BetOnline Tether Betting: The Complete USDT Sportsbook Guide
Tether (USDT) is a dollar-pegged stablecoin that lets U.S. bettors fund offshore sportsbooks and USDT casino accounts without the price swings associated with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum. At BetOnline, we accept USDT deposits through both TRC-20 and ERC-20 networks, offer crypto-exclusive bonuses, and process withdrawals typically much faster than traditional bank wires or ACH transfers.
This guide explains how Tether betting works, walks through step-by-step USDT deposits and withdrawals, compares TRC-20 and ERC-20 transfers, and breaks down what experienced bettors look for in a reliable USDT sportsbook.
Tether (USDT) is a dollar-pegged stablecoin used for deposits and withdrawals at offshore sportsbooks like BetOnline. Because USDT generally maintains a fixed 1:1 value against the U.S. dollar (USD), it avoids the volatility common with other cryptocurrencies. BetOnline supports TRC-20 and ERC-20 transfers, with a $20 minimum crypto withdrawal and a $500,000 per-transaction limit.
Key Takeaways: Tether Betting at BetOnline
- USDT holds its dollar value: Unlike Bitcoin or Ethereum, USDT (Tether) is a stablecoin pegged at $1 per token. Your betting bankroll is far less exposed to crypto price swings between a deposit and a withdrawal, even during crypto price swings.
- Fast payouts with no hidden fees: BetOnline processes USDT withdrawals within 24 hours in most cases and does not charge internal fees on crypto transactions, though standard blockchain fees still apply.
- TRC-20 is the preferred network for volume bettors: TRC-20 (Tron network) transactions typically confirm in one to three minutes with lower fees than ERC-20 (Ethereum network).
- Crypto depositors unlock larger bonuses: USDT deposits qualify for a 100% match welcome bonus up to $1,000, compared to 50% up to $250 for fiat deposits. An ongoing reload bonus applies to every qualifying crypto deposit.
- Verify your wallet address before sending: Blockchain transactions are irreversible, so sending USDT to the wrong address or network can permanently lose your funds. To reduce errors, every cashier option is clearly labeled as “USDT (TRC-20)” or “USDT (ERC-20).”
- 25+ years of verified payouts, limits up to $50,000 per event: We have operated continuously since 2001, with management roots dating to 1991, and accept per-event wagers up to $50,000.
What Is Tether (USDT) and Why Does It Stay at $1?
Tether (USDT) is a digital currency pegged 1:1 to the U.S. dollar and accepted at platforms like BetOnline for deposits and withdrawals. Designed to maintain a fixed value during betting transactions, USDT is also the world’s largest stablecoin by market capitalization, reaching approximately $189.7 billion as of May 2026.
Every time Tether issues new USDT tokens, it allocates an equivalent value in reserve assets, including cash and cash-equivalent holdings, to back those tokens. Tether publishes regular transparency reports detailing those reserves, helping maintain the 1:1 peg between USDT and the U.S. dollar.
Because supply and demand dynamics don't govern USDT the way they govern Bitcoin (BTC) or Ethereum (ETH), the price is designed to remain relatively stable. When Bitcoin drops 15% overnight, a $10,000 BTC deposit can effectively become an $8,500 deposit before a single bet is placed. Your $10,000 in USDT is still $10,000 when you log in the next morning.
USDT runs on multiple blockchain networks, with TRC-20 (Tron) and ERC-20 (Ethereum) the most common for sports betting transactions. TRC-20 transfers usually confirm within one to three minutes with low fees, while ERC-20 transfers typically take five to 15 minutes and cost more because of Ethereum gas fees.
BetOnline supports both TRC-20 and ERC-20 for USDT deposits and withdrawals, with each option clearly labeled in the cashier so you can choose the network that best fits your transfer needs.
How Is Tether Different From Bitcoin for Betting?
Tether (USDT) holds a fixed value of $1 per token, pegged 1-to-1 with the U.S. dollar and backed by Tether's reserves. In contrast, Bitcoin can swing thousands of dollars in a single day, meaning the real-dollar value of a Bitcoin deposit can shift significantly before you ever place a wager.
For bankroll management, that distinction is direct and practical. A $500 USDT deposit at BetOnline is worth $500 when you withdraw, regardless of how long your funds sit on the platform. A $500 Bitcoin deposit could be worth $450 or $600 by the time you cash out, depending entirely on market movement you cannot control.
