Discover everything about Topstep trading in 2026 — from evaluation rules and payout policies to scaling plans. Our professional prop firm passing service helps beginners and experienced traders secure funded accounts with a 92% success rate.
A complete beginner’s guide to understanding one of the world’s most trusted prop trading firms
If you’re searching for a Topstep review for beginners, you’ve landed in the right place. Topstep is a Chicago-based proprietary trading firm that has been empowering futures traders since 2012. With its flagship program called the Trading Combine, Topstep offers traders the opportunity to earn a funded trading account without risking their own capital.
Unlike traditional brokers, Topstep doesn’t require traders to deposit thousands of dollars. Instead, you pay a small evaluation fee, prove your trading skills through a structured challenge, and get access to accounts ranging from $50,000 to $300,000. This model has made Topstep one of the top funded accounts providers in the industry.
Topstep is regulated by the CFTC (Commodity Futures Trading Commission) and is a member of the NFA (National Futures Association), making it one of the most compliant and transparent prop firms available today. For beginners asking “what is Topstep trading?” — it’s essentially a gateway to professional futures trading without the traditional barriers.
Key Fact: Topstep has paid out over $100 million to traders worldwide since its inception, making it a proven and reliable partner for serious traders.
Understanding the complete journey from sign-up to funded account
Visit the Topstep sign up page and choose your Trading Combine account size. Use a Topstep promo code or Topstep coupon codes to save up to 50% on your evaluation fee.
Trade futures markets during Topstep trading hours while following the express rules. Hit the profit target without breaching the trailing drawdown or daily loss limits.
Once you pass, you receive a Topstep funded account with real capital. Start trading with up to $300,000 in buying power and keep up to 90% of your profits.
Submit a Topstep payout request anytime after meeting minimum trading days. Payouts are processed quickly via bank transfer, PayPal, or other methods.
The journey from signing up at topsteptrader chicago headquarters (virtually) to receiving your first payout is straightforward but requires discipline. Many beginners struggle with the evaluation phase, which is exactly why our prop firm passing service exists.
When you topstep sign up, you’ll need to select your account size, choose a platform (Tradovate, NinjaTrader, or TradingView via Quantower Project X), and begin trading. The evaluation typically takes 7-30 days depending on your strategy and market conditions.
One common question is how to connect Topstep to Tradovate. The process is simple: after purchasing your Combine, you’ll receive credentials to log into Tradovate directly. For NinjaTrader users, you’ll connect via the Rithmic or CQG feed. If you’re wondering how to download TopstepX, the new TopstepX platform is available directly from their website after account activation.
Many new traders fail because they don’t understand the Topstep trailing drawdown rules. The trailing drawdown follows your unrealized profits during a trade, which can trigger a failure even if your account balance looks healthy. Our experts help you navigate these nuances.
Choose the perfect account size for your trading style and goals
| Account Size | Profit Target | Max Trailing Drawdown | Daily Loss Limit | Monthly Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Topstep 50k | $3,000 | $2,500 | $2,000 | $49 |
| Topstep 100k account | $6,000 | $5,000 | $4,000 | $79 |
| Topstep 150k | $9,000 | $7,500 | $6,000 | $109 |
| Topstep 300k | $15,000 | $15,000 | $10,000 | $179 |
Choosing between a Topstep 50k and a Topstep 100k account depends on your experience level and risk tolerance. Beginners typically start with the 50k account to learn the ropes, while experienced traders often go straight for the 100k or 150k accounts.
The Topstep 150k account is particularly popular among our clients because it offers the best balance between profit potential and manageable drawdown limits. With a $9,000 profit target and $7,500 trailing drawdown, it’s challenging but achievable with proper strategy.
For traders wondering how many contracts can I trade on Topstep for gold, the answer depends on your account size. A 50k account typically allows 1-2 contracts, while the 150k account allows up to 5 contracts on GC (Gold futures). Always check the latest Topstep express account rules before trading.
If you’re looking for a prop firm with instant funding, Topstep offers an Express Funded Account option that skips the evaluation phase entirely — though it comes with stricter rules. Our funded account management service can help you navigate both paths.
Master the evaluation rules to pass your Trading Combine
Each account size has a specific profit target you must reach. For example, the 50k account requires $3,000 in profits. You can achieve this over multiple trading days.
The Topstep trailing drawdown is the maximum loss allowed from your starting balance or highest unrealized profit. Understanding this is crucial for passing.
You must trade for a minimum number of days (typically 5-7) before requesting a payout. This ensures consistent trading behavior.
Each account has a maximum daily loss limit. If you breach this limit, your account will be failed. Risk management is essential.
Topstep allows news trading but has specific rules around high-impact events. Check the Topstep calendar for economic releases.
Wondering what is a reset credit on Topstep? It’s a free or discounted retry of your evaluation if you fail. Topstep occasionally offers Topstep free reset promotions.
