Staking NEAR feels simple when you understand what this powerful blockchain offers. NEAR stands out for its smooth user experience, named accounts, fast transactions, low fees, and a design that feels friendly even if you are new to crypto. It is a fully carbon-neutral network built to be fast, secure, and scalable for millions of users.
NEAR is a layer-1 blockchain that uses a proof-of-stake system. This means when you stake, you lock your NEAR tokens to support the network’s security and operations. Validators run nodes, validate transactions, and produce blocks. They stake their own NEAR and also accept delegated NEAR from other users.
In this guide, you will learn how to stake NEAR with ease. You will see how the staking process works, how delegation helps you earn rewards, and how you can check or withdraw your tokens at any time. Let’s make staking NEAR simple and stress-free.
How to Stake Near Protocol (NEAR)?
Here’s how you can stake Near Protocol:
Step 1: Choose a Validator and Staking Pool
When you delegate NEAR to a staking pool, the pool contract locks your tokens and assigns them to a validator. You continue to own the tokens and retain full control over unstaking. The validator earns rewards for securing the network. The pool then distributes rewards to you based on your share of the total stake, after it deducts the commission.
How To Select A Good Validator?
You should always research validators carefully:
- Rewards and performance: Choose validators with strong uptime and a solid production history, because better performance usually leads to better rewards.
- Commission: Check the commission rate and look for a fair fee that does not overeat into your earnings.
- Reputation: Review community feedback and explorer data for reliability signals.
- Risk of slashing: Avoid validators with frequent downtime, because poor behaviour can reduce rewards.
You can explore validators and their pools on NearBlocks, Pikespeak, or Near Staking. If you prefer command-line tools, you can also use the near-validator CLI to fetch an up-to-date validator list.
Step 2: Prepare Your Wallet and Account
First, you need a NEAR account with enough tokens for staking and transaction fees. You can use a web wallet such as MyNearWallet. After you log in, connect your wallet to your chosen explorer or interface, and confirm that you hold the amount of NEAR you plan to stake.
Connect your account with NEAR CLI
If you stake through the NEAR CLI, you must connect your account there as well. You run the account import command and authorise it through the web wallet for the mainnet. After this step, the CLI can sign transactions on behalf of your NEAR account, including staking, viewing balances, and withdrawing.
Step 3: Delegate NEAR to a Staking Pool
You can stake NEAR through two different methods:
Checking Your Staking Status In A Wallet
You can monitor your staked NEAR through your wallet dashboard. For example, MyNearWallet shows:
- Your total NEAR balance
- The amount you staked with each validator
- Rewards accumulated over time
You can open your profile page and view which validator holds your delegation and how your rewards grow with every epoch.
Viewing Balances With NEAR CLI
The NEAR CLI also gives detailed information. You can:
- View your total balance in a specific validator’s pool
- Check how much of that balance counts as staked
- Confirm rewards and any unstaked amounts
You run a view-balance command with your account ID, the validator pool ID, and the mainnet configuration. The output shows your current staked amount and any available unstaked funds.
Step 5: Unstake and Withdraw Your NEAR
When you want to exit staking, you first un-delegate your tokens. In the CLI, you call the unstake method on the validator’s staking delegation contract and specify the amount, for example, ‘1 NEAR’. If you want to exit fully, you can use a command that unstakes all tokens from that pool in one go.
After you send the unstake transaction, your tokens move into an unstaking state. The protocol uses a 4-epoch unbonding period, which lasts roughly 48 hours on mainnet. During this time, your NEAR does not earn rewards, and you cannot transfer it yet.
Check availability and withdraw funds
After four epochs, you should confirm that your unstaked balance is ready. You can:
- Use a contract call in the CLI that checks whether your unstaked balance has become available
- Or view the status in your wallet’s staking section
If the contract or wallet confirms availability, you can withdraw. In the CLI, you run a withdraw command with the amount you want to claim. If you prefer to withdraw everything, you can use a withdraw-all command that moves all available unstaked NEAR back to your main account balance.
Once the network processes this transaction, your NEAR returns to your liquid wallet balance. You can then transfer it, trade it, or stake it again with another validator if you wish.
Popular Video Guides on Staking Near Protocol (NEAR)
Best Places to Stake Near Protocol (NEAR)
Atomic Wallet is a non-custodial multi-asset wallet that allows users to store, manage, and stake a wide range of cryptocurrencies from a single, secure interface. It supports Near Protocol (NEAR) staking with an attractive APY of 11%, giving users flexibility and full control over their private keys. The platform integrates built-in exchange features, portfolio tracking, and cross-platform accessibility, which ensures smooth asset management for both new and advanced crypto investors without relying on third-party custody.
Pros:
- Allows users to stake Near Protocol (NEAR) directly with an 11% APY.
- Gives complete control over private keys for enhanced security.
- Offers a clean and simple interface suitable for new investors.
- Supports a wide selection of cryptocurrency assets.
- Provides built-in swapping to move between tokens easily.
Cons:
- Does not offer customer support through live chat.
- Staking rewards depend on network performance and validator activity.
- Requires users to handle their own key backup and security procedures.
- Limited educational guidance for first-time stakers.