Both USDT and Bitcoin use blockchain infrastructure, so transaction speeds are comparable. The difference is that USDT removes the conversion step and the price-exposure risk Bitcoin carries. Bitcoin bettors must weigh market timing alongside every betting decision. With USDT, you focus only on the bet.
Why Do U.S. Bettors Choose Tether for Sports Betting?
U.S. bettors choose USDT because it holds a relatively fixed value, moves wallet-to-wallet without bank interference, and settles withdrawals within the same day at BetOnline. We process USDT withdrawals faster than most traditional banking methods, and crypto depositors receive larger bonuses than players who fund with cards or bank transfers.
- Dollar stability without currency risk: USDT maintains a 1:1 peg to the U.S. dollar, which means a $500 deposit stays worth $500 regardless of broader crypto market swings. Bettors who've watched Bitcoin drop 10% overnight before a withdrawal clears understand the practical value of a stablecoin for bankroll management.
- Bypassing bank blocks on gambling transactions: U.S. banks can decline credit card and ACH payments sent to offshore sportsbooks. USDT moves wallet-to-wallet, cutting out the bank intermediary entirely and removing one of the most common friction points between a bettor and their funds.
- Withdrawal speed that matches the pace of action: BetOnline typically processes USDT withdrawals in 24 hours or less (depending on network conditions). In contrast, traditional wire transfers can take up to 15 days.
- Larger bonuses for crypto depositors: USDT deposits may qualify for larger bonuses and more favorable rollover terms than cards or bank transfers. For example, our crypto welcome bonus reaches up to $1,000 compared to the standard $250 fiat offer, though terms and availability may change.
- Low transaction costs on TRC-20: USDT sent through the TRC-20 (TRON) network typically carries around a $1 fee per transaction, making it one of the cheapest banking methods at offshore sportsbooks. ERC-20 (Ethereum) transfers usually cost more and confirm more slowly, so most bettors prefer TRC-20 when both networks are available.
Does Tether Betting Offer Better Bonuses Than Fiat Deposits?
Depositing with USDT at BetOnline typically unlocks larger bonuses than deposits made with fiat currencies. Fiat sports deposits receive a 50% welcome bonus up to $250 (promo code FREE250), while crypto users often receive access to larger sportsbook-focused promotions, including enhanced deposit matches, boosted odds, and event-specific betting offers tied to major events like the Super Bowl, March Madness, and UFC cards.
Because crypto transactions cost less to process, we return more value through higher match percentages and larger bonus caps. USDT deposits also avoid many of the banking delays and verification holds tied to traditional payment methods, which can help speed up bonus crediting.
Beyond the welcome offer, we sometimes provide a 25% reload bonus on eligible deposits. Bonus amounts, rollover requirements, and promotion terms may change, so always verify current conditions before depositing.
What Is the Best Tether Sportsbook for U.S. Bettors?
BetOnline is a well-established Tether sportsbook for U.S. bettors, with more than 25 years of operating history, per-event betting limits of up to $50,000, and support for both TRC-20 and ERC-20 USDT transfers. USDT withdrawals typically process within the same day, significantly faster than traditional bank transfers.
For serious U.S. sports bettors, choosing a Tether sportsbook usually comes down to three practical questions: can the book handle your action, does it support your preferred USDT network clearly, and how quickly can you access your winnings?
We address all three. Per-event betting limits reach up to $50,000, making BetOnline a practical option for larger wagers that many regulated domestic sportsbooks may limit more aggressively.
We also support both TRC-20 (Tron) and ERC-20 (Ethereum) USDT transfers, with each network clearly labeled in the cashier. That clarity reduces the risk of sending funds through an incompatible address format, a common issue for newer crypto bettors.
BetOnline does not charge additional processing fees for USDT deposits or withdrawals beyond standard blockchain network costs.
Another operational advantage is payout speed. USDT withdrawals typically process within 24 hours or less, giving active bettors faster access to their bankroll between events rather than waiting several business days for a bank wire to clear.
Crypto users also receive access to bonus offers unavailable to most fiat depositors. Our crypto welcome bonus reaches up to $1,000 on qualifying deposits, and a 25% reload bonus applies to recurring qualifying crypto deposits of $50 or more.
