What is Topstep?
Topstep is arguably the original proprietary trading firm, operating since 2012. With an unparalleled track record in the industry, they’ve paid out millions to traders worldwide. In 2026, Topstep continues to innovate with its proprietary TopstepX platform and refined Express Funded Account structures.
The Trading Combine (Evaluation)
Topstep utilizes a streamlined one-step evaluation process known as the Trading Combine.
To pass the Combine, you must:
- Reach the profit target (usually 6%).
- Not hit or exceed the Maximum Loss Limit (an End-of-Day drawdown).
- Abide by the Consistency Target: Your best trading day cannot account for more than 50% of your total profit target.
No Daily Loss Limits: For new TopstepX accounts created recently, the daily loss limit has been removed, making the evaluation significantly more forgiving.
Express Funded Accounts (2026 Update)
As of February 2026, Topstep introduced two distinct paths once you pass the Combine:
- Standard Express Funded Account: A more traditional path.
- Consistency Express Funded Account: Designed for highly consistent traders, featuring different payout rules.
Regardless of the path, these are simulated live accounts where you can withdraw real money. A one-time activation fee of $149 generally applies (unless you opted for a specific no-fee upfront billing structure).
Profit Split & Payouts
Topstep’s payout system is highly rewarding for successful traders:
- You keep 100% of your first $10,000 in payouts.
- For traders joining after January 2026, the split on subsequent payouts is an excellent 90/10 (90% to the trader).
Payout Rules:
- You can request payouts daily.
- To be eligible for a payout, you typically need to accumulate a certain number of “winning days” (e.g., 5 days with a net P&L of $150+ or 3 days meeting a 40% consistency target, depending on your account style).
- Once a payout is processed, your winning day counter resets for the next cycle.
TopstepX & Platforms
Topstep highly pushes its proprietary TopstepX platform, built with TradingView charting and integrated risk-management tools like “The Tilt.” They still support traditional platforms like NinjaTrader and Quantower, but TopstepX is heavily featured as the default.
Pros
- A decade-long track record of paying traders.
- Simple 1-step evaluation (Trading Combine).
- Keep 100% of the first $10K; 90/10 split thereafter.
- Daily payouts available once winning day criteria are met.
- End-of-Day drawdown on the evaluation.
Cons
- Activation fee ($149) is required after passing.
- Strict payout conditions: Must accumulate specific “winning days” before each withdrawal.
- Futures only: No support for forex or options.
Verdict
Topstep isn’t just surviving the prop firm boom; it’s leading it. With its massive operational history, excellent profit split (100% of the first $10K, then 90/10), and the removal of the daily loss limit on TopstepX accounts, Topstep remains one of the safest and most professional spaces for futures traders in 2026.
