Introduction
Topstep provides a systematic approach for traders to prove their skills via simulated trading and potentially earn an account funded with Topstep capital. The model includes clear evaluation criteria and structured progression paths in the futures markets.
Company Profile
Topstep, founded in Chicago and originally known as TopstepTrader, focuses on simulated futures trading evaluation. After rebranding, it continues to operate as a private fintech firm offering funded trading pathways exclusively in futures markets on CME‑group exchanges.
Starting the Trading Combine
Account Options and Fees
Prospective traders select from three Combine tiers corresponding to different capital allocations, profit targets, and maximum loss thresholds. Monthly fees are tiered according to account size.
Dashboard Tools
Once enrolled, traders manage their evaluation via an online dashboard, where they can start, monitor performance, and choose to reset the Combine if progress stalls. Resetting results in restarting objectives and paying the monthly fee again.
Evaluation Rules and Metrics
Profit and Consistency Targets
Participants must meet the designated profit goal while observing consistency rules—specifically, not exceeding 50 % of profit target on any single day.
Loss Limits
Daily loss limits prevent excessive drawdown. These limits are assessed at the end of each trading day, not intra‑day. Exceeding the limit disqualifies the Combine attempt.
Platform Selection and Setup
Supported Platforms
Topstep supports multiple trading software options including TopstepX (native), NinjaTrader, Quantower, Tradovate, Sierra Chart, TradingView, and others. Clear step‑by‑step connection instructions are available to avoid setup issues.
Platform Switching Policy
Switching to TopstepX is allowed only after passing a Combine on another platform and is subject to conditions set by Topstep support.
Completing the Combine
Progress Tracking
Traders get real‑time updates on profit, losses, and consistency status. If objectives are met without rule violations, they advance to an Express Funded Account; if performance is strong, some may move to a live funded account.
Reset Feature
If a rule is broken or progress falls short, traders may use the reset feature to begin anew. This clears prior results and requires a new fee payment.
Funded Account Stage
Account Types
Express Funded Account: Entry-level funded access enabling profit withdrawals.
Live Funded Account: Allows access to higher capital for top-performing traders.
Payout Process
Once profit thresholds are exceeded in a funded account, traders may withdraw profits, often with an approximate 80 % share on initial profit amounts. Payments are processed daily, subject to internal fund availability.
Trading Instruments
Futures Only
Traders may transact selected CME futures: including E‑mini indices (S&P 500, NASDAQ 100), gold, crude oil, interest‑rate contracts, micro versions (micro gold, micro crude, micro Bitcoin).
Excluded Asset Classes
Topstep does not allow trading in stocks, forex, CFDs, crypto (outside micro Bitcoin futures), options, or other non‑futures markets.
Risk Oversight and Compliance
Every trading day is subject to review for prohibited conduct. Rule breaches or detected simulation exploitation may lead to profit deletion, Combine reset, or account termination at Topstep’s discretion.
Education and Tools
Learning Resources
Topstep offers a futures trading education series covering market mechanics, technical and auction theory, and trading psychology. Coaches are available to guide participants from entry-level to funded status.
Platform Features
TopstepX includes tools designed for funded traders: built‑in indicator overlays, trade copying features, commission‑free order execution, dedicated data streaming, and charting designed with their combine metrics in mind.
Customer Support
Support is provided via chat during business weekdays and limited phone hours in Central U.S. Time.
Statistical Overview
Performance data reflects that only a fraction of combines complete and transition to funding: roughly one in eight combines ends in funding; nearly half of individual participants advance; just over a quarter of funded traders earn payouts; and fewer than one percent of Express-account traders move to live funding.
Conclusion
Topstep provides a transparent, objective, and structured method to earn capital via futures trading. With rigorous evaluation, instrument limitations to CME futures, educational support, and platform tools, it offers a clear path for disciplined traders to trade firm capital under defined risk-managed conditions.
