Give Bitcoin as a Gift & Onboard Friends

The simplest Bitcoin gift is a small amount sent over Lightning to a wallet you help the recipient install, or a Lightning tip link they can claim later. Bitrefill sells Bitcoin-purchasable gift cards for hundreds of retailers, useful in reverse for spending. For a physical gift, pair a hardware wallet with a small on-chain amount and a written guide. Last verified September 2026. Listings are neutral and unranked; not financial advice.

Gifting: 4 listings

Bitrefill — Buy gift cards, phone top-ups, and bills with Bitcoin and Lightning. multi-asset, Lightning.
Lightning tip links (LNURL) — Send a claimable link or a human-readable Lightning address so a newcomer can receive before they have a wallet. self-custody, Bitcoin-only, open source, Lightning.
Strike — Send dollars or Bitcoin to a phone contact; simplest US onboarding path. custodial, Bitcoin-only, Lightning.
Cash App — Most newcomers already have it; send Bitcoin to a $cashtag. custodial, multi-asset, Lightning.

Frequently asked questions

Is gifting Bitcoin taxable?

Gifts under the annual exclusion ($19,000 per recipient for 2025) require no filing. The recipient inherits your cost basis. Consult a tax professional for larger gifts.

What is the best first wallet for a beginner?

For someone in the US, Cash App or Strike are the least friction. For self-custody from day one, Muun or BlueWallet with a written backup.

Links

Interactive directory: enable JavaScript or open trybitstack.com.