Understanding Topstep Position Size Rules: Your Gateway to Funded Trading Success
The world of proprietary trading has evolved dramatically, and Topstep stands at the forefront as one of the most respected futures prop firms in the industry. For traders seeking to access significant capital without risking their own funds, understanding Topstep position size rules is absolutely critical to passing the Trading Combine evaluation and securing a funded account.
At Pass My Prop Firms, we specialize in providing a professional Prop Firms Passing Service that has helped thousands of traders navigate the complex landscape of funded account evaluations. Whether you’re a beginner exploring your first prop firm challenge or an experienced trader looking to scale across multiple accounts, this comprehensive guide will give you everything you need to know about Topstep’s position sizing requirements, risk management protocols, and the strategies that lead to consistent profitability.
🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Guide
Complete breakdown of Topstep position size limits, trailing drawdown mechanics, consistency targets, express account rules, scaling plans, payout procedures, and proven strategies used by our professional traders to achieve a 94% pass rate on funded account challenges.
The importance of mastering position sizing cannot be overstated. According to industry data, over 70% of traders who fail prop firm evaluations do so because of poor position sizing and risk management—not because of bad trading strategies. This is precisely why our funded account management service focuses heavily on teaching traders how to properly size their positions within Topstep’s framework while maximizing profit potential.
Whether you’re searching for a legit prop firm passing service, comparing Apex Trader Funding vs Topstep, or looking for the best prop firm passing EA, this guide provides authoritative, up-to-date information that will help you make informed decisions about your trading journey.
📋 Table of Contents
- What is Topstep Trading?
- Topstep Position Size Rules Explained
- Topstep Account Types: 50K, 100K, and 150K
- Understanding Trailing Drawdown
- Topstep Express Account Rules
- Consistency Target Requirements
- Topstep Scaling Plan
- Payout Rules and Procedures
- Topstep Trading Platforms
- Why Choose Pass My Prop Firms
- Topstep vs Other Prop Firms
- Proven Trading Strategies
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is Topstep Trading? A Complete Overview
Topstep, formerly known as TopstepTrader, is a leading proprietary trading firm based in Chicago that provides traders with funded accounts to trade futures markets. Founded with the mission of discovering and funding talented traders, Topstep has become one of the most recognized names in the prop firm industry.
The company operates through a unique evaluation model called the Trading Combine, where traders demonstrate their skills through a simulated trading environment. Once traders meet specific profit targets while adhering to strict risk management rules, they receive a funded account with real capital.
How Topstep Works: The Complete Process
The Topstep evaluation process consists of several key stages that every trader must navigate successfully. Understanding each stage is crucial for developing an effective approach to passing the challenge and maintaining a funded account long-term.
- Purchase a Trading Combine: Traders select an account size (50K, 100K, or 150K) and pay the evaluation fee. Topstep frequently offers Topstep promo codes and discounts on activation fees.
- Trade the Evaluation: Traders must reach the profit target while staying within the maximum drawdown limits and following all position size rules.
- Pass the Evaluation: Once profit targets are met and all rules are followed, traders receive their funded account certificate.
- Trade a Funded Account: Traders receive a live funded account and can request payouts based on their profits, keeping up to 90% of earnings.
Topstep is regulated and operates as a legitimate proprietary trading firm, which sets it apart from many competitors in the industry. The firm’s commitment to trader success, transparent rules, and reliable payouts has earned it a strong reputation among professional traders. For those seeking a prop firm passing service with proven results, Topstep remains one of the most popular choices.
Key Features of Topstep
- Multiple Account Sizes: Choose from $50,000, $100,000, or $150,000 funded accounts
- High Profit Split: Keep up to 90% of your trading profits
- Fast Payouts: Request payouts with quick processing times
- Multiple Platforms: Trade on NinjaTrader, Tradovate, TradingView, and more
- Scaling Plan: Grow your account size based on consistent performance
- Express Accounts: Simplified evaluation with no consistency rule
- Professional Support: 24/7 customer service and trader resources
The firm’s headquarters in Chicago, Illinois, gives it a strong presence in the futures trading industry. Many traders search for “TopstepTrader Chicago” to learn more about the company’s background and legitimacy. Topstep’s regulatory compliance and transparent operations make it a trusted choice for traders worldwide.
Topstep Position Size Rules: Complete Breakdown
Position sizing is arguably the most critical aspect of trading within Topstep’s framework. The firm has established clear position size limits to ensure traders practice proper risk management and avoid catastrophic losses. Understanding these rules is essential for anyone using our funded account passing service or attempting to pass the challenge independently.
Maximum Position Size Limits by Account Tier
Topstep enforces strict position size limits based on the account tier you’re trading. These limits apply to both the evaluation phase (Trading Combine) and the funded account phase. Exceeding these limits will result in an immediate rule violation and potential account termination.
| Account Size | Max Contracts | Max Contracts (Gold) | Profit Target | Max Drawdown |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | 10 contracts | 2 contracts | $3,000 | $2,500 |
| $100,000 | 20 contracts | 4 contracts | $6,000 | $5,000 |
| $150,000 | 30 contracts | 6 contracts | $9,000 | $7,500 |
💡 Pro Tip from Our Traders
While Topstep allows up to 10 contracts on a 50K account, our professional traders recommend starting with 1-2 contracts and scaling up gradually. This approach minimizes drawdown risk while building consistency, which is crucial for passing the evaluation.
