Token standard (ERC-20, TRC-20, SPL)

Also known as: ERC-20, TRC-20, BEP-20, SPL token

A token standard (working definition) is a common set of functions and events that a token contract implements so that wallets and exchanges can work with any token that follows it. On Ethereum this is ERC-20, defined in EIP-20 as a standard interface for transferring tokens and approving them for spending by a third party. On TRON, any contract implementing the TRC-20 functions and events counts as a TRC-20 contract. On Solana, the Token program defines a common implementation for fungible and non-fungible tokens. Tether describes USDT on Ethereum as an ERC20 token.

What the sources say

SourceQuoteLink
EIP-20: summary"A standard interface for tokens."eips.ethereum.org
EIP-20: abstract"This standard provides basic functionality to transfer tokens, as well as allow tokens to be approved so they can be spent by another on-chain third party."eips.ethereum.org
TRON developer docs: TRC-20"TRC-20 is a set of contract standards for issuing fungible token assets on TRON. Any contract that implements the required functions and events below is considered a TRC-20 contract."developers.tron.network
TRON developer docs: why wallets use it"Wallets and exchanges integrating a TRC-20 contract use this standard set of functions and events to interact with the contract."developers.tron.network
Solana Program Library docs: Token program"A Token program on the Solana blockchain. This program defines a common implementation for Fungible and Non Fungible tokens."solana-program.com
Tether FAQ: USDT on Ethereum as ERC20"Tether on the Ethereum blockchain, as an ERC20 token, is a newer transport layer"tether.to

Related terms

See also

Checked against the sources on 2026-11-01.

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Sources

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