# How to lock BTC

_Step-by-step guide to locking BTC_

_Source: https://mezo.org/docs/users/mezo-earn/lock/vebtc/how-to-lock-btc_

Locking BTC gives you a veBTC NFT, which grants voting power, protocol fees, and governance rights. See the [veBTC Overview](/docs/users/mezo-earn/lock/vebtc) for details on what you earn.

- Video: [How to Lock BTC](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rthu_iub7E&t=51s)

## Prerequisites

Before locking BTC, ensure you have:

- BTC deposited on Mezo
- A connected wallet
- Sufficient BTC for gas fees

See the [Getting Started](/docs/users/getting-started/deposit-assets) section for guidance.

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## Navigate to Lock

1. Open the Mezo app

2. Click **Lock** in the left sidebar (under "Earn")

3. You'll see your eligible assets

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## Initiate Lock

Find the BTC asset card showing your available balance and click **Lock**. A lock configuration modal appears where you'll configure your position.

**Amount:** Enter the amount of BTC you want to lock. You can lock any amount up to your available balance.

**Duration:** Select your lock duration from 1 to 28 days. Longer locks maintain higher voting power for longer periods. The interface shows your estimated initial veBTC voting power, which represents your weight at the start of the lock.

> **Note:**
>
> Lock durations are aligned to epoch boundaries and rounded down to the nearest full week. A max lock created mid-epoch will result in an effective duration of 21–28 days. See [Epochs](/docs/users/mezo-earn/lock/vebtc#epochs) for details.

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## Confirm Transaction

Review your lock details:

- BTC amount
- Lock duration
- Initial veBTC weight
- Lock expiration date

Click **Confirm Lock**, approve the transaction in your wallet, and wait for blockchain confirmation.

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## View Your Position

After confirmation, view your lock details under the Lock page, including:

- Current voting power (decays over time)
- Lock expiration date
- Options to extend your lock

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## Next Steps

Once you have veBTC, you can:

- [Vote on gauges](/docs/users/mezo-earn/vote) to earn fees and direct emissions
- [Extend your lock](/docs/users/mezo-earn/lock/vebtc/managing-locks-and-collecting-rewards) to maintain voting power