Founded in 2012 by veteran trader Michael Patak, Topstep empowers aspiring futures traders to grow their skills. Operating from its downtown Chicago headquarters, Topstep support a growing trading community locaded in over 140 countries. Recognized by INC.com as one of the fastest-growing prop trading firms in the US, Topstep offers a compelling combination of features.
A “1 Step. 1 Rule” structured evaluation name “Trading Combine” program rigorously assesses a trader’s skills and risk management in a simulated environment. Passing this evaluation unlocks access to funded trading accounts, providing real-world experience with real capital.
Topstep offer flexibility by allowing traders to choose from a variety of platforms, including their own TopstepX platform, alongside established industry favorites like NinjaTrader and TradingView. The firm also caters to a worldwide audience by offering trading accounts in ten different currencies. This eliminates unnecessary currency conversion inconveniance, making it easier for international traders to participate.
Beyond that, Topstep goes a step further by prioritizing trader education. Their commitment is evident in the free coaching and “Topstep TV” resources. This dedication to guiding traders through every step of their journey highlight Topstep’s real focus on helping traders achieve success in the futures market.
The Topstep Trading Combine is your testing ground. Here, you’ll demonstrate your skills in risk management, opportunity identification, and generating profits. Topstep gives you sufficient time to meet their goals, with a minimum of two trading days (to ensure consistency) and no set maximum.
The Combine is a monthly subscription service offering three simulated account options: $50,000, $100,000, and $150,000 in simulated capital. Fees range from $49 to $149 per month, with the $50,000 account being the most popular choice. You can reset your account balance and rules for a fee (ranging from $49 to $149) on top of your monthly subscription.
To unlock a Topstep Express Funded Account, you’ll need to realize the following:
- Profit Target: Reach and maintain a specific level of profitability.
- Consistency Target: Your best single day of profit cannot exceed 50% of your total gains.
- Daily Loss Limit: Avoid exceeding the daily loss limit, which would deactivate your account for that day.
- One Key Rule: Never let your account balance fall below the maximum loss threshold.
Meeting these criteria will qualify you for a Topstep Express Funded Account.
Once you choose an account size, the price remains fixed throughout your Combine journey until you secure funding. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
Account Size | Monthly Cost | Reset Price |
$50,000 Combine | $49 | $49 |
$100,000 Combine | $99 | $99 |
$150,000 Combine | $149 | $149 |
- Total Cost: The Combine membership starts at $49/month and remains at that price until you qualify for funding. There’s a one-time $149 activation fee for funded accounts, regardless of size.
- Data: Level 1 data is included. Level 2 data requires an additional $39/month.
- Resetting: Resets do not affect your billing cycle. The monthly fee and reset fee are separate charges. However, new traders get 50% off their first reset.
- Up to 5 Express Funded Accounts (XFA)
- Automated XFA Creation within minutes
Funded Account Benefits:
Upon successful completion of the Combine, you’ll be rewarded with a funded account. These accounts offer:
- No Risk: You trade with Topstep’s capital, not your own.
- Wider Market Access: Trade beyond the CME futures offered in the Combine (additional data fees may apply).
Both the Combine and funded accounts have trading rules, including approved products, trading times, loss limits, and scaling plans.
By showing your skills in the Trading Combine, you can unlock a funded account and start your futures trading career with Topstep’s backing.
Topstep goes beyond live coaching by offering a comprehensive video library packed with exclusive content to fuel your trading success. Here’s what you’ll find:
- Day Trading Strategies: Explore a wide range of day trading strategies, all conveniently on-demand. Gain valuable insights and discover approaches that may resonate with your trading style.
- Peer Feedback: The video library incorporates feedback from other traders,providing you with diverse perspectives and fostering a sense of community.
- Coach’s Playbook: Get a deep insights from Topstep’s seasoned coaches through the Coach’s Playbook video series. Learn the market approach tips by experienced traders.
- Funded Trader Resources: Once you achieve Funded Trader status, the library offers a curated selection of videos specifically tailored to your needs. Maintain your edge and continue to grow as a funded trader.
- Identifying Ranges and Breakouts: Learn to recognize key price patterns and capitalize on potential breakout opportunities.
