Topstep Weekend Holding Rules – Prop Firm Passing Service

Q: Can I hold positions overnight on Topstep?

Yes, Topstep allows overnight holding during regular trading days (Monday-Thursday). However, weekend holding is strictly prohibited under Topstep Express and funded account rules.

Q: What happens if I violate Topstep weekend holding rules?

Violating weekend holding rules can result in immediate account termination, loss of funded status, and forfeiture of any unrealized profits. Topstep enforces these rules strictly.

Understanding Topstep Weekend Holding Rules: A Comprehensive Overview

The world of proprietary trading has evolved dramatically over the past decade, with firms like Topstep emerging as industry leaders in futures trading evaluation and funded account management. As one of the most respected names in the prop firm services industry, Topstep has established rigorous trading rules designed to protect both traders and the firm’s capital. Among these rules, the weekend holding policy stands out as one of the most critical—and most frequently misunderstood—regulations that traders must master.

Whether you’re searching for a reliable prop firm passing service or managing your own funded account, understanding Topstep’s weekend holding rules is absolutely essential for long-term success. This comprehensive guide breaks down every aspect of these rules, from the technical requirements to practical strategies for compliance, ensuring you never face an unexpected account termination due to a weekend holding violation.

Why Weekend Holding Rules Matter

Weekend holding rules exist to protect traders from gap risk—the phenomenon where markets open significantly higher or lower than Friday’s close due to weekend news events. For prop firms like Topstep, these rules also protect the firm’s capital from catastrophic losses that could occur when traders hold positions through unpredictable weekend market movements. Understanding these rules isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your trading career and your funded account status.

As a leading funded account management service provider, we’ve helped thousands of traders navigate Topstep’s complex rule set. Our experience shows that weekend holding violations account for approximately 15% of all account terminations, making this one of the most common—and preventable—mistakes traders make. This guide will ensure you never become part of that statistic.

What is Topstep?
Weekend Holding Rules Explained
Why These Rules Exist
How to Comply
Topstep Trading Hours
Account Types & Rules
Weekend Trading Strategies
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Comparison with Other Prop Firms
Risk Management
Topstep Platforms
Payout Rules
Scaling Plan
Expert Tips
Frequently Asked Questions

What is Topstep? The Leading Prop Trading Firm

Topstep, formerly known as TopstepTrader, is a Chicago-based proprietary trading firm that has been at the forefront of the futures trading industry since 2012. Headquartered in topsteptrader chicago, the company has built a reputation as one of the most legitimate and trader-friendly prop firms in the market, offering evaluation programs that lead to fully funded trading accounts.

As a premier prop firm services provider, Topstep specializes in futures trading across major markets including E-mini S&P 500 (ES), NASDAQ-100 (NQ), crude oil (CL), gold (GC), and Treasury bonds (ZB). The firm’s unique approach combines rigorous evaluation standards with generous profit splits, making it an attractive option for both beginner and professional traders seeking to pass prop firm challenge evaluations.

Key Features of Topstep

Multiple account sizes: $50K, $100K, and $150K funded accounts
Generous 90% profit split on the first $10,000, then 80% thereafter
No minimum trading days requirement on funded accounts
Flexible trading styles: day trading, swing trading, and scalping
Professional trading platforms: Tradovate, NinjaTrader, and TradingView
Comprehensive educational resources and trader support
Transparent rule structure with clear violation policies
Fast payouts processed within 24-48 hours

Topstep’s commitment to trader success has made it one of the most searched prop firms on platforms like Reddit, with traders frequently discussing prop firm passing service Reddit experiences and sharing strategies for passing the evaluation. The firm’s prop firm passing service Trustpilot reviews consistently highlight its reliability, fast payouts, and supportive trader community.

Topstep Weekend Holding Rules Explained

Topstep’s weekend holding rules are straightforward but strictly enforced: traders must close all positions before the market closes on Friday. This means no positions—whether long or short, profitable or losing—can be held over the weekend on any Topstep account, including Trading Combine accounts and funded accounts.

The Core Rule

According to Topstep’s official Topstep express rules, all open positions must be flattened by 3:00 PM CT on Friday for most futures products. This deadline applies to both the evaluation phase (Trading Combine) and the funded account phase. Failure to comply results in immediate account termination and loss of any unrealized profits.

Why Friday at 3:00 PM CT?

The 3:00 PM CT deadline exists because most futures markets close at 4:00 PM CT on Friday, with a one-hour buffer to ensure all positions are properly closed. This timing allows traders to manage their positions during the final hour of regular trading while giving Topstep’s risk management team time to verify compliance before the weekend begins.

Critical Warning

Holding positions over the weekend is considered a serious violation that can result in immediate account termination. Unlike some other rule violations that may allow for warnings or corrections, weekend holding violations are typically final and non-negotiable. This is why understanding and following these rules is absolutely critical for any trader using Topstep’s platform.

For traders looking for a legit prop firm passing service to help them navigate these complex rules, our team at Prop Firm Services offers comprehensive account management that ensures 100% compliance with all Topstep regulations, including weekend holding requirements.

Why Weekend Holding Rules Exist in Prop Trading

Understanding the rationale behind weekend holding rules helps traders appreciate their importance and follow them more diligently. These rules aren’t arbitrary restrictions—they’re essential risk management tools that protect both the trader and the prop firm from catastrophic losses.

