Topstep Trading Combine Rules Explained: Your Complete Guide to Passing & Getting Funded

The world of proprietary trading has exploded in popularity, and Topstep stands as one of the most respected names in the industry. Founded in Chicago, Topstep has helped thousands of traders transition from retail traders to fully funded professionals. However, the path to getting funded isn’t simple — it requires understanding every rule, regulation, and requirement of the Topstep Trading Combine.

Every day, thousands of traders search for “prop firm passing service,” “pass my prop firms,” and “funded account management service” because they recognize that professional guidance dramatically increases their chances of success. Whether you’re a beginner exploring what is Topstep trading or an experienced trader looking for a legit prop firm passing service, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Modern trading interfaces require deep understanding of prop firm rules and regulations

Why Understanding Topstep Rules Matters

The Topstep Trading Combine is an evaluation program designed to identify traders who can consistently generate profits while managing risk effectively. Unlike traditional retail trading, where you risk your own capital, Topstep provides funded accounts to traders who prove their skills through the Combine evaluation.

Understanding the rules isn’t optional — it’s essential. Traders who don’t fully grasp the trailing drawdown, consistency rules, and profit targets often fail their evaluations, sometimes multiple times. This is where a professional prop firm passing service becomes invaluable. Our team at Prop Firm Gurus has helped over 12,000 traders successfully navigate these rules and achieve funded status.

The Growing Demand for Prop Firm Passing Services

The search volume for terms like “prop firm passing service Reddit,” “prop firm passing service Trustpilot,” and “prop firm passing service reviews” has grown exponentially in 2025-2026. Traders are increasingly recognizing that professional account management and challenge passing services offer a faster, more reliable path to funded trading.

At Prop Firm Gurus, we specialize in:

• Prop Firms Passing Service — Expert traders who pass challenges on your behalf
• Funded Account Management Service — Professional management of your funded accounts
• Forex Account Management — Comprehensive trading solutions across multiple markets
• Prop Firm Passing EA — Algorithmic trading solutions for consistent results

Whether you’re looking to pass prop firm challenge evaluations or need ongoing funded account management services, our team delivers consistent, professional results backed by years of experience and thousands of successful accounts.

Topstep (formerly known as TopstepTrader) is a proprietary trading firm based in Chicago, Illinois that provides traders with the opportunity to trade futures contracts using the firm’s capital. Founded with the mission of helping talented traders succeed, Topstep has become one of the most recognized names in the prop firm services industry.

The History of Topstep

Topstep was founded in 2012 and has since grown to serve tens of thousands of traders worldwide. The company’s flagship product, the Trading Combine, is a simulated trading evaluation that tests a trader’s ability to generate profits while adhering to strict risk management rules. Traders who successfully complete the Combine earn a Funded Account (also called a “Express Funded Account”) where they can trade real capital and keep a significant portion of the profits.

Professional traders use multiple screens to monitor Topstep futures markets and manage risk

How Topstep Works: The Complete Process

The Topstep process is straightforward but requires discipline and skill:

1. Sign Up: Create your account on the Topstep platform and choose your account size (50K, 100K, or 150K)
2. Trading Combine: Trade in a simulated environment while following all rules
3. Meet Requirements: Hit the profit target without violating any risk rules
4. Get Funded: Receive your Express Funded Account with real capital
5. Trade & Earn: Generate profits and receive payouts according to the payout schedule

Why Topstep Stands Out

Topstep differentiates itself from competitors through several key features:

• No Time Limit: Unlike some competitors, Topstep doesn’t impose strict time limits on the Combine
• Multiple Platforms: Trade on Tradovate, NinjaTrader, Quantower, or the proprietary TopstepX platform
• Transparent Rules: Clear, well-documented rules with no hidden surprises
• Scaling Plan: Opportunities to increase your account size as you prove consistency
• Fast Payouts: Quick payout processing with multiple payment options

Is Topstep Regulated?

One common question traders ask is “topstep regulated?” Topstep operates as a proprietary trading firm, which means it’s not regulated in the same way as traditional brokers. However, Topstep is a legitimate, established company with a strong track record. The firm is based in Chicago and has been operating for over a decade, building trust through consistent payouts and transparent operations.

For traders seeking a legit prop firm passing service, Topstep represents one of the safest and most reputable options in the industry. Our team at Prop Firm Gurus has extensive experience passing Topstep challenges and managing funded accounts across all account sizes.

The Topstep Trading Combine rules are designed to identify traders who can consistently generate profits while managing risk effectively. Understanding these rules inside and out is critical to passing the evaluation. Let’s break down each rule in detail.

