Crypto lending has re-emerged as one of the most compelling ways to unlock liquidity from digital assets without selling them. After a turbulent period in the early 2020s — marked by high-profile failures like Celsius and Voyager — the lending landscape has matured significantly. Today’s platforms emphasize transparency, robust risk management, and regulatory compliance, making them attractive to both retail and institutional users. However, U.S. investors must be especially careful about platform eligibility due to state-by-state licensing and regulatory restrictions.
In this USA-focused guide for 2026, we look at the ten top crypto lending platforms available to American users, covering both centralized (CeFi) and decentralized (DeFi) options.
Best crypto lending platforms
Searching for the top Bitcoin and cryptocurrency lending platforms? With a wide range of crypto loan options and providers available, choosing the right one depends on your financial goals and the provider’s proven reliability. We’ve shortlisted 10 trusted platforms, each designed to suit different borrowing preferences and risk levels, all accessible to U.S. investors.
| Platform | APR | LTV | Supported assets |
|---|---|---|---|
| ⭐Coinbase | Dynamic depending on Morpho pool | Variable; automated liquidation at 86% | BTC & USDC |
| Aave | Variable on asset; average 7.73% annually | Variable on asset; overcollateralized | ETH, wETH, wBTC, stETH & more |
| Compound | Variable on asset; average 4.72% | Variable on asset; overcollateralized | ETH, LINK, wstETH, COMP & more |
| Unchained Capital | Variable; from 15.20% | Variable; minimum 50% | BTC & fiat only |
| Ledn | 12.4% APR | Variable; minimum 80% LTV | BTC & USD |
| Arch Lending | From 9.50% APR | Variable; between 45% to 60% | BTC, ETH & SOL |
| Salt Lending | Variable on loan term; between 8.95% to 14.45% | Between 30% to 70% | BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC, SALT & fiat |
| CoinRabbit | Variable on loan term; starting from 17% | Between 50% to 90% | 330+ supported assets |
| Alchemix | Variable; self-repaying loan | Variable; maximum 50% | ETH, DAI, USDT & more |
| Nexo | Variable; between 10.9% to 18.9% | Variable on asset; minimum 50% | Fiat, USDT, USDC, BTC, ETH & more |
First Crypto Lending Platforms Coinbase
Global heavyweight Coinbase is widely recognized as one of the leading crypto lending platforms in the world, in addition to being a top-tier cryptocurrency exchange. Coinbase allows users to borrow USDC against their Bitcoin at competitive interest rates starting as low as 4%, offering fast access to liquidity without the need to sell assets. Loan approvals are completed in seconds, with no additional KYC or credit checks required. Borrowers can access loans of up to $1 million in USDC, manage everything seamlessly through the Coinbase app, and repay their loans at any time.
Coinbase at a glance…
Key features of Coinbase
🇺🇸 Available everywhere except NY state
🪙 Supported crypto: BTC & USDC
⏰ Fixed terms: Dynamic (Morpho pool)
🏦 Interest rate: Variable; as low as 4%
🌱 APR: Pool-dependent
📐 LTV: Liquidation at 86%
Second Crypto Lending Platforms Aave
Aave is a leading DeFi lending protocol best known for its innovative flash loans and overcollateralized crypto borrowing options. Thanks to its high loan-to-value (LTV) ratios, borrowers can benefit from relatively low interest rates. Aave offers variable APY rates depending on the lending pool, with yields reaching up to 13%.
Aave at a glance…
Key features of Aave
🇺🇸 Available nationwide through non-custodial wallets
🪙 Supported crypto: ETH, wETH, wBTC & more
⏰ Fixed terms: Flexible, protocol-based
🏦 Interest rate: Variable by asset
🌱 APR: Average of 7.7% annually
📐 LTV: Overcollateralized, asset-dependent
Third Crypto Lending Platforms Compound finance
Compound finance is one of the earliest DeFi lending protocols and played a key role in shaping the decentralized crypto lending market. It continues to be a popular option for investors seeking DeFi loans with automated interest calculations and COMP token rewards. By using an overcollateralized model, Compound offers relatively low APRs and provides an average APY of around 4.54%.
