Discover which prop firm model delivers better payouts, fairer rules, and faster funding. Get expert analysis from Prop Funded Kings — the #1 rated Prop Firms Passing Service with a proven 92%+ success rate.
A comprehensive, data-driven comparison to help you choose the right prop firm model for your trading career
The proprietary trading industry has undergone a massive transformation over the past decade. What was once an exclusive club reserved for Wall Street graduates working in physical trading floors has evolved into a global, accessible ecosystem where retail traders can access significant capital through evaluation-based models. At the center of this revolution stands Topstep, a Chicago-based prop firm that has pioneered the online evaluation model, challenging the conventions of traditional prop firms that have operated for decades.
As a leading Prop Firms Passing Service with over 5,000 successfully funded accounts, Prop Funded Kings has worked with thousands of traders across both Topstep and traditional prop firm models. This comprehensive guide breaks down every aspect of the comparison — from rules and payouts to platforms, fees, and scaling opportunities — so you can make an informed decision about which path aligns with your trading goals.
The prop trading industry is projected to reach $8.7 billion by 2027, with online evaluation firms like Topstep capturing an increasing market share. Traders are actively searching for answers to critical questions: Is Topstep legit? How do Topstep payout rules compare to traditional firms? What’s the best prop firm passing service for each model? This guide addresses all these questions with data-backed analysis.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to pass your first prop firm challenge or an experienced trader evaluating which firm offers the best scaling plan, understanding the fundamental differences between Topstep’s evaluation model and traditional prop firm structures is essential for long-term success.
Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Topstep (also known as TopstepTrader) is one of the most established and respected proprietary trading firms in the industry. Unlike traditional prop firms that hire traders as employees, Topstep operates an evaluation-based funding model where traders prove their skills through a structured challenge before receiving a funded account.
Topstep has paid out over $100 million to traders worldwide and maintains registration as an Introducing Broker with the National Futures Association (NFA). This regulatory compliance sets it apart from many newer prop firms and provides traders with an additional layer of security and trust.
The firm specializes primarily in futures trading, offering evaluation accounts ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 in simulated capital. Traders who pass the evaluation receive a funded account with real profit-sharing opportunities, keeping up to 100% of the first $10,000 in profits.
Topstep was one of the first firms to introduce the online evaluation model for futures traders, predating the current wave of prop firms by several years. Their prop firm services have evolved significantly since launch.
Why thousands of traders choose Topstep as their primary prop firm
Topstep supports NinjaTrader, Tradovate, TradingView, Rithmic, and their proprietary TopstepX platform. Learn how to connect Topstep to Tradovate seamlessly.
Traders keep 100% of the first $10,000 in profits, then enjoy a 90/10 split in their favor. One of the most generous payout structures in the industry.
Successful traders can scale their account size by 50% after meeting specific profit targets over 60 days, providing clear growth pathways.
Registered with the NFA as an Introducing Broker, Topstep offers regulatory compliance that many competitors cannot match.
The Topstep Express account removes the consistency rule and simplifies the evaluation process for traders who prefer straightforward rules.
Topstep offers reset credits that allow traders to restart their evaluation at a discounted rate if they hit the maximum loss limit.
Traditional proprietary trading firms have been the backbone of the financial industry for decades. These firms — names like Jane Street, Susquehanna, DRW, and countless regional firms — operate on a fundamentally different model than online evaluation firms like Topstep.
In the traditional model, traders are typically hired as employees or contractors after a rigorous interview process that may include technical assessments, psychological evaluations, and probationary trading periods. The firm provides capital directly, and traders share profits according to pre-negotiated splits, typically ranging from 50/50 to 80/20 in the trader’s favor.
Traditional prop firms often require traders to work from physical offices, follow specific trading hours, use firm-approved strategies, and adhere to strict risk management protocols. In return, traders receive benefits like salary (in some cases), training programs, mentorship, and access to institutional-grade technology and market data.
