Futures Prop Firms for 2025

Note: These fees and features are current as of November 2025 but may change. Always check the official websites for the latest details.

1. Leeloo Trading: This firm offers a flexible evaluation process and competitive profit splits. It offers a range of account sizes and provides traders with access to popular trading platforms like NinjaTrader.
2. OneUp Trader: Worth considering for their straightforward reset policies and competitive monthly fees.
3. Next Step Funding: Their risk management features, such as a 5% drawdown buffer and an 8% profit target, help traders manage their risk effectively.
4. The Trading Pit: This is ideal for traders who value platform diversity and educational support, particularly those looking to trade a wide range of instruments and benefit from a structured scaling plan.
5. E8 Funding: Traders looking for futures funding prop firms that offer high capital allocation and flexible trading conditions might want to consider this one.

Evaluating Company Reputation and Credibility

When it comes to choosing a prop firm futures trading, reputation matters more than flashy promises. Here's what to check before committing:

Company background:

• Legal business registration (preferably U.S.-based)
• Years in operation (longer track record is better)
• Physical business address and contact information
• Leadership team backgrounds

Community feedback:

• Recent trader reviews on independent platforms
• Success stories with verifiable proof
• Social media presence and engagement
• Active trader communities and discussions

Red flags to watch for:

• No verifiable business information
• Too-good-to-be-true promises
• Overwhelmingly negative trader experiences
• Unclear or constantly changing terms

Pro Tip: Don't just read the 5-star reviews. Pay attention to how the firm responds to negative feedback—it often reveals more about its character than positive reviews.

Fees, Profit Splits, and Overall Costs

These factors determine the amount of funds you can withdraw at the end of a hard working day. You must consider:

Fees

• Monthly fees: Most prop firms charge a monthly fee for access to their platforms and services. This fee can range from $80 to $375, depending on the firm and the account size.
• Evaluation fees: Some firms charge an upfront fee to participate in their evaluation process. This fee varies widely but is typically one-time.
• Reset fees: If you fail the evaluation, some firms offer the option to reset your account for a fee, allowing you to try again without starting from scratch.

Profit splits

• Standard profit split: Most firms offer a profit split in which traders keep a percentage of their profits, typically ranging from 70% to 90%. The firm retains the remaining percentage as its fee for providing the capital and support.
• Incentive structures: Some firms offer higher profit splits for traders who consistently perform well or reach certain milestones. For example, a trader might start with an 80% profit split and move up to 90% after achieving a specific profit target.

Overall costs

• Hidden costs: Be aware of any additional costs that might not be immediately apparent, such as platform fees, data fees, or withdrawal fees. These can add up and affect your overall profitability.
• Cost-benefit analysis: Consider the overall value the firm provides in relation to the costs. A higher monthly fee might be justified if the firm offers superior support, better trading platforms, or more favorable trading conditions.

Withdrawal Policies and Payout Times

Every trader's ultimate goal is getting paid, so understanding a firm's withdrawal process is important before signing up. The best prop firms have clear, consistent payout policies without surprise restrictions.

Standard withdrawal timelines:

• Fast-track firms: 24-48 hours
• Standard processing: 3-5 business days
• Conservative firms: Up to 2 weeks
  

Common withdrawal rules:

• Minimum withdrawal amounts ($100-$500)
• Maximum withdrawal frequency (daily/weekly/monthly)
• Profit verification periods (1-3 days)
• Account balance maintenance requirements
• Trading activity minimums
  

Red flags in withdrawal terms:

• Excessive verification requirements
• Unclear processing times
• High withdrawal fees
• Rolling time restrictions
• Complex qualification rules



Pro Tip: Don't just ask about withdrawal times – check if they actually deliver. Reputable firms maintain consistent payout schedules regardless of profit amounts, and the best ones even offer automated payment systems that process withdrawals as soon as profits are verified.

Account Sizes and Funded Capital Levels

The size of the funds a firm offers is often your first decision point, but the numbers need careful analysis. Here's what the top futures prop trading firms typically offer:

Starting capital tiers:

• Entry-level: $25,000 - $50,000
• Mid-tier: $100,000 - $150,000
• Professional: $200,000 - $400,000

Scaling programs:

• Performance-based increases
• Multiple account access
• Compound account growth
• Fast-track options

Capital considerations:

• Higher capital means higher monthly fees
• Account size affects position limits
• Some firms require larger evaluations for bigger accounts
• Scaling rules vary significantly between firms

Pro Tip: Don't automatically chase the largest account size. Start with a capital level that matches your trading style and experience. Many successful traders begin with smaller accounts and scale up as they prove their consistency.

Available Trading Platforms

The best futures prop firms typically support industry-standard platforms, each offering unique advantages for different trading styles. The platform choice often influences your overall trading experience.

