How to Start on KuCoin: Sign-up, Verification and First Trade

A beginner's guide to KuCoin: checking availability, sign-up, identity verification, deposits, buying, security settings and withdrawals, with the fee and licence points that matter.

FinBoss.io editorial team·· 2 min read
Illustration for the article: How to Start on KuCoin: Sign-up, Verification and First Trade

In short: check that KuCoin is available and permitted in your country, register on the official site, turn on two-factor authentication, complete identity verification, deposit and place a first small trade. The starting spot fee is 0.1%. Read our KuCoin review for the risks first.

Before you register

  1. Check availability. KuCoin restricts some jurisdictions in its terms, and EU users should check the status of KuCoin EU with the regulator (see the review).
  2. Understand the bonus. The welcome rewards advertised on the homepage are maximums that usually need verification, a deposit and tasks, and are often paid as vouchers.

Step by step

  1. Open the official KuCoin site by typing the address yourself. Fake copies are a common scam, see how to spot a crypto scam.
  2. Create an account with your email and a strong unique password.
  3. Turn on two-factor authentication with an authenticator app rather than SMS.
  4. Complete identity verification (KYC). Have a government ID and your phone ready.
  5. Deposit. Options depend on your country. Send a small test amount first if you transfer crypto, and check the network.
  6. Place a first trade. A limit order is cheaper than a market order. The starting spot fee is 0.1%, and paying in KCS gives a discount of about 20% according to KuCoin.
  7. Move long-term holdings to your own wallet. See Trezor vs Ledger.

Security checklist

  • Use a unique password and an authenticator app.
  • Set an anti-phishing code if the exchange offers one.
  • Never share your seed phrase or 2FA codes with anyone claiming to be support.
  • Keep only what you trade on the exchange.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need identity verification?

Verification is generally required for deposits, trading and withdrawals on large exchanges. The exact requirements depend on your country and account level.

How much does it cost to trade?

0.1% maker and taker for spot at the starting level, per KuCoin's fee page.

Can I lose money?

Yes. Crypto prices swing sharply, and futures with leverage can wipe out a deposit.

Not investment advice. Trading crypto is risky.

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Disclaimer: This content is for general information and is not investment, tax or legal advice. Investing is risky and you can lose part or all of your investment. Verify figures in current sources.