Ethereum Classic (ETC) is a powerful, decentralized blockchain that continues the original Ethereum vision of "code is law." As an EVM-compatible network, ETC seamlessly integrates with popular crypto wallets like MetaMask, making it easy for users to manage their digital assets. Whether you're new to Ethereum Classic or expanding your blockchain toolkit, this guide walks you through everything you need to know—from adding ETC to MetaMask, sending and receiving tokens, managing multiple addresses, to securing your wallet with proper backup procedures.
By the end of this article, you’ll be confidently navigating the Ethereum Classic ecosystem using one of the most trusted tools in the crypto space.
Adding Ethereum Classic to MetaMask
MetaMask defaults to the Ethereum (ETH) network, but thanks to Ethereum Classic’s EVM compatibility, integrating ETC is simple and straightforward.
To add Ethereum Classic as a custom network:
- Open MetaMask and click the network dropdown (usually showing “Ethereum Mainnet”).
- Select “Add a network”, then choose “Custom RPC”.
Fill in the following details:
- Network Name: Ethereum Classic
- New RPC URL:
https://etc.rivet.link - Chain ID:
61 - Currency Symbol:
ETC - Block Explorer URL:
https://blockscout.com/etc/mainnet/
- Click “Save” or “Add” to confirm.
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Once added, you can switch between Ethereum and Ethereum Classic with just one click. This flexibility allows you to manage both ecosystems from a single wallet interface—ideal for users diversifying across EVM-based chains.
Receiving Ethereum Classic (ETC)
After setting up the ETC network, receiving funds is intuitive:
- Ensure the Ethereum Classic network is selected in the dropdown.
- Tap the “Receive” button on your wallet dashboard.
- A screen will display your public address along with a QR code.
- Share either the full address (by tapping “Copy”) or the QR code directly with the sender.
Always double-check that the active network is Ethereum Classic before sharing your address. Sending ETC to an address on the wrong chain could result in lost funds.
Sending ETC via MetaMask
Transferring ETC follows a familiar process similar to sending ETH:
- Switch to the Ethereum Classic network.
- Click “Send” and enter the recipient’s wallet address.
- Input the amount—use “Max” to send your entire balance minus gas fees.
- Review the transaction summary, including estimated gas cost and total value.
- Confirm by clicking “Send”.
Transactions are broadcast to the ETC network and typically confirmed within seconds, depending on network congestion.
Checking Balance and Transaction History
Monitoring your portfolio is essential for effective asset management.
- Your current ETC balance appears prominently on the main wallet screen—just ensure you're on the correct network.
- To view transaction history, tap the balance area. This opens a detailed log showing all incoming and outgoing transactions, including timestamps, amounts, and status.
This transparency helps track payments, verify receipts, and maintain financial clarity across your crypto activities.
Canceling Pending Transactions
Like Ethereum, Ethereum Classic supports transaction cancellation when a transfer hasn’t yet been mined.
Here’s how:
- Initiate a transaction and wait for it to appear in your activity feed.
- While pending, tap your balance to access the transaction list.
- Find the pending transaction and select “Cancel”.
- Confirm with “Yes, let’s try.”
A minimal gas fee (typically 0.00001 ETC) applies for cancellation. This feature gives you control during periods of high network latency or incorrect fee settings.
Speeding Up Slow Transactions
If a transaction is stuck due to low gas fees, you can speed it up:
- Go to your pending transaction in the activity log.
- Click “Speed Up”.
- MetaMask will rebroadcast the transaction with a higher gas fee to prioritize inclusion in the next block.
- Confirm with “Yes, let’s try.”
This ensures timely execution without resubmitting manually—especially useful during peak usage times.
Creating Multiple ETC Addresses
For better organization or enhanced privacy, MetaMask lets you generate multiple accounts under the same wallet:
- With the ETC network selected, tap your current account icon (top-left).
- Choose “Create a new account.”
- A new address labeled “Account 2,” “Account 3,” etc., will appear instantly.
- Switch between accounts anytime by selecting them from the menu.
Each account operates independently but shares the same 12-word recovery phrase—so losing access to one means losing access to all unless backed up properly.
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Using the Same Address Across ETH and ETC
Since both Ethereum and Ethereum Classic are EVM-compatible and share cryptographic standards, you can use the same wallet address on both chains.
For example:
- If your MetaMask shows address
0x...abcon Ethereum, it exists identically on Ethereum Classic. - Simply switch networks in MetaMask to view and manage assets on each chain separately.
⚠️ Important Warning:
This interoperability only works for wallets you control. Never send funds to third-party services (exchanges, DeFi platforms, smart contracts) using interchangeable addresses unless explicitly supported. Smart contract logic differs between ETH and ETC—sending ETC to an Ethereum smart contract address (or vice versa) may lead to permanent loss of funds.
Always verify recipient addresses and supported networks before transferring.
Backing Up Your MetaMask Wallet
Protecting your assets starts with securing your wallet. Losing access to your MetaMask—due to device failure or theft—means losing everything unless you have a backup.
Your 12-word Secret Recovery Phrase (SRP) is the master key to restoring all accounts and funds.
How to Back Up Your Wallet
- Open MetaMask and go to Settings > Security & Privacy.
- Tap “Reveal Secret Recovery Phrase.”
- Enter your wallet password.
- Hold down the prompt to reveal your 12 words.
- Write them down on paper, in order, and store them securely.
Never:
- Take screenshots
- Save in notes apps
- Email or message them
- Store online in any form
Make multiple physical copies and keep them in separate safe locations (e.g., home safe, safety deposit box).
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use MetaMask Mobile for Ethereum Classic?
A: Yes! The MetaMask mobile app supports Ethereum Classic fully. Just add network chain ID 61 manually as shown above.
Q: Is sending ETC cheaper than sending ETH?
A: Generally yes—Ethereum Classic has lower average gas fees compared to Ethereum, making it cost-effective for frequent transactions.
Q: What happens if I send ETC to an Ethereum address?
A: If it's your own wallet (same private keys), you can recover it by switching networks in MetaMask. But if sent to an exchange or smart contract not supporting ETC, recovery may be impossible.
Q: Do I need a different recovery phrase for ETC?
A: No. All accounts across EVM-compatible chains—including ETC—are derived from the same 12-word phrase.
Q: Are there risks in using shared addresses between ETH and ETC?
A: Yes—especially with third parties. Always confirm network compatibility before sending funds.
Q: Can I stake ETC in MetaMask?
A: No—Ethereum Classic does not support staking like Ethereum 2.0+. MetaMask acts as a non-custodial wallet only for holding and transferring ETC.
By mastering these core functions—adding networks, managing transactions, creating addresses, and backing up securely—you’re well-equipped to use Ethereum Classic efficiently within MetaMask. Stay informed, stay safe, and make the most of decentralized finance with confidence.