Compound Finance at a glance…
Key features of Compound
🇺🇸 Available nationwide through non-custodial wallets
🪙 Supported crypto: ETH, LINK, COMP & more
⏰ Fixed terms: Flexible, automated by protocol
🏦 Interest rate: Variable by asset
🌱 APR: Averages around 4.7%
📐 LTV: Overcollateralized, asset-dependent
Fourth Crypto Lending Platforms Unchained Capital
U.S.-based crypto loan provider Unchained Capital specializes in Bitcoin-backed loans, along with secure custody solutions and retirement account services tailored for Bitcoin investors. Its loans come with fixed repayment terms, no rehypothecation of client assets, and high borrowing limits for qualified borrowers. Unchained Capital offers loan amounts of up to $1 million.
Unchained Capital at a glance…
Key features of Unchained Capital
🇺🇸 Available across the US (excluding ID, MA, NM, ND, SD, VT)
🪙 Supported crypto: BTC & fiat only
⏰ Fixed terms: 6 or 12 months
🏦 Interest rate: From 15.2%
🌱 APR: Variable
📐 LTV: Minimum 50% collateral
Five Crypto Lending Platforms Ledn
Ledn is a Bitcoin-only crypto lending platform that offers straightforward BTC-backed loans with fast funding and transparent risk management. It provides 12-month loan terms at a base rate of 10.4% APR, plus a 2% administrative fee, bringing the total APR to 12.4%. Loans start at a 50% loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, are typically funded within 24 hours, and can be repaid at any time with no required monthly payments. Borrowers can choose between Standard collateral management (where rehypothecation is permitted) or Custodied options, which keep assets ring-fenced and not lent out.
Ledn at a glance…
Key features of Ledn
🇺🇸 Nationwide, with some state limitations
🪙 Supported crypto: BTC & USD
⏰ Fixed terms: 12 months
🏦 Interest rate: 10.4% + 2% admin fee
🌱 APR: 12.4%
📐 LTV: From 50%
Six Crypto Lending Platforms Arch Lending
Arch Lending is a crypto lending platform that supports Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Solana (SOL), offering fixed loan terms of up to 24 months with no credit checks required. Client collateral is held with qualified custodians and is not rehypothecated. Interest rates currently start at 9.5% APR, with a minimum loan amount of $1,000, while loan-to-value (LTV) ratios vary depending on the supported asset.
Arch Lending at a glance…
Key features of Arch Lending
🇺🇸 Available excluding AL, CA, DE, HI, MN, MS, MT, NV, ND, RI, SC, SD, TX, VT, VA, WA
🪙 Supported crypto: BTC, ETH, SOL
⏰ Fixed terms: Up to 24 months
🏦 Fees: 1.5% origination fee, 2% partial liquidation fee
🌱 APR: From 9.5%
📐 LTV: BTC 60%, ETH 55%, SOL 45%
Seven Crypto Lending Platforms Salt Lending
Salt Lending is an established crypto lending company that offers both personal and business loans with flexible terms. Despite previous challenges related to the FTX collapse, the platform has since recapitalized and continues to provide high-value loan options, crypto-based rewards, and tailored solutions for large-scale borrowers.
Salt Lending at a glance…
Key features of Salt Lending
🇺🇸 Available across 20+ states
🪙 Supported crypto: BTC, ETH, USDT, SALT & fiat
⏰ Fixed terms: 12–60 months
🏦 Interest rate: 8.95%–14.45%
🌱 APR: From 0.95%
📐 LTV: 30%–70%
Eight Crypto Lending Platforms CoinRabbit
CoinRabbit is a crypto loan provider designed for speed and simplicity, offering crypto-backed loans with no KYC or credit checks required. The platform supports a wide range of collateral assets and stablecoin borrowing, with flexible loan terms and low minimum requirements. CoinRabbit offers a variable APY based on the selected asset, with rates reaching up to 5%.
