This page explains every Topstep rule that can fail your account or delay a payout, in plain English and with dollar examples. Rules are based on Topstep’s published terms as of September 2026; firms change rules often, so check the official help centre before you trade. For our overall verdict, read the Topstep review.
Topstep rules at a glance
Trading Combine
| $50K | $3,000 target · $2,000 Maximum Loss Limit · 5 minis / 50 micros |
|---|---|
| $100K | $6,000 target · $3,000 MLL · 10 minis / 100 micros |
| $150K | $9,000 target · $4,500 MLL · 15 minis / 150 micros |
| Consistency Target | No single day over 55% of total profit; target rises (best day ÷ 0.55) |
| Daily loss limit | Optional ($1,000 / $2,000 / $3,000) |
Express Funded Account (XFA)
| Starting balance | $0 (the size sets buying power) |
|---|---|
| Maximum Loss Limit | Starts at −$2,000 on a 50K and locks at $0 once balance reaches $2,000 |
| After first payout | MLL resets to $0 |
| Payout caps | Per-request caps apply (e.g. $2,000 / $3,000 / $5,000 on standard-path accounts from April 28, 2026) |
What the main rules mean in dollars
On a $50,000 account using the main program’s numbers:
| Rule | Percentage | In dollars |
|---|---|---|
| Profit target (first phase) | 6% | $3,000 |
| Daily loss / daily limit | 2% | $1,000 |
| Maximum loss | 4% | $2,000 |
Topstep uses a trailing drawdown that rises with your highest balance on this program. Because it trails, a winning run followed by a normal pullback can breach the account even while you’re above your starting balance. Our trailing vs static drawdown guide has worked examples.
Other rules to know
- The Maximum Loss Limit trails your end-of-day balance but is breached in real time, including open trades.
- New Combines must use TopstepX.
- Payout methods include Wise (no Topstep fee), ACH and wire ($30 each).
Banned strategies
Review Topstep’s prohibited conduct rules in the help centre; the Maximum Loss Limit is the only rule that fails an account.
Recent rule changes
Topstep changed pricing, payout caps and its split in 2026: new traders from January 12 receive 90%, TopstepX became mandatory for new Combines, and payout caps were reduced on some new accounts from April 28, 2026.
Evaluation vs funded account
Don’t assume the rules stay the same once you’re funded. Check these funded-account conditions at Topstep, and re-read the funded section of the terms the day you pass:
| Payout schedule | On request once eligible; per-request caps |
|---|---|
| Payout speed and methods | Wise in 1–3 business days for South Africans |
| Consistency | No day over 55% of total profit (Combine) |
| Profit split | 90% |
Topstep rules for South African traders
Yes. Topstep’s support team announced in 2026 that South Africa is now eligible for Live Funded Accounts, so South Africans can progress through the full Combine, Express Funded and Live path. Eligibility lists change, so check Topstep’s help centre before buying. Know your daily loss reset time in SAST: firms that reset at 5 PM New York time reset at 23:00 or 00:00 SAST. Fees and payouts are in foreign currency, and payouts are income for SARS.
How traders most often break Topstep’s rules
- Forgetting the MLL is enforced on unrealized P/L even though it trails end-of-day.
- Having one huge day and seeing the target rise under the 55% Consistency Target.
- Withdrawing too much and leaving no buffer after the MLL resets to $0.
For a practical plan to avoid these, read how to pass the Topstep challenge.
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Topstep rules FAQ
What is the Topstep daily loss limit?
On the main program it’s 2% ($1,000 on a $50,000 account). See the tables above for other programs and how it’s calculated.
Is Topstep's drawdown static or trailing?
Topstep uses a trailing drawdown that rises with your highest balance on its main program.
What strategies does Topstep ban?
Review Topstep’s prohibited conduct rules in the help centre; the Maximum Loss Limit is the only rule that fails an account.
How often does Topstep pay out?
On request once eligible; per-request caps. Speed and methods: Wise in 1–3 business days for South Africans.
Can South Africans trade with Topstep?
Yes. Topstep’s support team announced in 2026 that South Africa is now eligible for Live Funded Accounts, so South Africans can progress through the full Combine, Express Funded and Live path. Eligibility lists change, so check Topstep’s help centre before buying.