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Transactions with Crypto Payments in Business19 min read

Transactions with Crypto Payments in Business19 min read

Reading Time: 7 minutes

Crypto payments have become an increasingly relevant part of the digital payments landscape. As online commerce and international business continue to grow, businesses and consumers have more options for sending and receiving money than traditional cash and card payments.

Cryptocurrencies can be used for certain purchases, business transactions, transfers, and other forms of digital payments where they are accepted. Unlike traditional payment methods, crypto transactions use blockchain networks to transfer digital assets between wallets or through payment platforms.

For businesses operating internationally, cryptocurrency can offer another payment option alongside traditional bank transfers, cards, and other digital payment methods. However, businesses should also consider factors such as cryptocurrency volatility, transaction fees, network availability, regulatory requirements, and accounting or tax obligations.

In this guide, we will explain how to accept crypto payments, where cryptocurrency payments can be used, and how businesses can approach crypto payment solutions.

Can Cryptocurrency Be Used as Payment?

Yes. Cryptocurrency can be used as a payment method when the merchant, service provider, or payment platform accepts the relevant digital asset.

Depending on the cryptocurrency and payment infrastructure being used, customers may be able to pay for products or services by transferring digital assets from one wallet to another.

Crypto payments can be particularly relevant to international commerce because blockchain networks operate across borders. However, transaction speed and cost can vary depending on the cryptocurrency, blockchain network, network congestion, and payment provider.

Businesses considering cryptocurrency payments should determine which digital assets they want to accept and how they will handle the funds after receiving them.

For example, a business may choose to:

  • Hold the received cryptocurrency
  • Convert crypto into a fiat currency
  • Use crypto for another business payment
  • Work with a crypto payment processor
  • Connect crypto payments with its existing financial infrastructure

The appropriate approach depends on the business model and the applicable regulations.

How Do You Make a Transaction with Cryptocurrency?

Making a crypto payment generally involves sending digital assets from one cryptocurrency wallet to another.

A typical transaction includes the following steps:

  1. The recipient provides a cryptocurrency wallet address or payment request.
  2. The sender selects the appropriate cryptocurrency and network.
  3. The sender enters the amount and verifies the recipient details.
  4. The transaction is submitted to the blockchain network.
  5. The network processes and confirms the transaction.
  6. The recipient receives the cryptocurrency once the transaction has been confirmed according to the network’s requirements.
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Businesses can also use dedicated crypto payment solutions that simplify the process for customers and merchants.

Before sending cryptocurrency, it is important to verify the wallet address, blockchain network, and payment amount. Sending assets through an unsupported network or to an incorrect address can result in funds being difficult or impossible to recover.

Where Can Crypto Payments Be Used?

Crypto payments can be used in different situations where cryptocurrency is accepted.

Examples include:

  • E-commerce purchases
  • Digital services
  • International business transactions
  • Payments to contractors
  • Cross-border transfers
  • Certain B2B transactions
  • Cryptocurrency-related services

The availability of cryptocurrency payments depends on the merchant, payment provider, cryptocurrency, and applicable laws.

Crypto payments can be particularly useful for businesses serving customers in different countries because they provide an additional digital payment option without requiring the customer and merchant to use the same local banking system.

However, businesses should evaluate the practical aspects of accepting crypto, including price volatility, conversion options, transaction fees, record keeping, and compliance requirements.

Using Crypto Payments in Business

Crypto payments for business can be used as an alternative or additional payment method for companies that operate in digital and international markets.

In a B2C model, a business may allow customers to pay for products or services using supported cryptocurrencies. In a B2B environment, companies may use digital assets for certain commercial transactions between business partners, provided that the transaction is permitted and supported by the parties involved.

Businesses considering crypto payments should think about the complete payment lifecycle, from receiving the cryptocurrency to recording and potentially converting it.

Accepting Customer Payments

Businesses can add cryptocurrency as an additional payment option for customers. A crypto payment gateway or processor can help facilitate this process, depending on the service being used.

Managing Received Crypto

After receiving a payment, a business needs to determine whether it will hold the cryptocurrency, convert it to fiat currency, or use it for another transaction.

Keeping Transaction Records

Blockchain transactions create records on the relevant network. Businesses should still maintain appropriate accounting and financial records for their transactions.

Managing International Transactions

For companies working with international customers or business partners, cryptocurrency can provide another option for cross-border payments. However, businesses should consider local regulations and tax treatment before using crypto for commercial transactions.

Smart contracts can also automate certain blockchain-based processes when specific conditions are met. However, smart contracts should not be treated as a replacement for legal agreements or professional advice.

crypto payments

What Transactions Use Cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency can be used for different types of transactions, provided that the relevant parties and service providers accept it.

Common examples include:

Online purchases: Some online merchants accept cryptocurrencies for products and services.

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Business payments: Companies may use crypto for certain B2B transactions and payments to business partners.

International transfers: Digital assets can be transferred across borders using blockchain networks.

Contractor payments: Some businesses may pay freelancers or contractors in cryptocurrency where permitted and agreed upon.

Digital asset transactions: Cryptocurrency can also be exchanged for other digital assets or fiat currencies through supported platforms.

Different cryptocurrencies have different characteristics. For example, some cryptocurrencies can experience significant price fluctuations, while stablecoins are designed to maintain a value linked to a reference asset, such as a fiat currency. Stablecoins can still involve technology, regulatory, liquidity, and issuer-related risks.