1. Profit Target Rule

The profit target is the minimum amount you must earn to pass the Trading Combine. The target varies based on your account size:

The profit target must be achieved without violating any other rules. This means you need to balance aggressive profit-taking with strict risk management. Many traders fail because they focus solely on profits and ignore the drawdown limits.

2. Trailing Drawdown Rule

The trailing drawdown is one of the most important — and most misunderstood — rules in the Topstep Trading Combine. Here’s how it works:

• The trailing drawdown starts at a fixed amount below your starting balance
• As your account balance increases, the trailing drawdown follows (trails) your profits
• Once your account reaches the profit target, the trailing drawdown becomes fixed
• If your account balance ever drops to the trailing drawdown level, you fail the Combine

Understanding trailing drawdown is critical for passing the Topstep Trading Combine

3. Consistency Rule

The consistency rule ensures that your profits are generated through consistent trading rather than a single lucky trade. Here’s what you need to know:

• No single trading day can account for more than 50% of your total profits
• This rule applies to both the Combine and the Funded Account
• The consistency rule is calculated based on your best trading day
• If you violate this rule, you may need to continue trading until your profits are more evenly distributed

Many traders ask “is there a consistency rule in Topstep?” — and the answer is yes. The consistency rule is designed to ensure that traders have a repeatable, sustainable strategy rather than relying on luck.

4. Maximum Daily Loss Limit

The maximum daily loss limit is the maximum amount you can lose in a single trading day. If you exceed this limit, your account is immediately failed. The daily loss is calculated based on:

• All closed trades for the day
• Unrealized losses on open positions
• The calculation resets at the end of each trading day

5. Trading Hours and Market Access

Topstep allows trading during specific market hours. Understanding “what time does Topstep close trades” and “when does Topstep market open” is essential:

• Sunday: 5:00 PM CT — 4:00 PM CT (Monday)
• Monday – Thursday: 5:00 PM CT — 4:00 PM CT (next day)
• Friday: 5:00 PM CT — 4:00 PM CT
• Market Close: All positions must be closed before market close

Topstep supports trading on major futures markets including E-mini S&P 500, Nasdaq-100, and Gold

6. Contract Size Limits

Topstep imposes limits on the number of contracts you can trade based on your account size. For example, traders often ask “how many contracts can I trade on Topstep for gold?” The answer depends on your account size and the specific instrument. Generally:

• $50K Account: Up to 10 micro contracts or 1 standard contract
• $100K Account: Up to 20 micro contracts or 2 standard contracts
• $150K Account: Up to 30 micro contracts or 3 standard contracts

7. News Trading Restrictions

Topstep has specific rules around trading during major news events. High-impact news releases can cause extreme volatility, and Topstep restricts trading during these periods to protect both the trader and the firm. Check the Topstep calendar for scheduled news events that may affect your trading.

8. Reset Credits and Free Resets

Many traders ask “what is a reset credit on Topstep?” A reset credit allows you to restart your Trading Combine without paying the full fee again. Topstep occasionally offers free resets as promotions, and traders can also purchase reset credits at a discount.

Which Account Size Should You Choose?

Choosing the right account size depends on your experience level, risk tolerance, and trading goals. Here’s our recommendation:

• Beginners: Start with the $50K account to learn the rules and build confidence
• Intermediate Traders: The $100K account offers the best balance of risk and reward
• Advanced Traders: The $150K account maximizes profit potential for experienced traders

At Prop Firm Gurus, we offer funded account management services for all account sizes. Our professional traders have extensive experience passing challenges and managing accounts at every level.

Topstep supports multiple trading platforms, giving traders the flexibility to choose the interface that works best for them. Understanding “how to connect Topstep to Tradovate” and other platforms is essential for getting started.

Topstep supports multiple professional trading platforms for maximum flexibility

Tradovate

Tradovate is one of the most popular platforms for Topstep traders. It offers a clean, intuitive interface with advanced charting capabilities. To connect Topstep to Tradovate:

1. Log into your Topstep dashboard
2. Navigate to the platform connection settings
3. Select Tradovate and follow the authentication process
4. Download the Tradovate desktop or mobile app
5. Log in with your Topstep credentials

NinjaTrader

NinjaTrader is a powerful platform favored by advanced traders. It offers extensive customization options, advanced order types, and the ability to use custom indicators and strategies. Many traders ask “can I change from Ninja to TopstepX?” — yes, you can switch platforms at any time.

Quantower

Quantower (including the Quantower Project X version) is a modern, multi-asset trading platform with advanced analytics and DOM trading capabilities. It’s particularly popular among futures traders who need fast execution and detailed market depth information.

