For 1Bitcoin.ca customers
Before you can buy Bitcoin from 1Bitcoin.ca, you need a Bitcoin wallet.
Unlike traditional exchanges, 1Bitcoin.ca is non-custodial. That means the Bitcoin you buy is sent directly to your own wallet, where you control the keys — not us, not a bank, and not a third party. This setup is required when Canadians Buy Bitcoin in Canada through our direct-to-wallet brokerage model.
This guide walks you through choosing a wallet, setting it up safely, and preparing it to receive Bitcoin.
What “Non-Custodial” Really Means
When you use a non-custodial wallet:
- You control your private keys
- You are responsible for backups
- No one else can access or recover your funds
These same custody principles apply at every level, from individuals to organizations managing significant value through Corporate Treasury Bitcoin Canada frameworks.
Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Wallet
There are several types of Bitcoin wallets. The right choice depends on how much Bitcoin you plan to hold and how often you’ll use it.
Common Wallet Types
- Mobile / Desktop Wallets
Easy to use, good for beginners and small amounts - Hardware Wallets
Offline devices designed for long-term storage - Paper Wallets
Cold storage, but easy to mishandle (not recommended for beginners)
A widely recommended approach is:
Use a hardware wallet for savings, and a mobile wallet for everyday use.
If you’re planning to hold Bitcoin long term, review the Hardware Wallet & Self-Custody Guide before proceeding.
Step 2: Install and Set Up Your Wallet
Option A: Mobile or Desktop Wallet
Choose a reputable, non-custodial wallet that lets you hold the private keys.
During setup, the wallet will generate a recovery phrase (also called a seed phrase).
⚠️ This Step Is Critical
- Write the recovery phrase down by hand
- Store it offline
- Never screenshot or save it digitally
- Never share it with anyone
Your recovery phrase controls access to your Bitcoin. Proper backup practices are explained in depth in the Bitcoin Resources Hub.
Option B: Hardware Wallet
If you’re using a hardware wallet, the setup process will:
- Generate a 12- or 24-word recovery phrase
- Require you to confirm it
- Create your Bitcoin wallet securely offline
Hardware wallets are ideal for larger balances and long-term holding. If this is your first time, follow the Self-Custody & Hardware Wallet Guide alongside the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 3: Get Your Bitcoin Receiving Address
Once your wallet is set up, tap Receive.
You’ll see:
- A public address
- A QR code representing that address
This is the address you’ll use to receive Bitcoin from 1Bitcoin.ca.
It’s safe to share this public address, but never share your private key or recovery phrase.
Step 4: Double-Check Your Setup
Before buying Bitcoin:
- Confirm your recovery phrase is backed up correctly
- Make sure you can access your wallet
- Verify the receiving address displays correctly
Learning how to independently confirm transactions later is also important — see How to Verify a Bitcoin Transaction for that next step.
Step 5: Buy Bitcoin with 1Bitcoin.ca
Once your wallet is ready:
- Visit the 1Bitcoin.ca Homepage
- Go to Bitcoin Express
- Buy Bitcoin
- Enter your wallet’s receiving address
Your Bitcoin will be sent directly to your wallet, not held by 1Bitcoin.ca.
Important Security Tips
- Always control your private keys
- Back up your recovery phrase offline
- Never enter your seed phrase into websites
- Protect accounts with two-factor authentication (2FA)
- Learn common attack patterns in the Avoid Bitcoin Scams Guide
Wallet setup is the foundation of secure Bitcoin ownership.
Why This Setup Matters
Setting up your wallet correctly means:
- You truly own your Bitcoin
- You’re protected from exchange failures
- You can send and receive Bitcoin freely
This is the difference between using Bitcoin and depending on intermediaries — a distinction emphasized throughout the Bitcoin Resources Hub.
Final Thought
Your Bitcoin wallet is your personal vault.
Take your time setting it up, back up your recovery phrase carefully, and understand each step before moving on. These habits protect you for years to come.
When you’re ready, head to Bitcoin Express and buy Bitcoin knowing it’s going straight to a wallet you control.
To keep learning, visit the 1Bitcoin.ca Homepage or explore beginner and security guides in the Bitcoin Resources Hub.
Your wallet.
Your keys.
Your Bitcoin.
