How To Use Binance in the US in 2025 — Step-by-Step Guide

It's confusing trying to figure out how to use Binance in the US, with regulatory red tape and missing features on Binance.US. It's not always clear what's allowed and what could get your account flagged. I felt like a clumsy tiger trying to jump through all the flaming hoops in this crypto circus.

Is Binance available in the US? Only Binance.US is available in America, but not in every state. For example, New York, Texas, and Vermont still restrict it. That's hard to accept when you consider that Binance handles more than $217 billion in trades every day worldwide (coinmarketcap, 2025)¹. I noticed that many traders on forums quickly point out this gap, often sharing their frustration at not being able to use the entire platform.

Luckily, there are safe and legal ways to use Binance while in the US. In this guide, I will explain everything, from how Binance works in the US, what you can and cannot do, how to move funds securely before you travel, and which alternatives you should consider if your state is blocked.

What’s the Difference Between Binance and Binance.US?

Binance.com is the global exchange tool of the company, but it isn’t allowed to serve US residents directly. That’s because the US has stricter rules for crypto than most countries. To operate legally, an exchange must register with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) as a Money Services Business, verify every customer’s identity (KYC), and monitor transactions in accordance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) laws. If anything suspicious is detected, the exchange must file reports with FinCEN.

Binance.US was created to meet US-specific crypto requirements. It also must comply with OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control) rules, which means blocking users associated with sanctioned countries or individuals. In addition to federal regulations, many states have their own licensing laws. For example, New York requires a BitLicense, which comes with strict capital and cybersecurity rules — one reason Binance.US isn’t available in New York. As an avid crypto trader, these rules are frustrating but understandable. Hopefully, these are just growing pains.

Binance.US must also report certain transactions to the IRS and provide tax forms (like the 1099 series) to users. Binance.com doesn’t do this because it doesn’t serve US customers.

Quick Comparison of Binance International vs. Binance.US

Binance holds around 39.8% of the entire centralized exchange (CEX) spot market share (Coingecko, 2025)². Binance.US, while growing, is nowhere near that scale.

Can US Residents Use Binance.com?

US residents can’t legally use Binance.com. The global platform blocks anyone who tries to sign up with a US IP address, and US users who already had accounts were told to move their funds to Binance.US when it launched in 2019. That change happened because US regulators made it clear that Binance.com couldn’t operate in the country without meeting American rules.

Binance.com uses KYC to screen out US residents. When you create an account, you need to upload documents such as a passport, driver’s license, or national ID, along with a selfie or live video for identity verification purposes. If your papers show you’re a US citizen or living at a US address, your account won’t be approved.

Binance.com also checks your IP address and device location when you log in. If you connect from the US, the platform will block access and may freeze your account until you provide additional verification. This is how Binance enforces its “no US users” policy — even if someone tries to sign up with non-US documents, logging in from American soil can trigger a review or suspension.

Which States Support Binance.US?

Binance.US is available in about 41 states in the US. Because crypto exchanges require specific state licenses, access depends on your location. Some states allow full access, while others only permit crypto trading without US dollar banking, and a handful still completely block Binance.US.

Here are some of the states where Binance.US is restricted or unavailable:

How To Access Binance From the US — Withdraw or Transfer Funds and Use Binance.US

Nothing is more frustrating than opening Binance in the US and realizing you cannot trade as usual. I experienced this myself during a recent trip. Binance.com is simply off-limits, but you can still take control in two ways:

1. Move funds to a self-custody (hardware) wallet and transfer to Binance.US when you want to trade or withdraw, or
2. Transfer crypto from Biannce.com to Binance.US.

I like that Biannce.US provides a familiar trading experience for those already used to the Binance platform.

Withdraw Crypto to a Personal Wallet Before Accessing Binance.US

For non-US residents visiting the US temporarily, the best way to keep access to your crypto is by moving it to a personal wallet and then transferring some funds to Binance.US. This way, your holdings remain under your control even if Binance.com restricts trading while you’re there.

Just note that you won't be able to trade directly unless you connect to DEXs, and you'll need to manually send crypto to Binanice.US when selling or converting. However, this process does give you maximum control and security.

