Performed a small Bitcoin transaction (a "Satoshi Test") to verify your address, but the exchange hasn't confirmed it? Here’s how to troubleshoot.
After the test: What to expect
Once your small transaction gets enough confirmations on the Bitcoin blockchain, the receiving exchange or broker should detect it and mark your withdrawal address as verified. You can then withdraw to this address.
The time this takes varies depending on Bitcoin network congestion and the exchange's processing speed. Be patient, but if it takes more than a few hours, review these points.
Troubleshooting: Why wasn't my test verified?
If your exchange doesn't confirm address verification, check these common issues:
Incorrect UTXO selected:
This is a frequent problem.
Did you send from the UTXO of the exact address the exchange asked to verify?
Ensure you didn't mistakenly use a UTXO from a "change address" (internal addresses in your wallet) unless that specific change address was the one being verified. Transactions from change addresses don't appear in the BitBoxApp's main history and are only visible via "Coin control."
Solution: If you used the wrong UTXO (e.g., from a change address unintentionally), it's best to provide a standard receiving address (one from your main account list when you click "Receive") to your exchange and perform a new Satoshi Test from that specific address.
Incorrect amount sent:
Did you send the precise small amount specified by the exchange? Even a tiny difference can cause automated systems to miss it.
Solution: Double-check the required amount and resend if necessary, ensuring correct UTXO selection.
Incorrect recipient address:
Did you send the transaction to the correct address provided by the exchange for the test? This might be a specific verification address, not your usual deposit address.
Solution: Verify the recipient address with the exchange and resend if needed.
Insufficient funds for test + fee:
The selected UTXO must cover both the test amount and the Bitcoin network transaction fee.
Solution: Ensure the chosen UTXO has sufficient funds, or consolidate funds to that address before trying again.
Bitcoin network congestion:
High network traffic can delay transaction confirmations.
Solution: Check a Bitcoin block explorer for your transaction ID (TXID) to see its status. If it's unconfirmed, you may need to wait longer.
Still having issues?
If you've checked all the above and the issue persists:
- Contact the exchange's support team for assistance.
- Check the exchange's FAQ for specific guidance on their Satoshi Test process.
A note on other verification methods
While the Satoshi Test is common, other methods like AOPP (Address Ownership Proof Protocol) exist, aiming for more streamlined verification, sometimes without an on-chain transaction. Adoption varies among exchanges.