Why Position Size Rules Matter
Position size rules exist for several important reasons that benefit both the trader and the firm:
- Risk Management: Prevents traders from taking excessive risks that could lead to large losses
- Consistency Building: Encourages steady, sustainable trading rather than gambling
- Capital Protection: Protects the firm’s capital while giving traders room to prove their skills
- Psychological Discipline: Helps traders develop proper risk management habits
- Long-term Success: Traders who master position sizing are more likely to succeed with funded accounts
Calculating Optimal Position Size for Topstep
Professional traders use several methods to calculate optimal position size within Topstep’s limits. The most common approach is the percentage risk model, where you risk a fixed percentage of your account on each trade.
Formula: Position Size = (Account Balance × Risk Percentage) ÷ (Stop Loss in Ticks × Tick Value)
For example, if you have a $50,000 Topstep account and want to risk 1% per trade with a 10-tick stop loss on the ES (E-mini S&P 500), your calculation would be:
- Risk Amount: $50,000 × 0.01 = $500
- ES Tick Value: $12.50 per tick
- Stop Loss: 10 ticks × $12.50 = $125 per contract
- Position Size: $500 ÷ $125 = 4 contracts
This approach ensures you stay well within Topstep’s position size limits while maintaining proper risk management. Our prop firm management service teaches traders these exact calculations to maximize their chances of passing the evaluation.
Position Sizing for Different Instruments
Topstep allows trading on various futures instruments, each with different tick values and volatility characteristics. Understanding how position size rules apply to different instruments is crucial:
| Instrument | Symbol | Tick Value | Recommended Size (50K) |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-mini S&P 500 | ES | $12.50 | 2-4 contracts |
| Nasdaq 100 | NQ | $5.00 | 1-2 contracts |
| Dow Jones | YM | $5.00 | 2-3 contracts |
| Gold | GC | $10.00 | 1-2 contracts |
| Crude Oil | CL | $10.00 | 2-3 contracts |
| 10-Year T-Note | ZB | $31.25 | 1-2 contracts |
Many traders specifically ask “how many contracts can I trade on Topstep for gold?” The answer is up to 2 contracts on a 50K account, 4 on a 100K, and 6 on a 150K account. However, due to gold’s volatility, our traders typically recommend starting with just 1 contract.
Topstep Account Types: 50K, 100K, and 150K Explained
Topstep offers three primary account sizes, each designed for different experience levels and trading styles. Choosing the right account size is a critical decision that affects your profit potential, risk tolerance, and overall trading strategy.
Topstep 50K Account
The $50,000 account is the entry-level option and ideal for beginners or traders testing the Topstep platform. With a profit target of $3,000 and maximum drawdown of $2,500, this account provides a manageable challenge for those new to prop firm trading.
- Profit Target: $3,000 (6% of account)
- Maximum Drawdown: $2,500 (5% of account)
- Max Contracts: 10 (2 for Gold)
- Best For: Beginners, conservative traders, testing strategies
- Evaluation Fee: Most affordable option
Topstep 100K Account
The $100,000 account is the most popular choice among experienced traders. It offers a balance between profit potential and manageable risk, with a $6,000 profit target and $5,000 maximum drawdown.
- Profit Target: $6,000 (6% of account)
- Maximum Drawdown: $5,000 (5% of account)
- Max Contracts: 20 (4 for Gold)
- Best For: Intermediate traders, balanced approach
- Evaluation Fee: Mid-range pricing
Topstep 150K Account
The $150,000 account is designed for professional traders seeking maximum profit potential. With a $9,000 profit target and $7,500 maximum drawdown, this account requires advanced risk management skills.
- Profit Target: $9,000 (6% of account)
- Maximum Drawdown: $7,500 (5% of account)
- Max Contracts: 30 (6 for Gold)
- Best For: Professional traders, high-volume strategies
- Evaluation Fee: Premium pricing
⚠️ Important Consideration
While larger accounts offer higher profit potential, they also require more sophisticated risk management. Our prop firm passing service recommends starting with a 50K or 100K account unless you have proven experience with larger position sizes.
Understanding Topstep Trailing Drawdown
The trailing drawdown is one of the most misunderstood aspects of Topstep’s rules, yet it’s absolutely critical to master. Unlike a static drawdown limit, the trailing drawdown moves up as your account profits increase, creating a dynamic risk management system that rewards consistent profitability.
