Buying USD Coin (USDC) in the U.S. is simple — all you need is a bank account, available funds, and a device to access a trusted exchange. USDC is one of the most widely used stablecoins in the crypto space. While it operates on the same blockchain technology as other cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum, it doesn’t experience the same extreme price swings.
That’s because USDC is pegged 1:1 to the U.S. dollar, meaning each token always equals one dollar. This makes it a much more predictable option for payments since the value remains consistent for both buyers and merchants.
If you’re interested in purchasing USD Coin in the U.S., this guide will walk you through what stablecoins are, the origins of USDC, and the easiest way to get started.
What Are Stablecoins?
Stablecoins are digital currencies designed to maintain a fixed value by being tied to another asset, like the U.S. dollar, the euro, or commodities such as gold. In the case of USD Coin, it’s directly backed by dollars held in reserve.
The purpose behind stablecoins is simple: bring stability to the crypto market. While popular tokens like Bitcoin and Ether can fluctuate by hundreds or even thousands of dollars daily, USDC provides an alternative where the value stays consistent. This stability makes it far more practical for everyday payments and business transactions.
The Story Behind USDC
USDC was introduced in 2018 by Centre, a joint initiative from Circle and Coinbase. It was created to offer a secure, transparent, and regulated stablecoin designed for the U.S. market and beyond.
USDC operates on the Ethereum blockchain and follows strict compliance with U.S. money transmission laws. Unlike some competing stablecoins, Centre publishes regular audits confirming that every USDC token is backed by equivalent dollar reserves.
With a market cap exceeding $33 billion, USDC is currently one of the most adopted stablecoins worldwide and ranks among the top cryptocurrencies by total value.
How to Buy USD Coin (USDC) in the U.S.
Getting started is straightforward, but there are a few steps to follow:
1. Choose a reliable exchange
Select a reputable crypto exchange that operates in the U.S. Some of the most popular include:
- Coinbase
- Kraken
- Gemini
- Binance.US
Before signing up, compare fees, security features, and ease of use to find the platform that works best for you.
2. Create and verify your account
Most exchanges require identity verification (KYC) by submitting personal details and official documents. This process ensures compliance with U.S. regulations.
3. Purchase USDC
Once verified, deposit dollars into your account and convert them into USDC. Since it’s pegged to the U.S. dollar, 1 USDC always equals $1, which makes tracking your balance simple.
Remember to only invest what you’re comfortable with losing, as all crypto investments carry some level of risk.
4. Store your USDC securely
You can keep your USDC on the exchange, but for extra security, consider transferring it to a crypto wallet:
- Hardware wallets (Ledger, Trezor)
- Software wallets (MetaMask, Trust Wallet)
- Built-in exchange wallets like those from Kraken or Gemini
How to Accept Payment in Crypto with ForumPay
Once you have USDC, you can also spend it easily. Thanks to ForumPay, merchants around the world can accept payment in crypto — including USDC — and instantly receive cash in their local currency, such as dollars, euros, or pounds.
For consumers, the process is seamless: you simply pay directly from your crypto wallet, and ForumPay automatically converts your crypto into FIAT. This allows businesses to accept payment in crypto without worrying about volatility, while still receiving traditional currency.
Earn by Referring Businesses to ForumPay
If your favorite shop or business doesn’t accept payment in crypto yet, you can refer them to ForumPay. As a Referral Agent, you’ll earn commissions on every transaction the merchant processes (terms apply).ForumPay is not just a crypto payment processor — it’s an entire ecosystem for merchants, consumers, and partners. Visit www.forumpay.com or email support@forumpay.com to learn more.
