XRPL Trust Lines Explained How Token Holding Works
Trust lines are the XRPL mechanism for holding non-XRP tokens. Understand how they work and why they matter.
Trust lines are how the XRPL handles non-XRP tokens. Before you can hold any issued token, you must create a trust line to the issuer. This opt-in model prevents token spam and gives users full control over which assets appear in their wallets. Each trust line requires a 2 XRP reserve.
| Key Facts | |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Enable holding non-XRP tokens |
| Reserve | 2 XRP per trust line |
| Creation | User opts in (not automatic) |
| Spam Prevention | Reserve + opt-in model |
| Rippling | Configurable per line |
| Deletion | Set limit to 0 + zero balance |
What Are Trust Lines?
A trust line is a relationship between your XRPL account and a token issuer that allows you to hold their token. Think of it as explicitly saying "I agree to hold tokens issued by this account." Without a trust line, you cannot receive non-XRP tokens.
You choose which tokens to trust. No one can airdrop unwanted tokens.
Each trust line connects you to one specific issuer for one specific token code.
You can set a maximum amount of that token you're willing to hold.
Both parties can see the trust line. The issuer can see who trusts them.
How They Work
1. Issuer creates token
An XRPL account decides to issue a token (e.g., 'USD' from Bitstamp).
2. You create trust line
Submit a TrustSet transaction specifying the issuer and token code.
3. 2 XRP reserved
Your wallet reserves 2 XRP for the trust line. This is locked, not spent.
4. Receive tokens
Now the issuer (or anyone holding the token) can send it to you.
5. Trade on DEX
With trust lines set, you can trade tokens on the <Link href='/learn/how-to-use-xrpl-dex' className='text-xrp-accent underline decoration-xrp-accent/30'>XRPL DEX</Link>.
Reserve Cost
Each trust line requires a 2 XRP owner reserve. This is locked (not burned) and returned when the trust line is deleted. Combined with the 10 XRP base reserve, this means holding multiple tokens requires more XRP.
| Trust Lines | Total Reserve | Available |
|---|---|---|
| 0 (XRP only) | 10 XRP | All above 10 |
| 5 tokens | 20 XRP | All above 20 |
| 10 tokens | 30 XRP | All above 30 |
| 20 tokens | 50 XRP | All above 50 |
Security Benefits
On Ethereum, anyone can send you any ERC-20 token — including scam tokens with malicious smart contracts. On the XRPL, the trust line model means you only hold tokens you've explicitly agreed to. This eliminates an entire class of scam attacks.
Managing Trust Lines
Setting trust lines
Use Xaman, Crossmark, or any XRPL wallet. Most handle it automatically when you first interact with a token.
Removing trust lines
Set limit to 0 and ensure zero balance. The 2 XRP reserve is returned.
Rippling
Configure whether tokens can 'ripple' through your account in payment paths. Default off for most users.
Check before trusting
Verify the token issuer before setting trust lines. Scam tokens exist on XRPL too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Continue Learning
Master XRPL Tokens
Understand trust lines to safely participate in the XRPL token ecosystem.
Last updated: February 15, 2026. Written by the AllAboutXRP Editorial Team.
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