# Frequently Asked Questions

## General Questions

### What is Tip.md?
Tip.md is a platform that allows content creators to receive cryptocurrency tips directly to their wallets via a simple button that can be embedded in GitHub READMEs, websites, or any markdown content.

### How much does Tip.md cost to use?
Tip.md charges a flat 4% fee on all tips received. There are no subscription fees or hidden charges. For Ethereum tips using Splits.org integration, additional fees from Splits.org may apply.

### Which cryptocurrencies are supported?
Currently, Tip.md supports Ethereum (ETH) on both Ethereum (L1) and Base (L2), USD Coin (USDC) on Ethereum (L1) and Base (L2), Solana (SOL), Bitcoin via the Lightning Network, and Celo (CELO) along with USDC and USDT on the Celo network. We're continuously evaluating additional blockchains to add in the future.

### What is Base?
Base is an Ethereum Layer 2 (L2) network built by Coinbase. It's designed to offer a secure, low-cost, and developer-friendly way to build on-chain applications. Because it's EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine) compatible, it works seamlessly with existing Ethereum tools and wallets, and typically uses the same address as your Ethereum wallet.

### How do I add Base to my wallet (e.g., MetaMask)?
You can add Base to MetaMask using the following details:
*   **For Base Mainnet:**
    *   Network Name: `Base Mainnet`
    *   New RPC URL: `https://mainnet.base.org`
    *   Chain ID: `8453`
    *   Currency Symbol: `ETH`
    *   Block Explorer URL: `https://basescan.org/`
*   **For Base Sepolia (Testnet):**
    *   Network Name: `Base Sepolia`
    *   New RPC URL: `https://sepolia.base.org`
    *   Chain ID: `84532`
    *   Currency Symbol: `ETH`
    *   Block Explorer URL: `https://sepolia-explorer.base.org/`

You can usually find an "Add Network" or "Custom RPC" option in your wallet's network selection menu. For more detailed instructions, refer to our [Wallet Management](wallet-management.md) guide.

## Account and Setup

### Do I need a cryptocurrency wallet to use Tip.md?
Yes, you need at least one cryptocurrency wallet address to receive tips. You can add addresses for Ethereum (L1), Base (L2), Solana, Bitcoin Lightning Network, or Celo. For Ethereum and Base, you can use the same address, and for Celo, you can use an EVM-compatible address.

### Can I use multiple wallet addresses?
Yes, you can add multiple wallet addresses for each supported blockchain. For EVM-compatible chains like Ethereum and Base, you will use your Ethereum address (specifically, the `ethereumAddress` or `ethereumSplitAddress` configured in your Tip.md profile) to receive tips on both networks. Tips will be sent to the address you've designated for that particular cryptocurrency.

### Do I use the same address for Ethereum and Base?
Yes, typically you use the same EVM-compatible wallet address (e.g., your MetaMask address) for both Ethereum (L1) and Base (L2). When you add your Ethereum address to your Tip.md profile (either `ethereumAddress` for direct tips or `ethereumSplitAddress` for tips via a Splits.org contract), this address will be used for receiving tips sent on both the Ethereum Mainnet and the Base network. Ensure your wallet is configured to access both networks to see your funds.

### How do I change my wallet address?
Go to "Wallet Settings" in your dashboard, find the wallet you wish to update (e.g., your Ethereum/Base address), click "Edit," make your changes, and save. All future tips for that EVM address (on both Ethereum and Base) will go to the updated address.

## Button and Integration

### Can I customize how my tip button looks?
Yes, you can customize the size, text, and default currency displayed on your button using parameters in the button URL.

### Where can I add my Tip.md button?
You can add your button to GitHub READMEs, personal websites, blogs, or any platform that supports markdown or HTML embedding.

### Does my audience need a Tip.md account to tip me?
No, tippers don't need to create an account. They simply need a cryptocurrency wallet with the supported cryptocurrencies to send tips.

## Transactions and Fees

### How quickly will I receive tips?
Tips are sent directly to your wallet, so the speed depends on the blockchain used. Ethereum (L1) transactions typically take a few minutes, Base (L2) transactions are usually faster (seconds to a minute), Solana transactions are nearly instant, and Lightning Network tips are immediate.

### Who pays the transaction fees?
The person sending the tip (tipper) pays any blockchain transaction fees (gas fees for Ethereum L1 and Base L2, etc.).

### Are there fees for tipping on Base?
Yes, like Ethereum (L1), transactions on Base require gas fees to be paid. However, Base is a Layer 2 network, so these gas fees are typically much lower than on Ethereum L1. The gas fees on Base are paid in ETH (the native currency of Base).

### Is there a minimum tip amount?
There's no platform-enforced minimum, but due to blockchain transaction fees, very small tips may not be practical on certain networks (particularly Ethereum L1 during high gas price periods). Tips on Base L2 or Solana are generally more economical for smaller amounts due to lower transaction fees.

## Security and Privacy

### Does Tip.md hold my funds at any point?
No, Tip.md never holds your cryptocurrency. All transactions happen directly between the tipper's wallet and your wallet.

### Is my wallet address visible to others?
Your wallet address is visible to anyone who sends you a tip, as it's necessary for the transaction. However, it's not publicly displayed on your profile unless you choose to share it.

### How secure is Tip.md?
Tip.md uses client-side transactions for maximum security. We never handle or store private keys. All sensitive data is encrypted, and we follow industry best practices for web security.

## Technical Support

### What should I do if a tip doesn't arrive?
First, check the transaction on a blockchain explorer using the transaction ID. If the transaction was confirmed but you don't see the funds, verify your wallet address in your settings. For unresolved issues, contact support@tip.md.

### Can I use Tip.md with hardware wallets?
Yes, you can add any valid wallet address to your Tip.md account, including addresses from hardware wallets like Ledger or Trezor.

### Where can I get additional help?
For technical support, email support@tip.md. For general questions, check our other documentation pages:
- [Getting Started](getting-started.md)
- [Button Setup](button-setup.md)
- [Receiving Tips](receiving-tips.md)
- [Wallet Management](wallet-management.md)
- [MCP Server](mcp-server.md) 