Thoughts
Buying crypto in the U.S. in 2025 is simple when you follow the steps:
- Pick a trusted app.
- Create an account.
- Add money.
- Buy a small amount of Bitcoin or Ethereum.
- Keep it safe.
Start slow, stay safe, and learn as you go. This guide is for education only—always do your own research before investing.
