6 Ways to Use Crypto in Washington, D.C. In 2024

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Cryptocurrency is more popular than ever but despite this, many are still confused about how they can/should use it. This is understandable as it is simultaneously a currency and an investment tool, while also being quite different from fiat currency.

The good news is that if you live in DC, there are countless ways for you to spend cryptocurrency as both an investment and a medium of exchange. This includes local businesses, multinational corporations, and everything in between. If you’re looking to use crypto this year, here are some options:

1) Investments

This is perhaps the most famous application of crypto as tokens like Bitcoin have been delivering returns for years. If you’re someone looking to invest in crypto, there are many options for you. There are legacy tokens like Bitcoin and Ether that are relatively stable assets. If you’re looking to take a chance on a new token, the market has a lot to offer. Cryptocurrency expert Alan Draper explains that lots of people look for the newest crypto to put their money in, in the hopes that it will be the next big thing. If you’re in Washington, you can opt to invest using exchanges, brokers, peer-to-peer platforms, and so on.

2) Food and Drink

While it might not be as publicized, cryptocurrency can also be used to buy food and drink. Even in Washington, there is a growing list of establishments that let customers pay with digital assets. Compass Coffe announced a while back that it would be selling its products for USDC, following in the footsteps of other places like Bozzelli’s. You can also message your local favorite spots to see if they would accept crypto.

Besides these local places, there are also national chains like Chipotle and Burger King that allow users to spend crypto.

3) Paying Bills

The crypto market has evolved to the point that consumers can pay their bills using cryptocurrency. Platforms like Spritz Finance and BitPay allow customers to deposit cryptocurrency, have it converted to fiat, and set up direct debits to cover their bills. This means that everything from streaming subscriptions to electricity bills can be covered with cryptocurrency.

If you’re in DC and looking to spend crypto, consider finding out whether your service providers are listed with these services and if you can pay your bills with digital assets.

4) Paying Rent and Mortgage

Just like with paying bills, it is possible to pay rent and mortgage using crypto assets. Platforms like NOWPayment and Liv Rent work to help crypto users pay their rent using crypto and a few property companies even allow for mortgage payments using digital assets. If you’re looking to take advantage of this, you’ll have to reach out to your landlord, rental company, or any other relevant party to ask if such an arrangement would be possible. You’ll also do well to visit some of the existing crypto rent services and see if your needs can be met.

5) Paying for Flights and Hotels

From Travala to Alternative Airlines, there are more options these days for those who want to pay for flights and hotels. These sites offer flights from virtually every airline on the planet and a plethora of hotels so no matter where you want to go from Washington, you’ll probably be able to.

Using these sites will require a deposit of crypto (the specific tokens accepted depends on the site) and a quote will be given for each option. At checkout, you can initiate a payment the same way you would with fiat currency. These initiatives have been successful thus far so we can expect even more to pop up soon.

6) Donations

As much as crypto is being used for commercial purposes, it can also be used to do good. These days, it is not unusual to see all sorts of initiatives and fundraising efforts accept crypto alongside fiat currency. There are several benefits to this as crypto has fewer geographical restrictions, can be used to bypass government censorship, and can appreciate in value over time. If you’re someone who regularly donates to good causes, try to find out if they will take crypto and how you can do good with your assets.