A detailed side-by-side analysis of every critical factor
| Feature | Topstep | Traditional Prop Firms | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Access Model | Online evaluation, open to all | Interview-based, selective hiring | |
| Location Requirement | Trade from anywhere globally | Usually office-based in financial hubs | |
| Entry Cost | $49-$149/month evaluation fee | Typically free (firm provides capital) | |
| Account Sizes | $50K, $100K, $150K | Varies widely, often $100K-$1M+ | |
| Profit Split | 100% first $10K, then 90/10 | 50/50 to 80/20 typical | |
| Payout Speed | 3-5 business days | Monthly or quarterly | |
| Trading Instruments | Futures primarily | Equities, futures, options, forex | |
| Platforms | NinjaTrader, Tradovate, TradingView | Proprietary institutional platforms | |
| Scaling Opportunities | 50% increase after 60 days | Based on performance reviews | |
| Risk Limits | Fixed daily/max drawdown | Customized per trader | |
| Regulatory Status | NFA registered | Varies by firm and jurisdiction | |
| Training Provided | Limited, self-directed | Comprehensive programs common | |
| Time to Funding | Days to weeks | Months (interview + probation) | |
| Global Accessibility | Worldwide (with restrictions) | Limited to specific regions | |
| Best For | Retail traders, remote workers | Career traders, institution-focused |
Understanding the specific rules of each prop firm model is crucial for traders planning to pass prop firm challenges successfully. The rule structures differ significantly between Topstep and traditional firms, affecting everything from daily trading behavior to long-term profitability.
Topstep offers two main account types: the standard Trading Combine and the Express account. Each has distinct rules that traders must follow:
The Express account simplifies the evaluation with these key differences:
Many traders fail the Topstep evaluation not because of poor trading skills, but because they don’t fully understand the rules. Our prop firm passing service includes comprehensive rule education to ensure every trader understands exactly what’s required before starting their evaluation.
Traditional prop firms typically have more flexible but also more complex rule structures:
One of the most critical factors in choosing between Topstep and traditional prop firms is the payout structure. After all, the ultimate goal is to earn profits from your trading.
Topstep’s payout structure is one of its strongest selling points:
Traditional firms vary widely, but common structures include:
The trading platform you use significantly impacts your execution speed, charting capabilities, and overall trading experience. Topstep offers multiple platform options, while traditional prop firms typically provide proprietary institutional platforms.
For retail traders transitioning from platforms like MetaTrader or cTrader, Topstep’s support for TradingView and Tradovate provides a smoother learning curve. Our team at Prop Funded Kings provides platform-specific training to help traders maximize their efficiency regardless of which platform they choose.
Understanding the true cost of each prop firm model
| Fee Category | Topstep | Traditional Prop Firms |
|---|---|---|
| Evaluation Fee | $49-$149/month | Typically none |
| Activation Fee | $149-$179 one-time | None |
| Monthly Platform Fee | $0 after funding | Varies (data fees may apply) |
| Data Fees | Included or minimal | Often $100-$300/month |
| Reset Fee | Discounted with credits | N/A |
| Withdrawal Fees | None | Varies by firm |
| Hidden Costs | Minimal | Office expenses, commuting |
| Total Year 1 Cost | ~$1,000-$2,000 | ~$2,000-$5,000 (data + expenses) |
Topstep offers three main evaluation account sizes, each with different monthly fees and profit targets:
When you pass the evaluation, a one-time activation fee applies (typically $149-$179), though Topstep frequently runs promotions to waive or discount this fee. Many traders use Topstep promo codes and coupon codes to reduce their initial costs.
Professional passing services like Prop Funded Kings often include the activation fee in their packages, effectively saving traders $150-$200 while guaranteeing a pass. Combined with our prop firm management service, the total cost of getting funded is often lower than attempting multiple evaluations independently.
Trusted by over 5,000 traders worldwide with a proven 92%+ success rate
Our advanced trading algorithms and experienced traders achieve industry-leading success rates across all major prop firms including Topstep, Apex, FTMO, and more.
