How to Transfer Crypto From Coinbase to MetaMask

Quick answer: To transfer crypto from Coinbase to MetaMask, you need to connect your MetaMask wallet, select the correct network, and follow the transfer steps carefully.

Before you start

• A Coinbase account with crypto to transfer.
• A MetaMask wallet installed as a browser extension or mobile app.
• Enough crypto to cover transfer fees.
• The correct network selected in MetaMask (e.g., Ethereum for ETH).

How to Transfer Crypto From Coinbase to MetaMask: step by step

1. Open MetaMask and copy your wallet address

In your MetaMask wallet, select the account you want to use and click ‘Copy’ to copy your wallet address. Ensure the correct network is selected (e.g., Ethereum Mainnet).

2. Log in to your Coinbase account

Go to the Coinbase website or open the Coinbase app and log in to your account using your credentials.

3. Navigate to the ‘Send/Receive’ section

On the Coinbase dashboard, click on the ‘Send/Receive’ button, which is usually located at the top right corner of the screen.

4. Enter the recipient address

Paste the MetaMask wallet address you copied earlier into the ‘Recipient’ field. Double-check the address to ensure it is correct.

5. Select the cryptocurrency and amount

Choose the cryptocurrency you want to transfer (e.g., ETH) and enter the amount you wish to send. Be aware of the network fees.

6. Confirm the network

Ensure the network selected matches the one in MetaMask (e.g., Ethereum). Sending to an incorrect network can result in loss of funds.

7. Review and confirm the transaction

Review the transaction details, including the address, amount, and fees. Once confirmed, click ‘Send’ to initiate the transfer.

8. Wait for the transfer to complete

The transfer may take a few minutes to a few hours depending on network congestion and the cryptocurrency being transferred. You can track the transaction in MetaMask.

Fees and how long it takes

Transfer fees on Coinbase depend on the cryptocurrency and network conditions. Ethereum transactions typically have higher fees due to network congestion. The time it takes for the transfer to complete can range from a few minutes to several hours.

Network congestion and gas fees (for Ethereum) are the main factors affecting transfer times and fees.

Stay safe

• Always double-check the wallet address before sending funds.
• Ensure the correct network is selected in MetaMask to match the transfer.
• Be aware of phishing scams; only use official Coinbase and MetaMask apps.
• Keep your MetaMask seed phrase secure and never share it.
• Test with a small amount first to ensure the process works as expected.

If something goes wrong

Transaction not showing in MetaMask — Refresh the MetaMask app and check the transaction status on the blockchain explorer using your wallet address.

Incorrect network selected — If you sent funds to the wrong network, contact Coinbase support for assistance, though recovery may not be possible.

Insufficient funds for fees — Add more funds to your Coinbase account to cover the network fees and try the transfer again.

Doing this as part of trading, income, or a disposal? See how it may be taxed in Tax by country and the taxable-events section — information, not advice.