Destination Tag/memo FAQ

Before you send crypto

  • It is your responsibility to determine the need for a tag/memo

  • If a tag/memo is required for the crypto you're sending, you must include it or the funds sent may be lost

Tip: You can send a small amount of crypto without a tag/memo to test for the need.

What is a Destination Tag/Memo?

A Destination Tag/Memo is an additional address feature necessary for identifying a transaction recipient beyond a wallet address. 

Why is this needed?

For cryptocurrencies that use destination tag/memo technology, most centralized exchanges (like Coinbase) use one wallet address for all traders. The tag/memo is used to determine the individual account a transaction should be credited to.

Example: Wallet address + unique destination tag/memo = correct recipient

Which cryptocurrencies use Destination Tag technology?

The following cryptocurrencies supported on Coinbase utilize destination tag technology:

Cryptocurrency

Feature Name

Description

Axelar (AXL)

Memo

Numeric only

Cosmos (ATOM)

Memo

Numeric only

EOS

Memo

Numeric only

Hedera (HBAR)

Memo

Numeric only

Stacks (STX)

Memo

Alpha-numeric

Stellar (XLM)

Memo

Alpha-numeric

XRP (XRP)

Tag

Numeric only

When is a tag/memo not required? 

The only exception to the requirement to include a destination tag/memo is when sending to a privately controlled cryptocurrency wallet. 

A private wallet allows an individual to fully control (have custody of) both the public and private keys. Your Coinbase.com account is not a private wallet.

Examples of a private wallet include (but are not limited to):

  • Desktop: wallets downloaded and installed on a PC or laptop

  • Hardware: wallets stored on a hardware device like a USB, and are stored offline

Using a private wallet to send crypto that uses Destination Tag technology

  • If you are sending cryptocurrency that uses Destination Tag technology to Coinbase, you must input a correct Tag/Memo. 

    • Both an address and a tag/memo are required to receive cryptocurrency. If you send funds without a tag/memo or with an incorrect Tag/Memo, your funds cannot be credited to your account.

  • If you are sending cryptocurrency off of Coinbase to a private/personal wallet, a tag/memo may not be required.

If you're uncertain whether you're sending to a public or a private wallet, please contact Coinbase support.

Do I need to include a Destination Tag or Memo when transacting with these currencies?

Yes. The Tag/Memo is mandatory for transactions for cryptocurrencies that use this technology. You must put in a correct Tag/Memo when receiving/depositing these funds into Coinbase.

For instructions on how to find or use a destination tag on Coinbase, go to our help page.