Why can't I buy crypto on Coinbase?

If you can't buy crypto on Coinbase, the account, the payment method or a limit is usually the reason. Coinbase's help pages list a handful of causes, each with its own fix, and most are shown as notices in the app. This guide reflects Coinbase's help pages as of November 2026.

Why is Coinbase not letting me buy?

Coinbase lists six reasons buys and deposits can be switched off:

1. Unfinished identity verification. Complete every step the app asks for.
2. An account restriction. Follow the steps in the notice. Restrictions are explained in why is my Coinbase account restricted.
3. Location. Coinbase may limit an account based on where you are, to follow local rules.
4. The payment method. Its details must match the name on your Coinbase account.
5. A negative balance. Paying back what is owed restores trading.
6. A problem at your bank. Contact the bank or try another method.

Why Coinbase asks for ID in the first place is covered in why does Coinbase ask for your SSN and ID.

Why is my Coinbase payment method declined?

Coinbase's troubleshooting page names several card problems. It does not support prepaid, reloadable, secured or business cards. The card must have 3D Secure, an extra verification step, enabled. A card can be linked to only one Coinbase account at a time. Some card providers also block crypto transactions, so the issuer may be the one saying no. That situation is covered in can my bank block me from buying crypto.

For US customers, Coinbase lists Visa and Mastercard debit cards, bank accounts, PayPal, Apple Pay and Google Pay as ways to buy. It says new credit cards can no longer be linked. Bank accounts must be in your own name, and business bank accounts need Coinbase Prime.

Why did my Coinbase purchase fail?

A purchase can fail even with a linked method. When Coinbase verifies a card, it sends two small test charges between 1.01 and 1.99 in local currency, and the issuer must allow them. Manual bank linking uses two test deposits that take a few business days to arrive. If those checks never arrive, ask the issuer or bank whether it blocked them. Coinbase says canceled test charges disappear after 10 business days.

Purchases funded by bank transfer can also be held before the crypto can be moved, as explained in why is my crypto on hold on Coinbase.

What is the Coinbase buy limit?

Coinbase does not publish one figure. It says purchase and deposit limits depend on verification status and can change with account activity, trading history and payment type. Apple Pay and Google Pay purchases are also capped by the card's own transaction limit.

To see your limits, go to Settings and then Account limits on the web, or Profile and Settings and then Limits and features in the app. Choose Apply for increase if it is shown. Coinbase says the review can take up to two days and that support staff cannot verify identity manually. If you are already at the top tier, the option does not appear.