> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://drepchain.gitbook.io/toolkit/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://drepchain.gitbook.io/toolkit/start-your-drep-journey/editor/frequently-asked-questions.md).

# Frequently Asked Questions

Find the right answers and resources to frequently asked questions about Governance

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<summary>Will I be rewarded for being an active DRep?</summary>

At this time, there’s no direct reward accepted by the ecosystem, despite initial DRep compensation development efforts. However, under the [CIP-0149](https://cips.cardano.org/cip/CIP-0149), an optional DRep compensation is being proposed. The approach is likely to allow delegators to willingly share a part of their staking rewards with their DRep.&#x20;

But beyond financial gain, there are lots of ecosystem rewards in being an active DRep; the potential increase in delegation stake, experience, and knowledge expansion, network expansion, etc.

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<summary>What can I do about the system error messages I receive when delegating to a DRep?</summary>

The most suitable solution would be that you cross-check the DRep ID and retry delegation. Also remember that you may need at least 0.18 ada transaction fee to establish a successful delegation.&#x20;

If everything is in place and yet you receive error messages, try to raise an issue with the respective technical team of the platform you are using, or switch to another wallet with governance functionality.

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<summary>Can I withdraw my Ada immediately after delegating to a DRep?</summary>

Yes, you can! When you delegate, it is the volume of your stake that is delegated and not the actual assets, so yes, you can withdraw your ADA assets, except that the total delegating stake of your DRep will be reduced.&#x20;

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<summary>Do I have to re-register after retiring as a DRep?</summary>

No, you don’t need to re-register. You’d only have to connect your wallet to [gov.tools](http://gov.tools) and perform a simple transaction to reinstate your DRep ID.&#x20;

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<summary>What can I do if a DRep changes a voting rationale? </summary>

Nothing really, except to read the rationale to understand why they’ve decided to make those changes. And also, comparing it with their published principles to determine if there’s consistency with your beliefs.&#x20;

It also provides you with the opportunity to redelegate your stake to another DRep.&#x20;

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<summary>Can I participate as an SPO and DRep in on-chain voting at the same time?</summary>

Yes, the constitution allows that, but you may have to openly declare your position. However, since this practice is optional, it's only helpful for the community to get the opportunity to understand your rationale.&#x20;

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<summary>Is there a distinction made between direct voters and DReps during voting outcomes?</summary>

No, there’s no distinction.&#x20;

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<summary>What level of expertise is required of anyone who wants to become a DRep?</summary>

Intermediate to high expertise in governance relations, technical knowledge, and an understanding of blockchain concepts and infrastructure. This enables DReps to review complex proposals and vote on them accordingly.&#x20;

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<summary>How do I refund Ada to delegators before I retire? </summary>

As a DRep, you don’t have custody over any of your delegators’ funds. For this reason, you don’t need to worry about delegators' funds when you want to retire.&#x20;

However, it's important to publicise your intention to retire for at least a month prior.  This will urge delegators to shift their delegation while you prepare to become inactive.

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<summary>When can I redelegate my Ada to another DRep?</summary>

Anytime, any day, especially when you identify inconsistency with your DRep regarding principles, voting rationales, and active participation.&#x20;

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<summary>Must I register and participate as a Cardano DRep?</summary>

Yes, if you have the capacity to do so, else, consider delegating to a DRep and keep to a schedule of consistently checking their performance to further inform your delegation decision.&#x20;

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<summary>Do I still need to host Metadata on IPFS and Filecoin?</summary>

Not a strict requirement anymore, as [gov.tools](https://gov.tools) have a feature that allows them to host your metadata for you in an IPFS if you so desire.&#x20;

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<summary>Should I return tAda I received from testnet faucets?</summary>

Yes, it is very important to do so, as other developers may need it to perform other network tests.&#x20;

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<summary>Will my vote count if I use the Preview Network to vote?</summary>

No, only votes submitted through the mainnet platforms count for governance.&#x20;

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<summary>How can I collaborate with other DReps?</summary>

You can leverage available platforms like Cardano Forum, X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, etc, to discuss governance issues with other DReps. This, in a way, would help you identify issues that could potentially become projects. Then you can collaborate with other DReps who share an interest in the topic to develop solutions. &#x20;

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