> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.linora.finance/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.linora.finance/getting-started/how-linora-works.md).

# How Linora works

> **Process overview** **Linora** operates through a **balance-to-card workflow**, where users move funds from an account balance into virtual cards that are used for payments.

The platform separates **account-level balances** from **card-level balances** to provide clearer control over spending and card usage.

**Step-by-step flow**

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### Account creation <a href="#account-creation" id="account-creation"></a>

A user creates an **Linora** account and gains access to the web dashboard.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Wallet balance funding

Funds are added to the account wallet balance. This balance is not directly used for payments.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Card creation

The user creates one or more virtual cards and assigns a specific balance to each card.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Card usage

Payments are made using the virtual card details. Transactions affect only the card balance, not the wallet balance.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Balance updates

Card balances decrease as transactions are processed. Wallet balance remains unchanged unless funds are reallocated.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

> **Balance separation** Wallet balance is used to fund cards. Card balance is used for spending. These balances are managed independently.

**Transaction handling**

* Transactions are processed at the **card level**
* Available card balance determines transaction approval
* Declined transactions do not affect wallet balance

> **Note** Card behavior, limits, and fees are described in the Cards section.

**Error scenarios**

* Insufficient card balance
* Card-specific restrictions
* Temporary processing issues

{% hint style="danger" %}
**Important** **Linora** does not control merchant-side behavior. Transaction approval may depend on external payment systems.
{% endhint %}


---

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