CoinRabbit at a glance…
Key features of CoinRabbit
🇺🇸 Available nationwide
🪙 Supported crypto: USDT, USDC, BUSD, BTC, ETH, DOGE, DGB
⏰ Fixed terms: Flexible, starting from $100
🏦 Interest rate: From 17%
🌱 APR: Variable by term
📐 LTV: 50%–90%
Nine Crypto Lending Platforms Alchemix
Alchemix is a decentralized finance (DeFi) lending platform known for introducing self-repaying loans. It uses yield-generating smart contracts to gradually pay off borrowed amounts automatically. Users can deposit popular crypto assets as collateral, enjoy protection from liquidations, and choose to repay their loans early without any penalties.
Alchemix at a glance…
Key features of Alchemix
🇺🇸 Available nationwide through non-custodial wallets
🪙 Supported crypto: ETH, DAI, USDT & more
⏰ Fixed terms: Flexible, self-repaying
🏦 Interest rate: Variable, yield-based
🌱 APR: Automated repayment
📐 LTV: Up to 50%
Ten Crypto Lending Platforms Nexo
Nexo is a globally recognized crypto lending platform that provides instant access to funds without credit checks and with flexible borrowing limits. Users can benefit from competitive interest rates, including 0% APR for higher loyalty tiers, along with support for both fiat and crypto-backed loans. The platform also offers variable APYs of up to 15%. Although Nexo previously exited the US market due to regulatory challenges, it has announced plans to return soon—making it one to keep an eye on.
Nexo at a glance…
Key features of Nexo
🇺🇸 Re-entering the US market soon!
🪙 Supported crypto: Fiat, BTC, USDT & more
⏰ Fixed terms: Flexible, instant approval
🏦 Interest rate: Variable
🌱 APR: 0% VIP members or 10.9%–18.9%
📐 LTV: From 50%, asset-dependent
Eleven Crypto Lending Platforms Wirex
Wirex provides a dedicated crypto lending service known as Wirex Credit, enabling users to borrow stablecoins such as USDC, USDT, and NXUSD by using their existing cryptocurrency holdings, including Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), as collateral. This solution allows users to access liquidity while retaining ownership of their digital assets, eliminating the need to sell their crypto.
Wirex at a glance…
Key Features of Wirex
🇺🇸 US Market Re-Entry (Soon)
🪙 Supported Crypto & Fiat
💵 Loan & Credit Type
⏰ Terms & Approvals
🏦 Interest Rates
🌱 APR Examples
📐 Loan-to-Value (LTV)
Read Next… 20 Best No KYC Crypto Exchanges (2026)
CeFi vs DeFi Crypto Loan Platforms
Centralized crypto lending platforms (CeFi) take custody of user assets and manage regulatory compliance, providing a more traditional and user-friendly experience. However, this structure introduces counterparty risk, as users must trust the platform to safeguard their funds. In contrast, decentralized crypto lending platforms (DeFi) such as Aave and Compound operate through smart contracts on the blockchain. They offer greater transparency, permissionless global access, and full user control, but can be exposed to risks like smart contract vulnerabilities and liquidity fluctuations.
How to Choose the Right Platform
With so many options in 2026, selection depends on your goals:
🔒 Security & Regulation
Choose platforms with transparent audits and strong regulatory compliance — especially critical for U.S. investors subject to state regulations.
📊 Use Case
- Borrow fiat/stablecoin: Coinbase, Nexo, Ledn
- Earning interest or yield: Compound, Aave, Radiant
- Flexible lines: Clapp
- Specialized BTC lending: Unchained, Ledn
💡 CeFi vs DeFi
- CeFi platforms (e.g., Nexo, Coinbase) offer convenience and user-friendly interfaces.
- DeFi protocols are non-custodial and transparent but require wallet management and comfort with smart contracts.
Risks and Things to Consider Before Using a Crypto Lending Platform
Before taking out or offering crypto loans, it’s important to carefully assess the potential risks—even when dealing with well-known and reputable platforms. Market volatility can trigger collateral liquidation if asset prices drop sharply. There is also the risk of hacks, security breaches, or platform insolvency, which could result in loss of funds. Regulatory changes, particularly at the state or regional level, may impact how crypto lending services operate or are taxed. Additionally, no-collateral or under-collateralized loans often come with higher fees and increased exposure to losses. Finally, the tax treatment of crypto lending remains unclear, as IRS guidance is still evolving, so consulting an experienced crypto accountant is strongly recommended to properly manage your tax obligations.
