Curious about buying Bitcoin (BTC) at BTC ATMs (BTMs)?
Lucky for you, that’s what we’re all about here at Bitcoin Depot. Our mission is simple: bring BTC to the masses. That’s why we strive to offer users like you a fast, efficient, and streamlined process to purchase BTC with cash.
Of course, you probably have questions about what you need to get started.
That’s what this article is all about. So, read on to learn more about things like BTM purchase limits, items you’ll need to make a purchase, and some other options to buy that may fit your needs a bit better.
So, how do beginners buy Bitcoin?
There are a few options:
Buying Bitcoin has gone from complex to simple, and part of that transformation is thanks to BTMs. So, if you’re wondering how to buy Bitcoin using a BTM, what do you need to know?
Let’s start with the basics, and that’s what you’ll need to get started.
Looking for a full breakdown of the process? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Check out our BTM beginner’s guide for all the details.
For now, we’ll focus on what you’ll need to get started and why they matter. Here is what you’ll need:
Consider this the starter pack for a cash purchase of BTC. For most of our customers, this is all they’ll need. Keep in mind that these necessary items can vary depending on the BTM operator and your local regulations and laws.
Additionally, there is a bit more involved if larger purchases are on your radar.
That’s where BTM limits and Know-Your-Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) laws and regulations come into play.
BTM limits refer to the amount of BTC you can purchase in a single transaction or in a day (daily limits). Transaction limits vary among different BTM providers, with typical ranges as follows:
These BTM limits are set by the individual BTM operators and guided by local, state, and federal regulations. Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to how much you can purchase at a time. It will depend highly on where you live.
For example, in California, there are pretty strict limits on BTM purchases. In a single day, you can only purchase up to $1,000. This is due to state law SB401* (learn more about SB401 at legislature.ca.gov). In some states and jurisdictions, you can purchase up to $15,000 a day, provided certain conditions are met.
If you want to know more about this topic, be sure to explore our blog on KYC, Privacy, and BTMs. For now, just know that KYC policies aren’t just to keep BTM operators compliant; they’re also for your safety.
Most BTM operators, including Bitcoin Depot, will allow customers to purchase more BTC when they offer additional verification details.
This can be as simple as a valid ID.
In short, if you want to buy Bitcoin at higher limits, you may need to complete additional KYC verification requirements. Luckily, you can always reach out to our customer support team to learn more about this process.
Assisting you with buying Bitcoin with cash is what BTMs do best.
At these convenient cash-to-coin machines, you simply follow a streamlined process, and just like that, your coins hit your wallet.
As you might expect, Bitcoin Depot strives to keep this process as simple and straightforward as possible. No jumping through hoops to get your coins. Even so, we understand that the Bitcoin buying process at our BTMs isn't for everyone.
Luckily, no matter how you want to make a purchase, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s explore a few other ways you can buy Bitcoin while still leveraging our safe and secure purchasing process.
Buying Bitcoin with a debit card? No problem.
Our buy online service is the perfect solution. This purely online experience allows you to enter some information about your purchase and buy Bitcoin with a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. Talk about convenience.
The best part? You can start with as little as $50.
Still want to purchase BTC with cash?
With BDCheckout™, you can buy your coins at a register just like any other retail purchase. As of November 2024, 29 states support BDCheckout™.
Oh, and you won’t have to worry about hunting them down. It’s likely that your favorite retailer already supports the in-person BTC buying experience. It’s also just as easy as using a BTM. Through the Bitcoin Depot mobile app, you create a unique barcode that scans right at the register.
You don’t even need to mention BTC!
Buying Bitcoin at BTMs is no longer a novelty. It’s mainstream, with thousands of BTMs across the globe. Bitcoin Depot alone operates a network of over 8,400 BTMs (as of November 2024) across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico.
No matter where you are, you’re never too far away from a seamless cash purchase of BTC.
All you need is a few things, like your phone, an email address, and your cash. We make it painless to turn your cash into coins.
To get started, find your local BTM.
*The information provided above is for informational purposes only. The inclusion of any particular 3rd party site does not imply an endorsement, sponsorship, or partnership between Bitcoin Depot and the listed above. While Bitcoin Depot endeavors to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the information provided, we do not guarantee the reliability of any 3rd party’s information.