Cryptocurrency, particularly Bitcoin, is a hot topic these days. You’ve likely heard of it, and maybe even know how you can buy it or “mine” for it. But did you know you can actually spend it on physical goods or services? The answer is Yes! Here are three big-name businesses that accept Bitcoin.
- Microsoft
- Overstock
- Etsy
Spending Bitcoin on Microsoft
Yes, one of the world’s biggest companies is keeping up with the times! You can put funds into your Microsoft account using Bitcoin. Some things to consider before you do this though:
- You can’t use Bitcoin to purchase anything in the Microsoft online store or to buy gift cards. So you can’t buy the latest version of Microsoft office using Bitcoin.
- You can use Bitcoin in the Windows Store and Xbox Store for items like apps, games, and movies. So if you’re an avid gamer or a movie junkie, this is great news for you!
- Any money you add to your Microsoft account using Bitcoin will not be refunded.
If you’d like to learn more about how to spend Bitcoin with Microsoft, check out Microsoft’s help article on using Bitcoin.
Spending Bitcoin on Overstock
Overstock sells everything from home decor to clothes. And now you can buy all those items using Bitcoin! In fact, they were one of the first major companies to accept Bitcoin and quickly surpassed 1 million dollars in Bitcoin sales.
Here are some details on paying with Bitcoin on Overstock:
- Overstock has partnered with Coinbase (a Bitcoin platform) to support Overstock in accepting Bitcoin as payment
- It’s very simple to pay with Bitcoin! Just select Pay with Bitcoin in the Payment Information section of their checkout page
- You can use Bitcoin with Overstock.com gift cards, in-store credit, Club O rewards, or coupons.
- You can also get a refund in Bitcoin! If you ask for a refund, it will be issued at the full USD value of the order and then processed at the Bitcoin exchange rate.
To learn more about spending Bitcoin on Overstock, check out their help article on using Bitcoin.
Spending Bitcoin on Etsy
Etsy describes itself as a “global marketplace for unique and creative goods.”. You can find everything on here from hand-crafted jewelry to vintage toys. Accepting Bitcoin as payment is up to the individual seller – no one who sells on Etsy is obligated to accept Bitcoin as a form of payment. The buyer must select “Other payment” when they check out and then coordinate with the seller on how to pay via Bitcoin.
You’re ready to start spending!
BItcoin is just for mining and then holding on to – you can also spend it. Using Bitcoin, you could buy:
- The latest Xbox games from Microsoft
- A new chair to play Xbox in from Overstock
- Socks from Etsy that display your love of Xbox and inform anyone walking by not to disturb you. Yes, those really exist.
Without leaving your couch or touching your credit card, you’ve just upped your gaming to a whole new level!