- End-of-Year Checklists: Ensure a smooth year-end transition with helpful checklists that guide you through essential tasks.
- Day Trading Indicators: Dive deeper into various indicators and how they can be used to inform your day trading decisions.
Topstep’s video library empowers you with a wealth of on-demand resources, from diverse trading strategies to expert insights. Sharpen your skills, refine your approach, and unlock your trading potential.
Topstep equips you with everything you need to succeed in the fast-paced world of futures trading. Here’s what sets their education system apart:
Experienced Coaching:
- Live Group Coaching: Join live sessions on TopstepTV every Monday-Thursday from 12-1 PM CT. Learn directly from Topstep’s team of seasoned futures and financial instrument traders. Get your questions answered in real-time and gain valuable insights from the experts.
- Dedicated Performance Coaches: These coaches provide ongoing support throughout your journey to becoming a Topstep Funded Trader™.
AI-powered Digital Coaching (Coach T):
- Personalized Guidance: This innovative feature acts as your virtual extension of Topstep’s Performance Coaches.Available in the Trading Combine® and Express Funded Account, Coach T offers real-time, personalized feedback and insights.
- Smart and Disciplined Trading: Leverage Coach T’s suite of tools and personalized trading statistics to become a more strategic and disciplined trader.
- Funded Trader Status Support: Coach T remains your guide as you strive to achieve Funded Trader status.
Interactive Community (Discord):
- Connect with the Topstep Team: Join the #group-coaching channel on Discord to interact with the Topstep coaches and fellow aspiring traders.
- Personalized Coach Channels: Each Topstep coach has a dedicated Discord channel (#coach-robert for example). Find your coach and connect with them directly during their posted channel hours.
Topstep’s comprehensive education program goes beyond basic instruction. It offers personalized support, real-time guidance, and a collaborative community to empower you on your trading journey.
Topstep TV offers a dynamic blend of live trading, expert insights, and interactive features to keep you engaged and informed throughout the trading day.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Live Trading & Market Analysis (8:00 AM – 3:00 PM CT):
- Opening Call (8:00 AM – 8:25 AM CT): Start your day with Topstep coaches, prepping you for the markets with news, key levels, and trading tips.
- Fast Markets (8:30 AM – 10:30 AM CT): Trade live alongside Topstep founder Michael Patak and expert guests. Learn from their setups, strategies, and ask questions in real-time.
- Shoulder Tap (10:30 AM – 11:15 AM CT): Celebrate top performers within the Topstep community. See the strategies that are working and get inspired for your own trading.
- Power Players (11:15 AM – 11:45 AM CT): Hear from successful Topstep funded traders. Gain insights into their approach to the Trading Combine and consistent profitability.
- Back to the Futures (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CT): Learn from experienced traders in the industry. Gain valuable tips and lessons from their journeys.
- Power Hour (2:00 PM – 3:00 PM CT): End your trading day strong with high-energy market analysis and a touch of Friday fun.
Exclusive Topstep TV Perks:
- Leaderboard Updates & Shout Outs: Showcase your best trades and get featured. Topstep coaches might even break down your strategies live on air.
- Fire Drills: Be the first to know about exciting new features, giveaways, and exclusive offers only for Topstep TV viewers.
- TopQuiz (11:45 AM – 12:00 PM CT): Take a 15-minute break with a chance to win big. Compete in daily interactive quizzes for prizes like free Trading Combine entries, Resets, and Gear Shop gift cards.
Beyond Entertainment – Get Support:
- Group Coaching (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM CT – Mon-Thurs): Have your trading questions answered live by experienced coaches throughout the week.
Topstep’s transparent payout policy ensures you get rewarded for your hard work. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:
Keeping 100% of Your Initial Profits:
- You enjoy 100% of your profits until your cumulative payouts across all Funded Accounts reach $10,000. This means you get to maximize your earnings during your initial growth phase.
Profit Sharing After $10,000:
- Once your cumulative payouts surpass $10,000, a 90/10 profit split takes effect. You retain a significant 90% of your profits, while Topstep receives a 10% share.