BetOnline holds a 4.1 TrustScore across thousands of Trustpilot reviews and an A+ rating from Bookmakers Review, both of which provide public user feedback and industry reputation signals.
How Does BetOnline Compare to Other Tether Sportsbooks?
BetOnline accepts USDT on both the TRC-20 and ERC-20 networks and does not add internal processing fees beyond standard blockchain network fees. Other sportsbooks may still charge additional transaction or withdrawal fees, further reducing the value of each transfer.
Our crypto welcome bonus offers a 100% match up to $1,000. While some crypto-first sportsbooks offer larger headline bonuses, those offers often come with more restrictive rollover requirements that reduce their practical value over time. BetOnline keeps the bonus structure comparatively straightforward and easier to clear.
Operational history is another major differentiator. Many newer crypto-native sportsbooks do not have the same multi-decade operating history serving U.S. bettors. BetOnline has management roots dating back to 1991 and supports per-event betting limits of up to $50,000, exceeding what many USDT-focused sportsbooks typically allow.
USDT withdrawals at BetOnline typically process 24 hours or less, placing us among the faster payout options in the Tether sportsbook category. Our banking limits also accommodate a wide range of bettors, with crypto withdrawals starting at $20 and up to $500,000 per transaction.
How Does Tether Betting Work at BetOnline, And How Do I Get Started?
Tether betting at BetOnline works like any crypto deposit: you acquire USDT, send it to a wallet address we generate in the cashier, and your balance appears within minutes of blockchain confirmation. We accept USDT on both the TRC-20 (TRON) and ERC-20 (Ethereum) networks, with a $10 minimum deposit to activate real-money wagering.
Here’s how the Tether betting process works from deposit to withdrawal:
- Create your BetOnline account: Visit BetOnline.ag and register with your name, email, and date of birth. The signup process takes a few minutes and requires no lengthy intake steps.
- Acquire USDT from an exchange: Purchase USDT on a reputable exchange such as Coinbase, Kraken, or Binance. Verify that your exchange supports the network you plan to use (TRC-20 or ERC-20) before completing your purchase.
- Copy your USDT deposit address: Go to the Cashier, select USDT, and choose either TRC-20 or ERC-20. Copy the wallet address exactly as displayed or scan the QR code with your wallet app.
- Send USDT from your wallet or exchange: Paste the address into your wallet’s “Send” field, enter the amount, and confirm the transfer. Always verify that the network in your wallet matches the network selected in the cashier, since sending TRC-20 USDT to an ERC-20 address can result in permanent loss of access to the funds.
- Place your bet: Once the required blockchain confirmations are reached, your USDT balance typically appears in your account within minutes. From there, navigate to the sportsbook, select your market, and place your wager.
Which Tether Network Should You Use, TRC-20 or ERC-20?
TRC-20 runs on the TRON blockchain and usually costs $1 per transfer. That’s why most bettors use it.
ERC-20 runs on Ethereum. Fees can jump from $5 to $15 or higher when the network gets crowded.
BetOnline accepts both and labels them clearly in the cashier as “USDT (TRC-20)” and “USDT (ERC-20).” Match the network to your wallet before you send anything.
Selecting the wrong network results in permanent loss of funds. There is no recovery option once a cross-network transaction is broadcast, which is why our explicit labeling matters before you confirm any transaction.
For high-frequency depositors or players working with smaller bankrolls, TRC-20 may be the more cost-efficient choice. Its near-zero fees and faster on-chain confirmation times mean less overhead on every deposit and withdrawal cycle.
How Fast Are USDT Deposits and Withdrawals at BetOnline?
USDT deposits are credited after blockchain confirmation, which usually takes one to three minutes on the TRC-20 (TRON) network and five to 15 minutes on ERC-20.
In most cases, the full deposit process is completed within about 15 minutes.
Withdrawals typically process within 24 hours or less, depending on network conditions. BetOnline does not charge internal processing fees on USDT deposits or withdrawals, so you receive the full amount requested, minus standard blockchain network fees.
Selecting TRC-20 over ERC-20 typically keeps confirmation times shorter and gas fees negligible. Submitting withdrawal requests during off-peak hours reduces the chance of encountering platform queue delays.
