Frequently Asked Questions
Got a question? Find our FAQs here
General Information
Localcoin is Canada’s largest cryptocurrency ATM network, offering a fast, secure, and convenient way to purchase digital assets across all provinces.
Yes. Localcoin is a registered Money Services Business (MSB) and operates in accordance with FINTRAC regulations in Canada.
Localcoin has been operating in Canada since 2016 and is one of the country’s largest Bitcoin ATM networks, with 1,000+ ATMs nationwide and 250,000+ customers served. We are a FINTRAC-registered Money Services Business (MSB), which means we operate under Canadian regulatory requirements.
When you use a Localcoin ATM:
Your crypto is sent directly to your personal wallet Transactions are completed in minutes Live customer support is available if you need help
No, you don’t need to create a traditional online account. You can get started with just your phone number for transactions up to $4,975 per day. For higher limits (up to $14,925 per day), ID verification is required.
Each Bitcoin is essentially a computer file stored in a 'digital wallet' app on a smartphone or computer. People can send Bitcoin (or part of one) to your digital wallet, and you can send Bitcoin to others. Every single transaction is recorded in a public list called the blockchain.
No. Cryptocurrency transactions are permanently recorded on the blockchain and cannot be reversed or canceled once initiated.Always review the wallet address and transaction details carefully before completing your purchase.
Our ATMs are located within partner retail stores (such as convenience stores and gas stations). While our support is 24/7, machine access is subject to the operating hours of the host location. Use our Location Map to check specific store hours.
You can view nearby locations and supported cryptocurrencies using our “Find an ATM” feature.
Selling Cryptocurrency
Yes. You can securely sell your digital assets for Canadian Dollars (CAD) via two convenient methods: withdrawing physical cash at select Localcoin ATMs, or selling entirely online via our INTERAC e-Transfer service.
For ATM cash withdrawals, the minimum sell amount is $50 CAD, with a maximum of $995 per transaction and $4,975 per day. For INTERAC e-Transfer sales, fully verified accounts can enjoy elevated limits of up to $995 per transaction and $14,925 per day.
There are various ways you can sell Bitcoin:
- Using our sell machines
- Using our online INTERAC e-Transfer® sell service
- If you have a large quantity of Bitcoin to sell, please contact us here.
The process is highly secure and straightforward. Select the "Sell" option at a supported terminal, input your desired CAD withdrawal amount, scan the machine's QR code using your mobile wallet to send the exact cryptocurrency amount, and collect your cash once the network confirms the transaction.
Read more about How to Sell Crypto for Cash at a Bitcoin ATM
Yes, convenience is our priority. With our Online Pre-Sell feature, you can initiate a sale from home, lock in your rate, and send your crypto. Once the blockchain confirms your transaction, you will receive an SMS allowing you to walk up to an ATM and withdraw your cash instantly, with zero waiting.
With our Online Pre-Sell feature, you can start your sale from home, lock in your rate, and send your crypto securely. Once your transaction is confirmed on the blockchain, you’ll receive an SMS notification. Simply visit a participating Localcoin ATM and withdraw your cash — no line, no extra steps.
Cash becomes available as soon as your transaction receives the required blockchain confirmations, which typically takes a few minutes to an hour depending on network congestion. You will receive an instant SMS notification the moment your cash is ready to be dispensed.
To ensure speed and avoid unnecessary delays, we strongly advise sending your cryptocurrency directly from a personal, non-custodial wallet (such as Trust Wallet or Exodus) rather than initiating a withdrawal directly from a centralized exchange platform.
Our exchange rates are based on live market pricing plus a service fee. The final rate is displayed clearly on-screen before you confirm your transaction.
Buying Cryptocurrency
The minimum purchase amount is $20 CAD. Standard limits are $995 per transaction, up to $4,975 per day. By completing our secure ID verification, your daily limit increases to $14,925.
Click here to watch a quick video on how to buy Bitcoin at our ATMs
Step 1: Select Location
Find the closest Localcoin ATM near you.
All you need is your wallet’s address QR code and cash!
Step 2: Select Crypto
Once you're at a Localcoin ATM, select Bitcoin from the list of cryptocurrencies available.
Step 3: Scan Wallet
Use your wallet's QR code, and hold it up to the ATM's camera. Don't have a wallet? See here for our recommendations.
Step 4: Insert Cash & Receive Bitcoin
Insert the amount of cash equivalent to the Bitcoin you purchased. A receipt will be sent via SMS.
Our prices for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and other cryptocurrencies are based on the market rates, plus an exchange fee, similar to how currency exchanges handle fiat money.
No, you can purchase fractional amounts. Our ATMs accept denominations as low as $20 CAD, allowing you to buy exactly what you need.
Our ATMs process transactions using Canadian Dollars (CAD) in cash.
Our Bitcoin ATMs accept CAD in the following denominations:
$5, $10, $20, $50, $100
Not at the moment — but we’re exploring future options. To maintain high security, keep fees low, and prevent fraud, our ATMs currently operate strictly on a cash-only basis.