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Gap Risk Protection

Markets can gap significantly over weekends due to geopolitical events, economic data releases, or unexpected news. A position that was profitable on Friday could open Monday with a massive loss, potentially exceeding the account’s maximum drawdown limit.

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Capital Preservation

Prop firms like Topstep provide traders with significant capital. Weekend holding rules ensure this capital isn’t exposed to unnecessary risks during periods when traders can’t actively monitor or manage their positions.

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Risk Management

By requiring all positions to be closed before the weekend, Topstep ensures consistent risk management across all traders. This creates a level playing field and prevents any single trader’s weekend losses from affecting the firm’s overall stability.

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Market Liquidity

Futures markets have reduced liquidity during weekend hours. Closing positions during regular trading hours ensures traders get fair market prices rather than being forced to exit at unfavorable prices during illiquid periods.

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Trading Discipline

Weekend holding rules encourage traders to develop proper trading discipline, including planning exits before the weekend and not relying on hope that positions will recover by Monday.

Regulatory Compliance

Many regulatory frameworks require prop firms to maintain strict risk controls. Weekend holding rules help Topstep comply with these regulations and maintain its standing as a legitimate, regulated trading firm.

The Gap Risk Reality

Consider this scenario: You hold a long position in E-mini S&P 500 (ES) over the weekend. On Saturday, unexpected geopolitical tensions escalate. When markets open on Monday, ES gaps down 50 points. Your position, which was up $500 on Friday, is now down $2,000. If this loss pushes your account below the maximum drawdown limit, your account is terminated—even though you made the right trading decision on Friday. Weekend holding rules prevent this scenario entirely.

How to Comply with Topstep Weekend Holding Rules

Compliance with Topstep’s weekend holding rules requires discipline, planning, and proper risk management. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure you never violate these critical rules:

1. Set Calendar Reminders

The simplest way to ensure compliance is to set multiple reminders for Friday afternoon. Set alerts at 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 2:45 PM CT to give yourself ample time to close all positions. Many successful traders use phone alarms, calendar notifications, and trading platform alerts to ensure they never miss the deadline.

2. Use Stop-Loss Orders Wisely

While stop-loss orders are essential for risk management, they don’t exempt you from weekend holding rules. Even if your stop-loss is set, you must manually close all positions before Friday’s deadline. Relying on stop-loss orders to close positions over the weekend is a violation.

3. Plan Your Friday Trading

Develop a specific Friday trading plan that accounts for the 3:00 PM CT deadline. Consider reducing your position size on Fridays or avoiding new entries after 2:00 PM CT to give yourself time to manage exits properly.

4. Monitor All Accounts

If you trade multiple Topstep accounts or use multiple platforms, ensure you monitor all of them on Friday afternoon. It’s easy to forget about a position on a secondary account, but violations apply to all accounts equally.

5. Understand Time Zones

Topstep uses Central Time (CT) for all deadlines. If you’re in a different time zone, convert the 3:00 PM CT deadline to your local time and set your reminders accordingly. For example:

Time Zone	Friday Deadline	Local Time
Eastern Time (ET)	3:00 PM CT	4:00 PM ET
Central Time (CT)	3:00 PM CT	3:00 PM CT
Mountain Time (MT)	3:00 PM CT	2:00 PM MT
Pacific Time (PT)	3:00 PM CT	1:00 PM PT
Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)	3:00 PM CT	9:00 PM GMT
India Standard Time (IST)	3:00 PM CT	2:30 AM IST (Saturday)

Pro Tip from Our Experts

Many of our clients at Prop Firm Services use automated trading systems that automatically close all positions at 2:45 PM CT on Friday. This provides a 15-minute buffer before the official deadline and eliminates the risk of forgetting to close positions manually. If you’re interested in automated compliance solutions, contact our team for details.

Topstep Trading Hours and Market Schedule

Understanding Topstep’s trading hours is essential for proper weekend holding compliance. Futures markets have specific trading hours that vary by product, and Topstep’s rules align with these market schedules.

Regular Trading Hours (RTH)

Most futures products trade during Regular Trading Hours from Sunday evening through Friday afternoon. Here are the key trading hours for popular instruments:

E-mini S&P 500 (ES): Sunday 5:00 PM CT – Friday 4:00 PM CT
NASDAQ-100 (NQ): Sunday 5:00 PM CT – Friday 4:00 PM CT
Crude Oil (CL): Sunday 5:00 PM CT – Friday 4:00 PM CT
Gold (GC): Sunday 5:00 PM CT – Friday 4:00 PM CT
10-Year Treasury (ZN): Sunday 5:00 PM CT – Friday 4:00 PM CT

When Does Topstep Close Trades?

While markets close at 4:00 PM CT on Friday, Topstep requires all positions to be closed by 3:00 PM CT. This one-hour buffer ensures all positions are properly flattened before the market close and gives Topstep’s systems time to verify compliance.

Extended Hours Trading

Some futures products offer extended hours trading, but Topstep’s weekend holding rules apply regardless of the product’s trading schedule. Even if a market trades 23 hours a day, you must still close all positions by Friday’s deadline.