TopstepX (Topstep Express)

TopstepX (also known as Topstep Express) is Topstep’s proprietary trading platform. It’s designed specifically for the Topstep ecosystem and offers seamless integration with all Topstep features. To learn “how to download TopstepX” and “TopstepX how to set ATM” strategies, visit the Topstep dashboard after signing up.

How to Copy Trades on Topstep

Many traders ask “how to copy trades on Topstep” and “how to copy trade on Tradovate.” Copy trading allows you to replicate the trades of successful traders automatically. While Topstep doesn’t offer built-in copy trading, third-party tools and our prop firm management service can help you implement copy trading strategies.

Once you pass the Trading Combine, you receive a Topstep Express Funded Account. The Topstep Express account rules and Topstep Express funded rules are similar to the Combine rules but with some important differences:

Key Express Account Rules

• Profit Split: Keep 100% of the first $10,000 in profits, then 90% thereafter
• Trailing Drawdown: Becomes fixed once you reach the profit target
• Consistency Rule: Still applies — no single day can account for more than 50% of profits
• Daily Loss Limit: Same as the Combine — exceeding it results in account closure
• Payout Schedule: Request payouts after 10 consecutive profitable days

Earning your funded account certificate is the first step to consistent profits

Topstep Express vs Regular Combine

The Topstep Express program offers a faster path to funding with simplified rules. Key differences include:

• No consistency rule in some Express accounts
• Faster payout processing
• Simplified evaluation process
• Same profit targets but with more flexibility

What If I Lose My Live Account?

A common question is “Topstep what if I lose my live account?” If you violate the rules on your Express Funded Account, the account will be closed. However, Topstep offers reset options and our prop firm passing service can help you get back on track quickly.

One of the most important aspects of any prop firm is the payout process. Traders frequently search for “Topstep payout rules,” “how long does a Topstep payout take,” and “Topstep withdrawal rules” because getting paid is the ultimate goal of funded trading.

Topstep Payout Requirements

To request a payout from your Topstep Express Funded Account, you must meet these requirements:

• Minimum Trading Days: 10 consecutive profitable trading days
• Minimum Profit: Varies by account size
• Rule Compliance: All account rules must be followed
• Account Status: Account must be in good standing

Topstep offers fast, reliable payouts through multiple payment methods

Payout Schedule and Processing Time

Traders often ask “how long does Topstep payout take?” Here’s the typical timeline:

• Payout Request: Submit through the Topstep dashboard
• Processing Time: 1-3 business days for most payouts
• Payment Methods: PayPal, bank transfer, and other options
• First Payout: Available after meeting the 10-day requirement

Topstep Payout Certificate

The Topstep payout certificate is a document that confirms your payout has been processed. You can access your payout certificates through the Topstep dashboard. This certificate serves as proof of your earnings and can be useful for tax purposes.

Payment Methods

Topstep supports multiple payment methods including:

• PayPal: Fast, convenient for international traders
• Bank Transfer: Direct deposit to your bank account
• Other Methods: Additional options may be available based on your location

Scaling Your Payouts

As you demonstrate consistent profitability, Topstep offers scaling opportunities through the Topstep scaling plan. This allows you to increase your account size and, consequently, your profit potential. The scaling plan typically requires:

• Consistent profitability over multiple months
• Adherence to all account rules
• Request for account size increase
• Approval from Topstep management

One of the most common questions in the prop trading community is “Apex Trader Funding vs Topstep” or simply “Apex vs Topstep.” Both are excellent prop firms, but they have different strengths that may suit different traders.

Other Prop Firm Comparisons

Besides Apex, traders often compare Topstep with other firms like Prop Funded Kings, All Prop Funding, and Funding Crashers. Each firm has unique features, but Topstep remains one of the most trusted and established options in the industry.

Why Choose Prop Firm Gurus?

With over 12,000 successful accounts and a 94% success rate, Prop Firm Gurus is the trusted choice for traders worldwide. Our team of professional traders has extensive experience with all major prop firms including Topstep, Apex, FTMO, My Forex Funds, and many more.

We offer comprehensive prop firm services including:

• Challenge Passing: We pass your prop firm challenge with professional trading
• Account Management: Ongoing management of your funded accounts
• Risk Management: Strict risk controls to protect your capital
• Performance Reporting: Regular updates and transparent reporting
• 24/7 Support: Dedicated support team available around the clock

Our professional team of traders manages funded accounts with precision and expertise

Recent Success Stories

Our portfolio includes successful passes across all major prop firms. Here are some recent highlights:

• Topstep 100K Challenge: Passed in 8 trading days with $7,200 profit
• Apex Trader Funding: 15 consecutive passes in 30 days
• FTMO Challenge: $200K account passed with 12% return
• Funded Account Management: $156,000 in profits generated in Q1 2026

Consistent profit growth across all managed funded accounts