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Why Some Assets Need “Address Activation”

Some blockchains won’t let a brand-new address receive tokens until it’s activated. In Simple.app this is normal and takes a few taps.

Updated this week

What you’ll see in the app

  • A yellow note like “One-time activation” on the Swap or Receive screen.

  • A pop-up that shows the exact small amount of the network coin (XLM, XRP, ALGO, etc.) needed.

  • A Continue button to finish the setup.

That’s it — one time per address.


What you need to do

  1. Tap Continue.
    We’ll automatically take a tiny amount of the network coin from your swap/receive to activate your address.

After activation you can send, receive, and swap normally.


Why activation exists

  • It stops spam on the network.

  • A small part of the network coin becomes reserved (locked by the network).

  • It’s not a fee and stays yours. We hide it from your spendable balance so you don’t try to send it by mistake.


Token “opt-in” (trustlines)

On some networks you must allow a token the first time you use it:

  • Stellar (XLM) and XRP Ledger (XRP): add a trustline (we do it for you).

  • Algorand (ALGO): opt in to the asset (we do it for you).

You’ll just see a one-time confirmation.


Network-by-network notes (simple)

  • Stellar (XLM): needs a tiny amount of XLM to create the address. Each new token adds a tiny extra reserve.

  • XRP Ledger (XRP): needs a tiny amount of XRP to fund the address. Tokens also need a trustline.

  • Algorand (ALGO): every account has a small minimum balance. Opting in to assets slightly increases it.

  • Others (NEAR, Polkadot, Solana, etc.): similar idea — a small “keep-alive” or “rent-exempt” amount may be required. The app will tell you if so.


FAQ

  • Why can’t I send my whole balance?
    A small part is reserved by the network. Your available balance excludes it.

  • Do I have to keep this forever?
    While the address (and any tokens you enabled) exist, yes. Some networks let you close/reset an account later to get most of the reserve back. If you plan to close an account, send the refund to a self-custody wallet (not an exchange).

  • I’m sending to an exchange — do I need a memo/tag?
    Sometimes yes (especially for Stellar and XRP). Always follow the exchange’s instructions and include the Memo/Destination Tag if they show one.

  • I don’t want to hold XLM/XRP/ALGO.
    You only need a tiny amount for activation. It’s normal and stays yours.


Need help?

If you keep seeing an activation prompt after confirming, or you’re unsure which memo/tag to use, contact support in the app. Tell us the asset/network (e.g., XLM, XRP, ALGO) and share a screenshot—we’ll sort it out fast.

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