Crypto Payments for International Business

International businesses often need to manage payments across different currencies, banking systems, and jurisdictions.

Crypto payments can provide another option for cross-border transactions, particularly for businesses operating in digital markets.

For example, consider a company in France purchasing services from a business in China. A traditional transaction may involve different currencies, banking intermediaries, transfer fees, and processing requirements. If both businesses accept a particular cryptocurrency, a blockchain-based payment may provide an alternative way to transfer value.

However, this does not mean that crypto payments are always faster or cheaper than bank transfers. Network fees, confirmation requirements, exchange rates, and payment provider charges can vary.

Businesses should therefore compare crypto payments with other international payment methods before deciding which solution is appropriate.

How to Accept Crypto Payments Online

Businesses that want to accept crypto payments online generally need a cryptocurrency wallet, crypto payment processor, or another payment infrastructure that supports the digital assets they want to accept.

A typical setup may include:

  1. Choosing the cryptocurrencies and networks to support
  2. Selecting a wallet or payment provider
  3. Integrating the payment option into the website or checkout
  4. Setting payment and conversion procedures
  5. Establishing transaction and accounting records
  6. Reviewing applicable compliance and tax requirements

A crypto payment gateway can simplify the customer payment process by connecting the checkout experience with cryptocurrency payment infrastructure.

When choosing a provider, businesses should consider supported cryptocurrencies, network compatibility, transaction fees, settlement options, security procedures, integration capabilities, and customer support.

What Is a Crypto Payment Gateway?

A crypto payment gateway is a technology or service that helps businesses accept cryptocurrency payments from customers.

Depending on the provider, a crypto payment gateway may offer features such as:

  • Cryptocurrency payment processing
  • Wallet integration
  • Payment tracking
  • Transaction notifications
  • Conversion or settlement options
  • Checkout integration
  • Support for multiple cryptocurrencies

The exact features vary between providers. Businesses should review the payment gateway’s terms, supported assets, fees, compliance requirements, and settlement process before integrating it into their operations.

crypto payments

Choosing a Crypto Payment Solution for Business

There is no single best crypto payment gateway for every business. The right solution depends on the company’s products, customers, transaction volume, preferred cryptocurrencies, countries of operation, and financial infrastructure.

Before choosing a provider, consider:

Supported cryptocurrencies: Make sure the payment solution supports the assets your customers are likely to use.

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Supported networks: Different cryptocurrencies can operate on different blockchain networks. Network compatibility should be checked carefully.

Fees: Review payment processing, blockchain network, conversion, withdrawal, and other applicable fees.

Settlement options: Determine whether you can receive and hold crypto or convert payments into a supported fiat currency.

Integration: Check whether the solution can work with your website, checkout system, accounting processes, or existing payment infrastructure.

Compliance: Make sure the solution fits the regulatory requirements applicable to your business and customers.

Crypto Payments and The Kingdom Bank

The Kingdom Bank provides digital banking solutions for customers and businesses managing international financial activities.

For eligible customers, its services can support financial activities connected to digital assets and international payments, subject to applicable account terms, eligibility requirements, and regulatory requirements.

Businesses considering crypto payments for business should evaluate how cryptocurrency fits into their existing payment and banking processes. This includes considering supported currencies, settlement options, transaction costs, record keeping, and applicable regulations.

If your business is exploring digital banking and crypto-related payment solutions, The Kingdom Bank can provide information about the services available for eligible customers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crypto Payments

Are crypto payments reversible?

Blockchain transactions are generally designed to be irreversible once confirmed. If a payment is sent to the wrong address, recovering the funds may not be possible. Businesses should therefore use clear payment instructions and verify transaction details.

Do businesses have to accept cryptocurrency payments?

No. Businesses are generally free to determine which payment methods they accept, subject to the laws and regulations applicable to their industry and location.

Can crypto payments be converted into fiat currency?

Depending on the cryptocurrency and payment provider, received digital assets may be converted into fiat currency. Availability, supported currencies, fees, and conversion terms vary between providers.

Do crypto payments have transaction fees?

They can. Costs may include blockchain network fees, payment processing fees, currency conversion charges, or other provider-specific fees. The actual cost depends on the cryptocurrency, network, and service being used.

Are crypto payments taxable?

Crypto transactions can have tax implications depending on the jurisdiction, transaction type, business structure, and applicable tax rules. Businesses should maintain appropriate records and seek professional tax advice where necessary.

How do businesses record crypto payments?

Businesses should maintain records showing relevant transaction details, including the date, amount, cryptocurrency, transaction value, and applicable business purpose. Accounting treatment can vary by jurisdiction.

Can customers pay with crypto on an e-commerce website?

Yes, if the business integrates a suitable cryptocurrency payment solution and chooses to accept crypto. The integration can be handled directly through a wallet or through a third-party payment gateway, depending on the business setup.

Is cryptocurrency suitable for international B2B payments?

It can be suitable for some businesses, but it depends on the transaction, countries involved, cryptocurrency used, and regulatory requirements. Companies should compare crypto payments with traditional international payment methods before choosing an approach.

Disclaimer: This article was originally published in August 2023 and updated in October 2026. Information about cryptocurrency payments, blockchain networks, crypto payment gateways, regulations, fees, tax obligations, and financial services may change over time. The availability of crypto-related services may also vary by jurisdiction, cryptocurrency, financial institution, and customer profile. Readers should verify the latest information with the relevant financial institution and consult a qualified legal or tax professional before making financial or business decisions.

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