Set Up Your First Crypto Wallet

FinanceIntermediateHome

90 minutes

5 steps

·Intermediate

After 90 min: Securely own and manage your first cryptocurrency

What you need

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The 90-Minute Plan

Choose Your Wallet Type0–15 min

Research hardware wallets (Ledger, Trezor) vs software wallets (MetaMask, Trust Wallet). Start with software for learning.

Download and Install15–35 min

Download MetaMask browser extension. Create an account and set a strong password.

Secure Your Seed Phrase35–55 min

Write down your 12-word recovery phrase on paper. Store it in a safe place. Never screenshot it.

Fund Your Wallet55–75 min

Purchase $10-20 of Bitcoin or Ethereum from Coinbase. Transfer it to your MetaMask wallet.

Practice Transactions75–90 min

Send a small amount to a friend or another wallet you own. Verify the transaction on blockchain explorer.

Pro Tip

Never share your private keys. If someone asks for them, it's a scam.

90 min·5 steps

FinanceIntermediate

After 90 min: You'll understand blockchain basics and safely hold cryptocurrency if desired.

7,300

see the plan

90 min·5 steps

FinanceIntermediate

After 90 min: File accurate tax returns without paying an accountant

3,200

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90 min·5 steps

FinanceIntermediate

After 90 min: Set up automated retirement savings and maximize employer match

1,950

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90 min·5 steps

FinanceIntermediate

After 90 min: Secure a 5-10% salary increase with confidence

2,750

see the plan