How to Buy Bitcoin with Wire Transfer
We’ve listed exchanges that let you buy bitcoins with wire transfer. Wires are one of the most popular methods of payment for BTC.
River
Best for USA
River
Best for USA
River is a Bitcoin-only exchange based in the USA. It supports wire transfers with no deposit fees. River is known for its clean interface, zero-fee recurring buys (DCA), and full-reserve custody. Ideal for serious Bitcoin investors.
Visit River's Website- Zero-fee wire transfer deposits
- Bitcoin-only platform (no altcoin distractions)
- Zero-fee recurring buys for dollar-cost averaging
- Only supports Bitcoin
Kraken
Best for Europe
Kraken
Best for Europe
Kraken is one of the world's largest crypto exchanges. It supports bank transfer deposits from the US via international bank transfer, ACH transfer, wire transfer and SWIFT.
Visit Kraken's Website- Very low 0.25% taker fee, falling to 0.1% with sufficient trading volume
- Very low maker fee, falling to 0% with sufficient trading volume
- Highly-rated for security and data protection
- Requires ID verification, so not private
Gemini
Gemini
US customers can purchase bitcoins on Gemini by funding their account with ACH transfer or wire transfer. In our testing, we noticed that Gemini charges a $25 for wire transfers that are outgoing.
Visit Gemini's Website- Trustworthy and regulated exchange
- Instant deposit lets you buy coins quickly (but not withdraw them)
- Some of the lowest fees in the US and Canada
- Somewhat confusing to use for new buyers
Uphold
Uphold
Uphold is based in New York and supports US dollar deposits via bank account thru wire transfer or ACH transfer.
Visit Uphold's Website- Ability to also buy gold and silver
- Requires ID verification, so not private
Coinbase
Coinbase
In the USA you can buy bitcoin with a connected bank account on Coinbase via ACH bank transfer or wire transfer. Coinbase charges a flat 1.49% fee on all transactions.
Visit Coinbase's Website- Trusted exchange with 100 million+ users
- Based in the USA; with a free wallet included
- App available on Apple App Store & Play Store
- Easy to use but fees can be high
- Coinbase may track how and where you spend your bitcoins
Coinbase Advanced
Coinbase Advanced
US customers can fund their Coinbase Exchange trading accounts via ACH or bank wire. You'll connect your account via routing number and account number upon verifying your Coinbase account.
Visit Coinbase Advanced's Website- Some of the lowest fees available for US and EU customers
- Possible to buy bitcoins for 0% fees
- The user interface is confusing for first-time buyers
CEX.io
CEX.io
CEX.io allows for purchases of bitcoins using ACH or wire transfer in the USA.
- Support for many countries and regions
- Low 0.2% trading fee
- Established and trusted exchange
- Verification process is extensive, requiring much personal information (including a photo) and incurring a long delay
- GBP market lacks liquidity
Fee Comparison
Steps to Buy Bitcoin with Wire Transfer
1. Find an exchange that accepts wire transfer
We have done that part for you on this page, so you'll just need to pick one from the list above.
2. Sign up for an account
Create an account on your chosen exchange. You'll need to provide an email address and create a password.
3. Verify your identity
Most exchanges require ID verification before you can make deposits. Have your government-issued ID ready.
4. Get the exchange's bank details
Navigate to the deposit section and select wire transfer. The exchange will provide their bank account details.
5. Initiate the wire transfer from your bank
Log into your bank account and initiate a wire transfer using the details provided by the exchange. Include any reference numbers they require.
6. Wait for the funds to arrive
Wire transfers typically take 1-5 business days. The exchange will notify you when the funds are available.
7. Purchase Bitcoin
Once your funds are deposited, you can place an order to buy Bitcoin at the current market price or set a limit order.
8. Withdraw to your wallet
For security, consider moving your Bitcoin to a personal wallet that you control.
Safety Precautions
- Secure your Transactions: Make sure the exchange uses HTTPS. Don't use public wifi when signing up.
- Enable 2FA: Most exchanges force you to use 2FA, so this won't be an issue. If the exchange does not require 2FA, don't use it.
- Check the URL: Match the URL in the browser to the one you're trying to reach. Some scams try to change letters around.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing an Exchange
- Geographical Restrictions: Some exchanges only work in certain countries. In the USA, some don't work in certain states.
- Liquidity: Platforms with higher liquidity allow you to buy and sell Bitcoin at competitive prices.
- Customer Service: Most exchanges offer customer service if you have an account.
- User Reviews: Check reviews on platforms like Trustpilot or Reddit for user experiences.
Methodology
We researched exchanges that support bank transfers in the USA. Then, we listed trusted exchanges that are proven and not scams.
What are the pros of buying with a wire transfer?
The benefit of using a wire transfer are fees. Wire transfer is usually the cheapest deposit method for buying coins. Limits are also usually higher when using a wire transfer, assuming you have verified your account.
What are the cons of buying with a wire transfer?
The cons are speed. Wire transfers are slow in many countries, so wire transfer is often the slowest way to buy bitcoins.
What about wire transfer vs credit card?
Credit card or debit card purchases will be faster, but come with much higher fees. Wire transfer is slower in general but has lower fees.
Is it safe to buy Bitcoin with a wire transfer?
Yes, as long as you use a reputable exchange. Make sure the exchange uses HTTPS, enable 2FA, and always verify you're on the correct website URL.
How long does a wire transfer take?
Wire transfers typically take 1-5 business days to complete, depending on your bank and the exchange you're using.
What information do I need for a wire transfer?
You'll typically need your bank's routing number, your account number, and the exchange's bank details which they will provide after you initiate a deposit.
Are there fees for wire transfers?
Yes, most banks charge $15-$30 for outgoing wire transfers. Some exchanges may also charge a fee to receive wire transfers.
Can I buy Bitcoin with an international wire transfer?
Yes, many exchanges accept international wire transfers via SWIFT, though these can take longer and may have higher fees than domestic transfers.