Can I Transfer Crypto from Robinhood to Coinbase?

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Cryptocurrency investors often find themselves navigating between platforms to access more features, better security, or greater control over their digital assets. Two of the most popular U.S.-based platforms—Robinhood and Coinbase—offer easy entry points for beginners looking to buy and sell Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. However, a key limitation arises when users want to move their crypto from Robinhood to Coinbase.

So, can you transfer crypto directly from Robinhood to Coinbase? The short answer is no—not at this time.

👉 Discover how to securely move your crypto assets between platforms in just a few steps.

This article will walk you through why direct transfers aren’t currently possible, what your alternatives are, and how to effectively migrate your holdings from Robinhood to Coinbase while minimizing risks and maximizing efficiency.

Why You Can’t Directly Transfer Crypto from Robinhood to Coinbase

Unlike full-featured crypto wallets, Robinhood does not allow external transfers of cryptocurrency. This means you cannot send your Bitcoin, Ethereum, or any other digital asset from your Robinhood account to an external wallet—such as one on Coinbase.

The core issue lies in Robinhood’s platform design. While it allows users to trade crypto, it does not grant ownership of private keys, nor does it support wallet functionality. In essence, you’re trading on a closed system. This lack of transferability is one of the main reasons many serious investors choose Coinbase instead.

Coinbase, by contrast, provides users with self-custody wallet options, the ability to send and receive crypto across blockchains, and integration with decentralized applications (dApps). These features make it a preferred choice for those seeking greater control over their digital assets.

Until Robinhood rolls out full crypto wallet capabilities—which it has announced but not yet fully implemented—your only option for moving crypto to Coinbase is indirect.

Step-by-Step: How to Move Crypto from Robinhood to Coinbase

Since direct crypto transfers are unavailable, you’ll need to follow a multi-step process involving liquidation, bank transfer, and repurchase. Here’s how to do it safely and efficiently.

1. Sell Your Cryptocurrency on Robinhood

Because you can't transfer crypto directly, the first step is selling your holdings on Robinhood.

On Mobile:

On Web:

⚠️ Important: Selling for a profit may trigger a capital gains tax event. Keep records of your purchase price and sale date for tax reporting.

After the sale, funds enter a settlement period. Robinhood follows a T+2 settlement cycle, meaning it takes three business days before the money becomes available for withdrawal.

2. Transfer Funds to Your Bank Account

Once settled, withdraw the cash to your linked bank account.

On Mobile:

On Web:

Standard transfers typically take 1–3 business days to appear in your bank account.

👉 Learn how to streamline your crypto transfers with secure, low-fee alternatives.

3. Create a Coinbase Account (If You Haven’t Already)

To receive and manage crypto, you’ll need a Coinbase account. The signup process is straightforward:

  1. Visit Coinbase.com and click “Sign Up”.

  2. Provide:

    • Full name
    • Email address
    • Password
    • Nationality
  3. Agree to the User Agreement and Privacy Policy.
  4. Verify your email via the confirmation link.
  5. Confirm your phone number.
  6. Upload a government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport).
  7. Answer questions about your occupation and source of income.
  8. Enter the last four digits of your SSN for identity verification.
  9. Link a payment method (bank account or debit card).
  10. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.

Verification usually takes minutes, though some cases may require additional documentation.

4. Deposit Funds into Coinbase

Once your bank transfer arrives:

  1. Log in to Coinbase.
  2. Go to Trade > Deposit > Bank Account.
  3. Select “From” and choose your linked bank.
  4. Enter the deposit amount and confirm.

Deposits via ACH typically take 1–3 business days. Instant deposits using a debit card are available but come with higher fees.

5. Buy Cryptocurrency on Coinbase

Now that your funds are in Coinbase:

  1. Click “Trade” in the app or web interface.
  2. Select the cryptocurrency you want (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
  3. Choose “Buy” with USD.
  4. Enter the dollar amount.
  5. Preview the transaction, check fees, and confirm.

Your purchased crypto will be stored in your Coinbase wallet—now under your control and transferable at any time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why can’t I transfer crypto directly from Robinhood to Coinbase?

A: Robinhood operates a closed crypto ecosystem without wallet functionality. You don’t hold private keys, so sending crypto externally isn’t supported—unlike platforms like Coinbase that offer self-custody options.

Q: Are there tax implications when selling crypto on Robinhood?

A: Yes. If you sell for more than your purchase price, you may owe capital gains taxes. Short-term gains (held under one year) are taxed as ordinary income; long-term gains (over one year) have lower rates.

Q: How long does it take to move money from Robinhood to Coinbase?

A: The entire process typically takes 5–7 business days: 3 days for Robinhood settlement + 1–3 days for bank transfer + 1–3 days for deposit into Coinbase.

Q: Is there a way to avoid selling my crypto during the transfer?

A: Not currently on Robinhood. However, once they launch full wallet support, direct transfers may become possible. Until then, selling is the only option.

Q: Can I transfer stocks from Robinhood to another broker?

A: Yes—Robinhood supports stock transfers via ACATS (Automated Customer Account Transfer Service), usually for a fee. But this feature does not extend to cryptocurrency.

Q: Is Coinbase safer than Robinhood for holding crypto?

A: Generally, yes. Coinbase stores 98% of customer funds in offline cold storage and offers insurance coverage. Plus, with its Wallet and Layer-2 network (Base), users gain more control and flexibility.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Moving from Robinhood to Coinbase?

While the process of moving crypto from Robinhood to Coinbase is indirect and time-consuming, the benefits often outweigh the inconvenience. With Coinbase, you gain:

👉 Start managing your crypto with full control and lower fees today.

Although Robinhood offers simplicity and zero-commission trades, its limitations make it better suited for casual investors rather than those serious about long-term crypto ownership.

By following this guide, you can successfully transition your digital assets—safely, legally, and strategically—into a platform that supports true financial autonomy.

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