Overview of Topstep
Topstep is a financial trading firm that provides traders with access to funded trading accounts. The company operates a proprietary trading model, where individuals can qualify to manage a funded account after successfully completing an evaluation process. This structure is designed to enable skilled traders to participate in financial markets without risking their personal capital.
Founded in Chicago, Topstep offers its services through a digital platform and has developed a structured evaluation process that focuses on trading discipline and risk management. The platform primarily supports futures trading and is widely used by aspiring and experienced traders aiming to demonstrate their abilities in a simulated environment before gaining access to real capital.
The Topstep Trading Combine
The Trading Combine is Topstep’s primary evaluation tool. It consists of one or more simulated trading stages designed to assess a trader’s consistency, strategy execution, and ability to manage risk. Participants choose an account size and must meet specific profit targets while adhering to defined risk limits.
The evaluation typically includes parameters such as:
- Maximum daily loss
- Maximum trailing drawdown
- Minimum number of trading days
- Profit targets
Failure to meet any of the conditions typically results in a reset of the evaluation process. Once a trader successfully completes the Trading Combine, they may qualify for a funded trading account with Topstep’s capital.
Promo Code and Discounts
Topstep periodically offers promo codes that provide discounts on the cost of entering the Trading Combine. These promotional offers are typically limited-time discounts that reduce the monthly subscription fee or the reset fee for a Combine account. Promo codes can be entered during the checkout process and are applied automatically if valid.
Promo code discounts vary but may include:
- A percentage reduction on the initial or recurring monthly fee
- A limited-time fee reduction for specific account sizes
- Special event-based or partnership-based codes
Promo codes are typically not stackable and can be used only once per account. Additionally, they may have expiration dates or may be restricted to new users only.
Account Sizes and Associated Fees
Topstep offers multiple Combine account sizes, each with different fee structures and trading parameters. Account options usually include simulated buying power tiers such as $50,000, $100,000, and $150,000. The fee for each Combine account increases with the buying power and associated profit target.
Each account size has its own risk limits, including:
- Maximum daily loss limits
- Maximum trailing drawdown limits
- Profit targets
- Trade size limitations
Promo codes can be applied to any of these account sizes, although certain promotional offers may be specific to a particular size.
Funded Account Access
Upon successful completion of the Trading Combine, traders may be granted access to a funded account. In this stage, traders begin live trading using Topstep’s capital. There are performance and risk parameters that remain in place during the funded phase, ensuring ongoing adherence to Topstep’s risk management framework.
Key features of the funded account include:
- Real capital access for qualified traders
- Payout options after reaching defined profit thresholds
- Continued monitoring of risk and performance
Payouts are subject to meeting profit distribution rules, and traders must maintain compliance with risk protocols to retain their funded status.
Platforms and Broker Integration
Topstep integrates with several popular trading platforms, enabling users to execute trades in both the Combine and funded stages. Supported platforms may include:
- TradingView
- NinjaTrader
- Rithmic
- Quantower
Topstep provides access to market data through partnerships with third-party providers, and participants are typically responsible for managing platform fees where applicable. These integrations allow traders to use familiar tools for charting, order execution, and strategy development.
Instruments and Markets
Topstep focuses on futures contracts traded on major U.S. exchanges. These instruments include a variety of market segments such as:
- Equity index futures (e.g., E-mini S&P 500, Nasdaq)
- Commodity futures (e.g., crude oil, gold)
- Currency futures (e.g., Euro FX, Japanese Yen)
- Interest rate futures (e.g., U.S. Treasury notes and bonds)
The company does not currently support stock, options, or forex trading outside of the CME-listed futures markets. All instruments are subject to trading hours, margin requirements, and liquidity conditions set by the underlying exchanges.
Educational Resources and Support
Topstep provides educational tools to help traders improve their skills during the Combine. These include:
- Trading analytics and performance dashboards
- Webinars and coaching sessions
- Market news and commentary
Support is available through a help center, email, and chat, assisting users with account setup, promo code application, and platform issues.
Educational content is generally focused on risk management, trading psychology, and technical analysis. It is designed to complement the real-time experience gained during the Combine and funded stages.
Eligibility and Participation
Participation in Topstep’s programs is open to individuals worldwide, subject to local restrictions. Traders must be at least 18 years old and have access to a stable internet connection and a compatible trading platform.
There is no formal requirement for prior trading experience; however, the Combine is designed to test intermediate to advanced trading skills. Performance during the Combine is assessed based on consistency, discipline, and adherence to the defined rules.
Promo codes are available to both new and returning users but may be restricted to certain geographic regions or user profiles.
Terms and Conditions
Promo codes provided by Topstep are subject to specific terms and conditions, which may include:
- Time limitations (start and end dates)
- Single-use restrictions per customer
- Applicability only to specific products or account sizes
- Ineligibility when combined with other offers
Invalid or expired promo codes will not be accepted during the checkout process. Users are encouraged to verify the terms of any promo code before attempting to apply it to a transaction.
Conclusion
Topstep offers a structured pathway for traders to access funded capital through its Trading Combine evaluation process. Promo codes serve as a means to reduce the cost of entry and incentivize participation. These codes are typically available for limited durations and are tied to specific promotional events or marketing campaigns.
Traders who wish to participate in the Topstep program must successfully complete the evaluation and meet the firm’s risk management requirements. The platform provides integrated trading tools, access to futures markets, and educational support, making it a structured environment for individuals looking to pursue funded trading opportunities.
Promo codes can offer cost savings for those entering the Combine, but users should be aware of all terms and ensure they meet eligibility criteria before applying any promotional offers.
