How to import a token into MetaMask?

Adding a Custom Token to MetaMask

1. Open the MetaMask wallet extension or mobile app and ensure you are logged in. Navigate to the main interface where your assets are displayed. Click on the 'Import Tokens' option, usually found at the bottom of the asset list or within the menu labeled 'Add Token.'

2. Switch to the 'Custom Token' tab. This allows you to manually input the token contract address. Make sure you are on the correct network—such as Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, or Polygon—since the same token might exist across multiple blockchains with different contract addresses.

3. Enter the token’s smart contract address. This information must be obtained from the official website of the project or a trusted blockchain explorer like Etherscan or BscScan. Incorrect contract addresses can lead to permanent loss of funds, so double-check every character.

4. Once the contract address is entered correctly, the token symbol and decimal precision should auto-populate. If they don’t appear, verify the contract address again. Confirm that the decimals match the official specification—most ERC-20 tokens use 18 decimals, but some use 6, 8, or 9.

5. Click 'Next,' then 'Add Tokens' to finalize the import. The token should now appear in your wallet’s asset list. If it doesn’t show up immediately, try refreshing the interface or switching networks and returning.

Verifying Token Details Before Import

1. Always confirm the legitimacy of the token by visiting the project’s official website and checking their social media channels. Look for announcements or documentation that list the verified contract address.

2. Use a blockchain explorer such as Etherscan for Ethereum or BscScan for Binance Smart Chain. Paste the contract address into the search bar and verify that the token page shows correct details like name, symbol, total supply, and transaction volume.

3. Check for audit reports or security certifications if available. Projects that have undergone third-party smart contract audits are generally safer to interact with. Lack of audits increases the risk of malicious code.

4. Look for user feedback on forums like Reddit, Telegram, or Discord. Sudden spikes in complaints about scams or frozen funds are red flags. Never trust unsolicited messages offering token links, even if they appear to come from official sources.

Managing Imported Tokens in MetaMask

1. After successful import, the token will appear under your asset balance. You can send, receive, or swap it using integrated decentralized exchanges like Uniswap or PancakeSwap, depending on the network.

2. To remove a token from view, go to the token list, scroll down, and click 'Hide Token.' This does not delete the token from your wallet—your balance remains intact and can be re-added anytime using the same contract address.

3. If you switch networks frequently, remember that tokens are network-specific. A token imported on Ethereum won’t show on Binance Smart Chain unless manually added again with the correct BSC contract address.

4. For tokens with low trading volume or no liquidity, swapping may fail or incur high slippage. Adjust slippage tolerance in MetaMask settings if needed, but remain cautious—excessively high slippage could result in significant losses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the token doesn’t appear after importing?Ensure the contract address is correct and matches the network you’re on. Refresh MetaMask or log out and back in. You can also try resetting your account from settings, which forces a balance refresh without affecting your funds.

Can I import a token that isn’t ERC-20 or BEP-20?MetaMask primarily supports ERC-20 (Ethereum), BEP-20 (Binance Smart Chain), and similar token standards. Tokens based on less common standards may not display properly or be incompatible with the wallet’s interface.

Is it safe to import a token from an unknown project?No. Unknown tokens may be scams or contain malicious functions such as unlimited minting or forced transfers. Only import tokens from projects you’ve researched thoroughly and trust.

Will importing a token cost gas fees?Importing the token view into MetaMask is free. However, any transaction involving the token—such as sending or swapping—will require gas fees paid in the native cryptocurrency of the network (e.g., ETH for Ethereum, BNB for BSC).