Key takeaways

• The easiest and safest way to spend bitcoin is to use a bitcoin wallet app and to find businesses that accept bitcoin payments.

• Bitcoin and crypto debit cards are another way to spend bitcoin but watch out for high monthly fees and transaction charges.

• Traditional gift cards are another way to spend bitcoin and crypto but watch out for high transaction fees and exchange rates.

Table of contents

1. How to spend bitcoin

2. Where to spend bitcoin

3. How to use a bitcoin debit card

4. How to buy gift cards with bitcoin

5. How to send bitcoin to a charity

6. How to convert bitcoin to cash

7. Frequently asked questions

1. How to spend bitcoin

The easiest and safest way to spend bitcoin is to use a bitcoin wallet app and to find a business that accepts bitcoin payments directly.

Step 1: Get a bitcoin wallet app

First, download a bitcoin wallet appGo to /wallets page on your smartphone. This will allow you to receive and send bitcoin payments safely. There are many wallet apps available but make sure you choose one with good security and privacyGo to /wallets page.

Step 2: Buy or earn some bitcoin

The easiest way to buy bitcoin is with a digital bitcoin voucherGo to /learn/articles/what-are-azteco-bitcoin-vouchers page. Alternatively, you can earn bitcoin by completing market research surveysGo to /learn/articles/how-to-buy-bitcoin-btc page. You can also buy bitcoin from a crypto exchangeGo to /learn/articles/how-to-buy-bitcoin-btc page or a crypto ATMGo to /learn/articles/how-to-buy-bitcoin-btc page. You can even earn bitcoin by setting up a mining operationGo to /learn/articles/how-to-buy-bitcoin-btc page to process bitcoin transactions.

Step 3: Find places that accept bitcoin

More and more businesses are starting to accept bitcoin and crypto payments directly. See below for some examples but also let us knowGo to /help-en/contact page if we’ve missed a category or a great example.

Step 4: Scan a QR code to pay with bitcoin

Most businesses will show you a QR code for your transaction if you want to pay with bitcoin. Simply scan the QR code with your bitcoin wallet appGo to /wallets page and you’re done!

Step 5: Wait for your bitcoin payment to confirm in your wallet app

If the business accepts lightning bitcoin paymentsGo to /learn/articles/what-is-bitcoin-how-does-it-work-and-how-do-i-use-it page, it will take less than a second to confirm the payment transaction. If the business accepts on-chain bitcoin paymentsGo to /learn/articles/what-is-bitcoin-how-does-it-work-and-how-do-i-use-it page, it may take several minutes to confirm the payment transaction.

2. Where to spend bitcoin

More and more businesses are accepting bitcoin or cryptocurrency directly as digital payment for their goods and services. It’s quicker, cheaper, and safer than paying with a debit card or credit card.

Art and collectibles

You can buy unique art pieces and collectibles using bitcoin. Websites like Crypto EmporiumLink to: https://cryptoemporium.com/artwork/ and CryptwerkLink to: https://cryptwerk.com/companies/art/ let you browse and purchase various artworks, vintage items, and digital collectibles, all paid for directly with your bitcoin or cryptocurrency. This makes it easy to invest in creative works and rare items without using traditional money.

Automotive services

Some car dealerships and repair shops now accept bitcoin as payment. You can buy a carLink to: https://bitcars.eu/ or pay for maintenance servicesLink to: https://intpolicydigest.org/sponsored-content/10-car-companies-that-accept-bitcoin-as-payment/ using crypto. This allows for a modern and flexible way to handle automotive payments without using traditional money.

Charities and donations

Many charities and non-profit organizations are beginning to accept bitcoin and crypto donations. Platforms like GiveTrackLink to: https://www.givetrack.org/ and The Giving BlockLink to: https://thegivingblock.com/ enable you to contribute to good causes using your cryptocurrency. This helps charities receive digital gifts directly and efficiently from donors worldwide.

Education and online learning

You can pay for online courses and educational resources with bitcoin. Many universities and online platforms now allow you to use cryptocurrency to enroll in classes and gain new skills. This makes learning accessible and convenient for those who don’t want to pay with traditional money.

Food and drink

More and more restaurants and food delivery services are beginning to accept bitcoin. You can dine out or order food from places like PizzaForCoinsLink to: https://www.ccn.com/buy-pizza-bitcoin/, which allows you to pay with cryptocurrency. This adds convenience and flexibility to how you pay for meals and drinks.