1. Pick the type of wallet.
   • Hardware wallets (like Ledger or Trezor) are the most secure since they store your keys offline.
   • Software wallets (like Trust Wallet, Exodus, or MetaMask) are easier to set up and great for everyday use.
2. Set up your wallet. Download the app if you’re using a software wallet, or initialize your hardware wallet. You’ll receive a recovery phrase (usually 12–24 words). Write it down and keep it safe — never share it with anyone.
3. Find your wallet address. Choose the coin you want to withdraw (for example, Bitcoin or Ethereum). Your wallet will generate a unique receiving address. Copy it carefully, since even one wrong character can cause a failed transfer.
4. Start the withdrawal on Binance. Log in to your Binance account, open your wallet, select the crypto you want to send, and paste in your personal wallet address.
   Always double-check the withdrawal address and network before confirming
5. Enter the amount and confirm. Determine the amount you wish to transfer, then submit your request. Binance will likely ask for two-factor authentication (2FA) to verify it’s really you.
6. Wait for confirmation. The transaction must be verified on the blockchain, so the time can vary — sometimes just a few minutes, and sometimes up to an hour. Once it’s confirmed, the funds will appear in your personal wallet.
7. Create a Binance.US account. Once in the US, sign up and complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) identity verification process, which is required for all Binance users.
   Your documents must match your chosen location
8. Log in to Binance.US. Go to your wallet, select the cryptocurrency you want to move, and click 'Deposit'. Remember, Binance.US only supports certain coins, like BTC, ETH, and USDT.
9. Copy the deposit address. Make sure the network matches exactly.
10. Send funds. Open your wallet's software, click Send or Transfer, and paste the Binance.US deposit address.
11. Test. Select the same token and network and send a small test amount. If Binance.US displays 'Deposit Successful,' you can trade on Binance.US.

Transfer Funds From Binance.com to Binance.US

Another option is to move your funds directly to Binance.US. This is the ideal option if you plan to trade frequently while in the US and want to withdraw or deposit funds into a US bank account.

Just remember, once funds are transferred, Biannce.US holds them. Here’s how to move your funds to Binance.US:

• Open a Binance.US account. Sign up to Binance.US and complete KYC verification. Go to your wallet and deposit your selected crypto.
• Get your deposit address. In your Binance.US wallet, select the cryptocurrency you want to transfer and copy its unique deposit address.
• Log in to Binance.com. You'll need to do this before visiting the US.
• Paste the Binance.US address. Enter the deposit address from Binance.US and double-check that the network matches the coin you’re transferring.
• Confirm and send. Enter the amount, complete two-factor authentication (2FA), and submit the transfer.
• Wait for confirmation. Once the blockchain verifies the transaction, your funds will appear in your Binance.US account.
• Start using Binance.US. Remember to keep records of TXIDs for taxes.

Securely Use Binance in the US With A VPN

A VPN hides your real IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, which helps keep your connection private. While it may provide privacy, it does not exempt Binance from its restrictions. The platform still requires complete identity verification (KYC) with official documents. If those details don’t match the location you appear to be logging in from, your account can be flagged or even suspended.

That said, here is how to use a VPN with Binance:

1. Choose a reliable VPN provider. Not all VPNs are built for secure trading. Look for one that offers strong encryption, fast speeds, and follows a strict no-logs policy. Paid VPNs are generally more trustworthy than free ones, which often limit bandwidth and may compromise your privacy.
   NordVPN offers native apps for the most popular devices and operating systems
2. Install and set up the VPN. Download the VPN app to your computer or phone, then create an account. Follow the installation steps carefully, and always update to the latest version to make sure you’re protected by the newest security features.
3. Configure the VPN for stronger security. Most good VPNs are already set up with strong security features by default, so you usually don’t need to change much. Still, it’s worth checking the settings to ensure everything is working as it should.
   • Enable the kill switch. This cuts your internet off if the VPN connection drops, preventing your IP address from leaking. This is a necessary failsafe in my opinion, and I’d never use a VPN without one.
   • Turn on DNS leak protection. This keeps your browsing requests routed through the VPN instead of slipping through your internet provider.
   • Select a secure protocol. Options like OpenVPN or WireGuard are both fast and secure. Many VPNs default to one, but check you’re on the safest available option.
   • Use split tunneling if supported. This lets you send only Binance traffic through the VPN while keeping other apps (like email or banking) on your normal internet connection.
   • Enable obfuscation (if supported). This conceals the fact that you’re using a VPN, making it more difficult for networks to block your connection. Some VPNs automatically enable this.
     Enable Auto-Connect on startup so your device always launches with a secure connection
4. Select a server location. Open the VPN and connect to a server in a country where Binance.com is available. This makes an internet connection appear as though it’s coming from that location.
5. Check your new IP address. Before logging in to Binance, use an IP-checking tool to confirm that the VPN is working and that the connection shows the new location. This confirms that the real location isn’t leaking.
   All the other VPNs we recommend below also didn't leak our IP
6. Log in to your Binance account. Once your VPN is active, open Binance and sign in as usual.
   Use PIA to protect your connection when depositing in your account

