How to Deposit ETH on Rocket Pool: Complete Step-by-Step Tutorial

What is Rocket Pool and Why Deposit ETH?

Rocket Pool is a decentralized Ethereum staking protocol that lets you earn rewards by participating in network validation without needing 32 ETH. When you deposit ETH, you receive rETH (Rocket Pool ETH) – a liquid staking token that accumulates value as it represents your staked ETH plus rewards. This guide walks you through depositing ETH safely using the official Rocket Pool interface.

Prerequisites Before Depositing

• Ethereum Wallet: MetaMask, WalletConnect, or Coinbase Wallet with at least 0.01 ETH for gas fees
• ETH Balance: Minimum 0.01 ETH to deposit (no upper limit)
• Web3 Knowledge: Basic understanding of crypto transactions
• Rocket Pool Website: Access stake.rocketpool.net

Step 1: Connect Your Web3 Wallet

1. Visit Rocket Pool’s staking dashboard
2. Click “Connect Wallet” at the top-right corner
3. Select your wallet provider (e.g., MetaMask)
4. Approve the connection request in your wallet

Step 2: Navigate to the Deposit Interface

After connecting:

1. Click the “Stake” tab in the main menu
2. Select “Stake ETH” from the dropdown
3. Verify you’re on the “Deposit” tab (not Withdraw)

Step 3: Enter ETH Deposit Amount

1. Type your ETH amount in the input box or use the slider
2. Check the rETH exchange rate (1 ETH = X rETH)
3. Review the transaction fee estimate (typically $2-$15)
4. Click “Stake ETH” to proceed

Step 4: Confirm Transaction in Your Wallet

1. A pop-up will appear in your wallet showing gas fees
2. Adjust gas settings if needed (use “Medium” priority)
3. Click “Confirm” to authorize the transaction
4. Wait for blockchain confirmation (1-3 minutes)

Step 5: Track Your rETH Balance

After confirmation:

• Your rETH appears automatically in your wallet
• View holdings via Rocket Pool dashboard under “Portfolio”
• rETH value increases daily as staking rewards accumulate
• Use rETH in DeFi protocols like Uniswap or Aave

Understanding rETH Rewards & Risks

rETH appreciates against ETH as validators earn rewards. Key notes:

• APR: Typically 3-5% (varies with network activity)
• No Lockup: Sell rETH anytime on decentralized exchanges
• Slashing Protection: Rocket Pool operators face penalties for misbehavior, not depositors
• Tax Implications: rETH rewards may be taxable events in your jurisdiction

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there a minimum ETH deposit amount?

No minimum – deposit any amount above 0.01 ETH (to cover gas).

Can I lose my ETH by depositing?

Funds are non-custodial and secured by Ethereum’s consensus. Smart contract risks exist but are audited.

How often are rewards distributed?

Rewards compound continuously – your rETH balance grows daily without claims.

What’s the difference between rETH and stETH?

rETH is native to Rocket Pool’s decentralized network, while stETH relies on Lido’s centralized operator set.

Can I withdraw my original ETH?

Yes! Swap rETH for ETH anytime via Rocket Pool’s interface or DEXs like Uniswap.

Are there deposit fees?

Rocket Pool charges a 15% commission on node operator rewards – factored into rETH’s value.

Final Tips for Successful Deposits

• Bookmark Rocket Pool’s official site to avoid phishing
• Start with a small test transaction
• Monitor gas fees using Etherscan or Gas Tracker tools
• Never share your seed phrase – Rocket Pool will never ask for it

By following this tutorial, you’ve joined Ethereum’s secure staking ecosystem while maintaining liquidity. Your rETH position now earns passive rewards as you contribute to blockchain security!