> 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/stacking-rewards.md).

# Staking rewards

Where STX-only staking rewards come from under PoX-5, how they are credited and why they vary.

STX-only staking rewards are paid in sBTC to stakers who lock STX with a pool.

## Where rewards come from

Stacks miners send BTC to take part in Stacks block production. Under PoX-5, that BTC goes to an sBTC deposit address whose recipient is the `pox-5` contract. The protocol then shares it out as sBTC rewards to stakers, following its reward rules.

## How rewards are credited

The protocol calculates rewards per staker every 1,050 Bitcoin blocks, twice per reward cycle, and credits them to the pool's signer-manager. From there the pool pays them out, or you claim them. See [Track your STX-only staking rewards](/stacking/track-stacking-rewards.md).

## Why rewards vary

Yield depends on network-wide staking participation, on miner activity and on the protocol's reward rules. A pool needs at least 50,000 STX staked in total to earn rewards for a cycle. Pool fees reduce what reaches you.