Tether (USDT) is one of the most widely used stablecoins in the cryptocurrency ecosystem, offering price stability by being pegged 1:1 to the US dollar. As more users adopt decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms and Web3 applications, knowing how to manage USDT across various blockchains has become essential. One of the most popular tools for interacting with digital assets is MetaMask, a non-custodial crypto wallet that supports multiple blockchain networks.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to add Tether (USDT) to MetaMask on Ethereum, BNB Chain, Arbitrum, Polygon, and other EVM-compatible networks. We’ll also cover verified contract addresses, security best practices, and common questions users have when managing USDT in their wallets.
Whether you're new to crypto or expanding your DeFi portfolio, this step-by-step tutorial ensures a smooth and secure experience.
What Is Tether (USDT)?
Tether (USDT) is a stablecoin designed to maintain a stable value relative to the US dollar. Each USDT token is backed by reserves consisting of cash, cash equivalents, and short-term deposits, ensuring its 1:1 peg. Because of its stability, USDT is commonly used for trading, remittances, and storing value during volatile market conditions.
USDT exists on multiple blockchains, including:
- Ethereum (ERC-20)
- BNB Chain (BEP-20)
- Polygon (PoS)
- Arbitrum
- Optimism
- Avalanche
- And many others
Each version uses a unique smart contract address, which must be correctly added to MetaMask to display your USDT balance accurately.
How to Add Tether (USDT) to MetaMask
Adding USDT to MetaMask is simple and only takes a few minutes. Follow these steps to import USDT on any supported network:
- Open the CoinGecko page for Tether (USDT)
CoinGecko provides verified contract addresses across all major blockchains. - Click the “Contracts” button under the “Info” section
This reveals a list of official USDT smart contracts for each blockchain. Locate your desired network
For example:- Ethereum: ERC-20
- BNB Chain: BEP-20
- Polygon: PoS
- Arbitrum: One
- Click the MetaMask fox icon next to the network
This triggers an automatic prompt in your MetaMask wallet to add the token. - Confirm the addition in MetaMask
Review the contract address and token details, then click “Add Token.”
👉 Get started with secure crypto transactions today.
After confirmation, USDT will appear in your MetaMask wallet whenever you receive or hold it on that network.
Note: Always double-check the contract address before confirming. Scammers often create fake tokens with similar names. Using trusted sources like CoinGecko ensures you're adding the legitimate USDT token.
Can You Add BEP-20 USDT to MetaMask?
Yes, absolutely. You can add BEP-20 USDT (the version running on BNB Chain) directly to MetaMask — but only if BNB Chain is already configured in your wallet.
If you haven’t added BNB Chain yet, follow these steps:
- Open MetaMask and click the network dropdown at the top.
- Select “Add Network.”
Enter the following settings for BNB Chain:
- Network Name: Binance Smart Chain
- New RPC URL:
https://bsc-dataseed.binance.org/ - Chain ID: 56
- Currency Symbol: BNB
- Block Explorer URL:
https://bscscan.com
Once set up, return to the CoinGecko USDT page, click “Contracts,” select Binance Smart Chain, and press the MetaMask icon to add BEP-20 USDT instantly.
👉 Access fast, low-cost blockchain transfers with confidence.
Is It Safe to Store USDT in MetaMask?
MetaMask is a self-custody wallet, meaning you control your private keys and funds directly. While this offers greater autonomy than centralized exchange wallets, it also comes with responsibility.
Here’s what you need to know about storing USDT in MetaMask:
✅ Advantages:
- Full control over your assets
- No reliance on third-party platforms
- Direct access to DeFi apps, NFT markets, and dApps
⚠️ Risks:
- No recovery option if you lose your seed phrase
- Vulnerable to phishing sites and malicious extensions
- Risk of interacting with fake tokens or scams
Best Practices for Security:
- Never share your seed phrase — not even with support teams.
- Bookmark official sites like CoinGecko and MetaMask to avoid phishing.
- Verify contract addresses manually if not using trusted integrations.
- Keep software updated — use the latest version of MetaMask and your browser.
- Enable two-factor authentication where possible on linked services.
While MetaMask itself is secure when used correctly, your behavior plays a critical role in protecting your funds.
Is Tether (USDT) Safe?
Tether has maintained its position as the largest stablecoin by market cap for years. Despite past controversies over reserve transparency, Tether Ltd. now publishes regular attestation reports from independent auditors.
Key points about USDT safety:
- Backed by real-world assets including cash, treasury bills, and commercial paper
- Maintains a 1:1 peg to the US dollar through reserves
- Subject to ongoing third-party audits
- Widely adopted across exchanges, DeFi protocols, and payment systems
While no asset is entirely risk-free, USDT remains a reliable choice for traders and investors seeking stability in volatile markets.
Core Keywords for SEO
To align with search intent and improve visibility, this article naturally integrates the following keywords:
- Add USDT to MetaMask
- USDT MetaMask setup
- How to add Tether to MetaMask
- BEP-20 USDT
- ERC-20 USDT
- MetaMask wallet guide
- USDT contract address
- Store USDT securely
These terms are strategically placed throughout headings and body content to enhance SEO without compromising readability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need to manually enter the USDT contract address?
A: Not necessarily. Using trusted platforms like CoinGecko allows one-click import via the MetaMask extension. However, if importing manually, always verify the correct contract address for your network (e.g., ERC-20 vs BEP-20).
Q: Why doesn’t my USDT show up in MetaMask after sending?
A: This usually happens when the token isn’t added to your wallet view. You must manually add USDT using the correct contract address for the network you're using. Also, ensure you sent USDT on the correct chain — sending BEP-20 USDT to an Ethereum address may result in loss of funds.
Q: Can I use the same MetaMask wallet on multiple blockchains?
A: Yes! MetaMask supports multiple EVM-compatible chains. Just make sure to switch networks correctly before sending or receiving tokens.
Q: What’s the difference between ERC-20 and BEP-20 USDT?
A: They represent the same stablecoin but operate on different blockchains — ERC-20 on Ethereum, BEP-20 on BNB Chain. They are not interchangeable without a bridge or exchange.
Q: Are there fees when adding USDT to MetaMask?
A: No. Adding a token to your wallet interface is free. However, actual transactions (sending/receiving) require gas fees paid in the native coin of that network (e.g., ETH for Ethereum, BNB for BSC).
Q: Should I keep large amounts of USDT in MetaMask?
A: For long-term storage or large sums, consider using a hardware wallet (like Ledger or Trezor) for enhanced security. MetaMask is ideal for active DeFi use but should be used cautiously with high-value holdings.
👉 Secure your digital assets with advanced wallet features today.
By following this guide, you now have everything you need to confidently add Tether (USDT) to MetaMask, manage it across chains, and protect your investment with best-in-class practices. Whether you're trading, earning yield, or exploring Web3, proper token management is key to a seamless experience.