Sent some crypto and wondering why it hasn’t arrived yet? Your wallet might say “pending,” even though the money has already left your screen. That’s where transaction confirmations come in.
What does a confirmation mean?
Think of a blockchain as a shared record book. When you send crypto, the network checks the transaction and adds it to that record. On 
Bitcoin market price and chart, the first block containing your transaction gives it one confirmation. Every new block added after it makes that record harder to change.
Different networks work differently. 
Ethereum market price and chart, for example, has its own way of deciding when transactions are final. So a confirmation count on one network doesn’t necessarily mean the same thing on another.
Why is my transfer still pending?
A transaction can take longer when the network is busy or your fee is too low. Sometimes the blockchain has already processed it, but the exchange you’re sending to needs extra time for its own checks.
The important point: clicking “Send” doesn’t always mean the recipient can use the money right away.
How many confirmations should I wait for?
There isn’t one number that works for every coin, exchange or payment. A receiving service may require several confirmations before showing your deposit. Check its instructions, especially for a larger transfer.
How to check a transaction
- Open the wallet or exchange where you sent the crypto.
- Find the transaction ID, sometimes called a transaction hash.
- Paste it into a trusted explorer for the same blockchain.
- Check whether the transaction is pending, confirmed or finalized. Also compare the destination address and amount.
Our blockchain explorer guide walks through this in more detail. An explorer will never need your recovery phrase.
Can I cancel a confirmed transfer?
Usually not. Once a transfer has settled, getting it back can be difficult or impossible. That’s why it’s worth double-checking the recipient and network before sending.
Quick questions
Is a transaction ID proof that someone received my money?
Not on its own. Check the transaction’s status and the destination. An exchange might also take extra time to credit your account.
Do I pay for every confirmation?
No. You normally pay a network fee for your transaction, not a new fee for each confirmation.
Learn more: Bitcoin developer guide and Ethereum’s explanation of proof of stake.