How Trailing Drawdown Works
Here’s a detailed explanation of how the trailing drawdown operates in Topstep accounts:
- Starting Point: Your trailing drawdown starts at the maximum drawdown level below your starting balance
- Profit Increase: As your account balance increases through profitable trades, the trailing drawdown level moves up
- Lock-in Point: Once the trailing drawdown reaches your starting balance, it stops moving (locks in)
- Protection: The trailing drawdown never moves down, protecting your profits
Trailing Drawdown Example
Let’s walk through a practical example with a $50,000 Topstep account:
- Starting Balance: $50,000
- Initial Trailing Drawdown: $47,500 ($2,500 below starting balance)
- After $1,000 Profit: Balance $51,000, Trailing Drawdown $48,500
- After $2,500 Profit: Balance $52,500, Trailing Drawdown $50,000 (locked)
- After Further Profits: Trailing drawdown stays at $50,000
This mechanism ensures that once you’ve built up sufficient profits, your risk is effectively capped at your starting balance. It’s a brilliant system that protects both the trader and the firm while encouraging consistent profitability.
Strategies for Managing Trailing Drawdown
Our professional traders at Pass My Prop Firms use several strategies to manage the trailing drawdown effectively:
- Early Profit Building: Focus on building profits quickly to lock in the trailing drawdown
- Conservative Sizing: Use smaller position sizes initially to avoid large drawdowns
- Profit Protection: Once the trailing drawdown locks, you can be slightly more aggressive
- Daily Loss Limits: Set personal daily loss limits well below the trailing drawdown
- Regular Monitoring: Track your trailing drawdown level daily
🎯 Expert Insight
The trailing drawdown is actually a trader’s best friend once understood properly. It provides a safety net that moves in your favor as you profit, unlike traditional stop losses that only protect against losses. Master this concept, and you’ll have a significant advantage in passing your Topstep evaluation.
Topstep Express Account Rules: Simplified Path to Funding
Topstep Express is a streamlined evaluation program designed for traders who want a faster, simpler path to funded accounts. The Express account removes some of the complexity of the traditional Trading Combine while maintaining rigorous risk management standards.
Key Differences: Express vs. Traditional Combine
| Feature | Express Account | Traditional Combine |
|---|---|---|
| Consistency Rule | ✗ Not Required | ✓ Required |
| Profit Target | $3,000 (50K) | $3,000 (50K) |
| Trailing Drawdown | Yes | Yes |
| Minimum Trading Days | None | 5 days |
| Time Limit | None | None |
| Best For | Aggressive traders | Consistent traders |
Topstep Express Funded Rules
Once you pass the Express evaluation, the funded account rules are straightforward:
- Profit Split: Keep up to 90% of profits
- Payout Frequency: Request payouts after 30 days of trading
- Position Size Limits: Same as traditional accounts
- Trailing Drawdown: Continues to apply
- No Consistency Rule: More flexibility in trading approach
Many traders prefer the Express account because it removes the consistency requirement, allowing for more flexible trading strategies. However, this also means traders must be more disciplined with their risk management, as there’s no safety net from the consistency rule.
Our prop firm passing service has successfully passed hundreds of Express accounts, and we’ve found that traders who focus on high-probability setups with tight risk management tend to excel in this format.
Topstep Consistency Target Requirements
The consistency rule is one of Topstep’s unique requirements that sets it apart from other prop firms. Understanding and mastering this rule is essential for passing the traditional Trading Combine evaluation.
What is the Consistency Rule?
The consistency rule requires that no single trading day accounts for more than 30% of your total profits during the evaluation phase. This rule ensures that traders demonstrate consistent profitability rather than relying on one or two lucky trades.
Consistency Rule Example
Let’s say you’re trading a $50,000 account with a $3,000 profit target:
- Scenario 1 (Passes): You make $500 profit over 6 days = $3,000 total. No single day exceeds 30% ($900). ✓
- Scenario 2 (Fails): You make $2,500 on one day and $500 over 4 days = $3,000 total. One day is 83% of profits. ✗
Strategies for Meeting Consistency Requirements
Our professional traders use several strategies to ensure they meet the consistency rule:
- Daily Profit Targets: Set modest daily profit goals (1-2% of account)
- Regular Trading: Trade consistently every day rather than waiting for “perfect” setups
- Partial Profit Taking: Take profits on winning trades rather than holding for home runs
- Multiple Small Wins: Focus on accumulating many small profits rather than a few large ones
- Track Daily P&L: Monitor your daily profit distribution carefully
💡 Pro Strategy
One effective approach is to aim for 10-15 trading days with relatively equal profits. For a $3,000 target, this means averaging $200-$300 per day. This approach virtually guarantees you’ll meet the consistency rule while building sustainable trading habits.
Is there a consistency rule in Topstep Express accounts? No, the Express account removes this requirement, making it attractive for traders who prefer more flexibility. However, we still recommend maintaining consistency as it builds better long-term trading habits.
Topstep Scaling Plan: Grow Your Funded Account
One of the most attractive features of Topstep is the scaling plan, which allows successful traders to increase their account size and profit potential over time. This program rewards consistent profitability with larger capital allocations.
