Topstep Practice Account Types, Fees, and Funding Rules

What Practice Accounts Does Topstep Provide?

The topstep practice account is structured through the Trading Combine®, a subscription-based evaluation system that allows futures traders to prove discipline and skill before receiving funded capital. Instead of depositing trading money upfront, candidates subscribe monthly to one of three account tiers ($50k, $100k, $150k). Each size sets a profit target, maximum contract limit, and maximum loss allowance. When a trader passes, they can unlock an Express Funded Account by paying a one-time $149 startup fee. This model is designed to help traders develop consistency, manage risk, and eventually trade live capital under Topsteps funding.

How Do the Account Sizes Differ?

The three Trading Combine account tiers are the core of the practice system. Each level balances cost, risk, and opportunity, allowing traders to choose based on their strategy and tolerance.

Key observations:

• Each tier has progressively higher subscription fees, but also higher potential funding.
• Risk controls scale proportionally, ensuring discipline at every level.
• No leverage ratio is fixed by Topstep; instead, they enforce maximum contract limits and daily/overall loss caps.

What Fees Apply in the Topstep Practice Model?

Topstep's fee model is different from a broker's spread-and-commission approach. Instead of spreads, traders pay for access to the Combine and later for activating a funded account. Real trading will also include exchange and clearing costs.

Takeaway: Costs are predictable, but traders must factor in subscription charges and exchange fees. Passing the Combine is the only way to access funded trading, so ongoing fees should be weighed against your consistency as a trader.

FAQs about Topstep Accounts & Fees

Q1: Do I need to make a deposit to trade with Topstep?

No. Unlike traditional brokers, Topstep does not require capital deposits. You only pay the monthly subscription fee, plus the $149 startup fee if you pass and open a funded account.

Q2: What happens if I fail the Combine?

If you fail by breaking rules (loss limit, contract limit), your subscription continues until you cancel or restart. Many traders treat it as a training ground until they pass.

Q3: Is Topstep regulated like a normal broker?

No. Topstep operates as a funding and evaluation program with no regulations listed. This means your funds do not have the same regulatory protections as with licensed brokers, so risks are higher.

Risk Disclosure

Topstep offers a practice-to-funding model, not a regulated brokerage account. According to available information, Topstep operates with no regulations. Futures trading carries high risk; losses may exceed expectations due to leverage, exchange fees, or market volatility. Subscription costs are always at risk regardless of trading outcomes. Anyone considering the topstep practice account should carefully evaluate their ability to sustain ongoing fees, the lack of regulatory protection, and the real possibility of loss. Independent financial advice is strongly recommended before participation.