Most challenges are passed within 7-14 days, significantly faster than the industry average. Get funded quickly and start earning profits sooner.
We stand behind our service with a comprehensive refund policy. If we don’t pass your challenge, you don’t pay. Simple and transparent.
All our trading results are publicly verified on Myfxbook, providing complete transparency and proof of our capabilities.
Our dedicated support team is available around the clock via Telegram, WhatsApp, and Discord to answer your questions and provide updates.
We pass challenges for Topstep, Apex Trader Funding, FTMO, The Funded Trader, True Forex Funds, and 20+ other prop firms worldwide.
Join 5,000+ successful traders who trusted Prop Funded Kings to pass their prop firm challenges. Get started in minutes with our professional passing service.
🚀 Start Your Journey TodayFrom challenge passing to ongoing account management, we’ve got you covered
Our flagship prop firm passing service uses advanced trading algorithms and experienced professional traders to pass your evaluation challenge. We handle everything from initial setup to final certification, allowing you to focus on your other priorities while we secure your funded account.
Whether you’re attempting a Topstep Trading Combine, an Apex Trader Funding evaluation, or any other major prop firm challenge, our team has the expertise to navigate the specific rules and requirements of each firm. We’ve successfully passed challenges across 25+ prop firms, making us one of the most versatile prop firm services in the industry.
Once you have a funded account, the real challenge begins: maintaining profitability while respecting the firm’s rules. Our funded account management service provides ongoing trading support to help you maximize profits, avoid rule violations, and qualify for regular payouts.
Our fund managers trade your account with the same care and precision they use to pass challenges, applying proven strategies that have generated consistent returns across various market conditions. We specialize in futures, forex, and indices trading across all major prop firm platforms.
For traders focused specifically on the forex market, our specialized forex account management service provides expert handling of currency pairs, commodities, and indices. We apply advanced technical analysis, fundamental research, and risk management protocols to deliver consistent results.
Our forex specialists have decades of combined experience trading major, minor, and exotic currency pairs. They understand the unique characteristics of different trading sessions, news events, and market conditions that affect forex prices.
For traders who prefer automated solutions, we offer custom prop firm passing EA development services. Our developers create expert advisors tailored to specific prop firm rules, ensuring automated trading that respects drawdown limits, consistency requirements, and other firm-specific constraints.
Real results from real traders — verified and transparent
Since our founding, Prop Funded Kings has successfully passed over 5,247 prop firm challenges across 25+ firms. Our portfolio includes traders from over 80 countries, representing every experience level from complete beginners to professional fund managers.
The accounts we’ve helped fund have generated over $12 million in payouts to traders. This represents not just our passing success, but the ongoing profitability of the accounts we manage through our funded account management service.
Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our 98% client satisfaction rate. We measure this through post-service surveys, repeat client rates, and referral statistics. When traders succeed with us, they tell others — and 67% of our new clients come from referrals.
View our verified trading results on Myfxbook for complete transparency and proof of performance.
Real feedback from traders who trusted Prop Funded Kings
“I failed my Topstep challenge 3 times before finding Prop Funded Kings. They passed it in 9 days and I’ve been receiving consistent payouts ever since. Absolutely legit service!”
“The funded account management service is incredible. They’ve maintained my $150K Topstep account profitably for 8 months straight. Best investment I’ve made in my trading career.”
“I was skeptical about prop firm passing services after being scammed twice. Prop Funded Kings is the real deal — transparent, professional, and they actually deliver. Passed my Apex challenge in 11 days.”
“The team’s knowledge of Topstep rules is unmatched. They understood the consistency rule perfectly and structured their trading to ensure a clean pass. Highly recommend!”
“I’ve used their service for 4 different prop firms now. Every single challenge was passed on the first attempt. The ROI is incredible when you consider the time and stress saved.”
“Their 24/7 support via Telegram is amazing. I always get quick updates on my challenge progress. The whole process was smooth and professional from start to finish.”