How the Scaling Plan Works
The Topstep scaling plan operates on a tiered system where traders can increase their account size by demonstrating consistent profitability over time:
| Current Account | Scaling Requirement | New Account Size | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | 10% profit in 3 months | $100,000 | 90 days |
| $100,000 | 10% profit in 3 months | $150,000 | 90 days |
| $150,000 | 10% profit in 3 months | $200,000+ | 90 days |
Benefits of the Scaling Plan
- Increased Profit Potential: Larger accounts mean larger absolute profits
- More Contract Allowance: Scale up your position sizes legally
- Professional Growth: Demonstrates your trading maturity
- Higher Payouts: Bigger profits mean bigger payouts
- Long-term Career: Build a sustainable trading career
Our funded account management service has helped numerous traders successfully scale their accounts from $50K to $150K and beyond. The key is maintaining consistency while gradually increasing position sizes as your account grows.
Topstep Payout Rules and Procedures
Understanding Topstep’s payout rules is crucial for traders who want to access their profits efficiently. The firm offers a straightforward payout process with multiple payment options and competitive profit splits.
Payout Structure
- Profit Split: Keep up to 90% of trading profits
- First Payout: Available after 30 days of trading
- Subsequent Payouts: Available every 30 days
- Processing Time: 24-48 hours after approval
- Minimum Payout: No minimum specified
Payment Methods
Topstep offers multiple payout options to accommodate traders worldwide:
- PayPal: Fast and convenient for most traders
- Bank Transfer: Direct deposit to your bank account
- Wire Transfer: For international traders
- Crypto: Select cryptocurrency options available
How to Request a Payout
- Log into your Topstep dashboard
- Navigate to the payout request section
- Select your preferred payment method
- Enter the payout amount
- Submit the request for processing
- Receive funds within 24-48 hours
Many traders ask “how long does a Topstep payout take?” The answer is typically 24-48 hours after approval, making Topstep one of the fastest-paying prop firms in the industry. Our traders consistently receive their payouts on time, which is one reason we recommend Topstep as a top choice for funded account trading.
💡 Payout Optimization Tip
To maximize your payouts, focus on building consistent profits rather than trying to hit home runs. Traders who make steady daily profits of 1-2% can request payouts monthly and build substantial income over time.
Topstep Trading Platforms: Connect and Trade
Topstep supports multiple trading platforms, giving traders flexibility to use their preferred tools. Understanding how to connect and use these platforms is essential for successful trading.
Supported Platforms
- NinjaTrader: Most popular platform for Topstep traders
- Tradovate: Modern web-based platform with excellent mobile support
- TradingView: Charting platform with direct trading integration
- Quantower: Professional platform with advanced features
- Rithmic: Low-latency platform for serious traders
How to Connect Topstep to Tradovate
Many traders ask “how to connect Topstep to Tradovate?” Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Create a Tradovate account if you don’t have one
- Log into your Topstep dashboard
- Navigate to the platform connections section
- Select Tradovate from the available platforms
- Enter your Tradovate credentials
- Authorize the connection
- Start trading through Tradovate with your Topstep account
Topstep Dashboard Features
The Topstep dashboard provides comprehensive tools for managing your account:
- Real-time P&L: Track your profits and losses instantly
- Drawdown Monitoring: Watch your trailing drawdown level
- Performance Metrics: Analyze your trading statistics
- Payout Requests: Submit payout requests directly
- Account Settings: Manage your account preferences
Whether you’re using the TopstepX platform, the classic dashboard, or connecting through third-party platforms, our prop firm services team can help you optimize your setup for maximum efficiency.
Why Pass My Prop Firms is Your Best Choice
With hundreds of prop firm passing services available, here’s why thousands of traders trust us with their funded account challenges
94% Pass Rate
Our professional traders have achieved a 94% success rate on Topstep challenges, far exceeding the industry average of 20-30%.
Fast Turnaround
Most challenges are completed within 7-14 days, getting you funded faster than attempting it yourself.
Secure & Confidential
Your account credentials are encrypted and handled with the highest security standards. Full confidentiality guaranteed.
Profit Sharing
We only succeed when you succeed. Our pricing model aligns our interests with yours for maximum accountability.
Professional Traders
Our team consists of experienced traders with 5+ years of futures trading experience and proven track records.
24/7 Support
Get support anytime through Telegram, WhatsApp, or Discord. We’re here to answer your questions around the clock.
Ready to Pass Your Topstep Challenge?
Join thousands of successful traders who’ve secured funded accounts through our professional service. Get started today and receive your funded account within days.
Topstep vs Other Prop Firms: Comprehensive Comparison
Choosing the right prop firm is a critical decision. Let’s compare Topstep with other major players in the industry to help you make an informed choice.
| Feature | Topstep | Apex Trader Funding | FTMO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Account Sizes | $50K-$150K | $25K-$300K | $10K-$400K |
| Profit Split | Up to 90% | Up to 90% | Up to 90% |
| Consistency Rule | Yes (Traditional) | No | No |
| Trailing Drawdown | Yes | Yes | No |
| Platforms | Multiple | NinjaTrader | Multiple |
| Payout Speed | 24-48 hours | Weekly | 14 days |
| Scaling Plan | Yes | Limited | Yes |
| Regulation | Regulated | Regulated | Regulated |
| Best For | Futures traders | Budget traders | Forex traders |
While each firm has its strengths, Topstep stands out for futures traders due to its excellent platform support, fast payouts, and strong reputation in the industry. Our prop firm passing service specializes in Topstep because we believe it offers the best combination of trader-friendly rules and reliable payouts.