🎯 Pro Tip: Many traders ask is there a consistency rule in Topstep? The answer is no — Topstep does NOT have a consistency rule on funded accounts, which makes it more flexible than competitors. However, during the evaluation phase, you should maintain consistent trading to build good habits.
Everything you need to know about getting paid
One of the most common questions from beginners is how long does Topstep payout take? The answer is typically 24-48 hours after your payout request is approved. Topstep processes payouts via bank wire, PayPal, and other methods.
The Topstep payout rules are straightforward: you must trade for a minimum of 5 days, have a positive account balance, and submit your payout request through the dashboard. There’s no maximum payout limit, which is a huge advantage over other firms.
When you submit a Topstep payout request, you’ll receive a Topstep payout certificate confirming the transaction. This certificate serves as proof of your earnings and can be used for tax purposes.
Topstep pays out 100% of your first $10,000 in profits, then switches to a 90/10 split (you keep 90%). This is one of the most generous payout structures in the industry. For comparison, many other firms only offer 80/20 splits.
Scale your account up to $4 million in buying power
The Topstep scaling plan is one of the most attractive features for serious traders. Once you’re consistently profitable, Topstep will increase your account size and buying power, allowing you to trade larger positions and earn more.
Here’s how the scaling works:
This scaling opportunity is what makes Topstep one of the top funded accounts providers. Unlike other firms that cap your growth, Topstep rewards consistent performance with increased capital.
Trade on your preferred platform with seamless integration
Tradovate is Topstep’s primary platform, offering advanced charting, one-click trading, and mobile access. Learn how to connect Topstep to Tradovate in minutes with our step-by-step guide.
NinjaTrader is a popular choice for advanced traders. Connect via Rithmic or CQG feed and use custom indicators, automated strategies, and advanced order types.
Trade directly from TradingView charts with Topstep’s integration. Perfect for traders who love TradingView’s interface and want seamless execution.
Quantower Project X is Topstep’s new advanced platform offering institutional-grade tools, DOM trading, and advanced analytics for professional traders.
The Topstep dashboard is your command center for tracking performance, managing accounts, and requesting payouts. Access it anytime from the Topstep dashboard login page.
Learn how to set ATM on TopstepX for automated trade management. ATM strategies help you manage risk and lock in profits automatically.
Many traders ask how to copy trade on Topstep or how to copy trades on Tradovate. While Topstep doesn’t have built-in copy trading, you can use third-party tools or our prop firm management service to replicate successful strategies across multiple accounts.
For traders wondering can I change from Ninja to TopstepX, the answer is yes — you can switch platforms at any time by contacting Topstep support. The transition is smooth and doesn’t affect your account status.
If you’re experiencing Topstep login not working issues, try clearing your browser cache, checking your credentials, or contacting support. Common issues are usually resolved quickly.
Comprehensive comparison of the two leading prop firms
Verdict: While both firms have their merits, Topstep edges out Apex in regulation, platform flexibility, and payout speed. For traders serious about building a long-term career, Topstep is the superior choice. However, if you’re on a tight budget, Apex’s frequent discounts make it attractive for beginners.
The perfect starting point for your prop trading journey
Topstep has earned its reputation as the go-to prop firm for beginners for several compelling reasons. The evaluation process is straightforward, the rules are transparent, and the support team is responsive.
For traders searching for a Topstep free trial, Topstep occasionally offers demo accounts and promotional periods where you can test the platform before committing. These trials are a great way to familiarize yourself with the interface and rules.
Many beginners also look for Topstep activation fee discount codes. While Topstep doesn’t always waive activation fees, they frequently run promotions that reduce or eliminate these costs. Check our prop firm services page for the latest deals.
Let our expert traders pass your challenge while you focus on learning
Our prop firm passing service is designed for traders who want to secure a funded account without the stress of passing the evaluation themselves. With a 92% success rate and over 15,000 accounts passed, we’re the industry leader.
Here’s what makes our service different:
Whether you’re looking for a legit prop firm passing service or need help with multiple accounts, our team has the expertise to deliver results. We’ve helped traders pass challenges with Topstep, Apex, FTMO, MyForexFunds, and dozens of other firms.
Our service is designed to help traders who have the knowledge but lack the time or emotional discipline to pass evaluations. We do not guarantee profits on funded accounts — trading always involves risk. Our goal is to help you get funded so you can trade with your own strategy.
Professional management for your funded trading accounts
Our funded account management service focuses on steady, consistent growth. We use proven strategies that prioritize capital preservation while maximizing returns.
Strict risk management protocols ensure your account stays within drawdown limits. We never risk more than 1-2% per trade, protecting your capital at all times.
Receive detailed weekly and monthly performance reports showing trades, profits, drawdowns, and overall account health. Full transparency, always.
We only earn when you earn. Our profit-sharing model aligns our interests with yours — we’re motivated to maximize your returns.
