In recent years, cryptocurrency has evolved from a niche digital experiment into a mainstream financial asset. With increasing demand for easy access to digital currencies, major fintech platforms have stepped in to bridge the gap between traditional finance and blockchain technology. One such platform is Venmo, the widely used peer-to-peer payment app, which now allows users to buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrency directly within the app.
This integration marks a significant shift in how everyday users interact with crypto—making it more accessible than ever before. Whether you're a beginner curious about Bitcoin or an experienced investor looking to diversify, Venmo's new feature offers a streamlined way to enter the world of digital assets.
👉 Discover how easy it is to start investing in crypto today.
Understanding Venmo’s Cryptocurrency Support
Can you buy crypto with Venmo? Yes—as of 2025, all eligible Venmo users in the U.S. can purchase select cryptocurrencies directly through the app. This feature was rolled out gradually but is now available to the general public, signaling Venmo’s commitment to expanding its financial services beyond simple money transfers.
Currently, Venmo supports four major cryptocurrencies:
- Bitcoin (BTC)
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Litecoin (LTC)
- Bitcoin Cash (BCH)
These options cover some of the most established and widely traded digital currencies in the market, giving users exposure to both large-cap leaders and long-standing altcoins.
While you can buy, sell, and store these assets within your Venmo account, there are limitations. You cannot use cryptocurrency to pay for goods or services via Venmo, nor can you transfer coins off-platform. Your holdings remain within the Venmo ecosystem unless sold for fiat currency.
Once users become familiar with the interface, buying and holding crypto on Venmo requires just a few taps—making it ideal for beginners.
How to Buy and Sell Crypto on Venmo
Getting started with cryptocurrency on Venmo is designed to be intuitive, even for those with no prior experience.
Buying Cryptocurrency
- Open the Venmo app and tap the hamburger menu (☰) in the top-left corner.
- Navigate to "Crypto" under your account settings.
- Tap "Explore" and select your preferred cryptocurrency.
- View the real-time price and enter the amount you’d like to purchase (minimum: $1).
- Confirm the transaction—including fees—and complete your purchase.
The process is nearly identical when selling. Simply go to your Crypto section, choose the asset you own, and select "Sell" instead of "Buy." The proceeds are converted into U.S. dollars and added to your Venmo balance, which you can then use for payments or transfer to your bank.
Transactions are processed instantly, though settlement times may vary slightly depending on network activity.
👉 Learn how to maximize your crypto investment strategy with smart tools.
Key Benefits of Using Venmo for Crypto
Venmo’s entry into the crypto space brings several advantages that align well with casual investors and mobile-first users.
1. Low Entry Barrier
You can begin investing in cryptocurrency with as little as $1, lowering the threshold for participation and encouraging financial inclusivity.
2. User-Friendly Interface
Built on a familiar platform, Venmo’s crypto features integrate seamlessly into an app many already use daily. There's no need to learn complex exchanges or manage separate wallets.
3. Security Protection
Unlike many decentralized platforms, Venmo provides loss protection in case of unauthorized access or security breaches. If your account is compromised and funds are stolen, Venmo will reimburse you—offering peace of mind often missing in the crypto world.
4. Purchase Limits Ensure Safety
To mitigate risk, Venmo imposes weekly and annual caps:
- $20,000 per week
- $50,000 per year
These limits help prevent large-scale fraud while still allowing meaningful investment activity.
Fees and Transaction Costs
While convenient, trading crypto on Venmo isn't free. The platform charges a transaction fee based on the value of the trade:
- Minimum fee: $0.50
- Maximum fixed fee: $25
- Above $25, fees range from 1.5% to 2.3%, depending on transaction size
Importantly, Venmo displays the exact fee before you confirm any trade—ensuring transparency and helping users avoid surprises.
These fees are competitive compared to other beginner-friendly platforms like PayPal, though they may be higher than dedicated crypto exchanges such as OKX or Coinbase for larger trades.
Comparing Venmo to Other P2P Platforms
Venmo isn’t alone in offering crypto through payment apps. Here’s how it stacks up against alternatives:
PayPal
Like Venmo, PayPal supports BTC, ETH, LTC, and BCH with $1 minimum investments. However, PayPal allows users to spend crypto directly at checkout with its Crypto Checkout feature—something Venmo doesn’t currently offer.
Paxful and Peer-to-Peer Marketplaces
Platforms like Paxful enable users to buy crypto using various payment methods—including bank transfers, Zelle, and even gift cards. These services offer more flexibility but come with higher risks due to less centralized oversight.
For users prioritizing simplicity and security over advanced functionality, Venmo strikes a solid middle ground.
Important Limitations and Considerations
Despite its convenience, Venmo’s crypto offering comes with notable caveats:
❌ No Withdrawals or Transfers
You cannot move cryptocurrency off the Venmo platform. This means you can't send crypto to external wallets or other users—even other Venmo accounts.
❌ Not Spendable as Currency
Held cryptocurrencies cannot be used to pay friends or merchants through Venmo. They exist solely as investment assets until sold for USD.
❌ Limited Selection
With only four supported coins, Venmo offers far fewer choices than full-service exchanges that list hundreds of tokens.
These restrictions mean that while Venmo is excellent for beginner investment, it's not suitable for active traders or those seeking full control over their digital assets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I transfer my crypto from Venmo to another wallet?
A: No. Currently, Venmo does not allow outbound transfers of cryptocurrency. Your coins must remain in your Venmo account until sold for fiat currency.
Q: Is there a minimum amount required to buy crypto on Venmo?
A: Yes, you can start with as little as $1, making it accessible for small-scale investors.
Q: Does Venmo charge fees for buying or selling crypto?
A: Yes. Fees start at $0.50 and increase based on transaction size, capping at $25 before switching to a percentage model (1.5%–2.3%).
Q: Can I use cryptocurrency to pay people on Venmo?
A: No. You cannot spend crypto directly on Venmo. You must first sell it for U.S. dollars.
Q: Is my crypto investment protected if my account is hacked?
A: Yes. Venmo offers protection against unauthorized transactions and will reimburse losses due to security breaches.
Q: Will Venmo add more cryptocurrencies in the future?
A: While not officially confirmed, expansion is likely as user demand grows and regulatory frameworks evolve.
Final Thoughts: Is Venmo Right for Your Crypto Journey?
Venmo’s integration of cryptocurrency represents a major step toward mainstream adoption. By simplifying access and reducing entry barriers, it empowers millions of users to begin exploring digital assets without leaving their favorite payment app.
However, it's best viewed as a gateway rather than a destination. For long-term holders or advanced traders seeking custody, broader coin selection, or spending capabilities, moving to a dedicated exchange may eventually make sense.
As the fintech landscape continues to evolve, platforms like Venmo play a crucial role in demystifying crypto—one tap at a time.
👉 Take the next step in your crypto journey with powerful trading tools designed for every level.