A destination tag or memo is a feature used to identify the recipient of a crypto transaction beyond the wallet address. It is necessary for certain cryptocurrencies that use destination tag technology.
Before sending crypto, it’s important to check if a destination tag/memo is required. Not including it may result in a loss of funds. To avoid errors, consider sending a small test amount first to ensure a tag/memo is needed.
Purpose of destination tags/memos
Many centralized exchanges, like Coinbase, use one wallet address for all users. The destination tag/memo helps route the transaction to the correct individual account within the exchange. It ensures that the transaction is credited to the right recipient.
Cryptocurrencies using destination tag technology
Feature | Cryptocurrency | Description |
|---|---|---|
Memo | Numeric | |
Numeric | ||
Numeric | ||
Alpha-numeric | ||
Numeric | ||
Numeric | ||
Numeric | ||
Numeric | ||
Numeric | ||
Numeric | ||
Numeric | ||
Alpha-numeric | ||
Numeric | ||
Tag | Numeric |
When a destination tag/memo is not required
You don’t need to include a destination tag/memo when sending crypto to a privately controlled wallet. Private wallets, such as those on desktops or hardware devices, are fully managed by the individual, who controls both the public and private keys. If you're unsure whether you're sending to a public or private wallet, contact Coinbase support.
Sending crypto to Coinbase
When sending cryptocurrency that requires a destination tag/memo to Coinbase, you must include both the correct address and destination tag/memo. If either is missing or incorrect, the funds will not be credited to the correct Coinbase account. Contact the wallet owner or support team from where the funds were sent to get help.
To find the destination tag/memo when receiving crypto:
Select Receive crypto.
Choose the crypto you want to receive.
Your address and Memo/Destination tag is shown.
Sending crypto from Coinbase
When sending cryptocurrency from Coinbase to a wallet or exchange that requires a destination tag/memo, you must include the correct tag/memo. Failure to do so will result in the funds not being received by the destination wallet. Coinbase cannot retrieve funds once they’ve been sent out, so contact the receiving wallet or exchange for assistance.
To enter the destination tag/memo when sending crypto:
Select Send crypto.
Enter the address.
Choose the crypto you want to send.
Enter the recipient’s Memo/Destination tag and continue the steps to send.
Incorrect destination tag
Always double-check the destination tag before sending funds to Coinbase. Omitting or entering an incorrect tag can delay the transaction or prevent the funds from being credited. Test small amounts to confirm the address and destination tag are correct before sending a larger transaction.
If you accidentally enter the wrong destination tag when you send funds to Coinbase, contact our support team. They may be able to assist you with recovering these funds.