Topstep — Verified Deal (Apr 2026)

Topstep Complete Guide 2026 — Overview

Topstep, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, stands as a prominent figure in the futures proprietary trading landscape. Founded in 2012 by Michael Patak, the firm has established itself as a pioneer in offering funded trading opportunities to aspiring futures traders. With 14 years of operation, Topstep has cultivated a reputation for providing a structured and transparent pathway for traders to demonstrate their skills and access significant trading capital. The core of Topstep's offering is its Trading Combine, an evaluation program designed to assess a trader's ability to manage risk and generate consistent profits in a simulated environment. Successful completion of the Trading Combine grants traders access to funded accounts, with maximum allocations reaching up to $150,000.

Topstep distinguishes itself through its commitment to providing traders with a supportive ecosystem. This includes access to a range of trading platforms, including NinjaTrader, Tradovate, and, starting July 2025, its proprietary platform TopstepX. The firm facilitates trading across a diverse spectrum of CME Group futures contracts, encompassing equity indices, energy, metals, bonds, and currencies. This broad market access allows traders to specialize in areas that align with their expertise and trading style.

The financial terms offered by Topstep are designed to incentivize and reward successful trading. The firm offers a 100% profit split on the first $10,000 earned, followed by a 90% profit split thereafter. This generous payout structure, coupled with a relatively low starting price of $49 for the Trading Combine, makes Topstep an attractive option for traders seeking to leverage their skills and access substantial capital. Payouts are processed bi-weekly via ACH, PayPal, or Wise, with the first payout available after just 5 days.

Topstep's commitment to transparency and trader support is further evidenced by its high Trustpilot rating of 4.6/5 based on over 13700 reviews. The firm's live chat support provides traders with readily available assistance, addressing queries and resolving issues promptly. While Topstep does not offer a free trial or a scaling program, its straightforward evaluation process and competitive financial terms make it a compelling choice for both novice and experienced futures traders looking to advance their careers. The firm has funded over 50,000 traders since its inception, a testament to its success in identifying and nurturing trading talent. Topstep accepts US traders and provides a clear path to funded trading, emphasizing risk management and consistent performance.

Company Background

Topstep, a leading proprietary trading firm specializing in futures markets, was founded in 2012 by Michael Patak. The company's headquarters are located in Chicago, Illinois, United States, a city renowned as a global hub for futures trading and financial innovation. From its inception, Topstep has focused on providing aspiring traders with a unique opportunity to demonstrate their skills and access funded trading accounts.

The vision behind Topstep was to create a meritocratic environment where traders could prove their abilities through a rigorous evaluation process. This approach challenged the traditional barriers to entry in the proprietary trading world, where access to capital often depended on prior experience or personal connections. By offering a transparent and objective assessment of trading skills, Topstep democratized access to funded trading, allowing talented individuals from diverse backgrounds to pursue their passion for futures trading.

Michael Patak, the CEO of Topstep, has been instrumental in shaping the company's culture and strategic direction. His leadership has fostered a commitment to transparency, innovation, and trader support. Under his guidance, Topstep has grown from a startup to a well-established firm with a global presence, funding over 50,000 traders since its founding.

The company's Chicago headquarters provides a strategic advantage, placing Topstep in close proximity to major exchanges and industry networks. This location facilitates access to real-time market data, industry insights, and a pool of talented professionals. The company's 14 years in operation have allowed it to refine its evaluation process, develop robust risk management protocols, and build a strong reputation within the trading community.

Topstep's commitment to innovation is evident in its development of the TopstepX trading platform, slated to become the sole platform in July 2025. This proprietary platform reflects the company's dedication to providing traders with cutting-edge tools and resources to enhance their trading performance. The firm's partnership with Tradovate as a broker further strengthens its infrastructure and ensures reliable trade execution.

The company's success can be attributed to its unwavering focus on identifying and nurturing trading talent. By providing a structured evaluation process, access to funded capital, and ongoing support, Topstep empowers traders to achieve their full potential. The firm's commitment to transparency and ethical business practices has earned it a high level of trust within the trading community, as reflected in its Trustpilot rating of 4.6/5 from 13700 reviews.