Choose the plan that fits your goals and budget
Prop Funded Kings is a leading proprietary trading services company specializing in prop firm challenge passing and funded account management. Founded by a team of professional traders with over 50 years of combined market experience, we’ve built our reputation on transparency, results, and client success.
Our mission is simple: democratize access to funded trading capital by providing reliable, professional passing services that help traders achieve their financial goals. We believe that talent and dedication should be the only barriers to success in trading — not the complexity of prop firm evaluations.
Our team consists of professional traders, risk managers, software developers, and client support specialists. Each member brings unique expertise to ensure we deliver the highest quality service possible. Our traders have collectively managed over $50 million in trading capital across various markets and prop firms.
Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, or join our Discord community to stay updated on the latest prop firm news and trading insights.
Whether you’re trading a Topstep evaluation or managing a traditional prop firm account, risk management is the single most important factor in long-term success. Our forex account management approach is built on rigorous risk management principles that protect capital while maximizing profit potential.
Topstep’s trailing drawdown mechanism requires special attention. Unlike fixed drawdown limits, the trailing drawdown follows your profits upward until reaching a fixed floor. This means:
Traditional firms often provide more flexibility but also more responsibility:
Successfully passing a prop firm challenge requires more than just good trading — it requires a strategic approach tailored to the specific rules and requirements of each firm. Here are the key strategies our team uses:
For Topstep’s standard accounts with the consistency rule, we focus on generating steady daily profits rather than large single-day gains. This typically involves:
For Express accounts without consistency rules, we can employ more aggressive momentum strategies that capture larger moves in trending markets. This approach works particularly well for:
This strategy exploits short-term overextensions in price, particularly effective in ranging markets. Key elements include:
Our prop firm passing EA systems automate these strategies with precision, ensuring consistent execution without emotional interference. Each algorithm is specifically calibrated for the rules of different prop firms.
One of the most important considerations when choosing between Topstep and traditional prop firms is the long-term scaling potential. How will your account grow as you prove your abilities? What opportunities exist for increased capital allocation?
Topstep offers a structured scaling plan that rewards consistent profitability:
Traditional prop firms typically offer more individualized scaling paths:
While traditional firms may offer higher ultimate capital ceilings, Topstep’s transparent scaling rules provide a clearer path for most retail traders. Our funded account management service helps traders navigate both scaling systems effectively, maximizing their growth potential regardless of which model they choose.
Topstep is a proprietary trading firm that provides traders with funded accounts after they successfully complete an evaluation challenge. Founded in 2012 and based in Chicago, Topstep has become one of the most recognized names in the futures prop trading industry. The firm’s mission is to discover, develop, and fund talented traders regardless of their background or location.
The Topstep process is straightforward:
Topstep allows trading during most futures market hours:
Understanding the available platforms helps traders choose the best fit:
When you request a payout from Topstep, you’ll receive a payout certificate documenting your earnings. This certificate serves as proof of income and can be useful for tax purposes and financial planning.
Traders frequently ask about various Topstep features and policies. Here are answers to the most common questions:
Traditional proprietary trading firms represent the old guard of the trading industry. These firms have been funding traders for decades, long before the online evaluation model became popular. Understanding their structure, advantages, and limitations is essential for making an informed choice.
Traditional prop firms come in several varieties:
Two of the most popular futures prop firms compared
When traders research prop firms, one of the most common comparisons is Apex Trader Funding vs Topstep. Both firms specialize in futures trading and use evaluation-based models, but they have important differences that affect trader success.
| Feature | Apex Trader Funding | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| Account Sizes | $25K to $300K | $50K to $150K |
| Monthly Fee | $125-$165 | $49-$149 |
| Profit Target | $1,500-$12,000 | $3,000-$9,000 |
| Consistency Rule | 30% rule | 50% rule (standard) |
| Trailing Drawdown | Yes, intraday | Yes, end-of-day |
| Payout Split | 100% first $25K | 100% first $10K |
| Platforms | NinjaTrader, Rithmic | NinjaTrader, Tradovate, TradingView |
| Activation Fee | $85 one-time | $149-$179 one-time |
The choice between Apex and Topstep depends on your specific needs:
Our prop firm passing service works with both firms, so you can get professional help regardless of which one you choose. We’ve passed over 2,000 Apex challenges and 1,500 Topstep challenges, giving us unique insight into what works best for each firm.
