Category · How-To Guides
How-To Guides prediction markets.
Step-by-step how-to guides for California traders: opening an account, depositing, placing trades, comparing fees, withdrawing and handling taxes.
Prediction Market Taxes in California: 2026 Guide
Yes, your Kalshi and Polymarket profits are taxable, federally and in California. Here's how 1099s, Section 1256, and USDC conversions actually work for CA residents.
Updated Sep 17, 2026
Kalshi vs Polymarket Fees: Full 2026 Cost Breakdown
Polymarket has no per-trade fees. Kalshi charges roughly $0.07 per round trip. But the all-in cost picture is different. Here's the side-by-side that actually matters.
Updated Sep 18, 2026
Can I Use Polymarket in California? How to Deposit (2026)
Yes, you can use Polymarket in California. Polymarket runs on USDC. Here's the step-by-step for funding your first account from California, including what to do if you've never touched crypto.
Updated Sep 17, 2026
How to Withdraw from Kalshi: 2026 Step-by-Step Guide
ACH withdrawals on Kalshi are free and settle in 1-3 business days. Here's the full process, including bank verification, daily limits, and tax forms.
Updated Sep 18, 2026
Arbitrage Between Kalshi and Polymarket: A Realistic Guide
The same contract trades on both platforms. Sometimes the prices diverge. Here's how prediction market arbitrage actually works, and why it's harder than it looks.
Updated Sep 18, 2026
How to Use Kalshi: Step-by-Step From Signup to First Trade
Kalshi is the largest CFTC-regulated event-contract exchange and it's legal for California residents. This walkthrough covers signup, KYC, funding, your first trade, and withdrawal: the path most California traders follow in under fifteen minutes.
Updated Sep 23, 2026
USDC Deposit to Polymarket from California: The 10-Minute Crypto-Native Path
If you already hold USDC on Binance, OKX, or HTX, depositing to Polymarket is a 10-minute job: not the multi-day onboarding the documentation suggests. Step-by-step for crypto-native California traders.
Updated Sep 17, 2026How-To Guides: common questions
- How long does it take to open an account?
- Usually under 10 minutes. You verify your identity with a government ID and your Social Security number, then link a bank, card or crypto wallet.
- How do I place my first trade?
- Pick a market, choose Yes or No, enter how many contracts you want at the current price, and confirm. Start with a small position and read the market's resolution rules first.
- How do I withdraw my winnings?
- Settled contracts turn into cash in your account balance. Withdraw to the same bank or wallet you deposited from; bank transfers typically take 1 to 3 business days.
- Do I pay taxes on prediction market profits in California?
- Yes. Profits are taxable at the federal level and by California. Keep your trade history and read our California tax guide before filing.