Article Summary
This article explains how to send bitcoin from River, including destination types, send speeds, network fees, and verification requirements.
Step 1: Locate send button
If you are using river.com, click "Send bitcoin" on your homepage. If you are using your River app, click "Send" on your homepage.
Step 2: Enter destination
Enter your bitcoin address, Lightning invoice, LNURL-Pay, or Lightning address.
Step 3: Enter details
Enter the amount of bitcoin you would like to send, denominated in either BTC or USD. Then, click "Continue."
Please note that the minimum on-chain withdrawal amount is .0001 BTC.
Step 4: Choose send speed
You will have the choice between "Priority," "Standard," or "Free" when sending bitcoin. Then, click "Preview Send."
Please note that you will have 1 free bitcoin send per month.
Step 5: Confirm details
Confirm transaction details, enter your two-factor verification code, and click "Send Bitcoin" to initiate your transaction.
The total amount of bitcoin leaving your account will be the "amount" you have specified plus any Bitcoin network fees quoted on this page. This fee is not collected by River, but is paid to miners processing the transaction.
Step 6: Bitcoin send initiated
You will receive an immediate confirmation. You can expect your bitcoin to arrive at the intended destination within a few hours.
Please note that if you're sending a large amount, your transaction may take longer than usual to process on our end.
On-chain vs. Lightning sends: What’s the difference?
Not sure which method to use? On-chain is best for larger or more important bitcoin sends. Lightning is best when speed and low fees matter most.
Feature |
On-chain Send |
Lightning Send |
| What it is | Transactions are sent directly on the Bitcoin blockchain, the most established and secure way to send Bitcoin | Transactions are sent over the Lightning Network, Bitcoin's faster "layer 2" |
| Speed | Usually takes minutes to hours, depending on how busy the Bitcoin Network is | Near-instant, most arriving within seconds |
| Fees | Fees vary based on Network activity and can be higher during congestion | Fees are very low, often near zero |
| Best for | Larger transfers or long-term storage | Smaller, everyday payments |
| Privacy | Transactions are publicly visible on the blockchain, which anyone can look up | Payment details aren't all recorded on-chain, so it's a more private option |
| How to send in River | Enter a Bitcoin address | Enter a Lightning invoice, LNURL, or Lightning address |