'What Does ‘Not Checksummed’ Mean? Why are Some Letters Capitalized?

Every Ethereum address has two versions to it, one that includes uppercase letters and one that doesn’t. These are called the checksummed and non-checksummed versions, respectively. Take for example, the MEW donation address:

Non-checksummed version: 0xdecaf9cd2367cdbb726e904cd6397edfcae6068d
Checksummed version: 0xDECAF9CD2367cdbb726E904cD6397eDFcAe6068D

These two addresses include all the same characters and lead to the same destination, the checksummed one is just a little more useful for determining the accuracy of the address. Both versions of the address are viable and usable, but the checksummed version is the preferred version to use. If even one character of an address is off, any tokens or coins sent to the wrong address will be lost forever. This is not something to be taken lightly.

Sometimes you will receive an error warning you that your address is not checksummed, preventing or warning you from making a transaction or adding a custom token. This is for your own safety. Do not be alarmed, though! It’s very easy to find the checksummed version of any address.

Step 1: Head to etherscan.io
Step 2: Input the address you’re interested in viewing into the search field
Step 3: You will be taken to a page for the address, with balances and a list of transactions
Step 4: At the top of the page, see the checksummed version with capital letters included

If you are having trouble finding this version of the address or have anymore questions, contact our customer care team at support@myetherwallet.com. We’d be happy to help!