Cryptocurrency staking has become a popular way for investors to earn passive income through networks like Ethereum, Solana, Cardano, and others. Coinbase simplifies staking for beginners, but knowing how to unstake on Coinbase is equally crucial for managing your assets.
This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of the unstaking process, including timing, troubleshooting tips, and FAQs to ensure a smooth experience.
What Is Unstaking on Coinbase?
Unstaking is the process of withdrawing your staked cryptocurrency from a blockchain network, making it liquid for trading or transfers. When you stake assets on Coinbase, they’re locked to earn rewards, but unstaking frees them for other uses.
Common Reasons to Unstake:
- Needing liquidity for trades or withdrawals.
- Switching platforms or wallets.
- Adjusting investment strategies.
Supported assets include Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Cosmos (ATOM), and Tezos (XTZ).
Step-by-Step Guide to Unstaking on Coinbase
Step 1: Log In to Your Coinbase Account
- Visit Coinbase or open the mobile app.
- Enter your credentials and complete 2FA if enabled.
Step 2: Navigate to Staked Assets
- Go to Assets > Staking to view staked holdings.
Step 3: Initiate Unstaking
- Select the asset and click Unstake.
- Confirm the transaction and note the estimated processing time.
⚠️ Note: Unstaking delays vary by network (e.g., 3–21 days for Cosmos). Funds won’t earn rewards during this period.
Step 4: Wait for Completion
Coinbase notifies you when funds are available. Typical timelines:
- Solana: 2–3 days
- Ethereum: Up to 1 week
- Cosmos: 21 days
Step 5: Trade or Withdraw Unstaked Funds
- Once available, transfer, trade, or sell your crypto as needed.
Common Unstaking Issues & Solutions
- Unstaking delays: Network-specific cooldown periods apply.
- Missing rewards: Earnings stop upon unstaking initiation.
- Transaction errors: Ensure sufficient gas fees (for ETH) or retry during low congestion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which cryptocurrencies can I unstake on Coinbase?
Only supported assets like ETH, SOL, and ATOM offer unstaking.
How long does unstaking take?
Varies by network—from days to weeks. Check asset-specific policies.
Are staking rewards lost when unstaking?
Yes, rewards cease once unstaking begins, but accrued earnings remain.
Can I cancel an unstaking request?
Usually no. Requests must complete before funds are reusable.
Final Tips
- Plan ahead for liquidity needs due to unstaking delays.
- Double-check network rules to avoid surprises.
- For urgent help, contact Coinbase Support for real-time guidance.
Mastering how to unstake on Coinbase ensures flexibility in managing your crypto investments. Always verify steps with official resources and prioritize security.