How Topstep Works

Topstep operates on a unique model centered around its Trading Combine, a comprehensive evaluation program designed to identify and fund skilled futures traders. The Trading Combine serves as a gateway for aspiring traders to demonstrate their abilities in a simulated environment before gaining access to real capital. This process involves adhering to specific trading rules and risk management parameters, allowing Topstep to assess a trader's consistency, discipline, and profitability.

The evaluation process is structured as a 1-step program. Traders choose an account size ($50,000, $100,000, or $150,000) and pay a monthly subscription fee to participate in the Trading Combine. They are then tasked with achieving a specific profit target while adhering to daily loss limits and maximum loss limits.

The profit targets vary depending on the account size:

• $50,000 account: 3000.0% profit target
• $100,000 account: 6000.0% profit target
• $150,000 account: 9000.0% profit target

Traders must also manage their risk effectively, staying within the following limits:

• $50,000 account: 1000.0% daily loss limit, 2000.0% maximum loss
• $100,000 account: 2000.0% daily loss limit, 3000.0% maximum loss
• $150,000 account: 3000.0% daily loss limit, 4500.0% maximum loss

The drawdown type is trailing, meaning the maximum loss limit adjusts based on the trader's highest unrealized profit. This encourages traders to protect their profits and manage risk effectively. Traders must trade for a minimum of 2 trading days to be eligible for funding.

During the Trading Combine, traders have access to the same trading platforms and tools that are available to funded traders, including NinjaTrader, Tradovate, and eventually TopstepX. This allows them to familiarize themselves with the trading environment and develop their strategies.

Once a trader successfully completes the Trading Combine by reaching the profit target and adhering to the risk management rules, they are eligible to become a funded trader. This means they will be allocated a live trading account with real capital, up to a maximum of $150,000.

Funded traders are entitled to a 100% profit split on the first $10,000 earned, followed by a 90% profit split thereafter. Payouts are processed bi-weekly via ACH, PayPal, or Wise, with the first payout available after 5 days.

Topstep provides ongoing support to its traders, including live chat support. This ensures that traders have access to assistance when they need it. The firm also monitors trader performance and provides feedback to help them improve their skills.

The Trading Combine is designed to be a challenging but rewarding experience. It requires discipline, consistency, and a strong understanding of risk management. However, for those who are willing to put in the effort, it offers a unique opportunity to access funded trading and pursue a career as a professional futures trader.

Challenge Options and Pricing

Topstep offers a range of Trading Combine options to cater to different risk appetites and trading styles. Each option varies in account size, profit target, daily loss limit, maximum loss, and monthly subscription price. The firm provides both "Standard" and "No Activation" versions of each account size, with the "No Activation" option typically having a higher upfront cost but potentially offering different terms or benefits not explicitly detailed in the provided data.

Here's a detailed breakdown of each challenge option:

1. Standard $50,000 Account

• Account Size: $50,000
• Price: $49.0
• Evaluation Steps: 1-step
• Phase 1 Target: 3000.0%
• Phase 2 Target: N/A%
• Daily Loss Limit: 1000.0%
• Maximum Loss: 2000.0%
• Profit Split: 90.0%

This option is the most affordable entry point into the Topstep Trading Combine. With a monthly subscription price of $49.0, it allows traders to test their skills on a $50,000 simulated account. The profit target is 3000.0%, which translates to $1,500. The daily loss limit is 1000.0% ($500), and the maximum loss is 2000.0% ($1,000). This account offers a relatively conservative risk profile, making it suitable for beginners or traders with a more cautious approach.

2. No Activation $50,000 Account

• Account Size: $50,000
• Price: $109.0
• Evaluation Steps: 1-step
• Phase 1 Target: 3000.0%
• Phase 2 Target: N/A%
• Daily Loss Limit: 1000.0%
• Maximum Loss: 2000.0%
• Profit Split: 90.0%

The "No Activation" version of the $50,000 account comes with a higher monthly subscription price of $109.0. While the profit target, daily loss limit, maximum loss, and profit split remain the same as the "Standard" version, the higher price suggests potential additional benefits or features that are not explicitly outlined in the provided data. It's possible this version might offer advantages such as faster account activation, access to premium resources, or different contract sizes allowed.

