How to earn free crypto rewards

What are crypto rewards?

Crypto rewards are incentives distributed in cryptocurrency for completing certain actions or holding specific digital assets. These rewards work similarly to traditional loyalty programmes but are rooted in blockchain technology. The value is tangible: real crypto that can be used, held, traded or reinvested.

Popular types of crypto rewards include:

• Cashback from crypto cards or purchases
• Interest or Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on deposited assets
• Airdrops from new or existing crypto projects
• Referral bonuses for inviting others

For example, the Crypto.com Visa Card offers CRO rewards for eligible purchases.

Learn how to buy CRO

How do crypto rewards work?

Crypto rewards work through blockchain-powered systems that automate the tracking and distribution process. When you perform qualifying actions, like making purchases with a crypto card, using specific services or holding assets, smart contracts and platform algorithms record the activity. Rewards are then calculated and sent directly to your account.

Key mechanisms include:

• Wallet integration: Rewards are deposited into a digital wallet, which can be custodial (managed by a platform) or non-custodial (where you hold your private keys).
• Blockchain transparency: Every transaction is recorded on a public ledger, allowing you to verify reward issuance.
• Token utility: Rewards often arrive as platform-native tokens, such as CRO, which may unlock additional benefits or be exchanged for other cryptocurrencies.

Unlike traditional loyalty points, crypto rewards are liquid assets that can be traded, staked or converted to fiat currency. Some platforms distribute rewards instantly, while others have set payout cycles.

The value of rewards can fluctuate. For example, Bitcoin is up approximately 1,100% over the past five years, which means rewards earned earlier could be worth significantly more today.

With the Crypto.com Visa Card, each qualifying purchase triggers immediate rewards in CRO, credited to your wallet within seconds. In the case of Crypto Earn, your deposits generate digital asset rewards that vary based on the token and term you select.

Rewards accrue automatically and can be compounded for greater returns, making it an attractive rewards strategy for long-term holders.

How to pick the best crypto rewards platform

Not all crypto platforms deliver the same advantages. Crypto.com combines competitive rewards and APY with an all-in-one platform for cards, earning, trading and spending. Plus support for over 400 tokens and industry-recognised security certifications.

Here are key factors to consider:

Types of crypto rewards

1. Crypto card rewards

The Crypto.com Visa Card offers tiered rewards of up to 5% back in CRO on purchases, credited instantly to your wallet. Depending on your tier and CRO stake, you may also get perks like airport lounge access, travel rebates, as well as streaming subscription rebates. Higher-tier cards unlock enhanced rates and additional perks.

2. Crypto Earn (interest/APY)

With Crypto Earn, you deposit supported cryptocurrencies to earn interest, paid weekly. Rates vary by token, term length and your CRO stake. For example, stablecoins like USDC can earn around 3.7% annually on a 3-month term, while premium members can boost certain rates with an extra 2% in CRO. On select coins, total returns can reach up to 12.5% APY.

3. Airdrops

Airdrops are tokens sent straight to your wallet, sometimes without you lifting a finger. They can be triggered by holding a specific token at the right time, being part of a project’s community or completing simple actions like following a social channel.

Genuine airdrops (watch out for scams) often come from new projects, blockchain forks or ecosystem reward campaigns. They can be a fun way to discover promising assets while growing your portfolio.

4. Referral programmes

Referrals turn your network into a source of rewards. On the Crypto.com Exchange, you can earn up to $2,000 in CRO for each friend you refer, plus 50% of their trading fees for 12 months.

There’s no limit to how many friends you can invite and bonuses are credited instantly once both you and your referral meet the requirements. Your bonus depends on their initial CRO lockup size and trade commissions are paid daily to your CRO wallet.  

5. Crypto shopping rewards

Separate from card cashback, shopping rewards are typically tied to special partnerships, seasonal promotions or in-app campaigns. With us, partner merchants range from global travel platforms like Airbnb to online stores and marketplaces such as Lazada, Shopify-powered boutiques and select electronics retailers. 

6. Crypto play-to-earn games

Gamified platforms like Axie Infinity or The Sandbox reward players with cryptocurrency tokens for completing in-game tasks, winning battles or building virtual assets. These tokens often hold real-world value, allowing users to trade them on exchanges, reinvest in the game economy or cash out for other digital or fiat currencies.

7. Browser-based crypto rewards

Privacy-focused browsers such as Brave give users Basic Attention Token (BAT) as rewards for opting in to view privacy-respecting ads. This enables you to passively earn crypto while browsing the web, with full control over ad frequency and settings and the option to trade, tip or reinvest your tokens.

8. Crypto loyalty programmes

Some exchanges and platforms reward loyal users with VIP perks, reduced trading fees, exclusive promotions or bonus airdrops. Participation often requires consistent activity or staking tokens. An example is our private members’ enhanced APYs, priority support and exclusive event access when maintaining a qualifying CRO token stake.

