Withdrawing your crypto from an exchange is a fundamental skill for any digital asset holder. Whether you're moving funds to a personal wallet for safekeeping or sending assets to another exchange, understanding the correct process is crucial to avoid costly errors. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step walkthrough of the two primary withdrawal methods available on the OKX platform.
There are two main methods for withdrawing crypto from OKX:
- On-Chain Withdrawal: Transfer crypto via a blockchain network to an external wallet or exchange. This method incurs a network fee.
- Internal Transfer (Free): Instantly and freely transfer crypto to another verified OKX user. This occurs off-chain, meaning no blockchain network fee is applied.
Getting Started
To begin any withdrawal, you must first log in to your OKX account. Once logged in, navigate to the Assets section from the top menu and select Withdraw. This will bring you to the main withdrawal interface where you can choose your desired asset and method.
On-Chain Withdrawal: Sending Crypto to External Wallets
An on-chain withdrawal is the process of moving your cryptocurrencies from your OKX exchange wallet to a wallet address on a blockchain, such as a personal hardware wallet (Ledger, Trezor) or a software wallet (MetaMask, Trust Wallet).
Step 1: Select Asset and Method
On the withdrawal page, first select the cryptocurrency you wish to withdraw. Then, ensure you have selected the On-Chain withdrawal method.
Step 2: Complete Withdrawal Details
This is the most critical step where attention to detail is paramount.
- Withdrawal Address: Carefully paste the destination wallet address from your external wallet. Double-check every character. It is highly recommended to use the platform's whitelist feature to add and verify trusted addresses, adding a crucial layer of security to protect your assets.
Network Type: Select the correct withdrawal network from the available options. This must match the network type supported by your destination wallet or exchange.
- Crucial Note: The system may auto-match the network based on the address format. However, if multiple networks are available (e.g., ERC20, BEP20, TRC20 for USDT), you must manually ensure the selected withdrawal network is identical to the deposit network required by the receiving platform. Sending funds on the wrong network will likely result in permanent loss.
- Withdrawal Amount: Enter the amount you wish to withdraw. This amount must be greater than the minimum withdrawal limit and cannot exceed your daily withdrawal limit, which is based on your account verification level.
- Network Fee: The fee required by the blockchain network to process your transaction will be displayed. This fee is dynamic and varies based on network congestion; it is not set or kept by OKX.
After filling in all details accurately, click Next.
Step 3: Confirm and Verify
You will be prompted to complete two-factor authentication (2FA), such as entering a code from Google Authenticator or an SMS. Review all details one final time on the confirmation screen. If everything is correct, click Confirm to submit your withdrawal order.
A notification will appear confirming that your withdrawal has been successfully submitted. The transaction will then be broadcast to the blockchain.
Important Note for Certain Assets: Some cryptocurrencies like XRP and XLM require both an address and a destination tag/memo. You must fill in both fields precisely as provided by the receiving exchange or wallet. Failure to include the correct tag will result in the loss of your funds.
Internal Transfer: Sending Crypto to Other OKX Users
An internal transfer allows you to send funds instantly and without any fees to another verified user on the OKX platform.
Step 1: Select Asset and Method
Select the cryptocurrency you wish to send and choose the Internal (Free) withdrawal method.
Step 2: Enter Recipient Details
You will need to identify the recipient using one of the following pieces of information:
- Their OKX-registered phone number
- Their OKX-registered email address
- Their Sub-account name
- Their unique OKX UID
Note: The recipient must be a verified OKX user. You can then enter the amount you wish to send, which must again adhere to the minimum and maximum limits for your account level. 👉 Explore more strategies for managing your account limits.
Step 3: Confirm and Send
Complete the 2FA verification process. Click Confirm to execute the transfer. The funds will be credited to the recipient's OKX account immediately.
Cancellation Policy: If you change your mind, you have a 1-minute grace period to cancel the internal transfer request without any penalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between an on-chain withdrawal and an internal transfer?
A: An on-chain withdrawal moves your crypto onto a public blockchain (e.g., Bitcoin or Ethereum network) to an external address, incurring a network fee. An internal transfer moves crypto between OKX user accounts off-chain, which is instant and free.
Q: How long does an on-chain withdrawal usually take?
A: Withdrawal times vary by blockchain network congestion. Bitcoin or Ethereum transactions can take from a few minutes to over an hour during periods of high demand. Other networks may be faster.
Q: Why did I receive less crypto than I withdrew?
A: The difference is the network (gas) fee, which is paid to blockchain miners or validators to process the transaction. This fee is deducted from the withdrawal amount. OKX does not profit from these fees.
Q: What should I do if my withdrawal is stuck or delayed?
A: First, check the transaction status and TXID (transaction hash) in your withdrawal history. You can use a blockchain explorer to see if the transaction is pending, confirmed, or has failed. If it remains pending for an unusually long time, contact OKX support with your TXID for assistance.
Q: Can I cancel a withdrawal after submitting it?
A: On-chain withdrawals cannot be canceled once submitted because the transaction is immediately broadcast to the blockchain. Only internal transfers can be canceled within the 1-minute window.
Q: How can I ensure my withdrawal address is correct?
A: Always use the "whitelist" feature. Add a new address to your whitelist, which requires email/SMS verification. This ensures you can only withdraw to pre-approved, safe addresses, drastically reducing the risk of errors or theft. 👉 View real-time tools for managing your security settings.