Mastercard Chooses Polygon to Enable Verified Username Transfers for Self-Custody Wallets
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Highlights
- Mastercard has selected Polygon as the first blockchain to support verified username-based transfers for self-custody wallets.
- The integration replaces long wallet addresses with verified aliases issued through Mercuryo.
- The collaboration aims to simplify digital asset transfers and enable a user-friendly identity layer for global payment flows.
Mastercard has expanded its Crypto Credential program to self-custody wallets, naming Polygon as the first blockchain network to support the rollout. Announced on November 18, 2025, the initiative introduces verified, username-style aliases designed to replace lengthy wallet addresses, marking a notable development for digital payment functionality. Mercuryo will onboard users and issue the credentials required for verification.
Bringing Alias-Based Transfers to User-Controlled Wallets
The expansion introduces an identity layer tailored for users who manage their own wallets while maintaining full custody of their assets. Through Mastercard Crypto Credential, complex hexadecimal wallet addresses can be replaced with aliases that are easier to enter, share, and verify.
Mercuryo is responsible for completing KYC processes and generating the verified identifiers that map to users’ wallets. Once verified, individuals can link their self-custody wallets to these aliases and receive digital assets without needing to disclose or double-check long addresses. Users may also choose to mint a soulbound credential on Polygon, enabling their verification status to be recognized across the Crypto Credential network.
A Familiar Experience for Transferring Crypto Assets
By introducing human-readable aliases, Mastercard aims to streamline the user experience for self-custody interactions. The outlined process involves a single verification with Mercuryo, followed by the issuance of a username-style alias. Users can then connect their wallets, optionally mint their on-chain credential, and begin receiving crypto through this alias. Sending functionality will be added next.
The system is intended to mirror common digital workflows, replacing the need to manually recheck addresses or send trial transfers. The update signals a shift toward making self-managed wallets accessible to a broader range of users.
Polygon Becomes the First Network to Support the Rollout
Polygon was chosen as the initial blockchain to host the expansion due to its infrastructure designed to support global-scale payment flows. Its technical specifications include fast settlement, low transaction fees, and performance optimized for high-throughput activity.
Recent upgrades—including the Rio enhancement that removed reorganization risks and the Heimdall v2 consensus update—have contributed to near-instant finality and streamlined validation. With additional throughput improvements planned, the network is positioned to manage verification processes and transaction volumes associated with credential-based transfers.
A Step Toward Scalable On-Chain Payments
Billions of dollars in stablecoins already circulate across Polygon each month through financial institutions and payment providers. Integrating Mastercard Crypto Credential into self-custody workflows continues this development, enabling identity and transfer functions to operate on a network built for speed and reliability.
The collaboration aligns with broader adoption trends in on-chain payment systems, where institutions increasingly prioritize predictable settlement, cost efficiency, and verification features.
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