Get Started Accepting Bitcoin

Open and fund your Strike account

You'll install Strike, create an account, verify your ID, link a bank or debit card, and buy your first $10 of bitcoin.

• On your phone, go to https://strike.me.
• Tap the App Store or Google Play link.
• Download and install the official Strike app.

• Open Strike and tap Sign up.
• Enter your email → confirm the code.
• Choose a username (this becomes your public tipping link).
• Enter full name, DOB, phone, address.
• Scan your government ID when prompted.

This is standard since Strike is a regulated U.S. financial app.

• Go to your profile.
• Tap Payment methods → Add method.
• Select Bank account or Debit card.
• Follow the secure linking steps.

• Tap the Bitcoin tab.
• Tap Buy.
• Enter $10.
• Select your payment method.
• Tap Confirm.

This small “starter” amount lets you practice safely.

Create your tip QR and link

Strike gives you a public tipping link and a Lightning address. Both can be displayed as QR codes for people to scan.

2A. Find your tipping page & Lightning address

• Open Strike → go to your profile.
• Your Lightning address looks like yourname@strike.me.
• Your tipping page is usually strike.me/yourusername.
• Tap Show QR or Share.

A Lightning address is reusable. Strike auto-generates new invoices behind the scenes, so one QR works for everyday tips.

2B. Generate a QR you can print or share

• Tap Show QR from your tipping page or Lightning address.
• Ensure it’s your reusable QR (not a one-time invoice).
• Save the QR:
  • Screenshot it, or
  • Use “Share → Save image.”
• You can now:
  • Print the QR from your phone or computer.
  • Post it on social media before shows, classes, or events.
  • Send it to clients or parents via text, Messenger, WhatsApp, Instagram, etc.

Example Strike QR. Scan to send sats to ArkansasBitcoin.org, or use this as a visual example of what your own QR will look like.

Reusable vs. event-specific QR

• Everyday use: Reuse the same QR everywhere.
• Shows / fundraisers: Make versions labeled “Tonight’s Tips,” etc.
• Advanced users: If needed, create a second Strike account for separate projects.

Put your QR where people pay you

Think about the exact moment someone decides to tip or donate — put the QR there.

• Stylists / Barbers: At your mirror or station.
• Teachers / Tutors: On your desk or in classroom updates.
• Farmers / Markets: On booth signs, jars, or coolers.
• Musicians / Creators: On a merch table, music stand, or posters.
• Babysitters / Services: Send the QR by text after each job.

Print a few different sizes — wallet card, half-page, and a big version for events.

Decide what to save in bitcoin

When you receive tips or donations, you choose what to do:

• Save a portion in bitcoin long-term.
• Convert some to dollars when needed.

Start small. Maybe save 5–10% of what you earn in bitcoin as you get comfortable.

Protect yourself

• Enable a PIN, fingerprint, or Face ID lock for Strike.
• Never post screenshots showing balances or account details.
• Practice with small amounts first.
• Learn self-custody when your savings grow.

See Learn → Protecting for next-level safety tips.