Gaming and entertainment

You can buy video games, subscriptions, and in-game items using bitcoin. Platforms like G2ALink to: https://g2a.com and KinguinLink to: https://kinguin.net now accept cryptocurrency, allowing you to enjoy your favorite games and entertainment services without using traditional money. This enhances your gaming experience with modern payment options.

Gift cards

You can purchase gift cards for popular retailers using Bitcoin. Websites like BitrefillLink to: https://www.bitrefill.com and CryptorefillsLink to: https://www.cryptorefills.com/ let you buy gift cards for stores like Amazon, Starbucks, and more. This makes it easy to spend bitcoin indirectly at a wide range of stores.

Health and wellness

Some health and wellness providers accept bitcoin for services. For example, in New York you can now pay for gym membershipsLink to: https://athletechnews.com/equinox-accepting-crypto-via-bitpay/ with cryptocurrency. This option offers a modern way to manage your health-related payments using bitcoin instead of traditional money.

Legal and consulting services

Some law firms and consultants are beginning to accept bitcoin directly as payment. For example, you can pay for legal adviceLink to: https://www.legalcheek.com/2022/02/commercial-law-firm-embraces-crypto-payments/ and consulting servicesLink to: https://cryptwerk.com/companies/consulting using cryptocurrency.

Online stores

Many online retailers accept bitcoin, allowing you to buy electronics, clothing, and more. For example, sites like OverstockLink to: https://buybitcoinworldwide.com/who-accepts-bitcoin/ and NeweggLink to: https://promotions.newegg.com/nepro/16-6277/index.html let you shop with cryptocurrency, making online shopping convenient for those who prefer to pay with bitcoin instead of traditional money.

Retail stores

Some brick-and-mortar retail stores now accept bitcoin directly. You can buy groceries, clothes, and other items from stores that accept cryptocurrency payments. For example, Pick n Pay in South AfricaLink to: https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/south-african-retail-giant-pick-n-pay-now-accepts-bitcoin-payments-at-all-locations now accepts bitcoin in over 2,200 stores.

Real estate

You can buy property using bitcoin. Some real estate agenciesLink to: https://cryptorealestate.cc/ and sellers accept cryptocurrency for homes and apartments, making it possible to invest in real estate using your digital assets. This provides a modern way to handle large transactions without using traditional money services.

Travel sites

You can book flights, hotels, and travel packages with bitcoin. Websites like TravalaLink to: https://www.travala.com/ and CheapAirLink to: https://www.cheapair.com/travel/buy-flights-with-bitcoin-btc allow you to use cryptocurrency to pay for travel bookings.

3. How to use a bitcoin or crypto debit card

Bitcoin and crypto debit cards allow you to make payments using your local currency (dollars or euros, for example). However, these transactions are not as private as direct bitcoin payments and there are additional fees involved.

What are bitcoin and crypto debit cards?

Bitcoin and crypto debit cards let you spend your cryptocurrency like traditional money. These cards are digitally linked to your crypto wallet app and can be used anywhere regular debit or credit cards are accepted.

When you make a purchase transaction, the card converts some of your cryptocurrency into local currency (like dollars or euros) at the current exchange rate. This means you can use your digital assets to buy groceries, shop online, pay for services, and more.

Crypto debit cards are available from a number of companies, including Binance, Coinbase, and BitPay.

What are the advantages of bitcoin and crypto debit cards?

• Convenience:You can use cryptocurrency for everyday payment transactions without needing to convert it to traditional money.

• Global acceptance: You can spend your crypto at any location that accepts regular debit or credit cards.

• Security: Many crypto debit cards come with enhanced security features like ID verification or digital transaction authentication.

• Instant conversion: Your crypto is converted to the local currency instantly, simplifying transactions.

What are the disadvantages of bitcoin and crypto debit cards?

• High fees: Many crypto debit cards have a recurring monthly service charge and high fees for every payment transaction.

• Regulatory issues: Cryptocurrency regulations can vary widely, affecting card usage and availability.

• Privacy concerns: Using a card linked to your identity can reduce the privacy typically associated with cryptocurrency payments.

• Accessibility:You’ll need to make a bank application for a crypto debit card, verify your identity, and wait for online approval.

