# 💰 The Bidding Fee

## **What is the Bidding Fee?**

The bidding fee is a small upfront amount (1% of your bid, minimum $100) you lock in when placing a bid. It signals that you’re serious about underwriting the policy and helps maintain trust in the system by filtering out fake or noncommittal bids.

## **Why is it necessary?**

Without the fee, people could spam bids with no intent to follow through, wasting the demand creator’s time and stalling the auction. The fee creates a commitment: if you're selected and fail to deposit, that fee is forfeited and redistributed to others.

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## **Your money is safe and easy to re-use!**

Well, **as long as you deposit when selected**. If you do what you promised, or if your bid isn’t selected, the full fee is automatically unlocked for reuse or withdrawal. You only risk losing it if you're chosen and then don’t follow through.
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## **How and when can I manage or withdraw my bidding fee?**

At any time, head to your **Invested Demands Dashboard** and click **Manage Fee**. From there, you can:

* **Deposit more** to raise your available bidding power
* **Withdraw unused** bidding fee balance — as long as it's not locked in an active auction

Only the **free portion** of your bidding fee (not tied to active bids) is withdrawable.

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You can also increase your bidding fee **during the bidding process** for a smoother experience!
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## **Can I increase my bidding fee during an auction?**

Yes, as auctions might get competitive, or you may want to increase your exposure. You can top up your bidding fee during the bidding period by replacing your bid, the increase takes effect immediately. *Please note that you need to outbid yourself to replace your bid.*


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