How to withdraw crypto from Kraken safely
Withdraw crypto from Kraken safely by matching the network, using whitelisting, and sending a small test amount before you confirm the full transfer.
Vahe HakobyanEditor-in-chief
Updated Oct 6, 20263 min readFact-checked
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A blockchain transfer cannot be reversed, so every check happens before you confirm. Kraken's withdrawal page asks for the asset, the network, and the receiving address.
What to check before withdrawing
Kraken lists the networks it supports for each asset. Your wallet must use the same network, because a mismatch can send coins where the wallet cannot see them. Check the current withdrawal details for your asset before you confirm.
How do you withdraw crypto from Kraken?
The withdrawal starts on Kraken's Withdraw Crypto page, where you pick the asset and network and enter the address. Send a small test amount first.
- 1Pick asset and networkChoose the coin and the network your wallet uses. A wrong network choice can put the coins out of reach.
- 2Enter address and test amountPaste the receiving address and type a small test amount. Check the address before you continue.
- 3Confirm test withdrawalApprove the test withdrawal in Kraken. A test amount is small, so a mistake costs little.
- 4Check test arrivedOpen your wallet and confirm the exact amount arrived. If it does not, stop and recheck.
- 5Start real withdrawalReturn to the withdrawal page and choose the same asset and network.
- 6Enter address and main amountPaste the same address and type the main amount.
- 7Confirm real withdrawalApprove with your two-factor authentication method and, if prompted, the email Kraken sends. Kraken then broadcasts the transfer.
How do you keep records and account safe?
Address whitelisting limits withdrawals to addresses you save in advance. Turn it on, and use two-factor authentication and email confirmations when Kraken offers them. The IRS treats crypto as property, so keep records for capital gains.
Frequently asked questions
A new whitelisted address may wait, and an unconfirmed email confirmation can hold the withdrawal when one is required. Kraken can also pause it for a security review.
You cannot cancel it after Kraken broadcasts it, because a blockchain transfer cannot be reversed. Before broadcast, Kraken sometimes cancels a withdrawal.
The receiving wallet usually cannot see coins sent on another network, so recovery is often impossible. Kraken cannot reverse it.
A withdrawal to a wallet you control is not a taxable event. Kraken reports certain activity as required by US law, so keep records for capital gains.