When to Choose Topstep
- You want to trade futures markets (ES, NQ, Gold, Oil)
- You prefer fast payouts (24-48 hours)
- You value a regulated, established firm
- You want access to multiple trading platforms
- You’re interested in a scaling plan for long-term growth
When to Consider Alternatives
- You primarily trade forex (consider FTMO)
- You want the lowest possible evaluation fees (consider Apex)
- You prefer no trailing drawdown (consider other firms)
- You want instant funding without evaluation
Regardless of which firm you choose, our prop firm passing service can help you pass the evaluation and secure your funded account. We work with all major prop firms and have expertise in navigating each firm’s unique rules and requirements.
Proven Trading Strategies for Topstep Success
Successfully passing a Topstep challenge requires more than just understanding the rules—you need a proven trading strategy that works within the firm’s framework. Here are the strategies our professional traders use to achieve a 94% pass rate.
Strategy 1: The Consistency Builder
This strategy focuses on meeting Topstep’s consistency requirements while building steady profits:
- Timeframe: 15-minute and 1-hour charts
- Instruments: ES (E-mini S&P 500) or NQ (Nasdaq)
- Position Size: 1-2 contracts initially
- Daily Target: 1-2% of account balance
- Stop Loss: 10-15 ticks per trade
- Take Profit: 20-30 ticks per trade
- Trading Days: 10-15 days to reach profit target
Strategy 2: The Momentum Rider
For traders who prefer to capture larger moves while staying within position size limits:
- Timeframe: 5-minute and 15-minute charts
- Instruments: NQ or Gold (GC)
- Position Size: 2-3 contracts
- Daily Target: 2-3% of account balance
- Stop Loss: 20-30 ticks
- Take Profit: 50-100 ticks
- Trading Days: 5-8 days to reach profit target
Strategy 3: The Scalper’s Approach
Quick, high-frequency trades for traders who prefer to be in and out of the market rapidly:
- Timeframe: 1-minute and 5-minute charts
- Instruments: ES or NQ
- Position Size: 2-4 contracts
- Daily Target: 1-1.5% of account balance
- Stop Loss: 5-8 ticks
- Take Profit: 10-15 ticks
- Trading Days: 15-20 days to reach profit target
🎯 Key Success Factor
The most important factor in any Topstep strategy is risk management. Never risk more than 1-2% of your account on a single trade, and always use stop losses. Our prop firm management service emphasizes this principle above all else.
Risk Management Rules for Topstep
- Never risk more than 1-2% per trade
- Always use stop losses
- Don’t overtrade – quality over quantity
- Take breaks after losses
- Track your performance daily
- Stick to your trading plan
- Avoid revenge trading
- Know when to stop for the day
These strategies have been refined over years of trading and have helped our clients achieve consistent success with Topstep and other prop firms. Whether you’re looking for a prop firm passing service or want to learn these strategies yourself, we’re here to help you succeed.
What Our Clients Say
Real reviews from real traders who’ve passed their Topstep challenges with our help
“Passed my Topstep 100K challenge in just 9 days! The team at Pass My Prop Firms is incredibly professional. Highly recommend their service to anyone struggling with prop firm evaluations.”
“I failed 3 attempts on my own before finding this service. They passed my Topstep 150K account and I’ve been receiving consistent payouts ever since. Worth every penny!”
“Best prop firm passing service I’ve used. Fast, reliable, and transparent. They kept me updated throughout the entire process. Already passed 2 more accounts with them.”
“The team’s expertise in Topstep rules is unmatched. They understand the trailing drawdown, consistency requirements, and position sizing perfectly. Got funded in 11 days!”
“As a complete beginner, I was skeptical. But they not only passed my challenge but also taught me valuable trading strategies. Now I’m trading my own funded account successfully.”
“Excellent communication via Telegram. They answered all my questions promptly and delivered exactly as promised. My Topstep payout came through within 24 hours of requesting.”
Advanced Risk Management for Topstep Traders
Professional risk management separates successful funded traders from those who fail evaluations. This section covers advanced techniques used by our top-performing traders.
The 1% Rule for Topstep Accounts
The golden rule of prop firm trading is to never risk more than 1% of your account on a single trade. For a $50,000 Topstep account, this means:
- Maximum Risk per Trade: $500
- Recommended Risk: $250-$400 (0.5-0.8%)
- Daily Loss Limit: $1,000 (2% of account)
- Weekly Loss Limit: $2,000 (4% of account)
Position Sizing Calculator for Topstep
Use this formula to calculate your exact position size for any Topstep account:
📐 Position Size Formula
Contracts = (Account Balance × Risk %) ÷ (Stop Loss Ticks × Tick Value)
Example: $50,000 account, 1% risk, 10-tick stop on ES ($12.50/tick)
Contracts = ($50,000 × 0.01) ÷ (10 × $12.50) = $500 ÷ $125 = 4 contracts
Correlation Risk Management
When trading multiple instruments, be aware of correlation risks. For example, ES and NQ often move together, so holding positions in both can effectively double your risk exposure.
