> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://eth-docs.stakewith.us/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://eth-docs.stakewith.us/eth-staking/unstaking.md).

# Unstaking

## Steps

Users can unstake and withdraw their ETH by following 3 simple steps:

1. Navigate to the [Unstake](https://eth.stakewith.us/unstake) page
2. Select the validators they wish to unstake from the network
3. Sign the transaction in your Ethereum wallet

{% hint style="warning" %}

#### Minimum Duration

Validators have to be active for a minimum duration of 256 epochs (27 hours 18 minutes) before they can be unstaked. This to ensure stability of the Ethereum network.
{% endhint %}

## How long does it take to unstake my ETH?

Your validator will be exited after:

* 256 epochs (27 hours 18 minutes)
* the exit queue, based on the number of validators exiting the system

At this point your validator will be considered exited, and still stop earning rewards or penalties. Your staked ETH will be withdrawn to your address when your validator next comes up in the next [withdrawal sweep](https://ethereum.org/staking/withdrawals#how-soon).

An estimate of the time for your ETH to be unstaked based on current network conditions can be found on the [Unstake](https://eth.stakewith.us/unstake) page. You can check the estimate for a specific validator in the [Monitor -> Validators](https://eth.stakewith.us/monitor/validators) tab by clicking on the "Details" button for that validator.

## Exit Signature

The exit signature follows the following format:

```
exit:{timestamp}:{pubkeys to unstake, comma-separated}
```

Signed exit messages are valid for a short period of time and cannot be used after they have expired for security reasons.


---

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