How to use a Zcash ATM

What is a Zcash ATM?

A Zcash ATM is a physical machine that allows users to deposit physical cash and receive electronic ZEC, or sometimes deposit ZEC and receive fiat cash. Some crypto ATMs offer bitcoin only, but increasingly many support ZEC and other cryptocurrencies.

Where can I find a Zcash ATM?

Check out the ATM map at https://paywithz.cash/find-an-atm for Zcash ATMs worldwide. Many are located in gas stations, convenience stores and shopping malls. As of November 2022, Coin ATM Radar shows there are more than 38,000 bitcoin ATMs worldwide, with 33,000 in the United States.

Do I have to KYC to use one?

In the United States, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) requires that all cryptocurrency ATM operators observe and follow the anti-money laundering provisions of the Bank Secrecy Act. As a result, users can expect to provide a name and phone number with SMS. Users who make larger transactions, such as over $1,000, may have to scan a government-issued identification, such as a passport or driver’s license, or a SSN number, to verify the identity of the person making the transaction. Also be aware that many Zcash ATMs will be monitored by video surveillance.

Are there extra fees ?

Expect to pay 10–20% for transaction fees. Fees can be seen on the machine’s profile at Coin ATM Radar. On top of that, exchange rates are often not the best, so it can pay to shop around for the best rates. Overall you may get less ZEC per dollar at a crypto ATM than through an exchange like Coinbase or Gemini.

How to use a Zcash ATM to buy ZEC?

1. Get a Zcash wallet. Before using a Zcash ATM, you’ll need a wallet address in which to deposit the ZEC that you purchase. It’s ideal but not required that the wallet be synced with a mobile data connection to the internet. You could possibly use a screenshot of a transparent QR code, but if you wish to see the funds deposited while you’re physically at the ATM, you will need a synced and connected wallet. You can find a list of Zcash wallets at z.cash/wallets.
2. Get some physical fiat cash. Ironically, this might involve visiting a traditional bank ATM and withdrawing cash.
3. Find a Zcash ATM. Check out either https://paywithz.cash/find-an-atm or https://coinatmradar.com/ to help you find a nearby Zcash ATM machine. These tools will often list the company that owns and operates the machine as well as the machine type, coins supported, KYC requirements, and fees.
4. Visit the Zcash ATM. To use the ATM, make sure you’re comfortable with your surroundings before you begin. Some ATMs are in locations with safety or privacy concerns. When comfortable, walk up to the machine and follow the prompts on the screen. Enter the amount you wish to purchase. Depending on the ATM or amount, you may be required to enter tiered levels of personal information.
5. Scan your wallet deposit address. Open your Zcash wallet or your screenshot of a QR code. At the moment, most Zcash ATMs support transparent addresses, but hopefully in the future that will shift to shielded or unified addresses. You’re going to let the ATM scan your QR code to give the ATM your Zcash receive-to address. Ywallet has a receive QR code on the main page, with a tap to toggle between transparent and shielded. Zecwallet Lite has a receive tab at the bottom. Nighthawk has a QR code icon in the upper left corner.
6. Insert fiat cash. Review and confirm the purchase details before entering cash. When you physically deposit cash, the bitcoin ATM operator will deduct their fee, exchange those dollars for ZEC, and then deposit the ZEC into the address you provided.
7. Confirm that you received ZEC. Before leaving, if you have a synced internet connection, check that the ZEC has been delivered to your wallet address. If there are any problems, don’t hesitate to contact the owner of the ATM.

Last updated November 17, 2022