Who Are TradeDay?
TradeDay is a modern prop trading firm that offers retail traders a chance to manage real capital without risking their own funds. Based in the United States, it provides a platform that brings Wall Street-level structure and discipline to aspiring traders across the globe. Whether you are an amateur eager to break into trading or a seasoned day trader tired of staking personal capital, TradeDay offers a structured opportunity to earn through performance-based funding.
In simple terms, TradeDay functions like a fintech-backed trading academy. Think of it as a university for traders. Instead of paying tuition, you pay a modest challenge fee to demonstrate your trading skills. If you succeed, you gain access to a live funded account and can earn a generous share of the profits you generate.
Their funded trader program is designed as a trading evaluation. You will trade in a demo account while following specific rules. If you meet all the requirements, TradeDay will offer you a funded account with real capital. From that point on, you trade live and get to keep a significant portion of the profits. This model is both accessible and transparent, which is why we’re diving deep into how it works.
TradeDay specializes in futures trading. This focus offers a more regulated and centralized experience compared to the often unpredictable world of forex. If you are tired of unreliable brokers, withdrawal issues, or technical trading hiccups, this futures-focused prop firm could be a safer and more professional path to consistent trading income.
How the TradeDay Prop Firm Challenge Works
TradeDay’s challenge is your gateway to earning a funded trading account. Think of it as a test drive where you showcase your trading discipline, risk management, and consistency. But this is not some high-pressure trial with hidden traps. The challenge is straightforward and trader-friendly if you know how to play the game right.
Let’s break it down into its core steps so you can approach it like a pro.
Choose Your Account Size and Profit Split
First, you select an evaluation account based on your preferred size and risk appetite. TradeDay offers multiple account options to fit different trader profiles. Whether you are a scalper, swing trader, or somewhere in between, you can choose a model that aligns with your style. Each account has a fixed profit target and drawdown limits that you must stay within to pass.
The beauty here is flexibility. You’re not stuck with a one-size-fits-all model. You pick the challenge based on your budget and trading goals. And the profit split? You keep 80 percent of what you earn once funded, with zero liability for losses.
Complete the TradeDay Prop Firm Challenge
After choosing your plan, it’s go time. The challenge is conducted on a simulated trading environment that mirrors real market conditions using live market data. Your goal is to meet the profit target while staying within the risk limits. There is no time limit on the challenge, which gives you the freedom to trade at your own pace. This alone sets TradeDay apart from many other firms that pressure traders with 30-day or 60-day limits.
You’ll need to demonstrate consistency, discipline, and risk control. For instance, wild swings in position size or erratic trading could be flagged. The firm wants to see that you can manage risk like a professional, not just hit big wins through gambling.
Pass Evaluation and Get Funded
Once you hit the profit target without violating any rules, TradeDay offers you a funded trading account. It’s that simple. No retakes, no hidden fees, and no drama. This funded account is real, and you’ll start trading live capital provided by the firm. Your profits are split according to the model you selected, and you’re eligible for future account scaling as you grow.
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What are the Options for Funded Accounts?
TradeDay understands that not all traders are cut from the same cloth. Some are strategic and patient, others thrive on market momentum, and a few crave consistency above all else. To accommodate these different trading personalities, TradeDay offers three distinct funded account types: End of Day Drawdown, Intraday, and Static. Each has its own fee structure, drawdown policies, and profit requirements. This flexibility is a major plus for traders who want a funding path tailored to their strategy.
Let’s explore the details of each account type.
End of Day Drawdown Accounts
The End of Day Drawdown account type is designed for swing traders or anyone who prefers holding positions longer than a few minutes. The maximum drawdown is calculated at the end of each trading day based on the day’s equity, which provides breathing room for trades to develop throughout the session.
Account Size | Challenge Fee | Profit Target | Max Daily Drawdown | Max Overall Drawdown |
$50,000 | $165 | 6% | N/A | 3% |
$100,000 | $275 | 6% | N/A | 3% |
$150,000 | $375 | 6% | N/A | 3% |
This account is perfect if you prefer to let trades breathe and close positions based on longer-term strategy rather than intraday volatility.
Intraday Accounts
If you’re a scalper or short-term trader who likes to be in and out before the market bell rings, the Intraday account type is a great fit. With the same profit target and drawdown rules as the End of Day version, this account is geared toward day traders who don’t hold overnight positions.
Account Size | Challenge Fee | Profit Target | Max Daily Drawdown | Max Overall Drawdown |
$50,000 | $99 | 6% | N/A | 3% |
$100,000 | $165 | 6% | N/A | 3% |
$150,000 | $300 | 6% | N/A | 3% |
This plan is ideal for traders who want to sleep easy with no overnight exposure and make quick, disciplined moves throughout the trading day.
Static Accounts
The Static account is where things get serious. Designed for advanced risk managers and algorithmic traders, this account type features a fixed maximum drawdown and a significantly lower profit target. If your trading style is precise and risk-averse, this might be the best match for you.
