When it comes to crypto, not all banks are on board. Even the simple task of finding a crypto-friendly financial institution can be an unexpected challenge and a nuisance for users.

Crypto-friendliness is far from an exact science, as it varies across different regions and banks don’t always announce a change in their acceptance policies. Bank policies range from supportive to indifferent to restrictive, with some banks encouraging crypto purchases directly within their banking app, while others prohibit crypto activity altogether.

So, how do you know which banks are crypto-friendly?

In this guide, we explore some of the most prominent banks in the UK and US that are known for their openness (or resistance) to cryptocurrency transactions.

If you're looking for a bank that will let you easily buy, sell, or transfer crypto, read on to find the best options that align with your digital needs.

Which UK banks are the least crypto-friendly?

NatWest

NatWest has implemented measures to minimize customer exposure to cryptocurrency-related fraud and scams with daily and monthly limits ranging between £1000-5000. The bank has imposed restrictions on payments to certain cryptocurrency exchanges and frequently issues warnings about the risks associated with crypto investments.

Metro Bank

Metro Bank stopped allowing customers to deposit money into cryptocurrency exchanges in November 2024. The bank claims the decision stemmed from a concern about protecting users from fraud, even with reputable exchanges. Customers can, however, still receive withdrawals from exchanges should they decide to cash out their crypto holdings.

Starling Bank

Starling Bank has taken a firm stance by restricting its customers from sending payments to cryptocurrency exchanges, citing concerns over financial crime and fraud. Users can no longer buy or sell cryptocurrencies using GBP or any other fiat currency.

Chase UK

Chase UK was actually one of the first British banks to shy away from crypto. In October 2023 it announced that it would ban crypto-related transactions for its customers, setting the precedent for other banks to monitor fraud and scams associated with cryptocurrency transactions.

Capital One (UK)

Specific information regarding Capital One UK's policies on cryptocurrency transactions is limited. In the past, there were reports that some users couldn’t use credit cards to make crypto purchases, but some have been able to succeed using a debit card. Given the cautious approach of many UK banks, customers should verify any restrictions directly with the bank.

TSB

For years, TSB has been cautious about allowing customers to engage in crypto-related activity. The bank's official website previously stated that it does not allow payments for cryptocurrency, though no such statement is currently available.

RBS (Royal Bank of Scotland)

RBS is considered one of the more crypto-friendly UK banks, with fewer customers reporting issues when dealing with cryptocurrency transactions. However, RBS implemented a credit card ban on crypto purchases starting in 2018, and imposes limits on debit card/Faster Payments crypto transactions since 2023.

Which US banks are the least crypto-friendly?

Capital One

Capital One has been known to block cryptocurrency purchases made with its credit cards, dating as far back as 2018. However, users may find greater success when buying crypto with a Capital One card today than they did then. Additionally, the bank has promoted the idea of using cryptocurrency to make real-world purchases, perhaps reflecting a change in ideology.

Chase

Like the bank's CEO Jamie Dimon, JP Morgan Chase has taken a cautious approach when it comes to digital assets. Chase credit card customers will bet met with their cards declined when attempting to purchase cryptocurrencies, due to the bank's concerns over credit risk and fraud. However, Chase customers can still gain exposure to crypto-related products like Bitcoin ETFs and blockchain companies via brokerage accounts.

CitiBank

CitiBank is exploring blockchain technology for its own offerings, though it imposes strict limits on purchases through credit cards. Due to these limitations, users may want to attempt to purchase crypto using a Citi debit card, which are associated with higher acceptance rates.

Goldman Sachs

Compared to other banks on this list, Goldman Sachs is limited in the number of personal credit cards they have on offer. However, like Citi, Goldman has shown interest in the cryptocurrency space through institutional investments and exploring crypto-related services.

Barclays

Barclays has taken a cautious approach toward cryptocurrency transactions, with evidence indicating that the bank has blocked credit card payments to certain crypto exchanges due to concerns over financial crime. At the same time, Barclays has been known to publish reports and educational content touching on blockchain technology, suggesting the bank is at least exploring the possibility of cryptocurrency.

USAA

USAA has been recognized as one of the more crypto-friendly financial institutions in the US, dating back to 2016. The bank allows its members to monitor their Coinbase accounts through the USAA platform and has invested in Coinbase, indicating a supportive stance toward cryptocurrency.

Ally Bank

Ally Bank is considered crypto-friendly, especially among US banks. Ally allows customers to use their debit cards for cryptocurrency purchases and facilitating transactions on crypto exchanges without significant restrictions. Ally also publishes educational articles and FAQs for its users to learn about cryptocurrency and its potential benefits.

BMO (Bank of Montreal)

The Bank of Montreal has blocked crypto transactions using credit and debit cards for a few years now, while also publishing material warning users about potential crypto scams. Curiously, while the bank has shown an unfriendly attitude toward cryptocurrency, BMO has the highest exposure to Bitcoin ETFs among Canadian banks, with over $13.5 million in holdings.

Banco Popular de Puerto Rico

Banco Popular de Puerto Rico has inconsistent crypto-related policies, and users may have mixed experiences when attempting to use debit cards for crypto transactions. Customers in Puerto Rico may want to seek out banks with more crypto-friendly policies to gain exposure to Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.

Empower Federal Credit Union

Empower Federal Credit Union has demonstrated crypto-friendliness for cardholders with its crypto portfolio tracker. The credit union has also explored blockchain technology for its own purposes by joining Metal Blockchain's Banking Innovation Program in June, 2024.

Conway National Bank

Conway National Bank does not offer outright cryptocurrency services, focusing instead on traditional banking rather than digital currencies.

Buy crypto with a card

Whether you're in the US, UK, Canada, Puerto Rico, or elsewhere, your bank card will play a big role in your success when purchasing crypto.
Regardless of your bank, the best way to increase your chances of a successful purchase is through MoonPay.

MoonPay's simple checkout experience allows you to buy crypto like Bitcoin and Ethereum in minutes using your preferred payment methods like credit/debit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, and more. MoonPay is non-custodial, meaning you can buy and sell cryptocurrencies in your favorite wallet, while always being in control of your crypto.

Please note that some transactions may be flagged as high-risk by banks that are crypto-friendly. You can try adding the card to Apple Pay, Google Pay, or use an alternative payment method.

Concerned that your bank has a high decline rate? Just check out using your MoonPay balance and you'll experience the highest acceptance rates that don't depend on your bank. Plus, enjoy faster transactions and zero MoonPay fee withdrawals when you decide it's time to cash out your crypto (bank fees may still apply).