> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://botlyz.gitbook.io/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://botlyz.gitbook.io/docs/english/installation-pas-a-pas/deposer-des-fonds.md). # Depositing funds on Lighter ## Before you start To trade with Botlyz, you need a funded Lighter account. This page walks you through, step by step, how to deposit money into it, even if you are a beginner who has never used crypto. > **Important**: your first deposit on Lighter automatically creates your **trading subaccount**. In other words, there is nothing to set up in advance: the deposit itself opens your trading account. ## How it works (in plain terms) On Lighter, your **wallet** (your crypto wallet) acts as the **owner**. Lighter creates a **trading subaccount** underneath it, which holds the money you will use to trade. This trading subaccount only exists **from the moment you make your first deposit**. The amount you deposit is held in **USDC** (a stablecoin pegged to the US dollar) on your Lighter account. > **Good to know**: you do **not** need to already own USDC. Depending on the method you choose, your payment or your crypto is **automatically converted to USDC** once it arrives on Lighter. ## Step 1: open the deposit page 1. Sign in to Lighter with your wallet (the same one used for Botlyz). See [Connecting your wallet](/docs/english/installation-pas-a-pas/connecter-votre-wallet.md). 2. Go to your portfolio page: [app.lighter.xyz/portfolio](https://app.lighter.xyz/portfolio). 3. Click the **"Deposit"** button. Lighter then offers several **ways to deposit**. Choose the one that fits your situation. ## Step 2: choose your deposit method ### Method 1: "Cash" (bank card or transfer) This is the simplest option if you **do not have any crypto yet**. * Choose the **"Cash"** option. * Pay directly by **bank card** or **bank transfer**. * The amount is **converted to USDC** and deposited into your Lighter trading account. ✅ Ideal for a very first deposit, without having to handle any crypto. ### Method 2: "Connect exchange" (link an exchange) Use this if you already have money on an **exchange platform** (for example Binance). * Choose the **"Connect exchange"** option. * Link your exchange by following the on-screen instructions. * Send your funds from that exchange to Lighter. ✅ Handy if you already keep crypto or money on a well-known exchange. ### Method 3: "Transfer crypto" (send from a wallet) Use this if you already hold crypto in a **wallet** (for example MetaMask or Rabby). * Choose the **"Transfer crypto"** option. * Select the **token** you want to deposit (the type of crypto: USDC, ETH, etc.). * Select the **blockchain** (the network) you will use to send that token. * Lighter then displays a **deposit address**. Send your crypto to that address from your wallet. * Once the crypto is received, it is **automatically converted to USDC** on your Lighter account. > **Warning**: choose the **same blockchain** in your wallet as the one shown by Lighter. If you send on the wrong network, your funds may be **lost**. If in doubt, do not confirm and check first. ## Step 3: check that the funds arrived After your deposit, your USDC balance appears on the [app.lighter.xyz/portfolio](https://app.lighter.xyz/portfolio) page. * A **card** deposit is usually credited quickly. * A **bank transfer** or a **crypto transfer** can take longer, while the network confirms the operation (from a few minutes to longer depending on the blockchain). Once your balance is visible on Lighter, you can go back to Botlyz to connect your account, then deploy a strategy. ## Tips for a first deposit 1. **Start small.** Deposit a modest amount to get familiar with how it works before going further. 2. **Always check the blockchain.** For a crypto transfer, the token **and** the network must match what Lighter displays. 3. **Allow some time.** Some deposits are not instant. Wait for the confirmation before worrying. 4. **Keep enough to pay network fees.** If you send from a wallet, the blockchain may charge a small fee to validate the transfer. ## Frequently asked questions **Q. Do I have to deposit in USDC?** No, it is not required. Depending on the method you choose, your card payment, your bank transfer or your crypto is **automatically converted to USDC** once it arrives on Lighter. You can of course deposit directly in USDC if you already have some. **Q. What is the minimum amount to deposit?** The useful minimum depends on the **pair you want to trade** and your settings (leverage, allocation). Botlyz shows you the **minimum required capital** at deployment time. See [Deploy a strategy](/docs/english/installation-pas-a-pas/deployer-une-strategie.md). **Q. Do I need to create a trading account before depositing?** No. Your **first deposit automatically creates** your Lighter trading subaccount. There is nothing to prepare in advance. **Q. Can I deposit if I have never used crypto?** Yes. The **"Cash"** option lets you pay by bank card or transfer, without handling any crypto. ## Troubleshooting ### I sent to the wrong blockchain For a crypto transfer, the **network** you choose in your wallet must match **exactly** the one shown by Lighter. If you sent on a different network, the operation may be unrecoverable. Always check the network **before** confirming, and do a small test first if you have any doubt. ### My transaction is "pending" A deposit by bank transfer or crypto transfer is not always instant. The network must first **confirm** the operation. * Wait a few minutes (sometimes longer depending on the blockchain). * Then check your balance on [app.lighter.xyz/portfolio](https://app.lighter.xyz/portfolio). * If the problem lasts a long time, check Lighter's status on its official channels. ### I cannot see my deposit on Lighter * Make sure you are connected with the **right wallet** (the one used for the deposit). * Check that you are on the [app.lighter.xyz/portfolio](https://app.lighter.xyz/portfolio) page. * For a crypto transfer, confirm that the send was actually made from your wallet and that it is confirmed on the blockchain.