A 1x deposit wager is a sportsbook AML (Anti-Money Laundering) policy requirement. Before any withdrawal is processed, completing that requirement in advance keeps your payout timeline as short as possible.
What Sports and Betting Markets Can I Access With Tether at BetOnline?
BetOnline gives USDT bettors full access to the sportsbook, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports, soccer, tennis, golf, MMA, boxing, esports, horse racing, and more under a single account. Per-event betting limits typically range from $100 to $50,000, depending on the market and sport.
The market depth behind that sport count is what makes USDT wagering here distinct from a basic offshore betting experience. Every major league carries player props, game props, futures, alternate lines, and parlays, all available from a single bet slip.
The Bet Builder entralizes player prop markets across active sports. The Bet Builder Same Game Parlay builder lets you combine multiple markets from one event into a single wager, while Odds Boosters apply daily across featured matchups to improve the effective payout on select bets.
Live betting runs across all major sports in real time, with odds updating continuously as game states change. You can enter in-game markets on the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, soccer, MMA, and tennis during live play, using the same USDT balance you deposited.
The live section displays active markets by sport, with spreads, moneylines, and totals refreshing to reflect current scoring and momentum. An animated game tracker is available on select events, giving you context on possession, score, and period without leaving the bet slip.
The racebook operates separately from the main sportsbook but draws from the same USDT account balance. Daily horse racing markets cover major U.S. tracks, with a rebate program available on resolved race bets.
Does BetOnline Have a Casino and Poker Room for USDT Players?
BetOnline’s single account gives USDT players access to a full casino, live dealer tables, and a dedicated poker room alongside the sportsbook. No separate account or wallet is needed for any of these verticals.
The casino lobby lists over a thousand slot titles, table games, live casino tables, video poker variants, and crash games. USDT deposits fund all of these from the same cashier used for sports betting, so a player who deposits USDT to bet on an NFL game can move to a blackjack table or a live baccarat stream without returning to the banking section.
Live dealer games, powered by Visionary iGaming, include blackjack, roulette, and baccarat streamed in real time from a studio environment. USDT depositors access these tables on the same terms as any other funded account.
Our poker room operates on the Chico Poker Network and runs No-Limit Hold'em and Omaha cash games from micro-stakes to high-stakes, alongside Sit & Go tournaments and multi-table events. USDT players compete in the same real-money pots as the broader player pool without switching payment methods or logging into a separate platform.
Is Tether Betting Safe and Legal for U.S. Players?
Tether betting through offshore sportsbooks exists outside U.S. state regulation. BetOnline operates under a Panama Gaming Commission license and has served U.S. players since 2001, with management roots dating to 1991. Players remain responsible for verifying local gambling laws and reporting winnings for tax purposes.
Two primary federal laws shape online betting in the U.S:
- The Wire Act of 1961 restricts interstate sports betting transmissions and primarily targets operators and payment processors, not individual bettors.
- The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) of 2006 limits how banks and financial institutions process gambling-related payments, but it does not make individual betting a federal crime.
USDT helps reduce much of that banking friction. Because blockchain transfers move directly between wallets instead of through banks or credit card networks, they often avoid the payment blocks that affect ACH transfers and card deposits.
Before depositing with any offshore operator, players should verify three specific items:
- Licensing: Confirm the platform holds a recognized offshore license, such as our Panama Gaming Commission authorization.
- Withdrawal track record: Review independent forum data and verified review sources to document a payout history spanning multiple years.
- USDT network support: Confirm the operator explicitly labels TRC-20 and ERC-20 options in both the deposit and withdrawal cashier sections to prevent funds from being sent to an incompatible address.
One tax rule applies no matter how you deposit or withdraw. The IRS (Internal Revenue Service) requires U.S. residents to report all gambling winnings as taxable income, including winnings paid in cryptocurrency such as USDT. In most cases, the fair market value of the USDT at the time you receive it determines the taxable amount. If you plan to withdraw a large sum, consulting a qualified tax professional is advisable.
We accept players from 49 U.S. states, with New Jersey currently excluded. We operate offshore under a Panama Gaming Commission license and are not regulated by any U.S. state authority. Players should verify that online gambling is permitted in their jurisdiction before participating.
