> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.tangerine.exchange/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Lighter Deposit

> Fund your Lighter account via Arbitrum, Base, or Avalanche

## Supported Chains

Lighter accepts USDC deposits from three chains:

| Chain     | Token | Estimated Time |
| --------- | ----- | -------------- |
| Arbitrum  | USDC  | \~2–3 minutes  |
| Base      | USDC  | \~2–3 minutes  |
| Avalanche | USDC  | \~2–5 minutes  |

<Warning>
  **USDC only.** Lighter does not accept any other token. Sending non-USDC tokens will result in permanent loss.
</Warning>

***

## Intent Address Pattern

Lighter uses a unique **intent-based deposit** system. Unlike traditional bridges that use a fixed smart contract address, Lighter generates a **unique deposit address for each deposit request**.

This means:

* You do not need to approve a token spend before depositing
* Each deposit gets a fresh address — do not reuse old deposit addresses
* The Tangerine UI automatically generates the correct address when you open the deposit panel

***

## How to Deposit

1. Open the **Deposit** panel in Tangerine
2. Select **Lighter** as the platform
3. Choose your **source chain** (Arbitrum, Base, or Avalanche)
4. Enter the amount of USDC to deposit
5. Click **Generate Deposit Address** — Tangerine fetches a fresh intent address from Lighter
6. Send USDC to the displayed address from your wallet

<Warning>
  Only send USDC to the intent address shown in the Tangerine UI. Do not use this address for future deposits — always generate a new one.
</Warning>

***

## After Depositing

Once your USDC arrives at the intent address, Lighter processes the intent and credits your Lighter account. This takes 2–5 minutes depending on the source chain.

Your Lighter balance will appear in Tangerine's Portfolio panel once confirmed. If it's your first deposit, complete [platform setup](/platforms/lighter/setup) before trading.

<Info>
  Lighter's account is created by your first deposit. If you haven't deposited yet, setup will fail at the account verification step.
</Info>