How referral codes work: you sign up through a referral link or enter a code at sign-up, then meet the program's requirement (usually ID verification plus a first purchase, trade or order) within its deadline. Most bonuses fail because the person wasn't new, the code wasn't recorded, or the deadline passed. Rewards may be taxable; check with a tax professional.
How do you apply a referral code or link?
- Link: open the referral link and sign up on the page it opens, in the same browser or app. Switching devices or going back later through a different link can lose the referral.
- Code: type it exactly where the app asks for a referral, invite or promo code. Many apps only accept it at sign-up. Poshmark's invite code, for example, can't be added after registration.
- Some apps give a short window: Muse asks you to enter the code in Settings within 48 hours of joining.
- Finish the requirement: most rewards need identity verification plus a first purchase, trade, order or ride.
When does the reward arrive?
- It depends on the program. Gemini says it pays about 32 days after sign-up.
- Deadlines vary too: Gemini needs $100 in qualifying trades within 30 days; Coinbase needs the purchase within 90 days of becoming trade eligible; Cash App needs a $5 send within 14 days of entering the code.
- Delivery and app promo codes usually apply at checkout on your first eligible order.
Common reasons a referral bonus doesn't pay out
- You weren't new. Almost every program is for first-time customers. A past account, even a closed one, usually disqualifies you.
- The referral wasn't recorded. You signed up without the link or forgot the code, or added it too late.
- Verification wasn't finished. Crypto and money apps need ID verification before any reward.
- The wrong kind of purchase. Coinbase Advanced and Prime purchases don't count; at Kraken some trades such as fiat-to-stablecoin don't count; at Gemini deposits, withdrawals and stablecoin-to-stablecoin trades don't count.
- The deadline passed. Requirements usually have a window (14, 30 or 90 days in the examples above).
- Region or eligibility. Some offers are U.S.-only or limited to certain countries.
- Duplicate accounts or self-referrals. Programs such as Poshmark and Cash App bar them.
Are referral rewards taxable?
Referral rewards may be taxable. Check with a tax professional about your situation.
Ready to use one? See all referral codes in one list or the best crypto sign-up bonuses.
Frequently asked questions
How do referral codes work?
A referral code or link tells the company who invited you. If you are a new customer and meet the program's requirements, you (and often the person who referred you) get a reward such as credit, a discount or crypto.
Can I add a referral code after I sign up?
Often no. Many programs only accept the code at sign-up. A few give a short window, such as Muse (within 48 hours of joining, in Settings).
Why didn't I get my referral bonus?
The most common reasons: you weren't a new customer, the referral wasn't recorded, verification wasn't finished, the purchase type didn't count, or the deadline passed.
How long does a referral bonus take?
It varies. Gemini says it pays about 32 days after sign-up. Others pay once you finish the requirement. Check the official terms.
Are referral rewards taxable?
They may be taxable. Check with a tax professional.