In an increasingly crowded prop firm market, Topstep maintains its position as an industry leader for several compelling reasons:
Topstep’s NFA registration provides a level of regulatory oversight that many newer prop firms lack. This compliance gives traders confidence that the firm operates under established rules and standards, reducing counterparty risk.
Founded in 2012, Topstep has over a decade of operational history. This longevity demonstrates stability and reliability — crucial factors when choosing a firm to manage your trading career. Many newer prop firms have come and gone, but Topstep has consistently paid traders and maintained operations.
Topstep’s rules are clearly documented and consistently applied. There are no hidden clauses or surprise rule changes that have plagued some other prop firms. This transparency allows traders to plan their strategies with confidence.
By supporting NinjaTrader, Tradovate, TradingView, Rithmic, and TopstepX, Topstep gives traders the flexibility to use their preferred platform. This is particularly valuable for traders transitioning from other markets or platforms.
Topstep has built a large, active community of traders through their dashboard, chat features, and educational resources. This community provides support, shared learning, and networking opportunities that enhance the trading experience.
Topstep regularly introduces new features, account types, and improvements. The Express account, TopstepX platform, and enhanced dashboard are examples of their commitment to innovation and trader satisfaction.
For traders looking to maximize their chances of success with Topstep, our prop firm passing service provides the expertise and technology needed to navigate their rules effectively and achieve funded status quickly.
Building trust through transparency, results, and integrity
All trading performance is publicly verified on Myfxbook. No hidden results, no fabricated statistics — just transparent, auditable performance data.
We use encrypted payment processing and never store sensitive financial information. Your security is our top priority.
Every service agreement is documented with clear terms, deliverables, and timelines. No ambiguity, no surprises.
24/7 support via Telegram, WhatsApp, and Discord with real humans — not chatbots. Average response time under 5 minutes.
Featured in multiple trading publications and recognized as a top prop firm passing service by trader communities worldwide.
If we don’t pass your challenge, you don’t pay. Our refund policy protects your investment and demonstrates our confidence.
At Prop Funded Kings, we stand behind our services with a comprehensive refund policy designed to protect our clients and demonstrate our confidence in our abilities.
We’ve processed over 200 refunds in our history — and we’re proud of that number. It shows we honor our guarantees and put client satisfaction first. However, with our 92%+ pass rate, the vast majority of clients never need to request a refund.
Everything you need to know about Topstep, traditional prop firms, and our services
Topstep uses an online evaluation model where traders pay a monthly fee to prove their skills before receiving a funded account. Traditional prop firms typically hire traders as employees or contractors after interviews, providing capital directly without evaluation fees but requiring physical presence and often specific qualifications.
Yes, Topstep is a legitimate and well-established prop firm founded in 2012. They are registered with the NFA as an Introducing Broker, have paid out over $100 million to traders, and maintain a strong reputation in the industry. They are considered one of the most trustworthy prop firms available.
To pass your Topstep challenge, you need to reach the profit target while respecting the daily loss limit, maximum loss limit, and consistency rules. You can attempt this yourself or use a professional prop firm passing service like Prop Funded Kings, which has a 92%+ success rate.
Topstep allows payout requests after 30 days with a minimum of 10 trading days. Traders keep 100% of the first $10,000 in profits, then receive a 90/10 split in their favor. Payouts are processed within 3-5 business days via bank transfer or PayPal.
Topstep typically processes payouts within 3-5 business days after approval. The approval process itself usually takes 1-2 business days, so total time from request to receiving funds is typically 4-7 business days.
The Topstep consistency rule requires that no single trading day accounts for more than 50% of your total profits when reaching the profit target. This ensures traders demonstrate consistent performance rather than relying on one lucky day. The Express account does not have this rule.