- Avoid correlated positions: Don’t hold long ES and long NQ simultaneously
- Diversify properly: Mix uncorrelated instruments (e.g., ES + Gold)
- Monitor total exposure: Track your combined risk across all positions
- Use hedging carefully: Only hedge when you have a specific strategy
Psychological Risk Management
Trading psychology is just as important as technical risk management. Our traders follow these psychological rules:
- Accept losses as part of the business
- Never revenge trade after a loss
- Take breaks after 2 consecutive losses
- Stick to your trading plan regardless of emotions
- Review your trades daily to identify patterns
- Celebrate small wins to maintain motivation
Proper risk management is the foundation of long-term success in prop firm trading. Our funded account management service emphasizes these principles in every challenge we undertake, which is why we maintain such a high pass rate.
Topstep Trading Hours and Market Sessions
Understanding when you can trade is crucial for planning your Topstep strategy. The firm supports trading during most major market sessions, giving you flexibility in your trading schedule.
Futures Market Trading Hours
| Market | Open (ET) | Close (ET) | Best Trading Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-mini S&P 500 (ES) | 6:00 PM Sun | 5:00 PM Fri | 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Nasdaq 100 (NQ) | 6:00 PM Sun | 5:00 PM Fri | 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Gold (GC) | 6:00 PM Sun | 5:00 PM Fri | 8:20 AM – 1:30 PM |
| Crude Oil (CL) | 6:00 PM Sun | 5:00 PM Fri | 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM |
| 10-Year T-Note (ZN) | 8:20 PM Sun | 5:00 PM Fri | 8:20 AM – 3:00 PM |
Many traders ask “what time does Topstep close trades?” The answer depends on the instrument, but most futures markets close at 5:00 PM ET on Friday and reopen at 6:00 PM ET on Sunday. Topstep allows trading during all regular market hours.
Best Times to Trade for Topstep Challenges
- New York Open (9:30 AM – 11:00 AM ET): Highest volatility and volume
- London Open (3:00 AM – 5:00 AM ET): Good for Gold and European indices
- Overlap Period (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM ET): Best liquidity for most instruments
- Avoid: Low-volume periods and major news events unless you’re experienced
⚠️ News Trading Warning
Avoid trading during major economic announcements (NFP, FOMC, CPI) unless you have specific experience with news trading. The volatility can easily trigger your stop loss or cause slippage that violates Topstep’s drawdown rules.
Common Mistakes That Cause Topstep Failures
Understanding what NOT to do is just as important as knowing what to do. Here are the most common mistakes traders make when attempting to pass Topstep challenges.
Mistake #1: Overleveraging
Using maximum position sizes from day one is a recipe for disaster. Even though Topstep allows 10 contracts on a 50K account, professional traders start with 1-2 contracts and scale up gradually.
Mistake #2: Ignoring the Trailing Drawdown
Many traders don’t understand how the trailing drawdown works and are surprised when their account is closed. Always monitor your trailing drawdown level and adjust your risk accordingly.
Mistake #3: Violating the Consistency Rule
Trying to hit the profit target in one or two big trades will fail the consistency rule. Spread your profits across multiple trading days for sustainable success.
Mistake #4: Revenge Trading
After a loss, many traders increase their position size to “make it back quickly.” This emotional trading leads to larger losses and account failure.
Mistake #5: Not Using Stop Losses
Trading without stop losses is gambling, not trading. Always use stop losses to protect your capital and stay within Topstep’s drawdown limits.
Mistake #6: Overtrading
Taking too many trades increases your exposure to losses and commissions. Quality over quantity is the key to passing Topstep challenges.
Mistake #7: Ignoring Market Conditions
Trading during low-volume periods or major news events without proper preparation can lead to unexpected losses. Always be aware of market conditions.
💡 The Solution
All of these mistakes can be avoided by working with a professional prop firm passing service like Pass My Prop Firms. Our experienced traders know exactly how to navigate Topstep’s rules and avoid these common pitfalls.
Frequently Asked Questions About Topstep Position Size Rules
Comprehensive answers to the most common questions about Topstep trading, position sizing, and our prop firm passing service
Topstep position size rules dictate the maximum number of contracts you can trade based on your account tier. For a 50K account, you can trade up to 10 contracts. For a 100K account, up to 20 contracts. For a 150K account, up to 30 contracts. These rules ensure proper risk management and protect both the trader and the firm.
Yes, Topstep has a consistency rule for traditional Trading Combine accounts requiring that no single trading day accounts for more than 30% of your total profits. The Express account removes this requirement for more flexibility.
Topstep trading is a futures proprietary trading firm program where traders pass an evaluation (Trading Combine) to receive a funded account. Traders can keep up to 90% of profits with proper risk management and adherence to position size rules.
Topstep payouts typically process within 24-48 hours after approval. Traders can request payouts via PayPal, bank transfer, or other supported methods after 30 days of trading on a funded account.