YouHodler is a digital asset platform that provides a range of crypto financial services, including yield accounts, lending, and staking solutions. The platform supports staking for Near Protocol (NEAR) with a competitive APY of 12%, giving users an efficient way to grow their holdings. It offers an intuitive dashboard, fast deposit processing, and advanced security measures that protect user funds. YouHodler also integrates multiple payment methods and supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies, making it suitable for both new and experienced investors seeking flexible earning opportunities.
Pros:
- Provides a strong 12% APY for staking Near Protocol.
- Allows easy deposits through multiple payment methods.
- Offers a simple interface that enables quick staking and management.
- Includes additional earning features such as crypto loans and savings tools.
- Maintains high security standards to safeguard digital assets.
Cons:
- Limited selection of staking assets available.
- Interest rates may vary depending on market conditions.
- Not suitable for users looking for advanced trading tools.
Bake is a digital asset platform that offers straightforward staking services for multiple cryptocurrencies, including Near Protocol (NEAR). The platform focuses on simplicity and transparency, giving users access to automated staking rewards without complex setup or technical steps. Bake supports a clean interface, strong security standards, and clear reward visibility. Users can stake NEAR and earn returns with an APY of 6.6%, making it appealing for individuals who prioritise consistent yields and an easy staking experience.
Pros:
- Provides a straightforward staking process suitable for new investors.
- Offers an attractive 6.6% APY for NEAR staking.
- Displays staking rewards clearly with real-time tracking.
- Maintains strong security measures to protect user funds.
- Supports automated reward distribution for convenience.
Cons:
- Supports fewer assets than major global exchanges.
- Does not offer advanced staking customisation options.
- Limited availability in some regions.
- Customer support response time may vary during high-traffic periods.
Also read: NEAR Protocol Pricing Prediction
Benefits Of Staking Near Protocol (NEAR)
Staking Near Protocol (NEAR) offers an excellent way to earn consistent rewards while supporting a sustainable and scalable blockchain network. It allows users to actively contribute to the system’s security and decentralisation, while enjoying attractive returns. Let’s explore the major benefits of staking NEAR in detail.
Lower Entry Barrier Through Staking Pools
Not everyone wants to manage hardware or maintain validator nodes. Near Protocol makes staking simple through delegation. You can join staking pools and earn rewards without technical expertise or expensive equipment. This flexibility opens participation to a larger community, promoting inclusivity and decentralisation within the ecosystem.
Earn Passive Income with Attractive Returns
When you stake NEAR, you earn periodic rewards in exchange for securing the network. These rewards, known as epoch rewards, usually range from 8% to 11% annually, depending on conditions and the pool you choose. The reward mechanism encourages consistent participation and helps investors grow their holdings over time.
Support Network Security and Decentralisation
Your staked tokens play a direct role in maintaining the network’s stability. Each staked token helps determine validator seats and keeps the blockchain’s shards secure and functional. By staking, you actively contribute to Near Protocol’s decentralisation, ensuring it remains resistant to manipulation or control by a single entity.
Participate in Consensus and Governance
Staking gives you the power to influence network decisions. You can either run a validator node or delegate your tokens to trusted pools, giving you economic influence over validator selection and governance proposals. This feature strengthens the connection between token holders and the ecosystem’s long-term vision.
Transparent Reward Structure
Near Protocol uses an epoch-based reward system that offers predictable payout cycles. Validators rotate and receive rewards at the end of each epoch, providing clear visibility on when and how rewards are distributed. This transparency enhances trust among users and ensures fairness across all validators.
Eco-Friendly and Scalable Network
Unlike traditional proof-of-work systems, Near Protocol runs on a proof-of-stake consensus that consumes minimal energy. Its sharded architecture improves scalability while keeping energy use low. This eco-conscious design makes staking NEAR a responsible and sustainable investment option for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Can I Earn By Staking NEAR?
Your staking rewards depend on the network’s inflation rate and the validator’s commission. NEAR typically offers competitive annual staking returns, but the exact amount varies over time. The rewards you earn are added automatically and can be restaked to compound your earnings. Monitoring your validator’s performance ensures you continue receiving optimal rewards.
Can I Unstake My NEAR Whenever I Want?
Yes, you can unstake your NEAR at any point, but the network requires an unstaking period before tokens become available. This waiting time usually lasts several days, during which your tokens remain locked and do not earn rewards. Once the period ends, you can withdraw or transfer your NEAR freely.
Is There A Minimum Amount Needed To Stake NEAR?
Most wallets do not enforce a high minimum requirement for staking NEAR, allowing even small token holders to participate. However, each validator may set its own minimum delegation amount. It’s always a good idea to check the validator’s specific rules before staking to ensure your balance meets their criteria.
Are There Any Fees Involved In Staking NEAR?
The staking process requires a small network fee when you delegate tokens, usually only a fraction of a NEAR token. Validators also charge a commission on rewards, which varies across providers. These fees support network operations and validator services, and they are automatically deducted from your staking rewards.
Can I Change My NEAR Validator After Staking?
Yes, you can redelegate your NEAR to a different validator if you are unhappy with performance or rewards. To do this, you must first unstake your tokens and wait through the network’s unlock period. After the tokens are free, you can delegate them to another validator without restrictions.