Most common platforms:

1. NinjaTrader (NT8): Preferred for its advanced charting and automation
2. Tradovate: Popular for its modern interface and web-based convenience
3. Rithmic: Known for institutional-grade execution speed
4. TradingView: Favored for its social features and accessibility
5. Sierra Chart: Choice of serious algorithmic traders

Platform considerations:

• Some firms include platform licenses ($600-1,000 annual value)
• Data feed costs vary by platform
• Mobile trading availability differs
• Not all platforms support every trading style
• Some require specific hardware specs

Most importantly, verify that your preferred platform's features remain available in funded accounts – some firms restrict certain capabilities after evaluation. Also, check if platform fees are truly included or just discounted in your monthly rate.

Profit Splits and Earning Potential

How the company shares the profits determines how much you gain from the trading activities. While most firms advertise attractive profit-sharing rates, the details matter more than the headline numbers.

Typical split structures:

• Standard: 80-90% to trader
• First profit tier: 100% up to $25,000
• Scaling splits: Increasing with performance
• Monthly profit hurdles: Reset each month
• Trailing thresholds: Based on account balance

Profit considerations:

• Higher splits often come with stricter rules
• Some firms cap maximum monthly withdrawals
• Profit targets might affect future split rates
• Monthly fees impact effective earning rates
• Consistency matters more than split percentages

Trading Rules and Requirements (e.g., Daily Loss Limits, Targets)

Every prop firm sets trading parameters to protect its capital. It’s important to understand these rules because breaking them can cost you your funded account, regardless of overall profitability.

Common trading limits:

• Maximum daily loss: 2-5% of account
• Total drawdown limit: 6-10% of account
• Position size restrictions: Based on contract type
• Holding period rules: Some restrict overnight positions
• Profit targets: Usually 5-8% monthly

Risk management rules:

• No trading during major news events
• Required stop-loss orders
• Maximum number of contracts
• Restricted trading hours
• Minimum trading days

Supported Trading Assets: Futures, Forex, Stocks, and More

The best futures prop firms allow traders to include a wide range of instruments in their portfolio, though what you can trade varies by account type.

Core futures markets:

• E-mini S&P 500 (ES)
• Nasdaq-100 (NQ)
• Crude Oil (CL)
• Gold (GC)
• Euro FX (6E)

Extended trading options:

• Agricultural futures (grains, softs)
• Interest rate futures
• Small exchange products
• Micro contracts
• Currency futures



Pro Tip: While firms may list many available markets, focus on those with the highest liquidity and lowest trading costs. 

Evaluation Criteria Used in This Comparison

We created a comprehensive scoring system that prioritizes what actually matters to traders. Each firm is evaluated based on real trading conditions, not marketing promises. The scoring system first defines primary rating factors, then key performance indicators, and lastly, trader success metrics.

Primary rating factors:

• Payment reliability (30% weight)
• Platform stability (20%)
• Trading conditions (20%)
• Support quality (15%)
• Cost structure (15%)

Key performance indicators:

• Average withdrawal processing time
• Platform downtime frequency
• Rule consistency score
• Support response speed
• True cost per trade calculation

Trader success metrics:

• Percentage of traders reaching funded status
• Average trader retention time
• Monthly withdrawal statistics
• Scaling program success rates
• Customer satisfaction scores

Rating Process for Accuracy and Transparency

Our rating methodology combines real trader feedback with hands-on testing to provide the most accurate assessment possible.

Data collection methods:

• Direct platform testing
• Verified trader interviews
• Support ticket analysis
• Payment processing tracking
• Community feedback monitoring

Verification process:

• Cross-reference multiple data sources
• Monthly update cycles
• Independent trader confirmation
• Support claim verification
• Performance data audits

Bias prevention steps:

• No sponsored ratings
• Anonymous testing accounts
• Multiple reviewer consensus
• Regular methodology updates
• Public feedback incorporation

Note: While we strive for complete accuracy, trading conditions can change quickly. Always verify current terms directly with any firm you're considering, as features and requirements may have been updated since our last review.

Are Futures Prop Firms Legitimate?

A legitimate futures prop firm is a legally registered business that provides capital to qualified traders under clear, documented terms. Unlike traditional brokers who simply execute trades for clients, prop firms create a business partnership where they supply the trading capital while you provide the trading expertise.

The key difference between legitimate prop firms and scams lies in their business structure and operations. A legitimate firm maintains proper business registration, usually in the United States, and operates with full transparency about its location, leadership, and terms of service. They have clear contracts that specify exactly how the partnership works, including detailed profit-sharing arrangements and trading requirements.

Most importantly, legitimate firms focus on trader success rather than evaluation fees. While they do charge for their services, their business model relies on profitable traders generating returns, not on collecting fees from failed evaluations. This is why the best firms invest in proper trading infrastructure and support systems.

Here's what defines a legitimate prop firm:

• Proper business registration and verifiable physical address
• Transparent ownership and management team
• Clear, unchanging trading rules and profit-sharing terms
• Professional-grade trading platforms and infrastructure
• Documented history of consistent payouts
• Responsive support team during trading hours
• Fair evaluation process focused on identifying skilled traders

Regulation Status of Futures Prop Firms in 2025

The regulatory landscape for futures prop firms differs from traditional brokerages, and it's important to understand this distinction. While brokers must register with the CFTC and NFA, prop firms operate under a different model because they do not handle customer funds in the traditional sense—they provide their own capital for traders to use.