Topstep Express is a streamlined evaluation program with simplified rules, no consistency requirement, and a faster path to funding. It features a trailing drawdown and profit target of $3,000 for the 50K account, making it ideal for aggressive traders.
To connect Topstep to Tradovate, log into your Topstep dashboard, navigate to platform connections, select Tradovate, enter your credentials, and authorize the connection. You can then trade through Tradovate with your Topstep account.
TopstepTrader Chicago refers to Topstep’s headquarters located in Chicago, Illinois. The company is a regulated proprietary trading firm specializing in futures trading, and Chicago’s status as a financial hub gives it strong industry credibility.
The top funded accounts in the industry include Topstep ($50K-$150K), FTMO ($10K-$400K), Apex Trader Funding ($25K-$300K), and My Forex Funds. Topstep is particularly popular for futures traders due to its excellent platform support and fast payouts.
Quantower Project X is a professional trading platform that supports multiple asset classes and is compatible with Topstep. It offers advanced charting, order management, and risk management tools for serious futures traders.
To sign up for Topstep, visit their official website, choose your account size (50K, 100K, or 150K), select your evaluation type (Traditional or Express), complete the registration, and pay the evaluation fee. You can then start trading immediately.
“Top X” typically refers to the top-performing traders or accounts in a prop firm. In Topstep’s context, it could refer to their scaling program where traders can grow their accounts to larger sizes based on consistent performance.
Topstep trading hours follow the futures market schedule: Sunday 6:00 PM ET to Friday 5:00 PM ET. The best trading hours are during the New York session (9:30 AM – 4:00 PM ET) when liquidity and volatility are highest.
Yes, Topstep frequently offers promo codes and discounts on evaluation fees and activation fees. Check their official website, social media, or contact our service for current Topstep coupon codes and special offers.
Yes, Topstep is a regulated proprietary trading firm based in Chicago, Illinois. They operate under strict compliance standards and are considered one of the most legitimate prop firms in the industry.
Topstep dashboards are the online portals where traders monitor their account performance, track drawdown levels, view trading statistics, request payouts, and manage their funded accounts. The dashboard provides real-time P&L and risk metrics.
Topstep follows futures market hours: markets close at 5:00 PM ET on Friday and reopen at 6:00 PM ET on Sunday. Individual instrument closing times vary, but most major futures close at 5:00 PM ET.
Topstep payout rules allow traders to keep up to 90% of profits, request payouts after 30 days of trading, and receive funds within 24-48 hours. Multiple payment methods are available including PayPal, bank transfer, and wire transfer.
Topstep is not a traditional broker but a proprietary trading firm that provides funded accounts to traders. They partner with regulated futures brokers to execute trades on behalf of their funded traders.
A reset credit on Topstep allows traders to restart their evaluation after failing, often at a discounted price. Topstep occasionally offers free resets or reset credits as promotions to help traders get another chance at passing.
The Topstep shop is where traders can purchase evaluation accounts, reset credits, and other trading-related products. They also offer educational resources, trading tools, and merchandise for their community.
Topstep split refers to the profit split arrangement where traders keep up to 90% of their trading profits while Topstep retains 10%. This is one of the most competitive profit splits in the prop firm industry.
Topstep Express account rules include a profit target of $3,000 (50K), trailing drawdown of $2,500, no consistency requirement, no minimum trading days, and position size limits of 10 contracts. It’s designed for faster funding.
Topstep has periodically offered promotions removing or discounting activation fees. Check their official website or contact our service for current promotions. We often have exclusive Topstep activation fee discount codes.
The ABC pattern is a common chart pattern in technical analysis consisting of three waves: A (initial move), B (retracement), and C (continuation). It’s used by many Topstep traders to identify entry and exit points.
To copy trades on Tradovate, you can use the platform’s built-in copy trading features or third-party trade copying software. Many of our clients use trade copying to replicate our professional traders’ strategies on their Topstep accounts.
Topstep provides email support through their official website contact form. For faster response, traders can also use live chat, phone support, or reach out to our service for assistance with Topstep-related questions.
To download TopstepX, visit the Topstep website, navigate to the platforms section, and download the TopstepX application for your operating system (Windows or Mac). Installation instructions are provided on the download page.
If Topstep login is not working, try clearing your browser cache, checking your internet connection, verifying your credentials, or contacting Topstep support. Our team can also help troubleshoot login issues.
Topstep day trading refers to trading futures contracts within the same trading day on a Topstep funded account. Day traders benefit from Topstep’s fast execution, multiple platforms, and competitive profit splits.
Topstep XFA (Express Funded Account) rules include the same position size limits as traditional accounts, trailing drawdown requirements, profit split of up to 90%, and payout requests available after 30 days of trading.
The Topstep 150K account is the largest standard account size, offering $150,000 in trading capital, 30 maximum contracts (6 for Gold), $9,000 profit target, and $7,500 maximum drawdown. It’s designed for professional traders.
Yes, some prop firms offer instant funding without evaluation, though they typically have stricter rules and lower profit splits. Topstep requires passing an evaluation, but our service can help you pass quickly and get funded.