Quick Comparison Table: Binance VPN Features

Not every VPN is reliable for safely accessing Binance, and many don’t offer the security features needed to protect your connection. My team and I reviewed over 50 VPNs and found that only a few offered the privacy, stability, and performance you’d want if you’re logging in from the US. The VPNs below stand out the most in terms of trust and consistency.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Using Binance in the US

The most significant risk associated with using Binance in the US is inadvertently violating the rules. US regulators closely monitor crypto activity, and exchanges are required to enforce strict compliance. At first, all these restrictions upset me. However, after seeing all the ridiculous coin scandals that have happened over the years, I’m starting to come around.

That said, here are the most common mistakes you should avoid:

• Submitting false information during KYC. Attempting to pass verification using fake documents or a non-US address is a violation of both Binance's rules and US law. If you’re flagged, you may lose permanent access to your account.
• Assuming tax obligations don’t apply. Some users believe that trades on Binance.com won’t be reported to US authorities. However, if you’re a US taxpayer, you must declare your crypto activity, regardless of where it occurs. Ignoring this can lead to IRS penalties.
• Relying on unsupported features. Futures, margin trading, and leveraged tokens available on Binance.com are not permitted for US residents. Using them while in the US exposes you to regulatory risk.
• Sending coins to the wrong network. Binance.US supports fewer blockchains than Binance.com. If you withdraw to an unsupported network, your funds could be lost. Always double-check network options before sending.
• Sending large amounts without testing first. If you’re moving assets from Binance.com to Binance.US or a wallet, don’t send everything at once. Always test with a small amount to make sure the transaction works and the address is correct.
• Overlooking account security. User compliance isn’t just about paperwork — you’re also expected to keep your account secure. Use 2FA, withdrawal whitelists, and store recovery keys offline to avoid getting locked out or hacked.

How To Keep Binance.US Access When Traveling to States With Limited Support

Your Binance.US access depends on the state associated with your verified account, not the state where you’re temporarily visiting. This means if your home state is supported, you should still be able to log in and trade while traveling. Sometimes, the app may request additional checks if it detects a new location or device, but that’s normal. I freaked out the first time this happened, but I found out it doesn’t mean you’re in trouble, so just take a breath and follow the instructions.

Things get tricky if your legal residence is in a state with limited support. In crypto-only states, you can trade crypto but won’t have access to USD deposits or withdrawals, even when visiting other places. And if you live in an unsupported state, Binance.US won’t let you register or verify until you move to a supported state and update your account.

Before you travel between states, do this:

1. Check your state’s status. Visit the Binance.US Help Center to see if your state is fully supported, crypto-only, or unsupported.
2. Complete verification. Make sure your KYC is done and your proof of address is current, since Binance.US relies on this to confirm your account.
3. Secure your account. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA), save backup codes, and whitelist withdrawal addresses for added security.
4. Plan ahead if you’re in a crypto-only state. Remember that you won’t have access to USD services. Instead, be ready to use crypto deposits and withdrawals.
5. Be aware of the current USD status. Binance.US states that USD ACH is available for eligible customers; however, availability still depends on your state category.
6. Update your details if you move. Once you update your account, if you change your permanent residence, your access will be governed by the rules of your new state.

What To Do Before Traveling to the US — Checklist

If you use Binance or any other exchange and plan to travel to the United States, there are a few things you should do in advance. US regulations are strict, so preparing ahead will help you avoid problems with your accounts, your money, and even your tax reporting. Here’s a simple checklist to go through before you leave:

