Topstep Scaling Plan
The Simple Answer
Topstep’s Scaling Plan sets maximum position size based on current account balance for Express Funded Accounts, with contracts fixed for the session, while Live Funded Accounts use a separate Dynamic Live Risk Expansion mechanism to adjust both Daily Loss Limit and Maximum Position Size.
The rule is published in the official articles “What is the Scaling Plan?” and “Dynamic Live Risk Expansion.”
How the Scaling Plan Works
The XFA Scaling Plan
Topstep states: “The Scaling Plan is an Express Funded Account objective. It sets your Maximum Position Size, the max contracts you can hold at one time, based on your current account balance… Your max contracts do not increase mid-session. Hit the threshold to release more buying power? Wait for the next session.” Micro contracts count against minis at a 10:1 ratio, with Micro Silver at 5:1 and Micro Bitcoin/Ether capped at mini-equivalent sizing rather than standard micro scaling.
Live Funded Accounts Use a Different System
Live Funded Accounts replace the Scaling Plan with Dynamic Live Risk Expansion: “Topstep’s Dynamic Live Risk Expansion adjusts your Daily Loss Limit (DLL) and Maximum Position Size (contract limits)” once a trader transitions to live trading, a distinct mechanism from the XFA-stage Scaling Plan.
Final Thoughts
Topstep’s two-stage approach, the Scaling Plan for XFAs and Dynamic Live Risk Expansion for Live accounts, means traders should understand both mechanisms as they progress from Express Funded to Live status.
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FAQ
What is Topstep’s scaling plan?
A system that sets Maximum Position Size for Express Funded Accounts based on current account balance.
Does Topstep’s scaling plan update mid-session?
No, max contracts do not increase mid-session; traders must wait for the next session after hitting a threshold.
What replaces Topstep’s Scaling Plan on Live Funded Accounts?
Dynamic Live Risk Expansion, which adjusts both Daily Loss Limit and Maximum Position Size.
How do Micro contracts count against minis under Topstep’s scaling plan?
At a 10:1 ratio, except Micro Silver at 5:1, with Micro Bitcoin/Ether capped at mini-equivalent sizing.
Where is Topstep’s scaling plan published?
In the official articles “What is the Scaling Plan?” and “Dynamic Live Risk Expansion.”