3. Standard $100,000 Account

• Account Size: $100,000
• Price: $99.0
• Evaluation Steps: 1-step
• Phase 1 Target: 6000.0%
• Phase 2 Target: N/A%
• Daily Loss Limit: 2000.0%
• Maximum Loss: 3000.0%
• Profit Split: 90.0%

This option provides traders with a larger simulated account size of $100,000 for a monthly subscription price of $99.0. The profit target is 6000.0%, which equates to $6,000. The daily loss limit is 2000.0% ($2,000), and the maximum loss is 3000.0% ($3,000). This account offers a higher potential for profit but also comes with increased risk due to the larger daily and maximum loss limits.

4. No Activation $100,000 Account

• Account Size: $100,000
• Price: $159.0
• Evaluation Steps: 1-step
• Phase 1 Target: 6000.0%
• Phase 2 Target: N/A%
• Daily Loss Limit: 2000.0%
• Maximum Loss: 3000.0%
• Profit Split: 90.0%

The "No Activation" version of the $100,000 account has a monthly subscription price of $159.0. Similar to the $50,000 "No Activation" account, the higher price suggests potential additional benefits or features compared to the "Standard" version, which are not detailed in the data. The profit target, daily loss limit, maximum loss, and profit split remain the same as the "Standard" version.

5. Standard $150,000 Account

• Account Size: $150,000
• Price: $149.0
• Evaluation Steps: 1-step
• Phase 1 Target: 9000.0%
• Phase 2 Target: N/A%
• Daily Loss Limit: 3000.0%
• Maximum Loss: 4500.0%
• Profit Split: 90.0%

This is the largest account size offered by Topstep, providing traders with a $150,000 simulated account for a monthly subscription price of $149.0. The profit target is 9000.0%, which translates to $13,500. The daily loss limit is 3000.0% ($4,500), and the maximum loss is 4500.0% ($6,750). This account offers the highest potential for profit but also carries the highest risk due to the larger daily and maximum loss limits.

6. No Activation $150,000 Account

• Account Size: $150,000
• Price: $209.0
• Evaluation Steps: 1-step
• Phase 1 Target: 9000.0%
• Phase 2 Target: N/A%
• Daily Loss Limit: 3000.0%
• Maximum Loss: 4500.0%
• Profit Split: 90.0%

The "No Activation" version of the $150,000 account has the highest monthly subscription price of $209.0. As with the other "No Activation" accounts, the higher price likely indicates additional benefits or features that are not explicitly mentioned in the provided data. The profit target, daily loss limit, maximum loss, and profit split remain the same as the "Standard" version.

Summary Table:

Traders should carefully consider their risk tolerance, trading style, and financial resources when choosing a Trading Combine option. The larger account sizes offer greater potential for profit but also require a higher level of risk management and discipline. The "No Activation" accounts may offer additional benefits, but traders should weigh the higher upfront cost against the potential advantages.

Trading Rules and Risk Management

Topstep places a strong emphasis on risk management, implementing a set of trading rules designed to protect both the firm's capital and the trader's account. These rules are crucial for successful completion of the Trading Combine and for maintaining a funded account. The key risk management parameters include the daily loss limit, maximum loss, drawdown type, and minimum trading days.

Daily Loss Limit:

The daily loss limit is the maximum amount a trader can lose in a single trading day. If a trader's losses exceed this limit, their account will be automatically closed, and they will fail the Trading Combine. The daily loss limit varies depending on the account size:

• $50,000 account: 1000.0% ($500)
• $100,000 account: 2000.0% ($2,000)
• $150,000 account: 3000.0% ($4,500)

This rule is designed to prevent traders from taking excessive risks and to ensure that they manage their capital responsibly. It forces traders to be disciplined and to avoid chasing losses.

