Ohio Advances Toward Accepting Crypto Payments for Government Fees

Ohio is preparing to become one of the first U.S. states to accept cryptocurrency payments for government services, following a unanimous decision by the State Board of Deposit to approve a vendor that could handle transactions. While the plan is not yet finalized, the approval shows how states are beginning to test blockchain applications in public finance.

Good to Know

• Ohio approved a vendor to process crypto payments for state services
• Secretary of State Frank LaRose says his office handles hundreds of thousands of transactions yearly
• Technical details and timelines for full rollout have not yet been set

The move builds on a request made in April by Secretary of State Frank LaRose and Treasurer Robert Sprague to explore crypto payments. A follow-up vote in May authorized the idea, contingent on vendor selection, which has now been confirmed.

LaRose praised the decision in a statement and on social media:

“Today, the State Board of Deposit unanimously approved a vendor to facilitate the acceptance of cryptocurrency payments for state fees and services.”

He added:

“With hundreds of thousands of transactions going through my office each year, I want to commend the board for taking bold action to position us at the forefront of the emerging digital economy.”

LaRose framed the development as part of Ohio’s broader effort to attract business and encourage innovation:

“Ohio has always been a state of pioneers and innovators. I want to commend Treasurer Sprague, Auditor Faber, and Attorney General Yost for taking this bold step to position us at the forefront of the emerging digital economy. There’s a reason why we now rank among the top five states in the nation to do business. It’s because we’re not afraid to embrace the tools, trends and technologies that incentivize job creators to come here.”

He also emphasized customer demand:

“My office processes hundreds of thousands of financial transactions each year, and we’ve heard a growing demand for a cryptocurrency payment option. I’m excited and ready to be the first to provide it to our customers.”