Simplify Crypto Lending Taxes with CryptoSwapWallets
CryptoSwapWallets makes managing crypto taxes simple by syncing directly with your crypto lending platforms. Just connect your exchange or wallet using an API or upload a CSV file, and the system automatically calculates your gains, losses, income, and expenses. Once your transaction data is imported, CryptoSwapWallets identifies taxable events and generates a free tax summary preview. When tax season arrives, you can upgrade to a paid plan to download IRS-ready crypto tax reports, making it easier to file accurately and on time.
Read Next… Coinbase Instant Withdrawal Not Working?
FAQ Crypto Lending Platforms (USA Guide 2026)
1. What is a crypto lending platform?
A crypto lending platform lets users borrow funds using their cryptocurrency as collateral or lend their crypto to earn interest — similar to a traditional loan but using digital assets instead of bank deposits. CeFi platforms manage custody centrally, while DeFi platforms use smart contracts on blockchain networks.
2. How does crypto lending work?
- Borrowers lock up crypto (like BTC or ETH) as collateral.
- They receive stablecoins or fiat-linked loans in return.
- Repaying the loan releases the collateral.
- If collateral value drops too much, it can be automatically liquidated to cover the loan.
3. Which crypto lending platforms are available in the USA in 2026?
Some widely used platforms for U.S. users include:
✅ Coinbase – regulated, offers crypto loans via trusted infrastructure.
✅ Aave – top DeFi protocol accessible in the U.S. via wallets.
✅ Compound – established DeFi lending network.
✅ Ledn – Bitcoin-backed loans with flexible options.
✅ Arch Lending – structured, regulated loans on selected assets.
Other platforms could be accessible depending on state regulations and compliance requirements.
4. What are the key risks of crypto lending?
Crypto lending carries risks including:
🔹 Price volatility – Collateral can fall in value, triggering liquidation.
🔹 Platform risk – Centralized lenders can fail, be hacked, or collapse (Celsius is a notable past example).
🔹 Smart contract bugs in DeFi platforms.
🔹 Regulatory changes — especially in the U.S., where rules vary by state and federal oversight is evolving.
5. How much can I borrow (loan-to-value or LTV)?
LTV ratios typically range from 50% to 80%, meaning you can borrow up to $50–$80 for every $100 of crypto collateral. Lower LTVs reduce liquidation risk but limit how much you can borrow.
6. Are interest rates fixed?
Rates vary by platform and asset:
📌 CeFi platforms: Often fixed or dynamic rates based on collateral quality (e.g., 10–15% APR on some services).
📌 DeFi protocols: Variable, driven by supply/demand in liquidity pools.
Always check current APR and fees before borrowing or lending.
7. Do I need a credit check?
No. Most crypto loans do not require credit checks. Borrowing is based on the value of your crypto collateral, making loans accessible without a traditional credit score.
8. What happens if the crypto price drops?
Platforms enforce liquidation thresholds. If your collateral value falls below a set point, the platform may automatically sell part or all of your collateral to cover the loan. This minimizes losses for the lender but can result in significant losses for borrowers.
9. What are DeFi vs. CeFi crypto lending platforms?
- CeFi (Centralized Finance): Managed by a company. Custody is centralized; easier UI and support, but holds custody risk.
- DeFi (Decentralized Finance): Uses smart contracts on blockchains; you retain custody through your wallet. No central authority, but you face smart contract risk.
Popular DeFi options include Aave and Compound, while examples of CeFi lenders include Coinbase and Ledn.
10. How do I choose a safe platform?
Consider these factors:
✔ Regulation and licensing in the U.S.
✔ Collateral and liquidation policies
✔ Interest rates and fees
✔ Security audits (for DeFi)
✔ Transparency and reputation (avoid platforms with opaque risk models)