9. Crypto interest accounts

These accounts let you earn passive rewards by holding cryptocurrency in interest-bearing wallets, typically without the strict lockup periods of staking. Interest rates vary by asset and platform. We offer flexible and fixed-term options with competitive APYs on over 50 supported cryptocurrencies.

How to earn free crypto rewards step by step

1. Crypto cards

Crypto cards make it simple to earn crypto as you spend. Get Started with the Crypto.com Visa Card:

1. Download the Crypto.com App
2. Complete identity verification
3. Stake CRO to unlock your preferred Visa Card tier
4. Receive your card and start spending
5. Earn up to 5% back in CRO instantly

2. Crypto Earn

Crypto Earn lets you earn interest on 50+ tokens. Here’s how to use Crypto Earn:

1. Open the Crypto.com App
2. Navigate to ‘Earn’ and select your asset
3. Choose a term (flexible, 1 month or 3 months)
4. Deposit your crypto
5. Track earnings directly in the App

Benefits of crypto rewards

Crypto rewards can be a powerful tool for growing your portfolio without requiring large upfront investments. They offer a way to earn passively – whether through cashback on daily purchases, interest on holdings or other incentive programmes. They can also complement your broader financial strategy.

Key benefits include:

• Financial growth: Reinvesting rewards allows them to compound, creating exponential portfolio growth over the long term.
  
• Diversification: Earn different types of crypto assets from multiple reward sources, reducing reliance on a single asset.
  
• Low barrier to entry: You can start earning without buying large amounts of crypto; everyday transactions can generate value.
  
• Real utility: Rewards are spendable, tradable or can be used for staking and earning even more.

Beyond these core advantages, crypto rewards often encourage positive financial habits – from tracking your portfolio to exploring new projects and technologies. Many programmes run automatically, so you continue to benefit without active management.

Are crypto rewards taxable?

Yes – in many places, crypto rewards are considered taxable. You may also owe capital gains tax if you sell or exchange those rewards later for more than their value when you got them.

To stay compliant, it’s best to track all your crypto reward transactions from the start. Using crypto tax software like CoinTracker or Koinly can simplify the process and speaking with a qualified tax professional ensures you’re following the rules in your area.

Tips for maximising your crypto rewards

• Use your crypto card for daily spending: Groceries, dining, travel and streaming subscriptions all add up to steady cashback in CRO.
  
• Choose longer terms in Crypto Earn: Lock in higher APYs and grow your holdings faster.
  
• Stake CRO: Unlock premium card tiers, better cashback rates and boosted earning potential on savings.
  
• Refer friends: Earn extra CRO bonuses while helping your friends and family get started with crypto rewards.
  
• Watch for airdrops and special promotions: Limited-time offers can provide valuable free tokens at no cost.
  
• Combine strategies for maximum impact: Use both spending and saving programmes to earn rewards across multiple channels. This layered approach often results in the best crypto rewards outcomes for consistent users.

Ready to earn crypto rewards?

1. Sign up with Crypto.com
2. Access your account from any device
3. Deposit funds via bank transfer, card, Apple Pay or Google Pay
4. Use the 'Trade' tab to access over 400 cryptocurrencies

FAQs on crypto rewards

What exactly are crypto rewards?
Crypto rewards are incentives paid in cryptocurrency for completing certain actions on a platform, such as making purchases or holding specific tokens. They can be a way to passively grow your holdings while engaging with services you already use.

How do crypto rewards work?
Rewards are distributed through automated systems that track your activity or asset holdings. Once you meet the criteria, the platform credits the reward directly to your crypto wallet.

Can you get free money from crypto?
Yes. By participating in activities like airdrops, cashback offers and referral programmes, you can earn cryptocurrency without spending fiat money.

In what industries are crypto rewards used?
Crypto rewards are common in finance, gaming and e-commerce sectors. They also play a growing role in digital advertising and online communities.

Which crypto reward cards offer the highest cashback?
The Crypto.com Visa Card offers up to 5% back in CRO, depending on your tier and staking level. Higher-tier cards also include extra perks like travel rebates and subscription refunds.

Are crypto rewards safe?
Generally, yes – as long as they come from reputable platforms with strong security measures. Always research the provider before participating.

Can crypto rewards fluctuate in value?
Yes. Because rewards are paid in tokens, their market value can rise or fall based on market conditions.

How quickly can you redeem crypto rewards?
Most platforms allow you to redeem or use your rewards almost immediately. Cashback programmes in particular often credit your wallet instantly after a qualifying transaction.

Important information: ​​This is informational content sponsored by Crypto.com and should not be considered as investment advice. Trading cryptocurrencies carries risks, such as price volatility and market risks. Before deciding to trade cryptocurrencies, consider your risk appetite. Staking rewards, fee reduction, and other benefits referenced in this article may be subject to eligibility requirements, token holdings, and may change at the discretion of Crypto.com. The Crypto.com Visa Card is subject to credit approval.