Crypto Exchange Referral Programs Compared 2025
Free Bitcoin for inviting friends? Here's what each exchange offers and how to maximize referral rewards.
Quick Summary
Coinbase offers $10 in BTC for both you and your friend (most reliable). Gemini gives $10-20 in BTC. Crypto.com has the highest potential at $25+. Terms change frequently—bonuses depend on trade requirements.
Referral Program Comparison
| Exchange | Your Bonus | Friend's Bonus | Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coinbase | $10 BTC | $10 BTC | $100+ trade |
| Gemini | $10-20 BTC | $10-20 BTC | $100+ trade in 30 days |
| Crypto.com | $25 CRO | $25 CRO | Card stake + trade |
| Kraken | 10-20% fee share | — | Ongoing trades |
| Binance.US | Up to 40% fees | — | Ongoing trades |
Note: Referral programs change frequently. Always check the exchange's current terms before referring friends.
Program Details by Exchange
Coinbase Referral Program
Coinbase's program is straightforward: you and your friend each get $10 in Bitcoin when they buy or sell $100+ within 180 days. No complicated requirements, no CRO staking—just trade and earn.
$10 BTC
$10 BTC
$100+ trade
180 days
Gemini Referral Program
Gemini offers $10-20 in BTC for both parties when your friend trades $100+ within 30 days. The amount varies by promotion period. Shorter time window than Coinbase, but potentially higher reward.
$10-20 BTC
$10-20 BTC
$100+ trade
30 days
Crypto.com Referral Program
Crypto.com offers $25 in CRO when your friend stakes for a Visa card. Additional bonuses for card upgrades. Highest potential reward but requires card commitment from your referral.
$25 CRO
CRO (their token)
Card stake
Higher
Kraken & Binance.US — Affiliate Style
These programs share a percentage of your referrals' trading fees. Better for influencers or people with many referrals who trade actively. One-time bonuses are smaller or nonexistent.
10-20% of referrals' fees for 90 days
Up to 40% ongoing fee share
Maximizing Referral Rewards
-
1
Stack sign-up bonuses
New users can sign up for multiple exchanges and collect bonuses from each. $10 from Coinbase + $10 from Gemini = $20+ in free BTC.
-
2
Check for limited-time promotions
Exchanges frequently boost referral amounts during marketing pushes. Holiday seasons often have better rates.
-
3
Meet minimum trade requirements efficiently
For $100 trade requirements, buy $100 of a stablecoin like USDC—minimal price risk while qualifying.
-
4
Read the fine print
Some bonuses have holding periods or withdrawal restrictions. Know the terms before counting your rewards.
Common Referral Pitfalls
- ⚠️ Forgetting to use the referral link — Signing up without the link means no bonus for either party
- ⚠️ Not meeting the trade deadline — Gemini gives 30 days, Coinbase gives 180. Don't wait too long
- ⚠️ Trading fee exceeds bonus — A $10 bonus isn't worth it if you pay $15 in fees on a small trade
- ⚠️ CRO value fluctuation — Crypto.com pays in CRO, which can drop before you sell
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I refer myself with a second account? +
Are referral bonuses taxable? +
How long until I receive my bonus? +
Is there a limit to how many people I can refer? +
The Bottom Line
Coinbase has the most straightforward referral program—$10 each with simple requirements. Gemini can pay more during promotions. Crypto.com offers the highest amounts but requires card staking. For influencers, Kraken and Binance.US fee-sharing programs can add up over time.
Compare All Exchanges