> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://subunit.gitbook.io/subunit-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://subunit.gitbook.io/subunit-docs/subvault/subvault/usdc-staking.md).

# USDC Staking

NOTE: *Vaults only accept USDC. If interacting directly with the contract, please do not send any other coins as we cannot guarantee they will be recovered.* 

**USDC Staking** 

* The Subvault is a smart contract where users deposit USD Coin (USDC) stablecoins in exchange for vault share tokens. 
* By staking USDC into the vault, members signal their commitment and readiness to invest in upcoming properties. 
* The vault accumulates these funds, and when a targeted real estate deal is ready to execute, the pooled USDC is used to acquire the property. 
* Think of it as a communal pot: everyone contributes USDC and gets a receipt (STS) representing their portion. 
* When a property purchase is finalized, the property tokens minted (UNIT tokens) are issued pro rata to the STS holders
* If for some reason a deal doesn’t materialize, members can withdraw their USDC from the vault (subject to any time lock they chose). 
* This mechanism ensures that when a property becomes available, Subunit can move quickly with funds already on-hand, and it guarantees a fair allocation of that property to contributors based on their share of the vault.

<figure><img src="/files/asGx6A54XEF2JTiPHcD2" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

**Staking Duration Options (0, 3, 6 months)**

* When depositing into the SubVault, members have a choice of how long to lock up their USDC:&#x20;
  * no lock (0 days):&#x20;
  * 3 month lock
  * 6 month lock
*

```
<figure><img src="/files/TSBjCCfSpxZ22tEJR0sM" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
```

* A 0-day lock means your deposit is effectively unlocked – you can withdraw it from the vault at any time if you change your mind or need your funds back (as long as the funds haven’t been committed to a property yet).&#x20;
* Choosing a 3-month lock means you agree not to withdraw that USDC for at least three months, and a 6-month lock extends that commitment to six months.&#x20;
* Why would someone lock their funds? Because Subunit provides incentives for longer commitments: longer staking durations earn higher rewards in the Subpoints system (explained below).&#x20;