> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.getpanther.app/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Verifying your identity

> A one-time identity check required before your first Kalshi trade.

Before your first **Kalshi** trade with on-chain trading, you complete a quick, one-time identity check. This is a Kalshi requirement. **Polymarket needs no verification.**

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Trading settings">
    Press <kbd>/</kbd>, type `STG`, press <kbd>Enter</kbd>, then choose **Trading**. You'll see your **Identity Verification** status.

    ![Settings → Trading showing the identity verification status](https://cdn.getpanther.app/docs/web-identity-verified.png)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Start verification">
    Choose **Verify Identity**. Panther opens the verification flow with our identity partner in a secure window. Follow the steps to confirm your details.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Return to Panther">
    When you finish, come back to Panther. Your status updates to **Verified**, and Kalshi trading unlocks. If it still shows pending, choose **Check Status**.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Verification status

| Status          | What it means                                                         |
| --------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Not started** | You haven't begun verification. Kalshi buys are locked.               |
| **Pending**     | Your verification is being reviewed. Use **Check Status** to refresh. |
| **Verified**    | You're all set — Kalshi trading is unlocked.                          |
| **Failed**      | Something didn't go through. Choose **Try Again** to restart.         |

<Note>
  You can browse Kalshi markets, charts, and order books without verifying. Verification is only needed to **buy** on Kalshi.
</Note>

## What's next

<Card title="Place your first order" icon="receipt" href="/trading/placing-orders">
  With verification done and funds deposited, you're ready to trade.
</Card>