Topstep evaluation accounts cost $49/month for the $50K Express, $99/month for the $100K, and $149/month for the $150K account. There’s also a one-time activation fee of $149-$179 when you pass, though promotions often waive or discount this fee.
Yes, Topstep is registered as an Introducing Broker with the National Futures Association (NFA) and is a member of the NFA. This regulatory compliance provides traders with additional protection and demonstrates the firm’s commitment to operating within established standards.
Topstep supports NinjaTrader, Tradovate, TradingView, Rithmic, and their proprietary TopstepX platform. Traders can choose their preferred platform and even switch between them. Each platform offers different features and capabilities for various trading styles.
Yes, professional prop firm passing services like Prop Funded Kings specialize in passing Topstep challenges using advanced algorithms and experienced traders. Our service has a 92%+ success rate and typically completes challenges within 7-14 days.
Topstep Express is a simplified evaluation account with no consistency rule, fixed (non-trailing) drawdown, and lower monthly fees. It’s designed for traders who want a straightforward path to funding without the complexity of the standard Trading Combine rules.
To connect Topstep to Tradovate, log into your Topstep dashboard, navigate to the platform section, select Tradovate, and follow the authentication steps. The connection is typically instant and allows you to trade directly from the Tradovate platform using your Topstep account.
Topstep’s scaling plan allows traders to increase their account size by 50% after 60 days of profitable trading that meets specific targets. Traders can scale multiple times, potentially reaching account sizes of $500K or more with consistent performance.
Yes, Topstep charges a one-time activation fee of $149-$179 when you pass the evaluation. However, they frequently run promotions to waive or discount this fee, and many passing services include this cost in their packages.
A reset credit on Topstep allows traders to restart their evaluation account at a discounted rate after hitting the maximum loss limit. It’s essentially a second chance to pass the evaluation without paying the full monthly fee again.
The number of gold (GC) contracts you can trade on Topstep depends on your account size and the margin requirements. Generally, $50K accounts can trade 2-3 contracts, $100K accounts 4-6 contracts, and $150K accounts 6-9 contracts, but always check current margin requirements.
Topstep’s trading hours follow CME futures market hours: Sunday 5:00 PM CT through Friday 4:00 PM CT, with a daily break from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM CT. Some instruments may have slightly different hours.
Topstep requires all positions to be closed before the daily settlement time, typically around 4:00 PM CT for most futures contracts. Holding positions overnight is not allowed and will result in rule violations.
Yes, the standard Topstep Trading Combine has a consistency rule requiring no single day to account for more than 50% of total profits. However, the Topstep Express account does not have this rule, making it easier for traders who prefer aggressive single-day strategies.
Topstep’s trailing drawdown starts at your account size and follows your profits upward until reaching a fixed floor (typically the starting account size minus the maximum loss). This means early profits increase your effective drawdown buffer, rewarding consistent performance.
To download TopstepX, log into your Topstep dashboard, navigate to the platforms section, and click the download link for TopstepX. The platform is available for Windows and can be installed in minutes. You’ll need your Topstep credentials to log in.
Yes, you can switch between NinjaTrader, Tradovate, TradingView, Rithmic, and TopstepX at any time. Simply log into your Topstep dashboard and select your preferred platform. Your account data and progress remain the same regardless of platform.
Prop Funded Kings is widely recognized as one of the best prop firm passing services with a 92%+ success rate, 5,000+ accounts passed, and 4.9/5 rating from 2,847 reviews. We work with all major prop firms including Topstep, Apex, FTMO, and more.
Prop firm passing services typically cost $149-$599 depending on account size and service level. Prop Funded Kings offers plans starting at $149 for basic challenge passing up to $599/month for full account management with unlimited passes.
Yes, legitimate prop firm passing services like Prop Funded Kings use real trading algorithms and experienced traders to pass challenges. Always verify results on Myfxbook, check reviews on Trustpilot and Reddit, and ensure the service offers a money-back guarantee.
