Ohio Move to Allow Crypto Payments Could Pave Way for Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Proposal

• State board approved first vendor to process crypto payments for state fees.

• Ohio becomes the fourth U.S. state to authorize crypto for state-level fees, following Colorado, Utah and Louisiana.

• Board action supports a proposal toward an Ohio Strategic Cryptocurrency Reserve and agency-level pilot programs.

Ohio cryptocurrency payments: State Board approves vendor to process crypto for fees—learn what this means and next steps for agencies. Read more.

What does Ohio’s approval of a crypto payment vendor mean for state services?

Ohio cryptocurrency payments will now be possible for state fee collection after the State Board of Deposit unanimously approved its first vendor to process digital asset transactions. This authorization lets agencies pilot accepting crypto via a Treasurer-designated processor while legal and operational frameworks are finalized.

How will Ohio implement cryptocurrency fee payments?

The Treasurer’s office will designate a payment processor and state agencies may begin pilot programs to accept digital assets. Steps include vendor contracting, defining supported cryptocurrencies, security and custody requirements, and integration with existing payment systems. The State Board of Deposit approved the first contract following a May 2025 proposal that authorized crypto as a financial transaction device.

Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose applauded the move and continues to back the creation of an Ohio Strategic Cryptocurrency Reserve to expand the state’s digital asset strategy.

Ohio has become the fourth U.S. state to move toward allowing cryptocurrencies for state fees after the State Board of Deposit approved a vendor to process digital asset transactions. The vote was unanimous and builds on the board’s May 2025 decision designating cryptocurrencies as an authorized financial transaction device.

The approval follows similar state actions in Colorado and Utah, and recent legislation in Louisiana. Officials emphasized that the change is designed to meet growing demand from users and businesses while maintaining financial controls and compliance.

Why are Ohio officials supporting a Strategic Cryptocurrency Reserve?

Officials including Secretary of State Frank LaRose and Treasurer Robert Sprague argue a reserve would provide a managed way to hold digital assets for state purposes. The proposed Ohio Strategic Cryptocurrency Reserve is separate from an earlier Bitcoin reserve proposition introduced on Dec. 17, 2024, and aims to create clearer policy and custodial standards for state-held crypto.

LaRose said the authority to accept crypto will help Ohio “maintain its position as one of the top states for business.” He praised Treasurer Sprague, Auditor Faber, and Attorney General Yost for advancing the policy. LaRose also noted his office processes hundreds of thousands of transactions annually and has heard demand for a crypto payment option.

When will agencies start accepting crypto and which assets will be supported?

Implementation timelines and the list of supported cryptocurrencies were not specified at the board meeting. The Treasurer’s office will announce designated processors and supported assets once procurement and security reviews are complete. Cointelegraph and other outlets have sought additional details from the Secretary of State’s office; official guidance is expected as pilot programs are launched.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the vendor approval mean for taxpayers and businesses?

The vendor approval allows state agencies to pilot accepting digital asset payments, offering an additional payment option for taxpayers and businesses. Agencies will still follow existing reconciliation and tax rules while testing operational workflows.

How will the state manage custody and security of crypto funds?

Custody and security will be handled through the designated payment processor and state policies that specify custody models, private key management, and audit requirements to protect public funds.

Key Takeaways

• Board action approved a payment vendor: Ohio can now pilot cryptocurrency fee payments through a Treasurer-designated processor.
• Policy and reserve work continues: Officials support creating an Ohio Strategic Cryptocurrency Reserve but separate legislation is required.
• Implementation remains phased: Timelines, supported assets, and agency rollouts will follow procurement and security reviews.

Conclusion

Ohio cryptocurrency payments are now authorized at the state level through a vendor approval that enables agency pilots and furthers conversations about an Ohio Strategic Cryptocurrency Reserve. Expect phased implementation details from the Treasurer’s office as procurement, security and policy requirements are finalized—monitor official state announcements for updates.