Current regulatory framework:

• Not regulated by CFTC as traditional brokers
• Must comply with standard business laws
• Required to maintain proper business registration
• Subject to state commerce regulations
• Must follow financial reporting requirements

What this means for traders:

• No SIPC or similar insurance protection
• Agreements governed by contract law
• Dispute resolution through standard legal channels
• Protection based on written agreements
• Emphasis on due diligence before committing

It's worth noting that the regulatory environment continues to evolve. While prop firms currently operate with less regulatory oversight than brokers, many top firms self-impose strict operational standards to build trust and maintain their reputation in the trading community.

Is Futures Prop Trading Legal?

Yes, futures prop trading is completely legal in most countries, including the United States. It operates much like any other business partnership where one party provides capital while the other contributes expertise. The key is understanding how it stays within legal boundaries.

Legal framework:

• Traders operate as independent contractors
• Firms provide their own capital, not client funds
• Trading occurs through regulated exchanges
• All profits properly reported for tax purposes
• Clear contractual relationships

Compliance requirements:

• Firms must maintain proper business licensing
• Trading follows exchange regulations
• Tax documentation provided (1099 forms)
• Written agreements protect both parties
• Proper record-keeping of all transactions

The legality hinges on how prop firms structure their operations. Good firms maintain transparency with their trading capital sources, have clear profit-sharing agreements, and ensure all trading activity occurs through regulated exchanges. Think of it like a sports team signing athletes—the team provides resources and infrastructure while the athlete performs under agreed-upon terms.

Advantages of Using a Futures Prop Firm

Access to Capital Without Personal Investment

The biggest draw of futures prop firms is the ability to trade significant capital without putting your funds on the line. This advantage fundamentally changes how you can approach the markets.

The benefits that traders get with this arrangement include:

• The ability to trade $25,000 to $400,000+ accounts
• Multiple account management options
• Growth opportunities through scaling programs
• Focus on trading, not account preservation

Reduced Risk and Personal Liability

The beauty of trading with a prop firm is in the risk structure – your personal financial exposure is limited to the monthly subscription fee.

The following benefits result from this structure:

• Maximum loss capped at the monthly fee
• No margin calls on personal accounts
• Protected from catastrophic trading losses
• Fixed cost structure for better planning
• No debt risk from trading losses

Access to Professional Tools and Resources

Trading with a prop firm means getting your hands on institutional-grade tools that would cost thousands to access independently.

Professional tools include:

• Premium trading platforms ($500-2000 annual value)
• Real-time market data feeds ($100-300 monthly)
• Advanced charting packages
• Order flow analysis tools
• Risk management systems

Educational resources:

• Professional trading workshops
• Market analysis sessions
• Strategy development tools
• Performance analytics
• Expert mentorship programs

Disadvantages of Using a Futures Prop Firm

Costs and Fees Associated with Prop Firms

Granted, prop firms benefit traders in multiple ways. However, they come with their own set of costs that can impact your bottom line. Understanding these expenses helps you make a realistic assessment of the opportunity.

Monthly expenses:

• Basic subscription fees
• Platform fees (if not included)
• Data feed costs (varies by market)
• Reset fees after violations
• Additional account fees

Hidden cost factors:

• Higher spreads in some cases
• Commission structures
• Withdrawal processing fees
• Account maintenance requirements
• Subscription fees during drawdown periods

Withdrawal and Payout Restrictions

Getting your money out of a prop firm isn't always as straightforward as it seems.

Common withdrawal limitations:

• Minimum profit thresholds
• Maximum withdrawal amounts
• Monthly withdrawal frequency caps
• Holding periods for profits (3-5 days)
• Account balance maintenance rules



Profit Splits and Sharing Earnings

These typically seem straightforward at first glance (like "90% to the trader"), but the reality often involves more complexity that can affect your actual earnings.

Split structure realities:

• Initial splits often lower (80-85%)
• Performance-based tiers
• Monthly profit thresholds
• Balance maintenance requirements
• Scaling program conditions
• Splits may decrease after missing targets
• Some profits held in reserve
• Minimum profit requirements
• Trading volume requirements
• Consistency rules affect splits

Conclusion: Is a Futures Prop Firm Right for You in 2025?

The decision to trade with a futures prop firm represents a significant career move that requires careful consideration. While the allure of trading large capital without personal risk is strong, success in this environment demands more than just solid trading skills.



Prop firms work best for traders who have already developed and tested their strategies but lack the capital to trade at their desired size. If you can consistently follow rules, maintain disciplined trading practices, and have enough savings to cover monthly fees while building consistency, a prop firm could be your path to trading at a professional level.

However, if you're still fine-tuning your trading approach or need complete freedom in your trading decisions, you might want to wait. The structured environment of prop firms, while beneficial for many, can feel restrictive if you're not ready for it. Similarly, if you can't comfortably afford the monthly fees or need immediate access to all your profits, consider building your track record independently first.