Account Size | Challenge Fee | Profit Target | Max Daily Drawdown | Max Overall Drawdown |
$50,000 | $150 | 2.50% | N/A | 0.75% |
$100,000 | $250 | 2.50% | N/A | 0.75% |
$150,000 | $350 | 2.50% | N/A | 0.75% |
This model rewards surgical precision over brute-force trading. It’s not for the faint of heart but highly rewarding for those who thrive in tight risk environments.
Each of these account types comes with its own set of benefits, and you can choose the one that aligns best with your style and goals. The diversity in account options also signals TradeDay’s commitment to creating trader-first solutions, not cookie-cutter funding models.
TradeDay’s Rules and Restrictions
Understanding the rulebook of any prop firm is crucial because it can either complement your trading strategy or cause unexpected issues just when you’re gaining momentum. TradeDay is well-regarded for its clear and trader-friendly rules. Instead of trying to trap traders with hidden conditions, TradeDay has built a fair system that rewards consistency, patience, and smart risk-taking.
Let’s walk through the most important trading restrictions and guidelines that you’ll need to follow.
Risk Management Guidelines (Trailing Drawdown, Max Daily Loss)
At the heart of TradeDay’s evaluation is its strict yet transparent approach to risk management. One of the standout features is the Trailing Drawdown, which is applied to certain account types. This rule tracks your highest account balance and adjusts the drawdown level accordingly until the profit target is locked in.
For example, if your balance grows to $52,000 and the trailing drawdown is $1,500, your account cannot drop below $50,500. That drawdown level locks once you meet your target. It’s straightforward, but you must be cautious with how much profit you give back after making gains.
Unlike some firms, TradeDay does not apply a Max Daily Loss rule in most of its account types. This allows traders to recover from temporary losses without facing automatic disqualification, giving you more flexibility in how you manage your trading day.
News Trading, Overnight Holds, and Other Restrictions
Rules around trading times and market behavior are essential for maintaining consistency and risk control. Here’s what TradeDay expects:
- Overnight Positions: If you’re using an Intraday account, you must close all positions by the end of the trading session. Overnight holds are not allowed.
- News Event Trading: While you are allowed to trade around major news events, it’s wise to proceed with caution. Volatility can create opportunity, but it also increases risk.
- Trading Schedule: TradeDay aligns with the standard U.S. futures market hours. You won’t be trading during weekends or before official market open times.
These rules are in place to protect your capital and promote trading habits that can lead to long-term success. They’re practical, not punitive.
Consistency and Scaling Rules
Although TradeDay doesn’t enforce rigid day-to-day consistency metrics, they do look at your overall approach. Wild swings in trade size, inconsistent strategies, or gambling behaviors can raise concerns during evaluation. The goal is to showcase that you can handle capital responsibly, not just that you can hit a profit target once.
Once you’re funded, you’ll unlock access to scaling plans. As your account grows through successful trading, you may be granted more buying power. These upgrades happen based on clear performance metrics, rewarding traders who demonstrate skill and discipline over time.
The rules at TradeDay are designed to support skilled traders, not penalize them unfairly. As long as you understand the structure and follow the guidelines, you’ll find their approach both logical and empowering.
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Payment, Withdrawals, and Payout Process
When it comes to futures prop firms, nothing matters more than getting paid. You could crush every trade, manage risk like a hedge fund manager, and follow every rule to the letter. But if the firm doesn’t deliver when it’s time to withdraw your hard-earned profits, all that effort is for nothing. Thankfully, TradeDay doesn’t play those games. They’ve designed their payment system to be straightforward, transparent, and quick.
Let’s walk through what to expect regarding fees, payouts, and how to actually get your money.
Fee Payments (for Challenges and Funded Accounts)
Before you get funded, you’ll need to pay a challenge fee to enter the evaluation. This fee varies depending on the account type and size you choose, as detailed in the earlier section. It’s a one-time fee with no recurring subscription, just pay, trade, and pass.
Here’s what’s not included: hidden charges. TradeDay does not charge additional “data feed” fees or “platform” charges once you’ve entered the challenge. You pay upfront and that’s it. If you fail the challenge, you’ll need to reapply and pay again, but you won’t be surprised with any sneaky back-end costs.
For funded accounts, there is no monthly platform fee, and TradeDay covers the backend operations including the data feed and brokerage infrastructure. You focus on trading. They handle the tech.
Profit Withdrawals and Payout Schedules
Once you’re funded and generating profits, it’s time to enjoy the rewards. TradeDay allows you to withdraw profits as early as the end of your first profitable trading period. There is no long lock-up period or need to wait months to receive earnings.
Here’s how it works:
- Payout Frequency: Payouts are typically processed monthly, but top-performing traders may be eligible for more frequent disbursements.
- Profit Split: You keep 80% of your profits, while TradeDay takes the remaining 20% to fund operations and support their ecosystem.
- Withdrawal Method: Payments are made through secure and established methods such as ACH transfers or international wires, depending on your location.
There is also a built-in profit withdrawal eligibility rule to ensure the account maintains proper capital levels. As long as you’re trading responsibly and staying within drawdown limits, your payout requests will be honored promptly.
TradeDay also emphasizes transparency. You’ll always know where your funds are and what your profit share looks like. The dashboard updates in real time so you can track your earnings without second-guessing.
