How to Get Free Cryptocurrency
We explain different ways to get or earn “free” cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (all of which take time, effort, and/or an initial investment).
Cryptocurrency Basics
Cryptocurrency is a general name referring to all encrypted decentralized digital currencies like Bitcoin.
Cryptocurrency uses cryptography to create coins and secure transactions. Typically cryptocurrencies are open source with pubic, but encrypted, ledgers of all transactions based on blockchain technology.
There are a number of cryptocurrencies traded on cryptocurrency exchanges, and the growing popularity of cryptocurrency means that despite volatile prices, market caps and values are growing every year.
Popular cryptocurrencies include the original Bitcoin, Ethereum’s Ether, and Litecoin.
Cryptocurrency is legal and taxable in the US, but it isn’t legal tender (you can’t pay your taxes in Bitcoin, it is considered investment property). With that said, due to its infancy and history so far, cryptocurrencies should be invested in and used with their historical volatility in mind.
Click on any of the pages below to learn more about cryptocurrency.
TIP: If you are new to cryptocurrency, check out our guide to cryptocurrency for beginners.
Understanding Hard Forks in Cryptocurrency
A hard fork is when a single cryptocurrency splits in two. It occurs when a cryptocurrency’s existing code is changed, resulting in both an old and new version.
How to Send and Receive Cryptocurrency
To send or receive cryptocurrency, first you need a cryptocurrency wallet, then you need to put in the public address of the recipient to send (or give your public address and have someone else put it in to receive).
The Basics of Cryptocurrencies And Taxes
For tax purposes, in the U.S., cryptocurrency is generally treated as property (a capital asset like stocks, bonds, and other investment properties). It is not treated as currency like the U.S. dollar.
How to Trade Cryptocurrency – For Beginners
We explain how to trade cryptocurrency for beginners. To start trading cryptocurrency you need to choose a cryptocurrency wallet and an exchange to trade on.
What is an Altcoin?
Altcoins are cryptocurrency alternatives to Bitcoin. There are thousands of altcoins used today each with their own unique functionalities, purposes, and quirks. Altcoins can be fun, profitable, and educational investments.
List of Cryptocurrencies
Below is a list of important cryptocurrencies and additional resources you can use to learn more about all the different cryptocurrency types.
What is a Cryptocurrency Wallet?
A cryptocurrency wallet is a secure digital wallet used to store, send, and receive digital currencies like Bitcoin.
Beginners Guide to Mining (Litecoin on a Mac)
Learn everything you need to know about mining Litecoin in 30 minutes or less.
Cryptocurrency Basics
Cryptocurrency can get pretty technical, but the basics couldn’t be any simpler. A digital ledger keeps track of money in accounts. People transfer money for goods and services, and math handles the rest.