> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.leather.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.leather.io/learn/bitcoin-atms.md).

# What Are Bitcoin ATMs and How Do They Work?

A Bitcoin ATM is a kiosk where you buy bitcoin with cash or a card, and sometimes sell it. How to use one and what it costs.

A Bitcoin ATM is a kiosk where you buy bitcoin with cash or a debit card. Some machines also buy bitcoin from you and pay out cash. The operator, not a bank, runs the machine.

## Use a Bitcoin ATM

1. Find a machine. Search sites list machines with their fees and limits.
2. Choose to buy or sell.
3. **To buy:** show the machine your wallet's receive address as a QR code, then insert cash or pay by card. The machine sends bitcoin to your address.
4. **To sell:** scan the address the machine shows and send bitcoin to it from your wallet. The machine pays out cash once it receives the transaction.
5. Check the amount and address before you confirm.

In Leather, find your Bitcoin address and QR code under "Receive". See [Receive Bitcoin (BTC)](/transactions/receive-btc.md).

## Costs and limits

* **Operator fee:** usually a percentage of the amount, often far higher than on an exchange. The machine shows it before you confirm.
* **Network fee:** the Bitcoin fee for the transaction.
* **Identity checks:** depend on the country and the amount. Many machines ask for ID above a small amount.

## Risks

* Scammers often ask victims to pay them through Bitcoin ATMs. Nobody legitimate, such as a bank, a government office or tech support, asks for payment this way.
* Send only to your own address. A transaction cannot be reversed.