A mobile phone is required. It is necessary to receive an SMS verification code and is typically used to display your digital wallet's QR code at the scanner.
Wallets & Storage
A Bitcoin wallet is a secure digital application that allows you to send and receive cryptocurrency. It stores the private keys that give you access to your bitcoin on the blockchain.
Download a reputable cryptocurrency wallet app to your smartphone and follow the setup instructions provided by the app. Localcoin does not require you to use a specific wallet provider.
A bitcoin address is a unique alphanumeric identifier used to receive funds. Your digital wallet application automatically generates this address for you.
Yes, you must have a digital wallet ready to receive your funds. Please note that Localcoin ATMs do not generate paper wallets.
our bitcoin exists on the blockchain. Your wallet stores the private keys that allow you to access and manage it. Keep your private keys and recovery phrases strictly confidential. Anyone with access to them can control your funds.
Scanning your wallet's QR code is highly recommended for speed and accuracy. Manual entry significantly increases the risk of irreversible errors. Please make sure you have a scannable QR code (printed out or on your smartphone or tablet) before going to any Localcoin Bitcoin ATM
Read more about crypto wallets here
You can use the following easy-to-use wallets. You'll need to bring this wallet (or a printed QR code) with you to the machine. Please keep in mind, we neither receive referral fees from these providers, nor are we connected with their business in any way. As such, we cannot assume any liability with respect to your use of them. As always, do your due diligence before choosing a wallet provider."
Caution: Ensure that the wallet supports your cryptocurrency. If the wallet is not compatible, you will lose your transaction amount.
- Trust Wallet Available for Android, iOS, and any Chromium browser
- Blue Wallet Available for Android and iOS
- Exodus Available for Android, iOS, and any Chromium browser
Click here to read more about our crypto wallets recommendations
KYC & Identity Verification
Transactions up to $4,975 per day only require SMS verification. For higher daily amounts, ID verification is required.
Identity verification is required under Canadian anti-money laundering regulations. As a FINTRAC-registered business, we verify larger transactions to help prevent fraud and keep our platform secure. For more information, see: Understanding Identity Verification in the Crypto Economy
For transactions above $4,975 per day, additional verification is required.
You will need to provide: Your phone number, A valid government-issued ID, A selfie for identity confirmation.
Basic information as part of a standard compliance questionnaire Read more about What to Expect from KYC at a Bitcoin ATM
Providing ID allows you to complete higher-value transactions in accordance with Canadian regulatory requirements. This helps us meet our legal obligations and maintain a secure network for all users.
Yes. We utilize enterprise-grade security protocols to safeguard your personal data in accordance with our Privacy Policy , complying strictly with federal privacy laws and FINTRAC mandates.
Customer Support
You can give us a call at 1 (877) 412-2646
Click here to see our support hours
All Localcoin transactions are processed immediately, provided they are sent to the correct address. Once you have confirmed with 100% certainty that the address is correct, transaction completion times can vary due to blockchain delays. Typically, transactions take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour.
Please note that some wallets may not display your Bitcoin until the transaction has been confirmed on the blockchain. This confirmation process usually takes about 10 minutes to 1 hour, depending on network conditions.
Yes, sending us a picture or screenshot will better help us understand the issue you are experiencing. Please send the image to [email protected] along with a detailed description of the problem. This will allow us to resolve it as quickly as possible for you.
If you experience a terminal error, our dedicated live customer support team is available to assist you. Contact us immediately via live chat, call +1 (877) 412-2646, or email [email protected].
Once a transaction is confirmed on the blockchain, it cannot be reversed. Unfortunately, we are unable to retrieve funds sent to an incorrect address. Before completing any transaction, always double-check the wallet address and use your wallet’s QR code to reduce the risk of errors.
Unfortunately, no. Due to the decentralized nature of the blockchain, funds sent to an incorrect address cannot be recovered by Localcoin or any other party.
If you lose access to your digital wallet or your private keys, your funds cannot be recovered. Always back up your wallet information securely. Localcoin does not store or control your funds. Always back up your wallet recovery phrase securely and keep it private.
Blockchain confirmation times depend on network traffic. While Localcoin broadcasts your transaction instantly, it may take time for miners to confirm it. You can track your progress using the transaction hash provided in your SMS receipt.
Host an ATM
Our Bitcoin ATMs are not for sale. If you are a store owner interested in hosting our Bitcoin ATMs at your location, please visit our website and complete the required information. A Localcoin representative will contact you to discuss if it is a suitable arrangement for both parties. For further assistance, Please contact us here.
Hosting a Localcoin ATM can increase foot traffic and provide guaranteed rental revenue. Contact us to learn more.
If you are a store owner and would like to host a Localcoin Bitcoin ATM at your location, please visit our website and complete the necessary information. A Localcoin representative will contact you to determine if the arrangement is a good fit for both parties. Please contact us here.