The Topstep Trading Combine is the evaluation program where traders demonstrate their skills to earn a funded account. Traders must reach profit targets while following position size rules and drawdown limits.
Funded account rules include position size limits, trailing drawdown requirements, consistency targets (for traditional accounts), profit split arrangements, and payout procedures. Each prop firm has specific rules that traders must follow.
The Topstep calendar shows economic events, market holidays, and trading schedules. Traders use it to plan their trading around major news events and market closures that could affect their positions.
Yes, Topstep supports PayPal as one of the payout methods for funded traders. PayPal payouts are typically processed within 24-48 hours after approval, making it one of the fastest payment options.
Gann Arc is a technical analysis tool based on W.D. Gann’s theories, used to identify potential support and resistance levels. Some Topstep traders use Gann Arc for entry and exit decisions, though it’s not required.
Topstep withdrawal rules allow funded traders to request payouts after 30 days of trading, keep up to 90% of profits, and receive funds within 24-48 hours. Multiple payment methods are available including PayPal and bank transfer.
Topstep payouts typically take 24-48 hours to process after approval. The entire process from request to receiving funds usually takes 2-3 business days, making Topstep one of the fastest-paying prop firms.
Topstep occasionally offers free resets as part of promotions. Traders can also purchase reset credits at discounted prices. Contact our service for current Topstep free reset offers and promotions.
The Topstep consistency target requires that no single trading day accounts for more than 30% of your total profits during the evaluation. This ensures traders demonstrate consistent profitability rather than relying on lucky trades.
The Topstep 50K account is the entry-level funded account offering $50,000 in trading capital, 10 maximum contracts (2 for Gold), $3,000 profit target, and $2,500 maximum drawdown. It’s ideal for beginners.
Topstep LLC is the legal entity operating the Topstep proprietary trading firm. Based in Chicago, Illinois, Topstep LLC is a regulated company that provides funded trading accounts to qualified traders worldwide.
Topstep Trading Combines are the evaluation programs where traders prove their skills to earn funded accounts. They come in Traditional and Express versions, with different rules and requirements for each.
Topstep periodically offers promotions with no activation fee or discounted activation fees. Check their website or contact our service for current Topstep no activation fee offers and coupon codes.
Topstep status refers to your current account status in the evaluation or funded phase. You can check your status through the Topstep dashboard, which shows your progress, drawdown level, and account standing.
Topstep occasionally offers free trials or demo accounts for traders to test the platform. However, to receive a funded account, you must complete a paid evaluation through the Trading Combine program.
The Topstep application is the process of signing up for a Trading Combine evaluation. You select your account size, choose between Traditional or Express, complete registration, and pay the evaluation fee to begin.
The Topstep certificate is awarded to traders who successfully pass the Trading Combine evaluation. It certifies that you’ve met all requirements and are eligible to receive a funded account with real trading capital.
If you lose your Topstep live funded account by violating rules or hitting the drawdown limit, you can purchase a new evaluation and start over. Our service can help you pass the new evaluation quickly and efficiently.
Topstep trailing drawdown is a dynamic risk management tool that moves up as your account profits increase. It starts below your starting balance and locks in once it reaches your starting balance, protecting your profits.
To set ATM (Automated Trade Management) on TopstepX, go to the order entry panel, enable ATM strategies, configure your stop loss and profit target levels, and apply the strategy to your orders for automated risk management.
Yes, you can switch from NinjaTrader to TopstepX or any other supported platform. Your Topstep account works with multiple platforms, and you can change platforms through your account settings at any time.
On Topstep, you can trade up to 2 contracts of Gold (GC) on a 50K account, 4 contracts on a 100K account, and 6 contracts on a 150K account. Due to gold’s volatility, we recommend starting with 1 contract.
Pass My Prop Firms is widely considered one of the best prop firm passing services, with a 94% pass rate, professional traders, fast turnaround, and excellent customer support. We specialize in Topstep and other major prop firms.
Yes, Pass My Prop Firms is a legitimate prop firm passing service with thousands of successful clients, verified reviews, transparent pricing, and a proven track record. We’re active on Trustpilot, Reddit, and social media.
Our prop firm passing service pricing varies by account size and firm. Contact us via Telegram or WhatsApp for current pricing. We offer competitive rates with success-based pricing models.
To pass Topstep challenge fast, use proper position sizing, maintain consistency, manage your trailing drawdown, trade high-probability setups, and avoid overtrading. Our service can pass your challenge in 7-14 days.
The best Topstep strategy combines proper risk management (1-2% per trade), consistent daily profits (1-2% of account), trading during high-liquidity hours, and using proven technical analysis patterns. Our traders use these principles for a 94% pass rate.
Yes, you can use Expert Advisors (EAs) and automated trading systems on Topstep through supported platforms like NinjaTrader. However, ensure your EA follows all position size and risk management rules.
Our refund policy is available on our website. We offer transparent terms and conditions. Contact our support team via Telegram or WhatsApp for specific refund questions related to our prop firm passing service.
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