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

# Getting Started

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This page walks through the core steps to start using Silo: create an account, claim a username, set receiver preferences, and make your first payment.
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### Step 1 — Create an account

Provide an email address or phone number. No identity verification is required to get started. Personal tier accounts are active immediately.
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### Step 2 — Claim your username

Choose a unique username (e.g., @alice). This is your permanent payment identity across all chains. Once claimed, your username cannot be changed. Anyone can send you a payment using just this username.
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### Step 3 — Set your receiver preferences

Configure how you want to be paid: select your preferred chain, preferred asset, and one or more payout wallets. These preferences apply to every incoming payment. You can update them at any time. For a detailed explanation, see Usernames & Receiver Preferences.
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### Step 4 — Send or receive a payment

Connect any existing wallet on a supported chain. To send, enter the recipient's username and a dollar amount, choose which asset and chain to pay from, and confirm. One wallet signature is all that's needed. To receive, share your username or generate a payment request QR code. Incoming payments are automatically routed to your wallet according to your saved preferences.
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### Step 5 — Withdraw

When you receive a payment, your Silo account is credited. Initiate a withdrawal by signing from your primary wallet (the first wallet in your receiver preferences). Funds are delivered to your wallet(s) according to your preferences.
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#### **What's next**

To understand the full payment flow under the hood, see [Payments Flow](/how-silo-works/payments-flow.md). To learn about fee tiers and verification levels, see [Three-Tier System](/compliance/three-tier-system.md). To understand how privacy works on every transaction, see [Privacy Model](/privacy/privacy-model.md).


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