• Confirm your status for tax purposes. Ensure you know whether you qualify as a US resident for tax reporting purposes. This affects how exchanges handle your account and what gets reported to the IRS.
• Check Binance. US’s availability in your destination state. Binance.US isn’t supported everywhere. Before traveling, look up the list of supported and unsupported states to see if you’ll have full access, crypto-only access, or no access at all.
• Move assets off Binance.com if needed. Since Binance.com doesn’t serve US residents, transfer your funds to a hardware wallet or to a compliant US exchange before traveling. Always test with a small transfer first to make sure it works.
• Set up banking for Fiat transactions. If you plan to use US dollars on an exchange while in the US, link a US bank account and test an ACH transfer in advance. Keep in mind that some states only allow crypto-to-crypto trading.
• Save key documents. Keep copies of your KYC documents, trade history, and any tax-related records. Having them ready makes reporting to the IRS easier and prevents account issues if you’re asked for proof.
• Tighten account security. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA), create a withdrawal whitelist if possible, and store your recovery seeds offline. This reduces the risk of getting locked out or hacked while traveling.
• Cover the basics of travel. Beyond cryptocurrency, ensure your passport is valid, apply for a US visa or ESTA, arrange travel insurance, and notify your bank that you’ll be traveling so your cards don’t get blocked.

Transfer Funds To a US Exchange to Keep Trading When Visiting

Move your funds from Binance.com to a US-based exchange to keep trading while in the United States. For non-US residents visiting, this is a reliable workaround because Binance.com blocks most trading activity within the US.

These platforms are fully regulated and licensed to serve American customers, which means you don’t have to worry about your account suddenly being flagged for breaking the rules. By transferring your coins to an exchange that operates legally in the country, you can still buy, sell, or cash out whenever you need to. While it’s a bit of a hassle, I’d much rather do this than risk getting into trouble with the US government.

This option is also really helpful for US residents, especially those living in states where Binance.US is not available. If you’re in New York, Texas, Vermont, or other restricted states, you cannot use Binance.US at all. Moving your crypto to a different US-based exchange provides a practical way to stay active in the market without encountering constant roadblocks.

• Pick a US exchange. Popular choices include Coinbase, Kraken, and Gemini. Look for one that supports the coins you want to trade, has reasonable fees, and meets your security standards.
• Create and verify your account. Sign up with your chosen exchange and complete the identity verification (KYC) process. US exchanges require this step before you can deposit or withdraw funds.+
  You must complete identity verification to comply with regulations
• Get your deposit address. In your US exchange account, choose the cryptocurrency you want to transfer, then copy the wallet address provided for deposits.
• Log in to Binance. Open your Binance account, go to your wallet, and select the crypto you want to send.
• Paste the deposit address. Enter the address from your US exchange into Binance’s withdrawal form. Double-check the network and the address to avoid mistakes.
• Confirm and send. Enter the amount, complete two-factor authentication, and submit the transfer.
• Wait for the deposit. The transfer will be confirmed on the blockchain before it shows up in your US exchange account. Timing varies by network, but most transactions take minutes to an hour.

Best Binance.US Alternatives

Regulation and oversight are big concerns in US crypto. If Binance.US feels too limited or you're looking for different trust/security features, there are exchanges that balance compliance with expanded offerings. Below are four alternatives with strong reputations to explore.

Safest Wallets for Americans Leaving Binance

If you choose to move your crypto off Binance completely, the safest step is to transfer it into a wallet you control. The right wallet depends on how you plan to use your crypto and how much convenience or protection you need.

Here are some of the best wallet options if you’re in the US:

Hardware Wallets

• Ledger Nano X. A trusted name in crypto security. The Nano X keeps your coins offline, making it extremely difficult for hackers to gain access. It connects via USB or Bluetooth, allowing you to manage your funds on a phone or laptop using the Ledger Live app.
• Trezor Model T. Another reliable hardware wallet with a simple touchscreen interface. It supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies and is easy to use, even if you’re new to cold storage. If you want maximum security for long-term holding, this is one of the top picks.

Desktop and Mobile Wallets

• Coinbase Wallet. A self-custody wallet from Coinbase where you control the keys. It works well if you already use Coinbase for trading, and it also connects to DeFi apps and supports NFTs.
• MetaMask. One of the most popular wallets for Ethereum and ERC-20 tokens. It’s a go-to for DeFi and Web3, and you can pair it with a hardware wallet for stronger protection.
• Exodus Wallet. A beginner-friendly wallet that works on desktop and mobile. It supports multiple cryptocurrencies, features a clean interface, and even allows you to swap crypto directly within the app. You can also connect it with a Trezor wallet for extra security.

FAQs on Using Binance in the US

References

1. https://coinmarketcap.com/exchanges/binance/
2. https://www.coingecko.com/research/publications/centralized-crypto-exchanges-market-share