> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.leather.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.leather.io/stacking-and-sbtc-reference/pooled-stacking-conditions.md).

# Staking conditions

The conditions you accept when you stake STX with a pool on app.leather.io/staking.

Before you confirm a stake, app.leather.io shows the staking conditions and asks you to tick a box to accept them.

## Research your pool

Rewards flow through the pool's signer-manager contract and depend on its policies. Each pool sets its own fee, minimum and payout options. Check who operates the pool before you join.

## Rewards accrue in sBTC

Yield is variable and accrues in sBTC on Stacks. It depends on network-wide staking participation and on the protocol's reward rules. Rewards are not guaranteed.

## When STX unlocks

Your STX stays locked until the scheduled end unless you unstake earlier. You can unstake at any time outside the last 100 Bitcoin blocks of a cycle. Your STX then unlocks at the end of that cycle.

## How rewards reach you

This depends on the pool:

* Most pools claim rewards through their contract with your payout settings.
* "Self-claim only" pools never claim for you. You claim your sBTC yourself.
* Pools with a custodial BTC payout collect the sBTC and pay you BTC off chain. You rely on the operator to pay.

Leather does not hold your funds or pay your rewards.