For traders using our funded account passing service, we handle all timing compliance automatically, ensuring your positions are closed well before the deadline regardless of market hours or time zone differences.

Topstep Account Types and Weekend Rules

Topstep offers several account types, each with specific rules and requirements. Understanding the differences between these accounts helps you choose the right option for your trading style and ensures you comply with all applicable rules.

Trading Combine

$165+

Evaluation account for proving trading skills

Account sizes: $50K, $100K, $150K
Profit targets: $3K, $6K, $9K
Maximum loss: $2.5K, $5K, $7.5K
Trailing drawdown applies
Weekend holding prohibited
Consistency rule applies

Funded Account

90/10

Live funded account with profit sharing

90% profit split first $10K
80% profit split thereafter
No minimum trading days
Weekend holding prohibited
Express rules available
Fast payouts within 24-48 hours

Express Funded

Skip Eval

Direct funded account without evaluation

No evaluation required
Immediate funded status
Stricter daily loss limits
Weekend holding prohibited
Lower profit targets
Higher profit split available

Topstep Express Account Rules

The Topstep express account rules offer a streamlined path to funded trading. Express accounts have slightly different requirements than standard Trading Combines, but the weekend holding rules remain identical across all account types. Whether you’re trading a $50K Combine or a $150K funded account, you must close all positions by Friday’s deadline.

Topstep 150K Account

The Topstep 150k account is the largest account size offered, with a $9,000 profit target and $7,500 maximum loss. This account is ideal for experienced traders who want maximum capital allocation. The weekend holding rules apply equally to this account, and violations result in immediate termination regardless of account size.

Topstep 100K and 50K Accounts

The Topstep 100k account and Topstep 50k account offer smaller capital allocations with proportionally smaller profit targets and loss limits. These accounts are popular among beginners and traders who prefer to start with smaller risk exposure. All weekend holding rules apply equally.

Weekend Trading Strategies for Topstep Traders

While you can’t hold positions over the weekend on Topstep, you can still develop effective strategies that maximize your weekday trading performance. Here are proven strategies used by successful Topstep traders:

1. The Thursday Close Strategy

Many professional traders close all positions by Thursday evening to avoid the Friday rush. This strategy provides several advantages:

Reduces stress and decision fatigue on Friday
Allows you to enjoy the weekend without worrying about positions
Prevents last-minute panic exits that can result in poor pricing
Gives you time to analyze weekend news and plan Monday’s trades

2. Friday Morning Scalping

If you prefer to trade on Fridays, focus on short-term scalping strategies in the morning session. Enter and exit positions quickly, ensuring all trades are closed well before the 3:00 PM CT deadline. This approach allows you to capture Friday’s volatility while maintaining compliance.

3. The Friday Reduction Method

Reduce your position size by 50% on Friday mornings. This allows you to maintain market exposure while reducing risk. Close the remaining positions by 2:00 PM CT, giving yourself a full hour buffer before the deadline.

4. Weekend Analysis Routine

Use the weekend to analyze market conditions, review your trading journal, and plan your strategy for the upcoming week. This productive use of weekend time helps you start Monday with a clear plan and reduces the temptation to hold positions over the weekend.

Strategy Success Rate

Traders who implement the Thursday Close Strategy report a 23% reduction in weekend-related stress and a 15% improvement in Monday trading performance, according to our internal data at Prop Firm Services. By removing the pressure of Friday deadlines, traders can focus on executing their strategy with clarity and confidence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Weekend Holding

Even experienced traders make mistakes with weekend holding rules. Here are the most common violations we see at our prop firm passing service and how to avoid them:

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Forgetting the Deadline

The most common mistake is simply forgetting to close positions before Friday’s deadline. Busy traders, those in different time zones, or those trading multiple accounts are particularly susceptible to this error.

Solution: Set multiple alarms and calendar reminders for Friday afternoon.

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Technical Issues

Platform crashes, internet outages, or login problems can prevent you from closing positions. These technical issues don’t exempt you from the rules.

Solution: Have backup devices and internet connections ready. Close positions early to avoid last-minute technical problems.

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Hoping for Recovery

Traders with losing positions sometimes hope the market will recover over the weekend. This emotional decision often leads to violations and larger losses.

Solution: Follow your trading plan objectively. If a position should be closed, close it regardless of your hopes.

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Confusing Overnight with Weekend

Some traders confuse overnight holding (allowed Monday-Thursday) with weekend holding (prohibited). These are different rules with different requirements.

Solution: Clearly understand that weekend holding is prohibited every week, while overnight holding is allowed on weekdays.

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Ignoring Small Positions

Traders sometimes forget about small or hedging positions that they consider insignificant. Topstep’s rules apply to all positions regardless of size.

Solution: Check all accounts and all positions before Friday’s deadline, even if some positions seem too small to matter.

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Time Zone Confusion

International traders often miscalculate the 3:00 PM CT deadline in their local time zone, leading to accidental violations.

Solution: Convert the deadline to your local time zone and set reminders accordingly. Use world clock apps for accuracy.

The Cost of Violations

A weekend holding violation doesn’t just terminate your current account—it can also affect your ability to open new accounts with Topstep. Repeated violations may result in permanent bans from the platform. Additionally, you lose any unrealized profits in the terminated account, making violations financially costly beyond just the account fee.

Topstep vs Other Prop Firms: Weekend Rules Comparison

Understanding how Topstep’s weekend holding rules compare to other prop firms helps you choose the right platform for your trading style. Here’s a comprehensive comparison:

Prop Firm	Weekend Holding	Friday Deadline	Penalty	Flexibility
Topstep	Prohibited	3:00 PM CT	Account Termination	Low
Apex Trader Funding	Prohibited	3:00 PM CT	Account Termination	Low
FTMO	Allowed*	N/A	N/A	High
The Funded Trader	Prohibited	4:00 PM ET	Account Termination	Low
Funded Next	Allowed*	N/A	N/A	High
My Forex Funds	Prohibited	5:00 PM ET	Account Termination	Medium

*Some forex-focused prop firms allow weekend holding with specific conditions. Always verify current rules with the firm.

Apex vs Topstep: Weekend Rules

When comparing apex vs topstep weekend holding rules, both firms have similar strict policies. Both prohibit weekend holding and enforce account termination for violations. The main difference is in the specific deadline times and the platforms used, but the fundamental rule remains the same: no weekend positions allowed.

Why Topstep’s Rules Are Stricter

Topstep’s strict weekend holding rules reflect its focus on futures trading, where gap risk is particularly significant. Forex-focused prop firms sometimes allow weekend holding because forex markets are more liquid and gap less dramatically. However, for futures traders, Topstep’s rules provide essential protection against catastrophic weekend losses.

Risk Management and Weekend Holding

Effective risk management is the foundation of successful prop firm trading. Weekend holding rules are just one component of a comprehensive risk management strategy that protects your account and maximizes your chances of long-term success.

Position Sizing for Friday

Many professional traders reduce their position size on Fridays to minimize risk. A common approach is to trade 50-70% of normal position size on Fridays, ensuring that any adverse moves before the deadline have limited impact on your account.

Stop-Loss Placement

While stop-loss orders don’t exempt you from weekend holding rules, they’re still essential for intraday risk management. Place stop-loss orders at logical technical levels, and ensure they’re tight enough to protect your account but wide enough to avoid being stopped out by normal market noise.

Daily Loss Limits

Topstep enforces daily loss limits that reset each trading day. If you hit your daily loss limit on Friday, you must stop trading immediately—don’t try to recover losses before the weekend deadline. This discipline protects your account from emotional trading decisions.

Maximum Drawdown Management

Monitor your account’s distance from the maximum drawdown limit throughout the week. If you’re approaching the limit on Friday, close all positions immediately and reassess your strategy. Don’t risk a weekend hold hoping for recovery.

Risk Management Best Practices

Our Forex Account Management team recommends the following Friday risk management checklist:

Review all open positions by 1:00 PM CT
Reduce position sizes by 30-50%
Set hard stop-losses on all remaining positions
Close all positions by 2:30 PM CT
Verify all accounts are flat by 2:45 PM CT
Document your Friday trading decisions for review

Topstep Platforms and Weekend Compliance

Topstep supports multiple trading platforms, each with different features for managing weekend holding compliance. Understanding these platforms helps you choose the best option for your trading style and ensures you can effectively manage your Friday positions.

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Tradovate

Tradovate is Topstep’s primary platform, offering advanced charting, order management, and risk controls. Many traders use Tradovate’s automated features to set up Friday position closing alerts and automatic position flattening.

Best for: Traders who want advanced automation and compliance tools.

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NinjaTrader

NinjaTrader is a popular platform among futures traders, offering extensive customization and third-party add-ons. Many traders use NinjaTrader’s ATM strategies to manage Friday exits automatically.

Best for: Experienced traders who want maximum customization.

TradingView

TradingView offers excellent charting capabilities and social trading features. While it has fewer automation options than Tradovate or NinjaTrader, it’s excellent for analysis and planning your Friday exits.

Best for: Traders who prioritize charting and analysis.

How to Connect Topstep to Tradovate

Learning how to connect topstep to tradovate is essential for accessing Topstep’s full feature set. The connection process is straightforward:

Create your Topstep account and complete the evaluation
Download Tradovate from the official website
Log in with your Topstep credentials
Configure your chart settings and risk parameters
Set up Friday closing alerts in the platform settings

Quantower and Project X

Some traders also use quantower project x for advanced order flow analysis. While Quantower isn’t officially supported by Topstep, some traders use it for analysis while executing trades on Tradovate or NinjaTrader.

Topstep Dashboards

The topstep dashboards provide comprehensive account monitoring, including real-time P&L, drawdown tracking, and rule compliance status. Use the dashboard to verify your account status on Friday afternoon and ensure all positions are properly closed.

Topstep Payout Rules and Weekend Compliance

Understanding Topstep’s payout rules is essential for maximizing your earnings as a funded trader. While weekend holding rules and payout rules are separate policies, they both contribute to your overall success on the platform.

Payout Schedule

Topstep processes payouts within 24-48 hours of request, making it one of the fastest-paying prop firms in the industry. You can request payouts as frequently as you like, with no minimum waiting period between requests.

Profit Split Structure

First $10,000: 90% to trader, 10% to Topstep
Above $10,000: 80% to trader, 20% to Topstep
No minimum payout amount for most account types
Multiple payout methods including bank transfer and PayPal

How Long Does a Topstep Payout Take?

Most traders ask how long does topstep payout take, and the answer is typically 24-48 hours for bank transfers and instant for certain digital payment methods. This fast payout schedule is one of Topstep’s key advantages over competitors.

Payout Certificate

After receiving your payout, Topstep provides a topstep payout certificate that documents your earnings. This certificate can be useful for tax purposes and serves as proof of your trading success.

Withdrawal Rules

Topstep’s topstep withdrawal rules are straightforward: you can withdraw profits at any time, provided your account remains in good standing. Weekend holding violations can affect your withdrawal eligibility, so maintaining compliance is essential for accessing your earnings.

Payout Success Tips

To maximize your payout success rate, maintain consistent profitability, avoid rule violations (including weekend holding), and keep your account information up to date. Our Funded Account Management Service helps traders achieve consistent payouts by ensuring full compliance with all Topstep rules.

Topstep Scaling Plan: Growing Your Account

Topstep’s scaling plan allows successful traders to increase their account size and trading capacity over time. Understanding this plan helps you set long-term goals and maximize your earning potential while maintaining compliance with all rules, including weekend holding requirements.

How the Scaling Plan Works

The topstep scaling plan automatically increases your account size based on consistent profitability. Here’s how it works:

Initial Account: Start with your chosen account size ($50K, $100K, or $150K)
First Scaling: After consistent profits, account size increases by 25%
Subsequent Scaling: Further increases based on continued performance
Maximum Size: Accounts can scale up to $2.5 million in buying power
Contract Limits: Scaling also increases the number of contracts you can trade

Scaling and Weekend Rules

As your account scales and you trade larger positions, weekend holding compliance becomes even more critical. Larger positions mean larger potential losses from weekend gaps, making the Friday deadline even more important. Our Prop Firm Services team helps scaled traders manage increased position sizes while maintaining full compliance.

Contract Limits by Account Size

Account Size	Initial Contracts	After Scaling	Max Contracts
$50K	2 ES / 2 NQ	3 ES / 3 NQ	10 ES / 10 NQ
$100K	4 ES / 4 NQ	6 ES / 6 NQ	20 ES / 20 NQ
$150K	6 ES / 6 NQ	9 ES / 9 NQ	30 ES / 30 NQ

For traders asking how many contracts can i trade on topstep for gold, the answer depends on your account size and scaling level. Gold (GC) contracts have different margin requirements than equity index futures, so contract limits vary by instrument.

Expert Tips for Topstep Success

After managing thousands of Topstep accounts through our prop firm services, we’ve identified the key factors that separate successful traders from those who struggle. Here are our top expert tips:

1. Master the Rules First

Before focusing on profitability, master all of Topstep’s rules—including weekend holding, daily loss limits, and consistency requirements. Rule compliance is the foundation of long-term success.

2. Develop a Consistent Strategy

Topstep rewards consistency. Develop a trading strategy you can execute repeatedly with high accuracy. Avoid chasing losses or deviating from your plan based on emotions.

3. Use Professional Risk Management

Risk no more than 1-2% of your account on any single trade. This conservative approach protects your account from catastrophic losses and helps you maintain consistency over time.

4. Trade During Optimal Hours

Focus your trading during the most liquid market hours (9:30 AM – 4:00 PM ET for equity index futures). Avoid trading during low-liquidity periods when spreads are wider and price action is less predictable.

5. Keep a Trading Journal

Document every trade, including your reasoning, entry/exit points, and emotional state. Review your journal weekly to identify patterns and improve your strategy.

6. Consider Professional Management

If you’re struggling to pass the evaluation or maintain your funded account, consider our Funded Account Management Service. Our professional traders have a 94% success rate and can help you achieve your trading goals while maintaining full compliance with all rules.

Success Story

One of our clients came to us after failing three Topstep evaluations due to weekend holding violations. After implementing our compliance system and trading strategy, he passed his fourth evaluation and has maintained his funded account for 18 months, earning over $45,000 in profits. This story illustrates the importance of proper rule compliance and professional guidance.

Advanced Topics in Topstep Trading

Topstep Consistency Target

The topstep consistency target is another important rule that traders must understand. This rule requires that no single trading day accounts for more than a certain percentage of your total profits. Understanding this rule helps you develop a more consistent trading approach and avoid over-trading on any single day.

Topstep Trailing Drawdown

The topstep trailing drawdown is a dynamic risk management tool that adjusts based on your account’s peak equity. Understanding how trailing drawdown works helps you manage risk more effectively and avoid unexpected account terminations.

Topstep Reset Credit

Many traders ask what is a reset credit on topstep. Reset credits allow you to restart your evaluation without paying the full fee again. These credits are valuable for traders who experience temporary setbacks but want to continue their journey to funded status.

Topstep Activation Fee

The topstep activation fee is charged when you transition from a Trading Combine to a funded account. Understanding this fee and looking for topstep activation fee discount opportunities can help you save money on your path to funded trading.

Topstep Promo Codes

Topstep regularly offers topstep trader promo code discounts and top step promo codes that can significantly reduce your evaluation costs. Follow our social media channels for the latest coupon for topstep offers and topstep coupon codes.

Topstep Free Trial and Free Reset

Topstep occasionally offers topstep free trial opportunities and topstep free reset promotions. These offers provide excellent opportunities for new traders to experience the platform without financial risk.

Topstep No Activation Fee

Some promotions offer topstep no activation fee deals, allowing you to transition to funded status without the usual activation cost. Watch for these limited-time offers to maximize your savings.

Technical Aspects of Topstep Trading

Topstep Login Issues

Many traders experience topstep login not working issues, especially during high-traffic periods. If you encounter login problems, try clearing your browser cache, using a different browser, or contacting Topstep support immediately. Don’t let login issues prevent you from closing positions before Friday’s deadline.

Topstep Dashboard Login

The topstep dashboard login provides access to your account information, trading statistics, and compliance status. Regularly check your dashboard to monitor your progress and ensure you’re meeting all requirements.

Topstep Email Communications

Topstep sends important updates via topstep email. Make sure your email address is current and check your inbox regularly for rule updates, promotional offers, and account notifications.

Topstep Chat Support

The topstep chat support system provides real-time assistance for technical issues and rule questions. Use this resource when you need immediate help, especially on Friday afternoons when compliance is critical.

Topstep Calendar

The topstep calendar shows important dates including market holidays, rule changes, and promotional periods. Review the calendar regularly to plan your trading schedule and avoid surprises.

Topstep Status Page

Check the topstep status page for platform uptime information and any known issues. This is especially important on Friday afternoons when you need to ensure the platform is functioning properly for position closing.

Topstep Company Information and Background

What is Topstep Trading?

Many beginners ask what is topstep trading or what is topstep. Topstep is a proprietary trading firm that provides traders with capital to trade futures markets. Traders first pass an evaluation (Trading Combine) to demonstrate their skills, then receive a funded account with profit-sharing opportunities.

Topstep LLC and Regulation

Topstep llc is the legal entity behind the platform. Many traders ask if topstep regulated—while Topstep isn’t regulated like a traditional broker, it operates under strict internal compliance standards and maintains transparency with its traders.

Topstep Chicago Headquarters

Topstep chicago serves as the company’s headquarters, where the leadership team develops trading rules, manages risk, and supports traders. The Chicago location reflects the firm’s deep roots in the futures trading industry.

Topstep Company History

Founded in 2012, topstep company has grown from a small startup to one of the largest prop trading firms in the world. The firm’s commitment to trader success and transparent rules has earned it a loyal following among futures traders.

Topstep Prop Firm Review

Our comprehensive topstep prop firm review rates Topstep highly for rule transparency, payout speed, and trader support. The firm’s weekend holding rules, while strict, are clearly communicated and consistently enforced, which traders appreciate.

Topstep Broker Relationships

Understanding the topstep broker relationships helps traders understand how their orders are executed. Topstep partners with major futures brokers to provide fast, reliable order execution and competitive pricing.

Topstep Account Management Best Practices

Topstep Application Process

The topstep application process is straightforward: choose your account size, pay the evaluation fee, and start trading. There’s no complex approval process—anyone can apply, but only disciplined traders pass the evaluation.

Topstep Sign Up

When you topstep sign up, you’ll create an account, select your Trading Combine size, and receive immediate access to the platform. The sign-up process takes less than 5 minutes, and you can start trading immediately.

Topstep Shop and Resources

The topstep shop offers educational resources, trading tools, and merchandise for funded traders. These resources can help you improve your trading skills and stay connected with the Topstep community.

Topstep Split and Profit Sharing

Understanding the topstep split structure helps you calculate your potential earnings. With 90% profit share on the first $10,000 and 80% thereafter, Topstep offers one of the most generous profit splits in the industry.

Topstep Payout Request Process

Submitting a topstep payout request is simple through the dashboard. Requests are typically processed within 24-48 hours, with funds transferred directly to your bank account or PayPal.

Topstep PayPal Integration

Topstep supports topstep paypal for fast, convenient payouts. PayPal transfers are often processed faster than bank transfers, making this an excellent option for traders who need quick access to their profits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Topstep Weekend Holding Rules and prop firm trading

What are Topstep Weekend Holding Rules?+

Topstep Weekend Holding Rules prohibit traders from holding any positions over the weekend. All positions must be closed by 3:00 PM CT on Friday, before the market closes. This rule applies to all account types including Trading Combines and funded accounts.

What time does Topstep close trades on Friday?+

Topstep requires all positions to be closed by 3:00 PM CT on Friday. While most futures markets close at 4:00 PM CT, Topstep’s earlier deadline provides a one-hour buffer for compliance verification.

Can I hold positions overnight on Topstep?+

Yes, overnight holding is allowed Monday through Thursday. You can hold positions from one trading day to the next during the week. However, weekend holding (Friday to Monday) is strictly prohibited.

What happens if I violate Topstep weekend holding rules?+

Violating weekend holding rules typically results in immediate account termination. You’ll lose your funded status and any unrealized profits. Repeated violations may result in permanent bans from the platform.

Does Topstep allow weekend holding on funded accounts?+

No, Topstep does not allow weekend holding on any account type, including funded accounts. The rule applies equally to Trading Combines, funded accounts, and Express accounts.

Is Topstep regulated?+

Topstep operates as a proprietary trading firm rather than a regulated broker. While not regulated like traditional brokers, Topstep maintains strict internal compliance standards and transparent trading rules.

What is the Topstep consistency rule?+

The consistency rule requires that no single trading day accounts for more than a specified percentage of your total profits. This encourages consistent trading rather than relying on one or two lucky days.

How much does Topstep cost?+

Topstep Trading Combine fees start at $165 for the $50K account, $225 for the $100K account, and $295 for the $150K account. Monthly subscriptions apply during the evaluation phase.

What is a reset credit on Topstep?+

A reset credit allows you to restart your evaluation without paying the full fee again. These credits are valuable for traders who experience temporary setbacks but want to continue their journey to funded status.

How long does a Topstep payout take?+

Most Topstep payouts are processed within 24-48 hours. Bank transfers typically take 1-2 business days, while PayPal transfers can be instant. Topstep is known for its fast payout processing.

Can I change from NinjaTrader to TopstepX?+

Yes, you can switch between supported platforms. Topstep supports Tradovate, NinjaTrader, and TradingView. Contact support to change your platform preference.

What is Topstep Express?+

Topstep Express is a direct funded account option that skips the evaluation phase. It has stricter daily loss limits but allows immediate access to funded trading without passing a Trading Combine first.

How many contracts can I trade on Topstep for gold?+

Contract limits for gold (GC) depend on your account size and scaling level. A $50K account typically allows 2 GC contracts initially, scaling up as your account grows. Check your dashboard for specific limits.

When does Topstep market open?+

Topstep futures markets open Sunday at 5:00 PM CT and close Friday at 4:00 PM CT, with a daily break from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM CT. All positions must be closed by 3:00 PM CT on Friday.

What is the Topstep scaling plan?+

The Topstep scaling plan automatically increases your account size based on consistent profitability. Accounts can scale up to $2.5 million in buying power with increased contract limits.

Is there a consistency rule in Topstep?+

Yes, Topstep has a consistency rule that limits the percentage of profits that can come from a single trading day. This encourages consistent, sustainable trading rather than gambling on single days.

How to connect Topstep to Tradovate?+

To connect Topstep to Tradovate: download Tradovate, log in with your Topstep credentials, configure your chart settings, and set up Friday closing alerts. The connection is automatic once you log in with valid credentials.

What are Topstep payout rules?+

Topstep offers 90% profit split on the first $10,000 and 80% thereafter. Payouts can be requested anytime with no minimum amount, processed within 24-48 hours via bank transfer or PayPal.

How to copy trades on Topstep?+

Topstep doesn’t officially support trade copying. However, you can use third-party tools or our professional Funded Account Management Service for automated trading solutions.

What is Topstep trailing drawdown?+

Topstep’s trailing drawdown is a dynamic risk limit that adjusts based on your account’s peak equity. As your account grows, the drawdown limit trails behind, protecting profits while allowing growth.

When is Topstep removing activation fees?+

Topstep periodically offers promotions with no activation fees. Check their website or follow our social media for the latest topstep activation fee discount opportunities.

What is a Topstep dashboard?+

The Topstep dashboard is your account management interface where you can monitor P&L, track drawdown, view trading statistics, check rule compliance, and request payouts.

How to download TopstepX?+

TopstepX (Topstep’s proprietary platform) can be downloaded from the Topstep website after account creation. Follow the setup instructions provided in your welcome email.

What is Topstep chat support?+

Topstep chat is the live support system available through the dashboard. Use it for technical issues, rule questions, and account assistance. Support is available during market hours.

What are Topstep withdrawal rules?+

Topstep allows withdrawals anytime from funded accounts in good standing. You must maintain compliance with all trading rules, including weekend holding rules, to remain eligible for withdrawals.

What is the ABC pattern in trading?+

The ABC pattern is a common chart pattern used in technical analysis. It consists of three waves: A (initial move), B (retracement), and C (continuation). Many Topstep traders use this pattern for entry and exit decisions.

What is Gann Arc in trading?+

Gann Arc is a technical analysis tool based on W.D. Gann’s theories. It uses geometric arcs to identify potential support and resistance levels. Some advanced Topstep traders incorporate Gann Arc into their analysis.

How to set ATM on TopstepX?+

ATM (Automated Trade Management) strategies on TopstepX allow you to set automatic stop-loss and profit targets. Access ATM settings through the order entry panel and configure your risk parameters.

What happens if I lose my Topstep live account?+

If you lose your funded account due to rule violations or hitting the drawdown limit, you can purchase a new Trading Combine and restart the evaluation process. Reset credits may be available to reduce costs.

Is Topstep a legit prop firm?+

Yes, Topstep is widely considered one of the most legitimate prop firms in the industry. With over 10 years of operation, transparent rules, and fast payouts, it has earned trust from thousands of traders worldwide.

What is the best prop firm passing service?+

The best prop firm passing service depends on your needs. Look for services with proven track records, transparent pricing, and compliance with all prop firm rules. Our service has a 94% success rate.

How much can I earn with Topstep?+

Earnings depend on your trading skill, account size, and consistency. Successful Topstep traders typically earn $2,000-$10,000+ per month, with top traders earning significantly more through scaling and consistent profits.

Can beginners use Topstep?+

While Topstep is open to all skill levels, beginners should have solid trading experience before attempting the evaluation. Consider our Funded Account Management Service if you’re new to prop trading.

What markets can I trade on Topstep?+

Topstep offers futures trading on major markets including E-mini S&P 500 (ES), NASDAQ-100 (NQ), crude oil (CL), gold (GC), Treasury bonds (ZB, ZN), and other popular futures contracts.

How does Topstep compare to Apex?+

Both Apex vs Topstep are reputable prop firms. Topstep offers better profit splits (90/10 vs Apex’s 100% with fees) and faster payouts, while Apex has lower evaluation costs. Choose based on your priorities.

What is Topstep’s profit split?+

Topstep offers 90% profit split on the first $10,000 of profits and 80% on profits above $10,000. This is one of the most generous splits in the prop firm industry.

Can I trade forex on Topstep?+

Topstep specializes in futures trading, not forex. For forex prop firm challenges, consider other firms or our comprehensive Forex Account Management services.

What is the Topstep consistency target?+

The consistency target limits the percentage of total profits that can come from a single trading day. This prevents traders from passing evaluations with one lucky day and encourages consistent performance.

How to pass Topstep evaluation?+

To pass Topstep evaluation: develop a consistent strategy, manage risk carefully (1-2% per trade), follow all rules including weekend holding, maintain consistency, and consider professional prop firm services for guidance.

What is Topstep’s maximum drawdown?+

Maximum drawdown varies by account size: $2,500 for $50K accounts, $5,000 for $100K accounts, and $7,500 for $150K accounts. The drawdown trails as your account grows, protecting profits.

Can I use EAs on Topstep?+

Topstep allows automated trading systems and EAs, provided they comply with all trading rules. Our prop firm passing EA solutions are fully compliant with Topstep’s requirements.

What is the Topstep free trial?+

Topstep occasionally offers free trial periods where you can test the platform without paying. These promotions are limited-time offers, so follow our social media for announcements.

How to get Topstep promo codes?+

Topstep promo codes are available through their website, email newsletters, and partner sites. Follow our channels for the latest topstep promo code offers and discounts.

What is Topstep’s refund policy?+

Topstep offers refunds within a specific window if you haven’t started trading. Once you begin trading, fees are non-refundable. Check their website for current refund policy details.

Can I have multiple Topstep accounts?+

Yes, you can have multiple Topstep accounts simultaneously. Many professional traders run multiple accounts to diversify their income. Each account must comply with all rules independently.

What is the best Topstep account size?+

The best account size depends on your experience and risk tolerance. Beginners often start with $50K accounts, while experienced traders prefer $100K or $150K accounts for higher profit potential.

How often can I request payouts?+

You can request payouts as frequently as you like with no minimum waiting period. Many traders request weekly or bi-weekly payouts to maintain cash flow.

What is Topstep’s customer support like?+

Topstep offers responsive customer support through chat, email, and phone. Support is available during market hours and typically responds within minutes for urgent issues.

Can I trade options on Topstep?+

Topstep focuses on futures trading and doesn’t currently offer options trading. For options prop firm challenges, explore other platforms or our comprehensive prop firm services.

What is the Topstep community like?+

Topstep has an active community of traders who share strategies, discuss market conditions, and support each other. Join their Discord and social media channels to connect with other traders.

How does Topstep verify trades?+

Topstep uses automated systems to monitor all trades in real-time. The system tracks rule compliance, drawdown levels, and consistency metrics automatically, flagging any violations immediately.

What is the Topstep certificate?+

The Topstep certificate is provided after receiving payouts, documenting your earnings for tax and record-keeping purposes. It serves as official proof of your trading income from the platform.

Can I use Topstep from outside the US?+

Yes, Topstep accepts international traders from most countries. However, some restrictions may apply based on your location. Check their website for country-specific availability.

What is the Topstep challenge?+

The Topstep challenge (Trading Combine) is the evaluation phase where traders prove their skills by meeting profit targets while following all trading rules. Passing the challenge leads to a funded account.

How to maximize Topstep profits?+

Maximize profits by: trading consistently, managing risk properly, scaling your account, requesting regular payouts, avoiding rule violations, and considering professional account management services.

What makes Topstep different from other prop firms?+

Topstep stands out with its 90/10 profit split, fast 24-48 hour payouts, transparent rules, excellent customer support, and 10+ years of proven track record. These factors make it a top choice for serious futures traders.

Is Topstep worth it in 2026?+

Yes, Topstep remains one of the best prop firms in 2026. With competitive profit splits, fast payouts, transparent rules, and a proven track record, it continues to be a top choice for futures traders worldwide.

PFS

Written by Prop Firm Services Team

Our team of professional traders and prop firm experts has over 8 years of combined experience managing funded accounts and passing prop firm evaluations. We’ve helped 12,500+ traders achieve their trading goals with a 94% success rate. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Discord for daily trading insights.

Risk Disclaimer: Trading futures and forex involves substantial risk of loss and is not suitable for all investors. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Prop Firm Services provides educational content and account management services. All trading decisions carry risk, and you should only trade with capital you can afford to lose. Weekend holding rules and other prop firm regulations are subject to change. Always verify current rules with the respective prop firm before trading.

Topstep Weekend Holding Rules: The Complete 2026 Guide for Funded Traders