Requesting a Payout:
- Withdrawing your profits is simple. Submit a quick payout request form via the Topstep app.
Processing and Delivery Timeframes:
- Topstep processes payouts daily. However, there may be a waiting period of up to ten business days to receive the funds in your account.
- The exact timeframe depends on your chosen method:
- ACH Transfers: Allow up to ten business days for arrival.
- International Wire/SWIFT: Receive your funds faster, typically within three to five business days.
Minimum Payout and Documentation:
- To initiate a withdrawal, your request must be for at least $125.
- Ensure you have submitted all necessary documentation, including ACH/wire/SWIFT details and KYC (Know Your Customer) documents, for a smooth payout process.
Topstep prioritizes transparency and ease of access when it comes to your hard-earned profits. With a user-friendly withdrawal system and clear communication, you can focus on what truly matters, a successful trading.
With over a decade of industry expertise and trader feedback, TopstepX™ goes beyond just order execution. It’s a comprehensive environment crafted to empower you on your journey to becoming a Funded Trader.
Here’s what sets TopstepX™ apart:
Effortless Setup: Sign up and start trading in less than a minute with no complex installation. Trade seamlessly from any location using the web-based platform (PC and Mac compatible), with a dedicated mobile app for iOS and Android coming soon.
All-in-One Experience: Master the futures markets with a platform that integrates educational tools, trading challenges (like the Trading Combine®), and the potential to qualify for Funded Accounts all in one convenient place.
Seamless Trading Features:
- One-Click Evaluation: The Trading Combine® remains a one-step, one-rule process within TopstepX™.
- Integrated TradingView® Charts: Leverage your favorite charting tools, indicators, and customizations.
- The Tilt™: Gain real-time insights into trading bias among all Topstep traders with this exclusive prop trading indicator.
- Reliable Data Feed: Access a dedicated data feed directly from the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME).
- Simplified Order Management: Easily set and adjust profit and risk targets with drag-and-drop bracket orders, eliminating manual calculations.
- Focus on Trading: TopstepX™ simplifies contract selection ensuring you stay on the front month and avoid unnecessary contracts.
- Automated Risk Management: Protect your profits with auto-closure of positions at the end of the day and auto-liquidation upon reaching your profit target.
Enhanced Support System:
- Live TopstepTV Feed: Stay motivated and informed with the integrated live TopstepTV feed throughout the trading day.
- Live Chat Support: Connect directly with the Topstep team for instant assistance.
- Permitted Products at a Glance: A clear drop-down table displays available products with individual indicators showing market open/closed status for each.
- Beyond TopstepX™: Additional Platform Options
For even greater flexibility, Topstep offers compatibility with various external platforms for both simulated and funded accounts. These include:
- NinjaTrader 7
- TradingView
- Tradovate
- Sierra Chart
- T4
- ATAS (Order Flow Trading)
- Jigsaw Trader
- R|Trader
- Volfix
- MultiCharts
- MotiveWave
- Bookmap X-RAY
- Trade Navigator
- Investor/RT
The current products available to trade in TopstepX are:
- E-Mini S&P 500 (ES)
- E-Mini NASDAQ 100 (NQ)
- E-Mini Russell 200 (RTY)
- Mini-DOW (YM)
- Micro S&P 500 (MES)
- Micro NASDAQ 100 (MNQ)
- Crude Oil (CL)
- Gold (GC)
- Funded Accounts: Topstep empowers traders with access to capital through funded accounts. This is a game-changer, especially for those who wouldn't have the resources to trade with significant capital independently.
- Proven Track Record: With a decade of experience in the industry, Topstep boasts a strong reputation and a successful track record of helping traders achieve their goals.
- Topstep TV: Get insights and stay informed with TopstepTV, a unique live stream available weekdays. Learn from experts, ask questions, and elevate your trading knowledge.
- Profit Sharing: Topstep offers a lucrative profit-sharing model. Funded traders keep 100% of their initial profits up to $10,000, and even after that, they retain a significant 90% share.
- Coaching & Support: Topstep goes beyond just funding. They provide complimentary coaching programs designed to guide and support traders on their journey to success.
