> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://mantabridge.gitbook.io/manta-bridge-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://mantabridge.gitbook.io/manta-bridge-docs/faq.md).

# faq

Quick answers to common Manta Bridge questions about pending transfers, token approvals, gas, withdrawal timing, and fees. For transaction-specific values, always check the live bridge route and wallet prompts before confirming.

<details>

<summary>Why is my transfer pending?</summary>

A transfer can be pending because the source-chain transaction has not finalized, the bridge message is still being processed, or the destination-chain transaction has not been completed yet.

Deposits move assets from Ethereum L1 to Manta Pacific L2. Withdrawals move assets in the opposite direction and follow the rollup exit model, which can include additional waiting and claim steps. For the full lifecycle, see [bridge timing](/manta-bridge-docs/reference/bridge-time.md).

Common checks:

1. Confirm the transaction was submitted in your wallet.
2. Check the source-chain transaction hash in a block explorer.
3. Keep the bridge page open or return to the same wallet account to continue any required next step.
4. Verify that you are connected to the correct source and destination networks.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Why do I need to approve a token?</summary>

ERC-20 tokens use an allowance model. Before a bridge contract can move your tokens, your wallet must approve that contract to spend the selected token amount.

Approvals are separate on-chain transactions. This means bridging an ERC-20 token may require two wallet confirmations:

| Action   | What it does                                                   |
| -------- | -------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Approval | Allows the bridge contract to spend the selected ERC-20 token. |
| Transfer | Starts the deposit or withdrawal after approval is available.  |

Only approve the amount you intend to use, and review the spender address shown in your wallet. For detailed steps, see [token approvals](/manta-bridge-docs/guides/token-approvals.md). For background on the token allowance pattern, see the [ERC-20 token standard overview](https://ethereum.org/en/developers/docs/standards/tokens/erc-20/).

</details>

<details>

<summary>Why should I keep ETH for gas?</summary>

ETH is the gas token on Ethereum and on Manta Pacific. You need ETH to pay transaction fees when you approve tokens, submit deposits, initiate withdrawals, or complete claim steps.

Keep enough ETH on the network where you are taking the next action. For example, an L1 deposit starts on Ethereum, while some later actions may require gas on Manta Pacific or Ethereum depending on the route and step.

</details>

<details>

<summary>How long do withdrawals take?</summary>

Withdrawals can take longer than deposits because they follow the rollup's exit process. The exact timing depends on the withdrawal path, network conditions, and any required finalization or claim steps.

Do not assume a fixed completion time from older transactions or third-party comments. Check the current route in [Manta Bridge](https://mantabridge.cc/), and read [bridge timing](/manta-bridge-docs/reference/bridge-time.md) before starting a withdrawal. For general context, see Ethereum's explanation of [optimistic rollups](https://ethereum.org/en/developers/docs/scaling/optimistic-rollups/).

</details>

<details>

<summary>Where do I check fees?</summary>

Check fees in the bridge interface before confirming a transaction. Wallets may also show estimated gas, but live estimates can change with network demand.

Fees may include:

| Fee type                      | Where it appears                                           |
| ----------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------- |
| Source-chain gas              | Wallet confirmation for the chain you are sending from.    |
| Destination or claim gas      | Wallet confirmation for later bridge steps, when required. |
| Route or bridge-related costs | Bridge quote or transaction preview, when applicable.      |

For details on what can affect costs, see [bridge fees](/manta-bridge-docs/reference/bridge-fees.md). Manta Pacific also uses modular data availability; for background, see Celestia's [data availability overview](https://docs.celestia.org/learn/how-celestia-works/data-availability).

</details>

<details>

<summary>Is Manta Bridge safe?</summary>

Bridging requires smart contracts, wallets, and multiple networks to work together. Review transaction details carefully, use official links, and do not treat any bridge as risk-free.

For the security model, user precautions, and common risks, see [is Manta Bridge safe?](/manta-bridge-docs/security/is-manta-bridge-safe.md).

</details>


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