Manage multiple funded accounts across different prop firms simultaneously. Diversify your income streams and maximize earning potential.
We adapt our trading approach to match your risk tolerance and goals. Conservative, moderate, or aggressive — we have a strategy for you.
Managing a funded account requires different skills than passing an evaluation. Once funded, the focus shifts to consistent profitability and capital preservation. Our forex account management team specializes in this phase.
Many traders pass their evaluation but struggle to maintain profitability on the funded account. This is where our service shines — we have the experience and discipline to trade funded accounts successfully over the long term.
Our traders are verified on Myfxbook, providing transparent, audited performance records. You can verify our track record before committing to our service.
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Perfect for single account challenges
Most popular for serious traders
For professional traders & investors
Real results from real traders
Since 2020, we’ve helped over 15,000 traders secure funded accounts across multiple prop firms. Our success rate of 92% is industry-leading, and we continue to improve our strategies and processes.
Our portfolio includes traders from over 80 countries, with account sizes ranging from $25k to $500k. We’ve processed over $4.7 million in payouts for our clients, and many have gone on to build full-time trading careers.
What our traders say about our service
“Passed my Topstep 150k challenge in just 8 days! The team was professional, communicative, and delivered exactly as promised. Already received my first payout of $4,200.”
“I failed my Topstep evaluation 3 times before finding Pass My Prop Firms. They passed it on the first try and now manage my funded account. Best decision I ever made.”
“The funded account management service is incredible. My account has grown 34% in 6 months with minimal drawdown. The team knows what they’re doing.”
“Transparent, professional, and fast. They passed my Apex challenge in 5 days and I’ve been receiving consistent payouts ever since. Highly recommend!”
“I was skeptical at first, but the money-back guarantee convinced me to try. They passed my FTMO challenge and I’ve been profitable ever since. Worth every penny.”
“The best prop firm passing service I’ve used. They’re responsive, professional, and actually care about your success. My Topstep account is now at $180k!”
Master your mind to master the markets
Trading psychology is often the difference between success and failure in prop firm challenges. Even the best strategies fail if you can’t control your emotions. Fear, greed, and revenge trading are the silent killers of trading accounts.
Our prop firm services include psychological coaching to help you develop the discipline needed for consistent profitability. We teach you how to:
Many traders who use our funded account passing service report that the psychological coaching was just as valuable as the challenge passing itself. It transformed their approach to trading and helped them become consistently profitable.
Protect your capital and maximize your returns
Never risk more than 1-2% of your account per trade. This ensures that even a string of losses won’t devastate your account. Proper position sizing is the foundation of successful trading.
Always use stop loss orders to limit your downside. Never move your stop loss further away — this is a common mistake that leads to large losses.
Aim for a minimum 1:2 risk-reward ratio. This means your potential profit should be at least twice your potential loss. This ensures profitability even with a 50% win rate.
Set a daily loss limit and stick to it. If you hit your limit, stop trading for the day. This prevents emotional trading and large drawdowns.
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Trade multiple instruments and timeframes to spread your risk and increase opportunities.
Keep a detailed trading journal of every trade. Review it weekly to identify patterns, mistakes, and areas for improvement.
Proven strategies for consistent profitability
The trading landscape has evolved significantly, and strategies that worked in 2020 may not work today. Here are the strategies our traders use to consistently pass prop firm challenges and maintain profitability:
Price action remains one of the most reliable strategies. Focus on support/resistance levels, candlestick patterns, and market structure. This strategy works across all timeframes and instruments.
Identify key levels where price is likely to break out and enter trades in the direction of the breakout. Use volume confirmation to increase accuracy.
“The trend is your friend” — this old saying still holds true. Identify the dominant trend and trade in its direction. Use moving averages and trendlines to confirm.
When price deviates significantly from its average, it tends to revert. Use Bollinger Bands and RSI to identify overbought/oversold conditions.
High-impact news events create volatility and trading opportunities. However, this strategy requires experience and quick decision-making. Not recommended for beginners.
Trade the world’s most liquid markets
Topstep offers access to the world’s most liquid futures markets, including:
Each market has unique characteristics and trading hours. Our prop firm passing service helps you identify the best markets for your trading style and schedule.
We’re here to help you succeed
Our support team is available 24/7 to answer your questions, provide guidance, and help you succeed. Whether you’re a beginner with basic questions or an experienced trader with complex needs, we’re here to help.
Reach us through multiple channels:
Average response time is under 5 minutes during business hours. We pride ourselves on being the most responsive prop firm services provider in the industry.
Join 15,000+ successful traders who’ve secured funded accounts with our help. 92% success rate, money-back guarantee, and 24/7 support.
Everything you need to know about Topstep and our services
Don’t let another day pass without taking action. Our expert team is ready to help you pass your Topstep challenge and secure your funded account.
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