- Risk Management Tools: The trading simulator enforces strict trading standards, helping you develop discipline and minimize risks before venturing into live markets with real capital.
- Responsive Customer Service: Topstep prioritizes customer satisfaction. They offer comprehensive support through various channels, including email, phone, screen share, and live chat.
- Up to 5 Express Funded Accounts (XFA)
- Limited Market Focus: Topstep currently focuses exclusively on futures trading. This may not be ideal for traders interested in other asset classes like stocks or options.
- Infrequent Discounts: While they offer a great introductory discount, significant discounts might not be readily available all the time.
Topstep recognizes the challenges faced by aspiring traders. Limited capital, a lack of experience, and navigating the complexities of the futures market can be daunting hurdles. Topstep tackles these challenges head-on by offering a unique blend of resources. Qualify for a funded account and gain access to significant capital to trade with. This removes the initial barrier of entry and allows you to leverage your skills with real-world stakes.
Topstep isn’t just about funding your trades; it’s about nurturing your knowledge base. Benefit from a wealth of educational resources, including live coaching sessions, video tutorials, and a comprehensive trading simulator. Connect and learn from a vibrant community of fellow traders and experienced coaches. Topstep fosters a collaborative environment where you can share strategies, gain valuable insights, and stay motivated. Stay informed and engaged with TopstepTV, a live stream featuring market analysis, expert interviews, and Q&A sessions. This dynamic platform keeps you at the forefront of market movements and trading strategies.
Topstep faces competition from established players like Apex Trader Funding and MyFundedFutures. These firms offer similar features, including multiple account sizes, advanced platforms, and competitive payouts.
Whether you’re a seasoned trader seeking to refine your skills or a newcomer eager to learn the ropes, Topstep will provides a supportive platform to propel you towards your trading goals.
FAQs
Topstep has the best payout policy in the industry that allows disciplined traders to take weekly payouts. The best part? You get access to 100% of your profits after accumulating 30 winning trading days.
Traders can request a payout of up to 50% of their account balance after accumulating five winning trading days per payout request. A winning trading day is counted when a day’s Net PNL is $200 or more.
You can submit a request through this form in our app. Payouts are processed daily, but may take up to 10 business days to receive.
When a payout is requested and approved, and all appropriate forms are submitted (ACH / Wire / SWIFT info & KYC documents), we will remove the funds from the trader’s account. Topstep will then start the process of sending the funds to the trader. Your Payout arrival will depend on the payment method.
The available payout methods are:
- ACH: up to 10 business days
- International Wire/SWIFT: up to 3-5 business days
These transfer times are only estimates and may be impacted by additional reviews or requests for information at the discretion of the payment providers or the Finance & Compliance Team. Most payment providers, especially banks, do not process payments on weekends and public holidays.
*Minimum Payout Request is $125.00.
Traders will receive 100% of the profits from payouts, up to $10,000. After the first $10,000 of funds have been received by the trader, the profit split will become 90/10, with the trader receiving 90% of payouts and Topstep® retaining 10% of the requested payout. The payout policy is per trader and can be across multiple Funded Accounts. You will keep 100% of your profits until your payouts across Funded Accounts cumulatively add up to $10,000. Once your cumulative payouts exceed $10,000, you will be subject to the 90/10 profit split.
Once the payout request is processed, the Maximum Loss Limit will automatically be set to $0 (the trader cannot allow the account balance to reach or go below $0 after a payout).
Once you’ve locked in your account, you will keep this monthly price (see table below) until you are funded, or for the lifetime of your Trading Combine account.
Account Size | Monthly Membership Cost | Reset Price |
$50K Combine | $49 /month | $49 /reset |
$100k Combine | $99 /month | $99 /reset |
$150k Combine | $149 /month | $149 /reset |
You can lock in your Trading Combine membership for as low as $49, and stay at that price every month, until you earn funding or for the lifetime of that evaluation. Once you earn funding, you’ll pay a one-time $149 Activation Fee, and then no more fees, just earn payouts. The Activation Fee is the same price no matter which account size you trade in.
Level 1 data is included and Level 2 data can be purchased for $39 per month.