Choosing a Tether Sportsbook: What to Check and What to Avoid
Choose a Tether sportsbook by confirming support for both TRC-20 and ERC-20 networks, upfront disclosure of withdrawal limits and fees, a verifiable operating history, and crypto-specific bonuses that include USDT depositors. Our 25-year track record and published per-event limits up to $50,000 set the practical benchmark for any offshore Tether sportsbook.
Sending USDT through the wrong network to a sportsbook that does not clearly label deposit addresses can result in permanent loss of funds, with no practical recovery option once the transaction is confirmed.
Withdrawal processing speed is the second checkpoint. A sportsbook that measures payouts in days rather than hours is either struggling with operational issues or managing cash flow at your expense.
One of crypto’s biggest advantages over international bank transfers for gambling is faster settlement speeds. If a sportsbook takes days to process USDT withdrawals, much of the practical benefit of using stablecoins starts to disappear.
There are three warning signs to watch out for:
First, vague fee disclosures hidden in support pages instead of shown during withdrawals often signal hidden costs.
Second, missing withdrawal limits make it impossible to measure your risk before depositing.
Third, a sportsbook with no verifiable history across review sites, player forums, or licensing records carries significant trust risk, regardless of how attractive its promotions or bonuses may appear.
Bonus terms require an additional check for crypto depositors. Some sportsbooks list USDT as a supported payment method but exclude it from their welcome offer or apply a higher rollover tier to crypto deposits.
Verify that USDT qualifies for the same welcome match as other deposit methods, and confirm that reload bonuses apply to every crypto deposit, not just the first.
What Red Flags Should You Avoid in a Tether Sportsbook?
Not every offshore sportsbook that lists "USDT accepted" is worth your deposit. Start by verifying licensing from a recognized authority, such as the Panama Gaming Commission or the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA).
A sports betting site operating without a traceable license offers far less regulatory oversight and consumer protection in the event of a payout dispute.
Review the withdrawal terms carefully before depositing. A sportsbook that does not support USDT withdrawals or reveals processing fees only after you request a cashout is not being transparent about its banking setup. Legitimate platforms publish fee schedules alongside deposit instructions.
Slow or blocked payouts without a clear explanation are another major red flag. Repeated reports of frozen withdrawals, unexplained holds, or vague “under review” responses often suggest that the sportsbook is prioritizing its cash flow over paying players promptly.
Transparency matters just as much. Avoid any sportsbook with no traceable operating history, no public ownership details, and no direct customer support contact. If something goes wrong, anonymous operators leave players with little to no recourse.
Network clarity is equally important for USDT transactions. If a platform does not clearly state whether it supports TRC-20 (TRON blockchain) or ERC-20 (Ethereum blockchain) in both its deposit and withdrawal sections, sending funds through the wrong network can result in permanent loss.
Before sending any USDT, confirm that the network shown in your wallet matches the network listed in the sportsbook cashier.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Using Tether for Sports Betting?
USDT offers a stable, fast-settling payment option for sports bettors, though a few limitations are worth knowing before you fund your first deposit.
Here are the key advantages and drawbacks to consider:
- Price stability: USDT maintains its $1 peg, so your deposit value doesn't erode between purchase and wagering, as it might with Bitcoin or Ethereum.
- Withdrawal speed: BetOnline typically processes USDT withdrawals within the same day, while traditional bank wire transfers can take up to 15 business days to clear.
- Low transaction fees: TRC-20 network fees typically run under $1 per transaction, making frequent deposits practical for high-volume bettors.
- Banking privacy: USDT transactions avoid some of the traditional banking restrictions commonly associated with gambling transactions, reducing the chance of deposits being flagged or blocked.
- Exchange requirement: USDT is not legal tender in the U.S., so you'll need an exchange account before funding a sportsbook.
- No appreciation upside: Tether's dollar peg removes any gains from crypto price increases that Bitcoin or Ethereum holders might capture between sessions.
FAQs: What Are the Most Common Questions About Tether Betting?
What is USDT betting?
USDT betting means placing wagers at online sportsbooks using Tether (USDT), a stablecoin pegged 1:1 to the U.S. dollar. It combines blockchain transaction speed with dollar-stable value, eliminating the volatility risk common to Bitcoin and Ethereum. We accept USDT deposits and withdrawals on both the TRC-20 and ERC-20 networks.