From sign-up fees to withdrawal timelines, TradeDay is structured to ensure traders spend more time making money and less time chasing it.
Comparison: TradeDay vs Other Top Prop Firms
The futures prop trading space is packed with options, and names like Apex Trader Funding, Topstep, and My Funded Futures often come up in trader circles. Each firm offers its own spin on evaluation rules, pricing, and payout structures. So where does TradeDay stand in this crowded market?
To give you a clearer view, we’ve put together a side-by-side comparison that highlights the most critical features traders care about. This table breaks down everything from fees and drawdowns to payout policies and trading rules.
Here’s how TradeDay compares to the biggest names in the game:
Feature | TradeDay | Apex Trader Funding | Topstep | My Funded Futures |
Minimum Challenge Fee | $99 | $25 (with promo pricing) | $165 | $95 |
Profit Target | 6 percent (for most accounts) | 6 to 10 percent | 6 to 8 percent | 6 percent |
Drawdown Type | Trailing or Static | Trailing or Static | Trailing (resets monthly) | Trailing |
Maximum Daily Drawdown | Not applicable | Yes (on most accounts) | Yes | Yes |
Live Payout Split | 80 percent | 100 percent (after first $25,000) | 80 percent | 90 percent |
Payout Eligibility | After one month | After 10 trading days | After 5 days | After 3 days |
Account Scaling Available | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Overnight Position Holding | Not allowed (Intraday only) | Allowed on most plans | Not allowed | Allowed |
News Event Trading | Allowed | Allowed | Limited | Allowed |
Reset Fee | Full challenge repurchase required | Approximately $80 | Approximately $99 | Approximately $50 |
Monthly Platform Fee | None | Yes ($85) | Yes | Yes ($85) |
Customer Support Options | Email and live chat | Email and live chat | Email and phone | Discord and email |
Special Notes | Transparent pricing and fair rules | Frequent promotions and low-cost entries | Polished interface and long-standing reputation | Transparent and community-driven |
What Makes TradeDay Different?
- There are no recurring platform fees once you are funded.
- The absence of a daily drawdown gives traders more room to breathe and trade without micromanagement.
- While the challenge is more expensive than Apex, it comes with tighter risk controls, making it ideal for disciplined and serious traders.
- TradeDay prioritizes transparency. What you see is what you get.
- It’s best suited for traders who are serious about moving into professional-level futures trading without gimmicks.
Whether you’re hunting for a low-cost entry, a polished dashboard, or strict but fair rules, each prop firm serves a slightly different purpose. TradeDay stands out as a solid choice for traders who want a structured, realistic route to managing real capital without monthly fees or unclear terms.
TradeDay Customer Support and Help
Email: support@tradeday.com
Social Media Profiles
- Instagram profile with 9k followers
- Facebook profile with 1.8k followers
- Youtube channel has 671 subscribers with 645 videos.
- X/Twitter profile has 9.5k followers
TradeDay Trust Pilot Reviews
Conclusion
TradeDay has carved out its place in the competitive world of futures prop firms by offering a no-nonsense, trader-focused approach to funding. With three flexible account types, no daily drawdowns on most plans, and a clean fee structure, it presents a strong option for disciplined traders who want long-term potential, not short-term hype.
What sets TradeDay apart is its blend of transparency, professional-grade evaluation, and support for real growth. Whether you are a swing trader seeking an end-of-day model or a day trader looking for quick entries and exits, TradeDay has a plan tailored to your style. And once you are funded, the 80 percent profit split and scaling options offer a genuine opportunity to build a trading career.
While other firms like Apex and Topstep may win attention through aggressive promotions or polished platforms, TradeDay wins loyalty through trust, clarity, and sustainable trader development. It’s an excellent choice for anyone serious about treating trading like a business instead of a gamble.
FAQ’s
Your TradeDay funded account may stop working if you break a rule, like exceeding drawdown limits, trading during restricted news events, or failing to stay active. Accounts can also be paused for inactivity or during risk audits. Check your email for details or contact TradeDay support for the exact reason.
TradeDay offers traders an opportunity to get funded by passing an Evaluation Challenge, which tests trading skills and consistency. Successful traders are given real funds to trade futures markets, with profits shared between the trader and TradeDay.
Yes, TradeDay caters to traders of all levels, offering extensive educational resources, including webinars, tutorials, and coaching, making it suitable for beginners to seasoned professionals.
Traders can engage with a wide range of futures trading instruments, including Equity, Foreign Exchange, Bonds, Agricultural, Energy, and Metal futures.
TradeDay employs a 1:1 leverage policy, encouraging responsible trading and risk management by aligning account balance with buying power.
TradeDay’s unique offering includes actual live funding from day one, a comprehensive suite of educational resources, and a supportive community. Its commitment to transparency, trader success, and a conservative leverage approach further distinguishes it in the prop trading sector.
About the Author
I’m Ronan Edwards, a funded futures trader and content creator with over 7 years of experience in cryptocurrency and financial markets. My trading journey began in the early boom cycles of 2017 and 2018, where I built a foundation in crypto markets before expanding into forex, gold, and more recently, meme coins.
