> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.streamablefinance.com/streamable-finance-user-guide/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.streamablefinance.com/streamable-finance-user-guide/user-guide/streams/start-a-stream.md).

# Start a stream

To start a stream:

1\. Select the **currency** you want to stream.

2\. Enter the **destination address** (the receiver of the stream).

3\. Select the **amount**.

4\. Select the **period**.

<figure><img src="/files/UpVv3YGC0iVxRw0aBb7D" alt=""><figcaption><p>Start a stream from the dashboard</p></figcaption></figure>

The system will convert the amount per period to tokens per second and initiate the stream.

The system will withhold a deposit before starting the stream. The deposit amount will be shown when all the stream parameters are entered.&#x20;

The deposit covers the costs of liquidating the stream if the sender runs out of streamed asset balance.

If a stream is stopped by the user **manually**, the deposit is **returned**.

However, if the stream is closed **automatically** due to insufficient funds, deposit is **not returned**.

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