Closing your Coinbase account is a decision that may arise for various reasons—whether you're switching platforms, stepping away from cryptocurrency trading, or simply no longer using the service. While the process is straightforward, it requires careful preparation to avoid irreversible losses. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of permanently closing your Coinbase account via the website or mobile app, ensuring your funds are safely transferred and your data handled appropriately.
We’ll also explore why users choose to delete their accounts, what happens after closure, and how to distinguish between disabling and deleting—an essential understanding for any crypto user.
Why Do People Close Their Coinbase Accounts?
Users close their Coinbase accounts for a range of personal and practical reasons:
- Switching to alternative platforms: Many traders move to exchanges with lower fees, better trading tools, or more coin options.
- Reduced interest in crypto: Some users exit the market entirely and no longer need an exchange account.
- Privacy concerns: Others prefer minimizing their digital footprint across financial platforms.
- Security preferences: A growing number opt for self-custody wallets over centralized services.
Regardless of your motivation, it's crucial to approach account closure methodically.
👉 Learn how top traders manage their crypto transitions securely.
Can You Permenantly Close a Coinbase Account?
Yes, you can permanently close your Coinbase account at any time, whether you’ve completed identity verification or not. However, once closed, the action cannot be undone. You won’t be able to recover transaction history, portfolio data, or login access. If you wish to use Coinbase again, you'll need to create a new account.
Before proceeding, ensure all open orders are canceled, recurring purchases are stopped, and two-factor authentication (2FA) is disabled if needed.
Step-by-Step: How to Close Your Coinbase Account
Follow these organized steps to safely and completely delete your Coinbase account—whether on desktop or mobile.
1. Clear Your Account Balance
Before initiating closure, your account must have a zero balance in all cryptocurrencies and fiat currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, etc.).
Sell Altcoins for Bitcoin (or Stablecoin)
If you hold altcoins like Ethereum, Dogecoin, or Litecoin:
- Use the Buy/Sell feature on Coinbase to convert them into Bitcoin (BTC) or a stablecoin like USD Coin (USDC).
- Alternatively, transfer them to another exchange like Binance or Kraken for conversion.
Withdraw All Funds
Transfer all remaining assets to an external wallet or another exchange:
- Log in to Coinbase.
- Go to Wallets > Withdraw.
- Select the currency (e.g., BTC or USDC).
- Paste your external wallet address.
- Confirm the amount and complete the withdrawal.
⚠️ Important: Never close your account until all balances read $0.00 across all assets.
2. Access the “Close Account” Option
On Desktop:
- Log in to Coinbase.com.
- Click your profile icon in the top-right corner.
- Select Settings.
- Navigate to the Activity tab.
- Scroll down and click Close account at the bottom of the page.
On Mobile (iOS/Android):
- Open the Coinbase app.
- Tap your profile picture.
- Go to Settings > Activity.
- Scroll down and select Close account.
👉 Discover secure ways to store your crypto post-exchange.
3. Confirm Closure and Enter Password
After selecting "Close account":
- Review the warnings about permanence and data loss.
- Enter your account password for verification.
- You’ll see a summary of your current balances—if anything remains, you’ll be prompted to withdraw it first.
- Once cleared, confirm by clicking Close Account.
You’ll be logged out immediately, and Coinbase will send a confirmation email stating your account has been closed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I reopen my Coinbase account after closing it?
No. Account closure is permanent and irreversible. You cannot restore data or reclaim your username/email association with the platform. To return to Coinbase, you must register a new account.
What happens to my personal data when I close my account?
Coinbase retains certain personal information for up to five years—or longer if required by law—for fraud prevention and regulatory compliance. This may include your email address, transaction records, and identity documents.
Is disabling the same as closing my account?
No. Disabling is temporary and often initiated by Coinbase due to suspicious activity. During this period:
- Trading is suspended.
- You retain control over your funds.
- Withdrawals to verified bank accounts are usually still possible.
- Access is typically restored within days after security checks.
Closing your account, however, removes all access permanently.
Can I close my account before completing verification?
Yes. Even unverified accounts can be closed. Follow the same steps: withdraw any funds, go to Settings > Activity > Close account, and confirm with your password.
Will I lose my transaction history?
Yes. Once your account is closed, all transaction history, tax reports, and portfolio tracking data will be deleted from your access. Download necessary records before closure via:
- Statements under the Documents section.
- CSV exports of transaction history.
Does closing my account cancel recurring buys?
While closing triggers cancellation of active subscriptions, it’s best practice to manually stop recurring purchases beforehand:
- Go to Recurring Buys in your dashboard.
- Cancel each scheduled purchase individually.
Alternatives to Coinbase
If you're leaving Coinbase for another platform, consider these popular alternatives known for competitive fees and advanced features:
- OKX: Offers spot trading, derivatives, staking, and strong security protocols.
- Kraken: Trusted for regulatory compliance and institutional-grade tools.
- Gemini: U.S.-based exchange with insured storage and beginner-friendly design.
- Binance: Global leader with extensive coin selection and low trading fees.
Each offers unique advantages depending on your trading style and location.
👉 Compare advanced trading platforms with real-time market tools.
Final Thoughts
Closing your Coinbase account is a simple but critical process that demands attention to detail. Always ensure:
- All funds are withdrawn.
- Balances are zero.
- Records are backed up.
By following this guide, you can exit the platform confidently, knowing your assets are secure and your digital footprint minimized. Whether you're moving to a different exchange or stepping back from crypto altogether, being informed protects your financial future.
Remember: once closed, there’s no going back—so prepare thoroughly before taking the final step.