How Old You Have To Be To Buy Crypto

The Alpha generation is exceptionally tech-savvy and can easily access information through the Internet. It’s becoming increasingly common for children under 18 to learn the fundamentals of financial literacy, including topics like cryptocurrency. If you're reading this article, it's likely that your kid is already familiar with blockchain and Bitcoin.

Today, we will discuss how to safely involve your child in the process of learning about crypto assets. If you’re a minor who wants to start trading on the exchange, this article is also for you.

Can You Legally Buy Crypto Under 18?

From a moral standpoint, there are no age restrictions for crypto trading, but many exchanges are limited to users who are at least 18 years old. Legal difficulties may arise depending on your country. In most cases, laws prohibit those under 18 from trading cryptocurrency. The issue is that when minors register on crypto exchanges to purchase coins, there is a 100 percent chance of encountering an identity check called Know Your Customer (KYC). This prevents young investors from buying cryptocurrency.

Nevertheless, several options allow young traders to indirectly interact with digital assets. For example, in the United States, buying digital assets requires age verification (18 years or older), but children can hold virtual savings through their parents or guardians’ wallets. In Canada, parents open an account on behalf of a minor.

These legal restrictions tighten in real time as interest in cryptocurrency grows daily. For instance, until recently, South Korea had softer regulations, but now the age requirement for crypto trading has increased to 19 years.

How To Make A Crypto Wallet Under 18?

There are no age limits to create crypto wallets, but not all functionality will be available. Therefore, let’s explore the most reliable way with the help of an adult.

Before trading assets, create a crypto wallet. Any minor can do this on a platform; however, they won’t be able to manage the funds. Again, this requires identity verification and passing KYC. For instance, on Cryptomus, this is the scheme: minors register a wallet before turning 18, but some features will remain unavailable. These include withdrawing money to a card and using P2P services.

Follow this algorithm to avoid mistakes:

1. On the main page, click "Register".
2. You can create an account using your email or phone number; choose the option that works best for you. At this stage, also make up a strong password. We advise you to choose a complex online generator.
3. Complete the KYC procedure. You will need the help of an adult for this. Take a photo of your identity card, and then take a selfie.
4. Enable 2FA. This feature will protect your savings from malicious actors.

Done! Now you can manage your cryptocurrency. As you understand, this method is only possible with the consent of a parent or guardian. Talk to a trusted adult and explain why you want to grow in the crypto space and emphasize that it’s completely safe. Cryptomus is an excellent crypto wallet provider because its user-friendly interface is accessible even to children. Also, it offers a selection of digital players like Bitcoin, USDT, and the fun DOGE, which can serve as a great foundation for learning.

How To Buy Crypto If You Are Under 18?

In this part, let’s explore methods that allow minors to purchase virtual assets completely legally.

• Use A Bitcoin ATM

This way may not work for everyone, as there are only about 14,000 Bitcoin ATMs worldwide. Check if your city has one of these machines. The apparatus looks like a regular ATM but has a few differences. This type usually accepts cash, and it’s rare to find a machine that accepts debit cards. A Bitcoin ATM allows you to fund your account with cash and provides a wallet address to receive the purchased cryptocurrency. However, this method has some disadvantages: this option is more costly than buying on the exchange. And, secondly, they also sometimes require KYC.

Bitcoin ATMs come in two types: one-way and two-way. The first allows customers to purchase cryptocurrencies only, while the second enables both buying and selling of Bitcoin. With this method, you connect directly to the exchanges.

• Buy on Decentralized Exchanges (DEX)

On the stock market, cryptocurrency trading occurs through smart contracts rather than a centralized system. The main difference is that DEX does not store user funds or control transactions. Instead, assets transfer directly from the wallet, which is connected to the platform. Although some decentralized exchanges ask for user verification.

• Earn Cryptocurrency Through Freelancing

Even minors can find part-time work in the IT and crypto fields. These sectors constantly seek young talent capable of bringing something new. Typically, such jobs pay well and may even offer payment in cryptocurrency. Plan your time carefully to do all your best.

• Ask For Help From Your Parents

This is perhaps the last but most important piece of advice we can offer. This method is the safest. For example, parents help purchase a minor's first crypto wallet or invest in special courses. Since you are a child, your parents bear responsibility for you until 18. Any action you take will reflect on them, so discuss the entire process thoroughly with adults and choose only safe and legal options.

Many undesirable methods of accessing trading also exist. It’s not uncommon for minors to search online for someone to sell cryptocurrency and arrange in-person meetings. Remember, by doing this, you put yourself in danger, so we recommend never using such an option.

Adolescence is the best time to learn new things, including financial education and the basics of the cryptocurrency sphere. It’s even better if parents support their children in these endeavors. An inexperienced novice can easily run into problems and lose money. Therefore, use safe and reliable platforms like Cryptomus under the guidance of adults.

Are you a young investor? How did you get started? Share your experiences in the comments.