> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.aethir.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.aethir.com/aethir-staking/pre-deposit-how-to-guide.md).

# Pre-deposit How-To Guide

Token Providers who wish to stake ATH early via the Vault, prior to the activation of Aethir’s Token Pool and StakeBase contracts. This guide covers how to participate in the Pre-deposit Phase and what to expect before and after activation. **Reward Distribution**:

Rewards are calculated and updated every 24 hours, with the settlement window aligned to **UTC+12.**

#### **Steps:**

1. **Deposit ATH into the Pre-deposit Vault**

   Select the Vault pool in the User Portal and confirm your deposit. Your ATH will be locked in the Vault contract.
2. **Receive eATH**

   You will receive **eATH** at a 1:1 ratio. This ERC-20 token represents your staked balance and will entitle you to rewards after vault activation.
3. **Track Staking Position**

   View your current eATH balance in the User Portal dashboard. Deposits can be made incrementally at any time.
4. **Claim Rewards** *(Post-activation)*

   Once the Vault is activated (estimated July 13, 2025), rewards will begin accruing. Users must manually claim rewards via the portal. No rewards are accrued during the pre-deposit phase.
5. **Withdraw ATH** *(Redemption-initiation)*

   Redemption of eATH becomes available on 13th June 2026, once redemption is initiated, tokens will vest for 15 days before being released.


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