What is the best Tether network for sports betting?
TRC-20 is usually the best USDT network for sports betting because transfers confirm quickly and fees are typically around $1. BetOnline supports both TRC-20 and ERC-20 USDT and clearly labels each option in the cashier. ERC-20 works as an alternative, but higher Ethereum gas fees make TRC-20 the preferred choice for most bettors.
How do I use USDT for sports betting at BetOnline?
To use USDT at BetOnline, create an account, navigate to the cashier, select USDT, choose either the TRC-20 or ERC-20 network, and then send from your wallet. Deposits are credited within 15 minutes after blockchain confirmation. The minimum deposit starts at $10 and does not incur internal processing fees, though standard blockchain network fees still apply.
Can I make money on Tether betting?
Profit from Tether betting comes from winning wagers, not from USDT gaining value. Because USDT holds a 1:1 peg to the U.S. dollar, your bankroll stays stable between placing a bet and cashing out. Crypto depositors with us can access a welcome bonus up to $1,000, double the standard offer, which extends bankroll and improves long-term profit potential.
Who can use Tether tokens to bet online?
Anyone with a self-custody USDT wallet and internet access can use Tether tokens to bet online, including U.S. players at offshore sportsbooks like us at BetOnline. No bank account or credit card is required to fund a USDT betting account. Tether is available on both TRC-20 and ERC-20 networks, making it accessible through most major exchanges and wallets worldwide.
Why does Tether stay at $1?
USDT is designed to maintain a 1:1 value with the U.S. dollar through reserves held by Tether Limited. As demand changes, new tokens are minted or redeemed to help keep reserves aligned with supply. Unlike Bitcoin or Ethereum, USDT is built for price stability, so winnings withdrawn in USDT generally keep the same dollar value they had when the bet was placed.
How does Tether betting work with online casinos?
Tether (USDT) betting at online casinos works the same as sportsbook deposits: send USDT to our wallet address, funds convert instantly, and you play slots, table games, or live dealer titles with no wait time. We accept USDT for both casino and sportsbook play under one account. Withdrawals return to your personal USDT wallet, typically within 24 hours.
Does BetOnline offer exclusive bonuses for Tether deposits?
BetOnline offers crypto-exclusive promotions for players who deposit with Tether (USDT) and other cryptocurrencies, often featuring larger match percentages, higher maximum rewards, and sportsbook-focused offers compared to standard fiat deposit bonuses. During major events like the Super Bowl, March Madness, and UFC title cards, crypto users may also receive access to boosted odds, enhanced parlays, and other event-specific betting promotions.
Conclusion
Tether sports betting combines the speed of crypto betting with the price stability of fiat currency, giving online sports betting players a faster way to move funds without the volatility tied to assets like Bitcoin. BetOnline has served players for 25+ years and typically processes USDT withdrawals within 24 hours, giving bettors a long-established payout track record rather than relying on marketing claims.
Choosing the TRC-20 network keeps transaction fees near zero while preserving the speed advantage over traditional fiat banking. Beyond traditional sports betting, USDT can also fund esports wagers and other betting options at BetOnline, alongside cryptocurrencies such as Litecoin, Solana, and Dogecoin. That flexibility lets players choose a bankroll method that best balances speed, stability, and transaction costs.
USDT also gives bettors faster access to live markets and may qualify them for crypto-specific bonuses, including reload offers or cashback promotions. As stablecoin adoption continues to grow across online wagering, USDT remains one of the most widely used options for bettors who value fast, stable transactions.
If you're ready to make your first bet using USDT on a platform with a verified payout record, join us at BetOnline.ag and use promo code FREE250 to claim your free bets. Bonus terms and promotional offers are subject to change, so always verify current terms before depositing.
Gambling involves risk, so only place bets you can afford to lose. BetOnline operates offshore under a license from the Panama Gaming Commission and is not regulated by any U.S. state authority. Players are responsible for verifying that online gambling is permitted in their jurisdiction before participating.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, contact the National Council on Problem Gambling at 1-800-522-4700, or visit Gamblers Anonymous at gamblersanonymous.org. You can also set deposit limits, session time limits, or request self-exclusion directly through your BetOnline account settings. You must be 21+ to participate.