A funded account management service professionally trades your funded prop firm account on your behalf, maintaining profitability while respecting all firm rules. This allows account owners to earn profits without actively trading themselves.
Forex account management involves professional traders managing your forex trading account using proven strategies. They handle all trading decisions, risk management, and position sizing while you receive the profits according to your agreed split.
For beginners, Topstep Express, FTMO, and Apex Trader Funding are popular choices due to their straightforward rules and lower entry costs. Using a professional passing service can significantly increase your chances of success as a beginner.
Topstep primarily focuses on futures trading, not forex. However, you can trade forex futures (currency futures) on Topstep. For spot forex trading, firms like FTMO, The Funded Trader, or True Forex Funds are better options.
The Topstep dashboard is your central hub for managing your evaluation or funded account. It shows your current P&L, rule status, trading statistics, payout history, and platform connections. You can access it by logging into your Topstep account online.
To copy trades on Topstep, you can use trade copying software compatible with NinjaTrader or Tradovate, or use Topstep’s built-in features if available. Many traders use third-party tools like TradeCopier or NinjaTrader’s ATM strategies for automated trade management.
Topstep chat is a communication feature within the Topstep platform that allows traders to interact with each other and Topstep support. It’s useful for getting quick answers to questions, sharing strategies, and connecting with the trading community.
Topstep occasionally offers free trials or discounted first months, but these promotions vary. Check their website or sign up for their newsletter to stay informed about current offers. Some passing services also offer trial periods.
The Topstep consistency target refers to the 50% rule where no single trading day can account for more than half of your total profits when reaching the profit target. This ensures traders demonstrate consistent performance over multiple days.
To login to Topstep, visit topstep.com and click the login button. Enter your email and password. If you’re having login issues, try clearing your browser cache, using a different browser, or contacting Topstep support for assistance.
Topstep LLC is the legal entity that operates the Topstep prop firm. It’s registered in Illinois, USA, and is the company behind the TopstepTrader brand. The LLC structure provides legal protection and operational flexibility for the business.
Topstep Trading Combines are the evaluation accounts that traders must pass to receive funded status. They come in $50K, $100K, and $150K sizes with different profit targets and rules. Successfully completing a Combine earns you a funded account.
Topstep normally charges an activation fee, but they frequently run promotions to waive it. Check their website for current offers. Some passing services also include the activation fee in their packages, effectively giving you a no-activation-fee experience.
The Topstep status page shows the current operational status of their platforms and services. It indicates whether all systems are operational or if there are any outages or maintenance periods. You can typically find it at status.topstep.com.
The Topstep shop is where you can purchase evaluation accounts, reset credits, and other services. It’s accessible through the Topstep website and offers various account sizes and promotional packages.
Topstep split refers to the profit-sharing arrangement: traders keep 100% of the first $10,000 in profits, then receive 90% of profits above that amount, with Topstep keeping 10%. This is one of the most favorable splits in the industry.
Topstep Express funded rules are simpler than standard accounts: no consistency rule, fixed maximum loss (not trailing), and straightforward profit targets. Once funded, traders must still respect daily loss limits and trading hour restrictions.
Topstep was founded in 2012 in Chicago, Illinois. The company has grown to become one of the largest futures prop firms, paying out over $100 million to traders. They’re NFA registered and employ hundreds of staff across trading, technology, and support.
To login to the Topstep dashboard, visit topstep.com, click login, enter your credentials, and you’ll be taken to your dashboard where you can monitor your account, view statistics, request payouts, and manage your platform connections.
If you lose your Topstep funded account by hitting the maximum loss limit, the account is closed. You can purchase a new evaluation to try again. Some traders use passing services to avoid this risk and ensure consistent profitability.
The Topstep certificate is a document you receive when you pass the evaluation, confirming your achievement and funded status. It may also refer to the payout certificate you receive when requesting profit withdrawals.
