How To Use A Bitcoin ATM To Buy And Sell Cryptocurrency With Cash
The easiest way to get Bitcoin when apps fail, banks close, or cash is king.
You’re standing in a convenience store. There’s a glowing touchscreen kiosk next to the lotto machine. It looks a little futuristic. It says “Bitcoin ATM.” And now you’re wondering: Is this thing legit? Can I actually buy or sell crypto here—with cash?
Short answer: yes.
Longer answer? Let’s walk through how it works—step by step—so you can use a Bitcoin ATM like you’ve been doing it for years.
Table of Contents
Why Use a Bitcoin ATM in the First Place?
Crypto apps are great—until they aren’t. Sometimes you want speed. Or you’re unbanked. Or maybe your wallet app is frozen and you just need to get Bitcoin now.
Bitcoin ATMs solve all of that. They’re:
- Fast
- Easy to use
- Designed for cash transactions
- Open in convenient locations (gas stations, grocery stores, retail spots)
And unlike online exchanges, you don’t need to wait days for bank transfers to clear. Cash goes in. Bitcoin comes out. Or vice versa.
Let’s break down how.
Buying Bitcoin With Cash: Step-by-Step
Most Bitcoin ATM kiosks follow a similar flow. Here’s how to buy:
1. Start the Transaction
Approach the machine. Tap “Buy Bitcoin” (or a similar option). Some machines offer multiple coins, but we’re keeping it simple here.
2. Verify Your Identity
Depending on the amount you’re purchasing, you may be asked to verify your phone number, scan a government-issued ID, or take a selfie. This isn’t the machine being nosy—it’s standard compliance to keep things safe and legal.
Smaller transactions may only require a phone number.
3. Enter Your Wallet Info
You’ll need a crypto wallet. If you already have one, great—just scan your wallet’s QR code when prompted.
If not, many machines can help you create a temporary wallet on the spot. (Pro tip: Download a mobile wallet beforehand so you’re ready.)
4. Insert Cash
Feed bills into the ATM. Most machines accept anywhere from $10 to several thousand dollars. You’ll see the equivalent amount of Bitcoin populate on the screen, minus any fees.
5. Confirm and Send
Hit confirm, and the machine sends Bitcoin to your wallet address. This usually takes just a few minutes to show up on the blockchain.
And that’s it. No bank account. No waiting. Just crypto, in your hands (or technically, your phone).
Selling Bitcoin for Cash: Slightly Different, Just as Easy
Selling is possible at two-way Bitcoin ATMs—machines that handle both buying and cash withdrawals.
Here’s the basic process:
1. Tap “Sell Bitcoin”
Start the process at the machine. It’ll prompt you to enter how much you want to sell.
2. Send Bitcoin to the Machine
You’ll scan a QR code that represents the machine’s wallet. Send the specified amount of Bitcoin from your own wallet.
You may need to wait a few minutes for blockchain confirmation. Some machines issue a redeemable voucher or send a text when the cash is ready.
3. Collect Your Cash
Once confirmed, the ATM dispenses your money. That’s it—Bitcoin out, dollars in hand.
What You’ll Need to Bring
- A government-issued ID (for larger transactions)
- A mobile crypto wallet
- Cash (for purchases) or Bitcoin (for sales)
- A phone to receive verification texts or wallet links
Final Thoughts: The Cash-Crypto Bridge
Bitcoin ATMs offer a rare thing in the crypto world: immediacy. No wire transfers. No waiting for exchanges to process. Just a simple way to move between digital and physical money—especially for people who want flexibility, privacy, or don’t rely on traditional banks.
Because sometimes, the fastest way to buy or sell crypto… is right next to the soda machine.
