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

# Open your first strategy account

> From choosing a strategy to a live account.

You sign your [SMA](https://docs.blockhouse.app/reference/glossary.md#sma) once, with your first account: further strategy accounts reuse it. After you choose a strategy, the setup wizard has six steps.

| | What you do |
| - | - |
| [Choose a strategy and amount](https://docs.blockhouse.app/open-an-account/choose-a-strategy.md) | Pick a strategy on the Strategies page and set your starting amount |
| [Step 1: Account Information](https://docs.blockhouse.app/open-an-account/account-information.md) | Say who owns the account, as it should appear on the SMA |
| [Step 2: Strategy Configuration](https://docs.blockhouse.app/open-an-account/strategy-configuration.md) | Set up exchanges, fees and allocation |
| [Step 3: SMA Review](https://docs.blockhouse.app/open-an-account/sign-the-sma.md) | The desk reviews your configuration, then sends a prepared SMA for your signature |
| [Step 4: Credentials](https://docs.blockhouse.app/open-an-account/connect-your-exchanges) | Set up your prime broker, then your exchange connections |
| [Step 5: Account Configuration](https://docs.blockhouse.app/open-an-account/account-configuration.md) | Confirm each exchange's account settings |
| [Step 6: Review](https://docs.blockhouse.app/open-an-account/review-and-submit.md) | Check and submit |
| [After you submit](https://docs.blockhouse.app/open-an-account/after-you-submit.md) | The desk checks your keys and settings, then takes your account live |

## You'll need

* A Blockhouse [login](https://docs.blockhouse.app/get-started/create-your-login.md).
* A [prime broker](https://docs.blockhouse.app/reference/glossary.md#prime-broker) account. Your prime broker creates the strategy's sub-accounts on at least two [supported exchanges](https://docs.blockhouse.app/reference/supported-venues.md).
* Your maker and taker fees on each exchange.
* Your legal name and address. If you represent an entity, the name and title of the person who will sign.
* Access to each sub-account, so you can create its API keys.

To pick up where you left off, open the profile menu → **Manage accounts** → **Resume**.

> [!NOTE]
>
> **Having trouble with your API keys?** Most key problems come from the IP whitelist: each key needs its own list of IP addresses from the Credentials step. [API key problems](https://docs.blockhouse.app/open-an-account/troubleshooting.md#api-key-problems) has a checklist.


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