> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.usenest.xyz/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.usenest.xyz/governance-venest/5.2-managing-your-venest.md).

# 5.2 - Managing your veNEST

{% hint style="warning" %}
If your veNEST is deposited in the **HYPE Engine Vault (HEV)**, you **cannot** perform the actions below until you **withdraw from it**.
{% endhint %}

To withdraw:

* Go to **Dashboard** → find your position in the lock tab → **Manage Position** → 'Deactivate' from HEV - <https://app.usenest.xyz/dashboard>

<figure><img src="/files/H3OXfmHyjJdNIMBerdeI" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Once the veNEST NFT is back in your wallet as a manual position, you can manage it normally.

***

<figure><img src="/files/Y8H6reAy9XriQ3cxaHZo" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Extend (increase lock duration)

Extend expiry to maintain voting power.

* **Max lock:** up to **6 months**
* Voting power is **linear** with time:
  * 100 NEST for 6 months → 100 veNEST
  * 100 NEST for 3 months → 50 veNEST
    {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### **Increase (add more NEST)**

Add more NEST into an existing veNEST position.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Merge

Combine multiple veNEST NFTs into one position. Useful for simplifying management and concentrating vote weight.

### Auto-Max (set-and-forget power)

Auto-Max is designed to keep your lock near maximum duration so vote weight doesn’t drift down.

{% hint style="info" %}
Why it matters: if you don’t maintain duration, voting power decays toward expiry (example guidance shows \~**4% voting power reduction per epoch** on a max lock left to decay).
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Transfer

Because veNEST is an NFT, it can be transferred (and may be tradable on supported marketplaces like Hyperwarp).

{% hint style="info" %}
Reminder: Buyers inherit the lock’s remaining duration, future rewards and for selling marketplace liquidity can be thin with discount required for sale.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Unlock/Withdraw

Withdrawal requires completed vesting.\
\
Unlock your veNEST position back into NEST.&#x20;

{% hint style="warning" %}
Your veNEST must be in a [manual position](/governance-venest/5.1-venest-basics.md#voting-manual-vs-automated) and the vesting period must be complete before you can unlock / withdraw NEST.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}