• Dependence on a crypto wallet app: If you lose access to your crypto wallet app, you could lose the ability to use the card.

4. How to buy gift cards with bitcoin or crypto

You can use your bitcoin or crypto to buy traditional gift cards from brands like Apple, Amazon, Google, Netflix, Nike, Sony, Starbucks, Uber, Xbox, and more.

How do I buy gift cards with bitcoin or crypto?

Buying traditional gift cards with bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies is easy. Here’s how to do it:

• Step 1: Visit a website like BitrefillLink to: https://bitrefill.com/ or Cryptorefills.Link to: https://www.cryptorefills.com/

• Step 2: Create an account online.

• Step 3: Select a gift card brand and amount.

• Step 4: Select bitcoin as your payment method.

• Step 5: Scan the QR code with your bitcoin wallet appGo to /wallets page.

• Step 6: Receive your gift card.

You can use your bitcoin to buy gift cards from a wide range of brands, including Apple, Amazon, Google, Netflix, Nike, Sony, Starbucks, Uber, Xbox, and more.

What are the advantages of buying gift cards with bitcoin or crypto?

• Convenience: You can easily spend your crypto at major retailers without converting it to traditional money.

• Anonymity: Your crypto purchases are private since you don’t need to provide personal banking details.

• Instant transactions: You receive your digital gift cards immediately after completing the payment with your bitcoin wallet app.

• Global access: You can purchase gift cards for international stores and services.

• Budget control: You can limit your crypto spending by buying gift cards online in specific amounts.

• No bank fees: You can bypass traditional banking systems and avoid related transaction fees.

What are the disadvantages of buying gift cards with bitcoin or crypto?

• Fees: There may be additional transaction fees for using crypto to buy the gift card.

• Limited Acceptance: Not all retailers accept crypto for gift cards, which limits your options.

• Refund issues: Returning or exchanging gift cards bought with crypto can be complicated.

• Security risks: If the gift card provider is not reputable, you could lose your money.

• Exchange rate differences: The amount of crypto required can vary based on current rates and fees.

5. How to send bitcoin or crypto to a charity

Sending bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies to a charity is a simple but powerful way to support causes you care about. Here’s how to do it:

• Choose a charity: Start by selecting a charity that accepts cryptocurrency donations. Websites like GiveTrackLink to: https://www.givetrack.org/ are known to accept crypto. Check the charity’s official website to confirm they accept bitcoin or other cryptocurrency transactions.

• Get the donation address: On the charity’s website, locate their donation page. Look for the specific bitcoin or crypto wallet address provided for donations. This is usually a long string of letters and numbers or a QR code.

• Enter the donation details: Open your bitcoin wallet appGo to /wallets page. Copy the charity’s wallet address into your wallet app’s recipient field or scan their QR code. Then enter the amount of bitcoin or cryptocurrency you want to donate.

• Send the donation: Double-check the transaction details in your wallet app to ensure accuracy. Confirm and send the donation. Depending on the network speed, it may take a few minutes to process.

• Get a receipt: Some charities offer a receipt for tax purposes. Provide your email if required, and you’ll receive confirmation of your donation.

6. How to convert bitcoin or crypto to cash

Converting your bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies to cash is complicated and involves several steps. Here’s how to do it:

• Choose a platform: Select a cryptocurrency exchange like BinanceLink to: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/10/07/business/binance-hack.html or Coinbase.Link to: https://www.reuters.com/business/finance/coinbase-says-hackers-stole-cryptocurrency-least-6000-customers-2021-10-01/ These platforms offer services that allow you to convert crypto to your local currency (like dollars or euros).

• Create an account: Sign up for an online account if you don’t already have one. You’ll need to verify your identity by providing personal information and uploading identification documents.

• Transfer your crypto: Log into your exchange account and navigate to the deposit section. Transfer your bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies from your wallet app to the exchange.

• Sell your crypto: Once your crypto is in the exchange, go to the trading section. Select the service option to sell your bitcoin or cryptocurrency, and enter the amount you want to sell. The exchange will convert your crypto to cash at the current market rate (minus any transaction fees).

• Withdraw to bank: After selling, the cash will be available in your crypto exchange account. Go to the withdraw section and choose your bank account as the destination. Enter the transaction amount and confirm. The cash will be transferred to your bank account, usually within a few days.