How to send tokens on Optimism Mainnet safely
Optimism transfers run on an Ethereum layer 2, so your wallet must be on OP Mainnet and the recipient must accept that network before you confirm.
Vahe HakobyanEditor-in-chief
Updated Oct 6, 20263 min readFact-checked
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Optimism Mainnet, also called OP Mainnet, is an Ethereum layer 2 network that launched in 2021. A transfer here executes on Optimism and is secured by Ethereum, but it is not an Ethereum L1 transaction. You do not need to touch Ethereum mainnet.
What do you need before you start?
Your wallet must be set to Optimism Mainnet before you pick a token. It also needs a small ETH balance on Optimism for gas, because gas is paid in ETH even when you send another token.
How do you send tokens on Optimism?
A token send on Optimism is irreversible once it confirms, so review every field before you approve.
- 1Confirm recipient networkAsk the recipient or read the exchange deposit page to be sure the address accepts tokens on Optimism. Do not assume an Ethereum address works for Optimism.
- 2Paste the addressCopy the recipient address and paste it into the send field. Check the first and last characters match what the recipient sent.
- 3Choose the tokenPick the token you want to send. If unsure, verify the contract on the Optimism explorer instead of trusting a link.
- 4Enter amount and reviewType the amount, then check the fee and network are for Optimism. Make sure the wallet is still on Optimism Mainnet.
- 5Confirm transactionApprove the transaction and wait for it to confirm. Then record the details in the next section.
What should you do after you send?
After the transfer confirms, keep a record of the transfer. The IRS treats cryptocurrency as property, so you may need the details for taxes or support.
Frequently asked questions
Optimism transfers usually confirm in seconds to a few minutes. An exchange may take longer to credit the deposit.
The recipient may not see the tokens on the network they expected. Recovery usually depends on whether their wallet or exchange supports the network you used.
Yes, if the exchange supports Optimism withdrawals. Choose Optimism as the withdrawal network and use an address that accepts it.
Yes. Gas on Optimism is paid in ETH even when you send USDC or another token.
