January 21, 2026

How to Stake Polygon Using MetaMask: A Beginner-Friendly Walkthrough

Staking Polygon (MATIC) allows holders to help secure the network while earning staking rewards. MetaMask is a convenient wallet to connect with Polygon’s official staking dashboard and delegate tokens to validators. This polygon staking guide explains the end-to-end process, from preparing your wallet to claiming rewards and understanding key risks.

What You Need Before You Start

Before you stake Polygon using MetaMask, make sure the following are in place:

  • MetaMask installed on your browser or mobile device, with your seed phrase securely backed up.
  • Some MATIC in your wallet on the Ethereum network if you plan to stake via the Ethereum-based staking contracts, or on Polygon if staking flows support it at the time you use the dashboard. You’ll also need ETH (for Ethereum) or MATIC (for Polygon) to cover transaction fees, depending on which network the staking contract uses when you interact.
  • Access to the official Polygon Staking dashboard (commonly at staking.polygon.technology). Always confirm the URL to avoid phishing sites.

Note: Polygon staking historically occurs on Ethereum smart contracts with delegation reflected on Polygon’s validator set. Interfaces may evolve, so rely on current instructions displayed on the official dashboard.

Adding Polygon to MetaMask

If you plan to interact on Polygon for related steps or to monitor assets, add the network in MetaMask:

  • Open MetaMask and click the network selector at the top.
  • Choose “Add network” and enter the Polygon RPC details from the official Polygon docs, or select Polygon from MetaMask’s network list if available.
  • Save and switch between Ethereum and Polygon networks as needed.

    • Even if staking transactions execute on Ethereum, having Polygon configured helps you track balances and use other Polygon apps.

    Connecting MetaMask to the Polygon Staking Dashboard

  • Visit the official Polygon Staking dashboard.
  • Click “Connect Wallet” and choose MetaMask.
  • Approve the connection in MetaMask when prompted. Ensure the site is correct and uses HTTPS.

    • If the dashboard requests you switch networks, follow the prompt. Some steps, such as approvals or delegations, may require Ethereum mainnet.

    Understanding Validators and Delegation

    Polygon uses a proof-of-stake mechanism with validators who run nodes and earn rewards for securing the network. Delegators stake tokens to a validator and receive a share of rewards, minus the validator’s commission. When choosing where to stake Polygon, consider:

    • Validator performance and uptime: Consistent performance supports steady rewards.
    • Commission rate: A higher commission reduces your net polygon staking rewards.
    • Stake concentration: More diversified delegation can reduce centralization risk.
    • Track record: Check slashing history or performance metrics on the dashboard or block explorers.

    You retain ownership of your tokens when you delegate, but they are bonded to the validator and subject to lock-up terms and potential slashing depending on validator behavior.

    Approving and Delegating MATIC

    To stake Polygon through the dashboard:

  • Select a validator: Browse the validator list and review commission, uptime, and total stake.
  • Click “Delegate” (or “Stake”): Enter the amount of MATIC you want to delegate. Consider leaving a small balance to cover gas fees if needed.
  • Approve token spend: The first time you interact, you’ll likely need to approve the staking contract to use your MATIC. Confirm the approval transaction in MetaMask and wait for confirmation.
  • Confirm the delegation: After approval, submit the delegation transaction. Review gas fees and confirm in MetaMask.
  • Wait for confirmation: The dashboard will reflect your delegation after the transaction is finalized.

    • If you interact via Ethereum mainnet, ensure you have sufficient ETH for gas. Fees vary based on network conditions.

    Monitoring Rewards and Position

    Once staked, you can view your delegation in the dashboard:

    • Staked balance: The amount currently delegated to your chosen validator(s).
    • Accrued rewards: Rewards typically accumulate over time based on validator performance and network conditions.
    • Claimable rewards: Some interfaces allow you to claim rewards to your wallet. Others auto-compound or require a separate action.

    Rewards dynamics can change. Check the dashboard or official documentation for current annualized rates and distribution policies. Historical returns do not indicate future results.

    Claiming Rewards

    If the dashboard offers a claim function:

  • Click “Claim Rewards” or similar.
  • Review the estimated claimable amount.
  • Confirm the transaction in MetaMask and pay the required gas fee.

    • Small, frequent claims can be inefficient due to fees. Some users wait until rewards reach a threshold where claiming is economical.

    Restaking or Compounding

    To increase your staked amount, you can:

    • Delegate additional MATIC to the same validator.
    • Claim rewards (if they accrue to a separate balance) and delegate them again.

    Consider transaction costs and validator commission when deciding on a compounding cadence.

    Unstaking and the Unbonding Period

    If you decide to unstake:

  • Initiate “Unbond,” “Undelegate,” or “Unstake” from the dashboard for the specific validator.
  • Confirm the transaction in MetaMask.

    • Polygon has an unbonding period. During this time, your tokens are locked and not earning rewards. After the unbonding period ends, you must complete a final “Withdraw” transaction to move tokens back to your transferable balance. Review the current unbonding duration in the dashboard, as it can change based on protocol parameters.

    Fees, Risks, and Safety Tips

    • Gas fees: Delegation, claiming, restaking, and unstaking all involve on-chain transactions. Plan for variable fees depending on the network used.
    • Slashing risk: Misbehaving validators can be penalized. While slashing on Polygon is designed with safeguards, it remains a risk. Choose validators carefully and diversify if you stake large amounts.
    • Smart contract risk: Interacting with staking contracts carries technical risk. Use the official dashboard and verified contracts.
    • Phishing protection: Bookmark official URLs, verify certificates, and avoid signing unknown transactions or messages.
    • Key management: Keep your seed phrase offline and secure. Consider using a hardware wallet integrated with MetaMask for higher security.

    Troubleshooting Common Issues

    • Wallet not connecting: Refresh the page, reconnect MetaMask, and confirm you’re on the requested network.
    • Insufficient funds: Ensure you have ETH (for Ethereum) or MATIC (for Polygon) for gas, plus enough MATIC for the delegation amount.
    • Pending or stuck transactions: Increase gas where appropriate or wait for network congestion to subside. Check a block explorer for transaction status.
    • Validator not displaying: Clear cache, switch networks in MetaMask, then return to the dashboard. Confirm you’re using the official site.

    Learning More

    For the most current instructions, validator data, and protocol parameters, rely on the official Polygon documentation and staking dashboard. Interfaces and flows can change, but the core process—connecting MetaMask, selecting a validator, delegating MATIC, and managing rewards—remains the foundation of staking polygon securely and effectively.

    About Gertrude Johnston
    I am a passionate strategist with a full achievements in strategy. My commitment to disruptive ideas drives my desire to nurture groundbreaking organizations. In my professional career, I have established a identity as being a strategic risk-taker. Aside from nurturing my own businesses, I also enjoy coaching driven disruptors. I believe in encouraging the next generation of problem-solvers to fulfill their own aspirations. I am constantly seeking out progressive projects and joining forces with complementary strategists. Upending expectations is my obsession. Outside of dedicated to my venture, I enjoy experiencing unusual destinations. I am also committed to making a difference.