Maximum Loss:

The maximum loss is the total amount a trader can lose on their account. If a trader's cumulative losses exceed this limit, their account will be closed, and they will fail the Trading Combine. The maximum loss also varies depending on the account size:

• $50,000 account: 2000.0% ($1,000)
• $100,000 account: 3000.0% ($3,000)
• $150,000 account: 4500.0% ($6,750)

The maximum loss limit serves as a safety net, preventing traders from incurring catastrophic losses that could jeopardize their trading careers. It encourages traders to manage their risk effectively and to avoid over-leveraging their positions.

Drawdown Type:

Topstep utilizes a trailing drawdown. This means that the maximum loss limit adjusts based on the trader's highest unrealized profit. As the trader's account balance increases, the maximum loss limit also increases, providing more room for fluctuations. However, if the trader's account balance declines, the maximum loss limit will also decline, protecting the firm's capital.

For example, if a trader with a $50,000 account reaches a peak balance of $51,000, the maximum loss limit will increase from $1,000 to $2,000 (based on the initial $50,000 account size). If the trader then experiences losses, the maximum loss limit will decrease accordingly. This type of drawdown encourages traders to protect their profits and to manage risk effectively.

Minimum Trading Days:

Traders must trade for a minimum of 2 trading days to be eligible for funding. This rule ensures that traders have sufficient experience in the market and that they are not simply relying on luck to achieve their profit target. It also allows Topstep to assess a trader's consistency and discipline over a period of time.

Allowed and Disallowed Strategies:

Topstep has specific rules regarding allowed and disallowed trading strategies. Scalping and news trading are ALLOWED. However, trading bots/EAs, weekend holding, hedging, copy trading, and HFT (high-frequency trading) are NOT ALLOWED. These restrictions are in place to ensure fair trading practices and to protect the integrity of the market.

Consequences of Violating Trading Rules:

Violating any of Topstep's trading rules will result in the trader failing the Trading Combine. This includes exceeding the daily loss limit, exceeding the maximum loss, or engaging in disallowed trading strategies. Topstep takes these rules very seriously, and there are no exceptions.

Importance of Risk Management:

Risk management is paramount to success in the Trading Combine and as a funded trader. Topstep's trading rules are designed to help traders develop good risk management habits. By adhering to these rules, traders can protect their capital, avoid catastrophic losses, and increase their chances of achieving their profit target.

Profit Split and Payouts

Topstep offers a competitive profit split and a straightforward payout process, designed to reward successful traders and incentivize consistent performance. The firm's profit split structure is particularly attractive, providing traders with a significant share of the profits they generate.

Profit Split Percentage:

Topstep offers a 100% profit split on the first $10,000 earned. After the first $10,000, the profit split changes to 90%, with the trader receiving 90% of the profits and Topstep retaining 10%. This structure is designed to reward traders for their initial success and to provide them with a strong incentive to continue performing well.

This profit split is applied to all account sizes, regardless of whether the trader is using a $50,000, $100,000, or $150,000 account. The generous profit split makes Topstep an attractive option for traders seeking to maximize their earnings potential.

Payout Frequency:

Topstep processes payouts bi-weekly, meaning traders receive their profits every two weeks. This frequent payout schedule allows traders to access their earnings on a regular basis, providing them with financial flexibility and stability.

The bi-weekly payout frequency is a significant advantage compared to some other proprietary trading firms that may offer less frequent payouts. It allows traders to reinvest their profits, cover their expenses, or simply enjoy the fruits of their labor.

Payout Methods:

Topstep offers a variety of payout methods to accommodate traders from different regions and with different preferences. The available payout methods include:

• ACH (Automated Clearing House)
• PayPal
• Wise

These payout methods are widely used and provide traders with convenient and secure ways to receive their earnings. ACH is a popular option for US-based traders, while PayPal and Wise are often preferred by international traders.

First Payout Timeline:

Topstep processes the first payout relatively quickly, with the first payout available after just 5 days. This rapid payout timeline is a significant advantage for traders who are eager to access their earnings.

The 5-day payout timeline is among the fastest in the industry, demonstrating Topstep's commitment to providing traders with timely and efficient service. It allows traders to quickly realize the benefits of their successful trading performance.

Example of Profit Split and Payout:

Let's say a trader using a $100,000 account earns $15,000 in profits. The profit split would be calculated as follows:

• First $10,000: 100% profit split = $10,000 to the trader
• Remaining $5,000: 90% profit split = $4,500 to the trader

Total payout to the trader: $10,000 + $4,500 = $14,500

Topstep would retain the remaining $500.

This example illustrates how the profit split works in practice and how traders can earn a significant share of the profits they generate.

Factors Affecting Payouts:

Several factors can affect the amount of a trader's payout, including:

• Trading performance: The more profits a trader generates, the larger their payout will be.
• Profit split percentage: The profit split percentage determines the share of profits that the trader receives.
• Payout method: Different payout methods may have different fees or processing times.
• Compliance with trading rules: Traders must comply with Topstep's trading rules to be eligible for payouts.

By understanding these factors, traders can maximize their payouts and ensure that they receive their earnings in a timely and efficient manner.

Trading Platforms and Tools

Topstep provides traders with access to a range of trading platforms, allowing them to choose the platform that best suits their trading style and preferences. The available platforms include NinjaTrader, Tradovate, and, starting in July 2025, TopstepX. These platforms offer a variety of features and tools to support traders in their analysis, execution, and risk management.

NinjaTrader:

NinjaTrader is a popular and widely used trading platform known for its advanced charting capabilities, automated trading features, and extensive customization options. It supports a wide range of order types, technical indicators, and drawing tools, allowing traders to conduct in-depth market analysis and develop sophisticated trading strategies.

NinjaTrader also offers a robust backtesting environment, allowing traders to test their strategies on historical data and optimize their performance. The platform's automated trading capabilities enable traders to create and deploy trading bots that can execute trades automatically based on predefined rules.

Tradovate:

Tradovate is a cloud-based trading platform that offers a modern and intuitive user interface. It is known for its speed, reliability, and ease of use. Tradovate provides traders with access to real-time market data, advanced charting tools, and a variety of order types.

Tradovate also offers a unique order flow visualization tool that allows traders to see the depth of the market and identify potential trading opportunities. The platform's cloud-based architecture ensures that traders can access their accounts and trade from anywhere with an internet connection.

TopstepX:

TopstepX is Topstep's proprietary trading platform, scheduled to become the sole platform in July 2025. While specific details about its features are not provided in the data, it can be inferred that TopstepX is designed to meet the specific needs of its traders. This suggests it will likely incorporate features and tools that are optimized for futures trading and that align with Topstep's risk management protocols.

The development of TopstepX demonstrates Topstep's commitment to innovation and to providing traders with cutting-edge technology. It is likely that TopstepX will offer a seamless and integrated trading experience, combining advanced charting capabilities, real-time market data, and robust risk management tools.

Broker Relationship:

Topstep partners with Tradovate as its broker. This partnership ensures that traders have access to reliable trade execution and clearing services. Tradovate is a registered futures commission merchant (FCM) and is regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

The broker relationship with Tradovate provides traders with peace of mind, knowing that their funds are held in a segregated account and that their trades are executed in a transparent and compliant manner.

Choosing a Platform:

Traders should carefully consider their trading style, preferences, and technical skills when choosing a trading platform. NinjaTrader is a good option for traders who require advanced charting capabilities and automated trading features. Tradovate is a good option for traders who prefer a modern and intuitive user interface. TopstepX, once fully implemented, will likely be the most integrated option.

Topstep provides traders with the flexibility to choose the platform that best suits their needs. Traders can switch between platforms as their trading style evolves or as new platforms become available.

Importance of Trading Tools:

Trading platforms and tools are essential for successful futures trading. They provide traders with the information and resources they need to analyze the market, execute trades, and manage risk. By using the right tools, traders can improve their trading performance and increase their chances of achieving their profit target.

Topstep's commitment to providing traders with access to a range of trading platforms and tools demonstrates its dedication to supporting trader success.

Allowed Trading Strategies

Topstep has specific guidelines regarding the trading strategies that are allowed and disallowed within its Trading Combine and funded accounts. These guidelines are designed to promote fair trading practices, manage risk effectively, and maintain the integrity of the market.

Allowed Strategies:

• Scalping: Scalping is ALLOWED. This strategy involves taking small profits from short-term price fluctuations. Scalpers typically hold positions for a very short period of time, often just a few seconds or minutes. Topstep's allowance of scalping suggests that it supports traders who employ high-frequency trading techniques, as long as they do not violate other rules, such as the prohibition of HFT.
• News Trading: News trading is ALLOWED. This strategy involves trading based on economic news releases and other market-moving events. News traders typically analyze the potential impact of news events on market prices and take positions accordingly. Topstep's allowance of news trading indicates that it permits traders to capitalize on market volatility and information asymmetry.

Disallowed Strategies:

• Trading Bots/EAs (Expert Advisors): Trading bots and EAs are NOT ALLOWED. These are automated trading systems that execute trades based on predefined rules. Topstep's prohibition of trading bots suggests that it prefers traders to make their own trading decisions and to actively manage their positions. This also helps to ensure fair trading practices and to prevent the use of strategies that could potentially manipulate the market.
• Weekend Holding: Weekend holding is NOT ALLOWED. This means that traders are not allowed to hold positions open over the weekend. Topstep's prohibition of weekend holding is likely due to the increased risk associated with holding positions over the weekend, as market conditions can change significantly during this time.
• Hedging: Hedging is NOT ALLOWED. This strategy involves taking offsetting positions in related markets to reduce risk. Topstep's prohibition of hedging may be due to the complexity of hedging strategies and the potential for increased risk if not implemented correctly.
• Copy Trading: Copy trading is NOT ALLOWED. This involves copying the trades of other traders. Topstep's prohibition of copy trading suggests that it wants traders to develop their own trading strategies and to make their own trading decisions.
• HFT (High-Frequency Trading): HFT is NOT ALLOWED. This strategy involves using sophisticated algorithms and high-speed connections to execute a large number of orders in a very short period of time. Topstep's prohibition of HFT is likely due to the potential for HFT firms to gain an unfair advantage over other traders and to manipulate the market.

Rationale Behind the Rules:

Topstep's rules regarding allowed and disallowed trading strategies are designed to:

• Promote fair trading practices: By prohibiting certain strategies, such as HFT and copy trading, Topstep aims to create a level playing field for all traders.
• Manage risk effectively: By prohibiting strategies such as weekend holding and hedging, Topstep seeks to reduce the risk associated with its funded accounts.
• Maintain the integrity of the market: By prohibiting strategies that could potentially manipulate the market, Topstep helps to ensure that prices are determined by supply and demand.

Importance of Adhering to the Rules:

It is crucial for traders to adhere to Topstep's rules regarding allowed and disallowed trading strategies. Violating these rules can result in the trader failing the Trading Combine or having their funded account closed.

Topstep takes these rules very seriously and monitors trader activity closely to ensure compliance. Traders should familiarize themselves with the rules and ensure that their trading strategies are in compliance.

Scaling Program

The provided data indicates that Topstep does not offer a scaling program. This means that traders' account sizes are not automatically increased based on their performance. The maximum allocation a trader can achieve is $150,000, and there is no mechanism in place to increase this allocation further based on consistent profitability or other performance metrics.

While the absence of a scaling program might be seen as a limitation by some traders, it is important to note that Topstep offers a generous profit split, allowing traders to retain a significant portion of their earnings. This means that successful traders can still accumulate substantial wealth, even without a scaling program.

The lack of a scaling program also simplifies the trading process, as traders do not need to worry about meeting specific performance targets to qualify for a larger account size. They can focus on consistently applying their trading strategies and managing their risk effectively.

Traders who are seeking a scaling program may want to consider other proprietary trading firms that offer this feature. However, it is important to weigh the benefits of a scaling program against other factors, such as the profit split, trading rules, and platform options.

Who Should Choose Topstep?

Topstep is a suitable choice for a variety of traders, particularly those who are:

• Futures Traders: Topstep specializes in futures trading, making it an ideal platform for traders who are experienced in or interested in learning about futures markets. The firm offers access to a wide range of CME Group futures contracts, including equity indices, energy, metals, bonds, and currencies.
• Risk-Conscious Traders: Topstep's emphasis on risk management makes it a good fit for traders who prioritize capital preservation and disciplined trading. The firm's daily loss limits, maximum loss limits, and trailing drawdown type encourage traders to manage their risk effectively.
• Traders Seeking Funded Capital: Topstep provides a clear path to funded trading, allowing traders to demonstrate their skills in a simulated environment and then access real capital. The maximum allocation of $150,000 is a significant amount of capital that can help traders to scale their trading operations.
• Traders Who Value Transparency: Topstep has a strong reputation for transparency, with a straightforward evaluation process and clear trading rules. The firm's high Trustpilot rating of 4.6/5 from 13700 reviews is a testament to its commitment to ethical business practices.
• Traders Seeking a Generous Profit Split: Topstep offers a 100% profit split on the first $10,000 earned, followed by a 90% profit split thereafter. This is one of the most generous payout structures in the futures prop firm space.
• Scalpers and News Traders: Topstep allows scalping and news trading, making it a suitable platform for traders who employ these strategies.
• US Traders: Topstep accepts US traders, making it a convenient option for traders located in the United States.
• Traders Who Prefer Established Firms: With 14 years of operation, Topstep is one of the oldest and most established futures proprietary trading firms in the industry. This provides a sense of stability and reliability.
• Traders Seeking Live Chat Support: Topstep offers live chat support, providing traders with readily available assistance when they need it.

Topstep may not be the best choice for traders who:

• Prefer Automated Trading: Topstep does not allow trading bots or EAs.
• Want to Hold Positions Over the Weekend: Weekend holding is not allowed.
• Use Hedging Strategies: Hedging is not allowed.
• Engage in Copy Trading: Copy trading is not allowed.
• Employ High-Frequency Trading: HFT is not allowed.
• Are Looking for a Free Trial: Topstep does not offer a free trial.
• Desire a Scaling Program: Topstep does not offer a scaling program.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to choose Topstep depends on the individual trader's needs, preferences, and trading style. Traders should carefully consider the firm's features, trading rules, and financial terms before making a decision.

Pros and Cons

Based solely on the provided data, here's an honest assessment of Topstep's pros and cons:

Pros:

• Established and Reputable: Founded in 2012, Topstep has 14 years of experience in the industry and a strong reputation for transparency and consistent payouts.
• High Trustpilot Rating: A Trustpilot rating of 4.6/5 from 13700 reviews indicates a high level of customer satisfaction.
• Generous Profit Split: The 100% profit split on the first $10,000 earned, followed by a 90% split, is highly competitive.
• Relatively Low Starting Price: The Trading Combine starts at $49, making it an accessible entry point for aspiring traders.
• Maximum Allocation of $150,000: Successful traders can access a significant amount of capital to trade with.
• Multiple Trading Platforms: Traders can choose from NinjaTrader, Tradovate, and eventually TopstepX.
• Wide Range of Futures Contracts: Topstep supports trading on a variety of CME Group futures contracts.
• Fast Payouts: The first payout is available after just 5 days, with bi-weekly payouts thereafter.
• Multiple Payout Methods: Traders can choose from ACH, PayPal, or Wise for payouts.
• Live Chat Support: Provides readily available assistance to traders.
• Allows Scalping and News Trading: Offers flexibility in trading strategies.
• Accepts US Traders: Convenient for traders located in the United States.

Cons:

• No Free Trial: Traders cannot test the platform or evaluation process without paying a subscription fee