Want to trade with a funded account but don’t know where to start? Proprietary trading firms offer talented traders the capital they need in exchange for a profit split. This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to get a funded stock trading account, compare the best firms, and provide expert tips to maximize your success.
What is a Funded Trading Account?
A funded trading account is an arrangement where a proprietary trading firm provides capital to skilled traders. Instead of risking your own money, you trade the firm’s capital and keep a percentage of the profits (typically 50-90%). These programs have become increasingly popular as they offer traders access to significant capital without personal financial risk.
How to Get a Funded Stock Trading Account: Step-by-Step
1. Choose the Right Proprietary Trading Firm
Not all funded trading programs are created equal. Consider these factors:
- Evaluation process difficulty
- Profit split percentages
- Maximum account size
- Trading style restrictions
- Withdrawal policies
2. Pass the Evaluation Challenge
Most firms require you to demonstrate your skills through a trading challenge where you must:
- Meet profit targets (typically 8-15% over 1-3 months)
- Avoid exceeding maximum drawdown limits (usually 5-10%)
- Follow all trading rules (no overnight positions, news trading, etc.)
3. Get Funded and Start Trading
After passing the evaluation, you’ll receive your funded account with the firm’s capital. Most firms offer:
- Account sizes from $25,000 to $200,000+
- Scaling plans for successful traders
- Regular profit withdrawals
Best Funded Trading Firms Comparison
| Firm |
Account Size |
Profit Split |
Evaluation Cost |
Key Feature |
| Topstep |
$50k-$150k |
Up to 90% |
$165-$375 |
Best for futures traders |
| FTMO |
$10k-$200k |
Up to 90% |
$155-$540 |
Most popular for forex |
| Earn2Trade |
$25k-$150k |
Up to 80% |
$150-$350 |
Best educational resources |
| OneUp Trader |
$25k-$250k |
Up to 90% |
$225-$525 |
Great for stock traders |
Pros and Cons of Funded Trading Accounts
Advantages
- Trade with substantial capital without personal risk
- Keep significant percentage of profits (50-90%)
- Access to professional trading platforms and tools
- Potential for account scaling with success
- No personal tax reporting on the capital
Challenges
- Evaluation process can be difficult to pass
- Profit targets and drawdown limits are strict
- Trading rules may restrict your strategy
- Upfront costs for evaluation challenges
- Profit splits mean you don’t keep 100%
Essential Tools for Funded Traders
TradingView for Advanced Chart Analysis
Successful funded traders need professional charting tools. TradingView offers:
- Advanced technical analysis tools
- Custom indicators and strategies
- Real-time market data across multiple asset classes
- Collaboration features to share ideas
TradeZella for Performance Tracking
Maintaining a trading journal is crucial for funded traders. TradeZella provides:
- Automated trade journaling
- Detailed performance analytics
- Psychological tracking for better discipline
- Custom reporting to identify strengths/weaknesses
FAQ: How to Get a Funded Stock Trading Account
How much does it cost to get a funded trading account?
Most proprietary firms charge $150-$500 for their evaluation challenges. This covers the risk of providing you with a demo account during your trial period. There are no additional costs if you pass and get funded.
How long does it take to get funded?
The evaluation period typically takes 1-3 months, depending on the firm’s requirements. Some firms offer accelerated programs that can be completed in as little as two weeks for experienced traders.
Can you lose money with a funded account?
You cannot lose your own money beyond the evaluation fee, but you can lose the firm’s capital. If you hit the maximum drawdown limit, your funded account will be closed. The key advantage is that your personal assets are never at risk.
What’s the best strategy for passing funded account challenges?
Consistency is more important than large gains. Focus on:
- Risk management (1-2% risk per trade)
- Avoiding emotional trading decisions
- Following all trading rules precisely
- Maintaining discipline through drawdowns
Conclusion: Start Your Funded Trading Journey
Getting a funded stock trading account is an excellent way to trade with substantial capital without personal financial risk. By choosing the right proprietary firm, developing a disciplined trading strategy, and utilizing professional tools like TradingView and TradeZella, you can build a successful career as a funded trader.