Topstep futures trading involves trading futures contracts on exchanges like CME, CBOT, NYMEX, and COMEX. Popular instruments include E-mini S&P 500 (ES), Nasdaq 100 (NQ), gold (GC), crude oil (CL), and various other futures contracts.
The Topstep calendar shows economic events, market holidays, and important dates that may affect trading. It helps traders plan their strategies around major news releases and market closures.
Yes, Topstep supports PayPal as one of the payout methods, along with bank transfers. PayPal payouts are typically processed faster than bank transfers, often within 24-48 hours of approval.
Topstep withdrawal rules require a minimum of 30 days since account funding, at least 10 active trading days, and adherence to all trading rules. Payout requests are processed monthly, with funds typically arriving within 3-5 business days.
Topstep occasionally offers free resets as promotions, but typically resets are discounted rather than free. Reset credits allow you to restart your evaluation at a reduced cost after hitting the maximum loss limit.
Several prop firms offer instant funding without evaluation, including some smaller firms. However, these often come with higher fees and stricter rules. Topstep’s evaluation model, while not instant, provides better long-term value and profit splits.
The Topstep application process is simple: visit their website, choose an account size, create an account, and start trading the evaluation. There’s no interview or qualification process — anyone can apply and attempt the challenge.
Topstep provides email support for account questions, technical issues, and general inquiries. Response times vary but are typically within 24 hours. For urgent matters, their chat support is faster.
To set ATM (Automated Trade Management) on TopstepX, open the platform, right-click on the chart, select ATM Strategy, and configure your entry, stop loss, and profit target parameters. ATM strategies help automate trade management and enforce risk rules.
Gann Arc is a technical analysis tool based on W.D. Gann’s theories that uses geometric arcs to identify potential support and resistance levels. It’s used by some traders on platforms like NinjaTrader and TradingView to enhance their analysis.
The ABC pattern is a three-wave corrective pattern in Elliott Wave Theory. It consists of three moves: A (initial correction), B (counter-trend move), and C (final correction). Traders use this pattern to identify potential reversal points.
Quantower Project X is an advanced trading platform that offers multi-asset trading, advanced charting, and algorithmic capabilities. While not directly supported by Topstep, some traders use it for analysis alongside their Topstep trading.
Back2Funded is a service that helps traders recover failed prop firm accounts by providing strategies, coaching, or passing services. It’s one of many services in the prop firm ecosystem designed to help traders succeed.
Topstep coupon codes can be found on their website during promotions, through affiliate partners, on trading forums, or by signing up for their newsletter. Passing services like Prop Funded Kings often include discounted or waived fees in their packages.
The Topstep 150K account is their largest evaluation account, offering $150,000 in simulated capital with a $9,000 profit target. It costs $149/month and is designed for experienced traders who want maximum capital allocation.
The Topstep 50K account is their entry-level evaluation, offering $50,000 in simulated capital with a $3,000 profit target. The Express version costs $49/month and is perfect for beginners or traders testing the platform.
The Topstep 100K account offers $100,000 in simulated capital with a $6,000 profit target. It costs $99/month and represents the middle tier, balancing capital size with affordability for most traders.
Both Topstep and Apex are excellent prop firms with different strengths. Topstep offers better regulation, more platforms, and lower monthly fees. Apex offers larger account sizes and a simpler consistency rule. The best choice depends on your specific needs and trading style.
Look for services with verified Myfxbook results, positive Trustpilot reviews, active Reddit presence, clear refund policies, and transparent pricing. Prop Funded Kings meets all these criteria with 5,000+ passed accounts and a 92%+ success rate.
A prop firm passing EA (Expert Advisor) is an automated trading program specifically designed to pass prop firm challenges. These EAs follow the firm’s rules precisely, managing risk and targeting profit goals algorithmically. Prop Funded Kings develops custom EAs for various prop firms.
Prop firm passing service reviews can be found on Trustpilot, Reddit (r/propfirm, r/Daytrading), Forex Peace Army, and trading forums. Always look for verified reviews and check Myfxbook for actual performance data before choosing a service.
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