Getting Started with BeanPool

BeanPool is an invite-only community network where everyone starts at zero. Here is a step-by-step guide to accepting an invitation, securing your decentralized identity, and unlocking your starting credit line to trade.

1.Get an Invite Code

Because BeanPool is built on a web of trust, you cannot sign up without an invitation. You must receive an invite code from an active member of your local community.

• Invite codes are usually shared as a text link (e.g. INV-XXXX-XXXX) or via a QR code you can scan.
• If you do not know anyone in the network, visit local community markets, workshops, or connect with organizers running a local node.

2.Access the App

Each local community runs its own independent server (node). You can access the app across any platform:

• Native iOS & Android Apps: Download BeanPool directly from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for the best performance, instant notifications, and hardware-backed key storage.
• Web App (PWA): Open your community's unique node address in any mobile or desktop browser and tap "Add to Home Screen" for instant offline-capable access.

3.Create Your Secure Identity

Launch the app, select "I have an invite code", and paste your code. Then, choose your custody preference:

• Choose a Public Callsign: This is your display name (e.g., @BakerBob) seen across the ledger and marketplace.
• Dual-Custody Key Setup:
  • Hardware-Backed Keys / Seed Phrase: Private keys stay in your device's secure hardware (iOS Keychain / Android Keystore), unlocked by biometrics, with an offline 12-word recovery phrase.
  • Sign-In Recovery (phone app): Optionally link an Apple or Google account. That, together with your community node, can restore your account on a new device. It is not a substitute for writing down your 12 words.

4.Post Your First Offer (Unlocks Your Credit)

To keep the economy balanced and reciprocal, BeanPool uses the **Offer Covenant** (see Rules §4). New accounts start with a credit line of zero, meaning they can only spend beans they already hold.

• To open your credit line, go to the marketplace and post at least one Offer (e.g., general labor, fresh produce, baking, tutoring, or tools for loan).
• Your credit line is earned — it opens after your first completed trade, or when a community voucher grants you a starter floor.
• Keeping offers live is what lets you use it. Offers don't create credit; they meter how much of your earned limit you can spend: 1 live offer unlocks −200 Beans, 2 unlocks −500, and so on to −2000 at 5.
• Until your line is open, you can browse, receive beans, and spend what you actually hold.

5.Make Your First Trade

Now that your credit line is open, you can begin participating in your local economy:

• Browse and Connect: Check out the Marketplace or view the interactive **Community Map** to find offers in your neighborhood. Tap "Message" on any post to open an encrypted chat with the author.
• The Escrow Safe-Guard: When you buy a service or good, the Beans are held safely in **escrow** *(held in trust by the system)*. The seller only receives the Beans after you confirm the job is completed, keeping both parties secure.
• Build Reputation: Once your trade completes, both you and your partner can rate each other and sign receipts. Completing trades grows your trust score and automatically expands your credit line.

6.Video Guides & Community Support

Prefer watching a visual tutorial or need help getting started with your node? Connect with the BeanPool community: