Topstep Review (2026 Updated)
Last updated: January 05, 2026
Here’s my straight take on Topstep: the structure is clean, the rules are transparent, and the risk model (their Maximum Loss Limit) rewards discipline over lucky spikes. If you’ve been burned by gotcha-rules elsewhere, this one will feel refreshingly simple—as long as you respect the numbers.
Topstep Rules at a Glance (2026)
| Account Sizes | $50k / $100k / $150k |
|---|---|
| Profit Targets | $3,000 / $6,000 / $9,000 |
| Daily Loss Limit (DLL) | Removed for new/reset TopstepX™ Trading Combines & Express Funded accounts (since Aug 25, 2024). Legacy dashboards may still show DLL as a non-fail objective that auto-flats you for the day. |
| Maximum Loss Limit (MLL) | End-of-Day (EOD) trailing; locks at start balance once reached. Reference values: $2,000 (50k), $3,000 (100k), $4,500 (150k). |
| Consistency Target | Your best day ≤ 50% of your profit target. (E.g., on a $50k combine: keep any single day under $1,500.) |
| Minimum Time to Pass | As few as 2 trading days (because of the 50% consistency objective). |
| Payout Split | 100% of first $10,000 (per trader, across accounts), then 90/10. |
| Payouts | Request after 5 winning days (≥$150 Net PnL/day). In Live, Daily Payouts & up to 100% balance access unlock after 30 non-consecutive winning days (Live only; Express days no longer carry over). |
| Pricing | Monthly Combine: $49 / $99 / $149 (50k/100k/150k). Activation fee: $149 when funded. Resets: $49 / $99 / $149. |
Why Topstep Works (and when it doesn’t)
- Simple core rule: respect the EOD Maximum Loss Limit. No intraday whipsaw punishments—your MLL trails at day’s end and eventually locks at your starting balance.
- Consistency over luck: the 50% best-day cap vs profit target forces you to spread gains (no “one-candle hero” passes).
- Realistic payouts: 100% on your first $10k is generous; daily payouts in Live after 30 winning days reward longevity, not gambling.
Watch: My Actual Topstep Payout Request
This is a clip from my It’s Trading Star YouTube channel, where I recorded an actual Topstep payout request.
Proof matters: seeing the payout process live is better than just reading about it.
My Experience
- I blew my first Topstep combine by ignoring the EOD-only rule—rookie mistake. Once I respected that, things smoothed out.
- The 50% cap forced me to trade smaller wins daily, which was uncomfortable at first but made me steadier.
- Payout was smooth—money hit my account in a couple of business days. No hidden delays.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Clear EOD risk model (MLL), locks at start balance
- 100% of first $10k in payouts
- Daily payouts unlocked in Live (after 30 winning days)
- As few as 2 days to pass with consistency
Cons
- Monthly subscription + activation fee
- 50% consistency target can feel restrictive
- Live MLL goes to $0 after your first payout
Ready to Try Topstep?
Affiliate disclosure: If you sign up through my link, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend programs I’ve personally tested.
FAQ
Does Topstep still have a Daily Loss Limit?
No. Since Aug 25, 2024, new/reset TopstepX™ accounts have no DLL. Old dashboards may show it as an auto-flat objective, but not a fail.
What is the Maximum Loss Limit?
An EOD trailing limit that locks at your starting balance once reached. $2,000 (50k) / $3,000 (100k) / $4,500 (150k).
How fast can I pass?
As few as 2 days, provided your best day is ≤ 50% of the profit target and you hit the goal.
When can I request payouts?
After 5 winning days. Daily payouts in Live unlock after 30 non-consecutive winning days.