What is a Crypto Airdrop?
A crypto airdrop is a distribution of free tokens to wallet addresses, typically as a reward for early adopters, community members, or users of a protocol. Projects use airdrops to decentralize token ownership, reward loyal users, and create buzz around their launch.
Step 1
Use Protocol
Step 2
Get Snapshot
Step 3
Claim Tokens
Step 4
Trade or Hold
Types of Airdrops
Retroactive Airdrop
Rewards users who used a protocol before token launch. The most valuable type.
Holder Airdrop
Given to holders of a specific token or NFT at a snapshot date.
Task-Based Airdrop
Complete specific tasks like following social media, joining Discord, or testing features.
Lottery Airdrop
Random selection from eligible participants. Requires luck.
Ecosystem Airdrop
Distributed to users of an entire ecosystem or chain.
Notable Historical Airdrops
Uniswap
UNI - Sep 2020
400
Tokens (Avg)
$1,400
Launch Value
$17,988
ATH Value
$2,600
Current Value
Eligibility Criteria:
Used Uniswap before Sep 1, 2020
Airdrop Eligibility Checklist
Just getting started - set up your wallet first!
Current Airdrop Opportunities
| Project | Status | Est. Value |
|---|---|---|
| LayerZero | Confirmed | $500-2000 |
| zkSync | Speculated | $200-1000 |
| Scroll | Speculated | $100-500 |
| Linea | Speculated | $100-500 |
| Berachain | Testnet | $200-800 |
| Monad | Testnet | Unknown |
Estimates based on historical data. Actual airdrops may vary significantly. DYOR.
How to Qualify for Airdrops
1. Set Up a Non-Custodial Wallet
Use MetaMask, Rabby, or similar. Exchange wallets (Binance, Coinbase) rarely qualify for airdrops. You need control of your private keys.
2. Bridge to Layer 2 Networks
Move funds to Arbitrum, Optimism, Base, zkSync Era, Scroll, and Linea. Most major airdrops come from L2s. Use official bridges or trusted aggregators.
3. Use DeFi Protocols Regularly
Swap tokens on DEXes, provide liquidity, use lending protocols, and stake tokens. Consistency matters - small regular transactions over months beat one large transaction.
4. Engage with Communities
Join Discord servers, participate in governance votes, and provide feedback. Some projects reward community contributors with bonus allocations.
5. Participate in Testnets
Test new networks before mainnet launch. Aptos gave 150 APT ($1,275) to testnet participants. Follow project announcements for testnet access.
Airdrop Security: Avoid Scams
NEVER Do This
- Share your seed phrase or private key
- Connect wallet to unknown claim sites
- Approve unlimited token spending
- Click links from DMs or emails
ALWAYS Do This
- Verify through official channels (Twitter, Discord)
- Use a separate wallet for airdrop farming
- Revoke approvals after claiming (revoke.cash)
- Double-check URLs for typosquatting
Tax Considerations
In most jurisdictions, airdrops are taxable events. The fair market value at the time you receive the tokens is typically considered income. When you sell, any gains or losses are subject to capital gains tax.
When Received
Taxed as ordinary income at fair market value
When Sold
Capital gains/losses on difference from cost basis
This is not tax advice. Consult a tax professional in your jurisdiction.
Where to Trade Airdropped Tokens
Frequently Asked Questions
Start Your Airdrop Journey
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