How to Stake Crypto: Step-by-Step Beginner Guide

To stake crypto, you need a wallet that supports staking and a proof-of-stake coin such as Solana (SOL), Ethereum (ETH), Tron (TRX) or BNB. You delegate the coins to a validator that helps secure the network, and the network pays you rewards in the same coin. It takes about ten minutes the first time.

This guide walks through every step in Virtex Wallet, from setup to your first rewards and how to unstake. New to the idea? Read what is crypto staking first.

Step by step

How to stake crypto in 7 steps

Install a staking wallet

Download Virtex Wallet free from Google Play and create a new wallet, or import one you already use.

Back up your recovery phrase

Write the 12 or 24 words on paper and keep them offline. In non-custodial mode this phrase is the only way to recover your staked coins. Never photograph it or share it.

Choose staking mode

Pick non-custodial staking to stake from your own keys, or custodial staking to let Virtex handle it. Custodial mode isn't available in the EEA, the UK or the United States.

Add a proof-of-stake coin

Buy SOL, ETH, TRX or BNB in the app, swap into it, or send it from an exchange on the correct network.

Tap Stake and pick a validator

Choose a validator or the recommended option. Look for strong uptime, a reasonable commission and a public track record.

Enter an amount, leaving some for fees

Stake what you won't need soon and keep a little of the coin unstaked to pay network fees, including the fee to unstake later.

Review and confirm

Check the estimated rate, commission and unstaking period, then confirm. Your stake appears in the app and on the network's block explorer.

By coin

Which coin should you stake first?

Coin	Typical rate*	Rewards arrive	Unstaking wait	Full guide
Solana (SOL)	~5–7.5%	Every epoch (~2 days)	~2–3 days	How to stake SOL
Ethereum (ETH)	~2.5–4%	Depends on provider	Exit queue, varies	How to stake ETH
Tron (TRX)	~3–5%	Claim every 24 hours	14 days	How to stake TRX
BNB (BNB Chain)	~1.5–3%	Daily	7 days	How to stake BNB

*Market estimates that change over time, not offers. The app shows the current estimate before you confirm. Still choosing? Read the best crypto to stake.

After you stake

Tracking rewards, compounding and unstaking

Tracking your rewards

Your staked balance and rewards show in the app. You can also check them independently on the network's block explorer. Here's how to verify your stake.

Compounding

On some networks rewards are added to your stake automatically; on others, such as Tron, you claim them and can stake them again. Re-staking rewards turns APR into a higher APY over time. See APY vs APR explained.

Unstaking

Tap Unstake on the coin, confirm, and wait for the network's unbonding period. During that wait the coins earn nothing and can't be sent, so plan ahead. Details per network: unstaking periods explained.

Taxes

In many countries staking rewards count as income when you receive them. Keep a record of what you earn. See are staking rewards taxable? This isn't tax advice.

Avoid these

Beginner staking mistakes

Staking everything. Leave some unstaked for network fees and emergencies.
Chasing the highest rate. Unusually high rates mean extra risk or an outright scam. Real network staking doesn't pay 1% a day.
Picking a validator only on low commission. Uptime and track record matter more than saving a fraction of a percent.
Forgetting the unbonding period. You can't sell instantly after unstaking.
Sending coins on the wrong network. Withdraw from exchanges on the coin's own network (Solana, Tron, BSC, Ethereum).
Sharing your recovery phrase. No real staking service ever needs it.

Know the risks. Rewards are paid in the staked coin, so their dollar value moves with the price. On some networks validators can be penalised. Read is crypto staking safe? before you start. This page is general information, not financial advice.

Staking calculator

How much could you earn staking?

Pick a coin and amount to see a typical yearly range, or enter the exact rate shown in the app.

Coin

Amount (in coins)

Duration (months)

Rate shown in the app (APR %, optional)

Compound rewards monthly (APY)

–

Estimate only. Typical ranges are rough market figures that change with network conditions, validator commission and lending demand. They are not a rate offered or promised by Virtex. Rewards are paid in the coin you hold, so their dollar value moves with its price. This is not financial advice. Always check the live rate in the app before you confirm.

FAQ

How to stake: common questions

How do I start staking crypto?

Install a wallet that supports staking, back up your recovery phrase, add a proof-of-stake coin such as SOL, ETH, TRX or BNB, then tap Stake, choose a validator and confirm. The whole process takes a few minutes once the coins are in your wallet.

How much crypto do I need to start staking?

Much less than most people think. You don't need 32 ETH: Virtex Wallet lets you stake smaller amounts through a staking provider. Solana, Tron and BNB Chain also accept small stakes. The app shows any minimum before you confirm.

How long does it take to get staking rewards?

It depends on the network. Solana stake activates at the next epoch, roughly 2 to 3 days, and then earns every epoch. Tron voting rewards can be claimed every 24 hours. BNB Chain pays rewards daily. Ethereum depends on the staking provider.

Can I unstake whenever I want?

You can request it at any time, but most networks have an unbonding period before coins are spendable: about 2–3 days on Solana, 7 days on BNB Chain, 14 days on Tron, and a variable exit queue on Ethereum.

What is the easiest coin to stake for beginners?

Solana is a common first choice because fees are very low and unstaking takes only a few days. TRX is popular if you also send USDT on Tron, because staking TRX gives you Energy for cheaper transfers.

Can I stake Bitcoin?

Not natively. Bitcoin uses proof of work, so there are no validators to delegate to. See ways to earn Bitcoin for honest alternatives.

How to Stake Crypto: A Step-by-Step Guide