Wallet addresses

The destination for a transfer

A wallet address is a string of letters and numbers that identifies where cryptocurrency should go. It is similar to an account number, but it belongs to a particular network and mistakes are usually not reversible.

The recipient may provide an address as text or as a QR code. Both represent payment details that your wallet can read. A QR code reduces typing, but you still need to review the details shown after scanning it.

Copy, then compare

Avoid typing an address by hand. Copy it or scan the recipient's QR code, paste it into the sending wallet, then compare it with the original. Check the beginning, the end, and several characters in the middle.

Some malicious software can replace an address on your clipboard. Comparing only the first few characters is not enough. If the payment is important or the recipient is new, confirm the destination through a trusted second channel.

An address format is only a clue. The wallet's selected network and the recipient's written instructions are the checks that matter.

Tags, memos, and other identifiers

Some services use one wallet address for many customers. They may ask for an extra number or note so they can credit the right account. This can be called a destination tag, memo, or payment ID.

XRP transfers to an exchange or hosted wallet commonly use a destination tag. The tag is separate from a classic XRP Ledger address. If the recipient supplies one, include it exactly. Sending to the right address without the required tag can delay or prevent automatic crediting.

Your wallet should provide a separate field for the identifier. Never add it to the address unless the receiving instructions explicitly use a combined address format supported by your wallet.

Receiving into your own wallet

Open the exact currency and network in your personal wallet and choose Receive. The wallet will show an address for that network. Read the network label before sharing the address.

If you create a fresh address, make sure your recovery information already protects the wallet. A visible balance is not a substitute for a tested recovery plan.

Before you approve

Read back the exact currency, network, full address, any required tag or memo, amount, and fee. If the recipient changes the address during a conversation, pause and verify the new one independently.

Continue with custody and control to understand who can approve a transfer from a wallet.

Official reference

The XRP Ledger destination tag documentation explains why hosted services use tags and how an account can require one.