How to avoid a held swap at an instant exchange
Most instant swaps finish in minutes. A few get stuck: the exchange holds the coins and asks for ID or proof of funds. Here is why it happens and how to avoid it.
Why swaps get held
Many exchanges run incoming coins through automatic AML (anti-money-laundering) tools. If the coins came from an address those tools flag, such as a hacked exchange, a darknet market or a sanctioned address, the swap can be paused until you explain where the money came from. Exchanges that route your swap through a third-party liquidity provider can also be stopped by that provider's checks.
How to avoid it
- Pick an exchange with an A or B score.
These never or almost never ask for ID. See what the scores mean.
- Prefer exchanges with their own liquidity.
An exchange that pays from its own funds cannot be stopped by a third party. We show this on every exchange as Liquidity.
- Look for a guarantee.
Some exchanges keep deposits with swap aggregators as a guarantee, which can be used if a swap is held unfairly. We show it on every exchange as Guarantee.
- Send from your own wallet.
Coins sent straight from a regulated exchange are checked more often.
- Start small.
Try a small swap first, then send the rest.
- Keep your order link.
Save the order page or ID. You will need it if you contact support.
If your swap is held anyway
Contact the exchange's support with your order ID, and stay calm and factual. If you found the exchange through an aggregator, contact the aggregator too. Ask whether a refund to your sending address is possible instead of handing over documents.
KYCHunter only links to services; we never hold your funds. Always check a service yourself and start with a small amount.