3 Best Options Prop Firms 2026 – Complete Beginner’s Guide

The search for the best options prop firms 2026 ends here – after analyzing over 50 prop trading companies, only 3 actually provide legitimate options trading with transparent terms and proven track records.

While most traders waste months and thousands of dollars on firms that either don’t offer options or have impossible evaluation criteria, you’re about to discover which firms are worth your investment. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly which prop firm matches your trading style, budget, and growth goals.

Overview of the Best Options Prop Firms for 2026

	Training & Education	Regulatory Protection	Payout Speed	Cost Structure
	Comprehensive 6-level training program included	Highest regulatory compliance standards	Bi-weekly payouts available	High upfront investment with ongoing fees
	Series 57 licensing support provided	SEC registered broker-dealer with SIPC protection	Monthly payout schedule	Mid-range evaluation fees, no monthly fees
	Limited educational resources	Basic regulatory compliance	Fastest payouts in industry (within hours)	Lowest entry costs ($99 minimum)

What is a Prop Trading Firm?

Think of a prop trading firm like a talent agency for traders. Just as a modeling agency provides photographers, studios, and connections to aspiring models, prop firms provide capital, technology, and support to skilled traders.

Here’s a simple analogy: Imagine you’re a talented chef who creates amazing dishes, but you don’t own a restaurant. A prop firm is like a restaurant owner who says, “I’ll provide you with my kitchen, ingredients, and equipment. You cook your magic, and we’ll split the profits from what customers pay.”

Here’s how it works:

1. You prove your skills through an evaluation process
2. The firm provides capital – anywhere from $25,000 to $800,000+
3. You trade their money using your strategies
4. Profits are shared – typically 70-90% goes to you
5. They handle the infrastructure – platforms, compliance, risk management

The key difference from your personal trading account? You’re not risking your own money beyond the initial evaluation fee. If you lose money, it’s the firm’s capital at risk, not your rent money.

This creates a win-win relationship: firms get access to talented traders they couldn’t hire as employees, while traders get access to capital they couldn’t afford on their own.

Are Options Prop Trading Firms Legit or Scam?

Let’s address the elephant in the room – with so many “get rich quick” schemes in trading, skepticism about prop firms is healthy and warranted. The short answer is: legitimate options prop firms do exist, but the market is smaller and more selective than forex or futures prop trading.

Why Options Prop Trading is More Limited:

Options trading presents unique challenges that make many prop firms hesitant:

• Complex risk management – Options can have unlimited loss potential
• Regulatory complexity – More licensing and compliance requirements
• Capital intensity – Options strategies often require larger capital bases
• Expertise barrier – Fewer traders have genuine options expertise

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Promises of guaranteed profits or “can’t lose” strategies
• Upfront fees exceeding $10,000 with no clear evaluation process
• Lack of proper regulatory registration (FINRA, SEC, etc.)
• No clear profit split or payout documentation
• Pressure to recruit other traders (MLM-style structure)
• Unrealistic profit targets or impossible trading conditions

How to Verify Legitimacy:

• Check FINRA BrokerCheck for regulatory registration
• Look for transparent fee structures and terms
• Verify company addresses and contact information
• Read trader testimonials and reviews on multiple platforms
• Ensure they have proper risk management protocols

Legitimate prop firms report that only 10-20% of traders typically pass evaluations and maintain profitable funded accounts. This isn’t because the firms want you to fail – they make money when you succeed – but because consistent profitable trading is genuinely difficult.

The firms we’ll cover next have established track records, proper regulatory standing, and transparent business models. However, success ultimately depends on your trading skills, risk management, and ability to follow their rules.

The 3 Best Options Prop Firms for 2026

After extensive research and analysis of dozens of firms, these three consistently rank as the top choices for options traders in 2026. Each offers unique advantages depending on your experience level and trading goals.

1# Maverick Trading

Overview & Key Stats:

• Country of Origin: United States
• Year Founded: 2016
• Trustpilot Rating: 4.2/5 (Based on verified reviews)
• Assets: Options, Stocks, ETFs
• Trading Platforms: DAS Trader Pro, Sterling Trader Pro
• Maximum Allocation: Up to $800,000

Program Details:

• Account Sizes: $25,000 – $800,000 starting capital
• Evaluation Steps: 6-level structured progression program
• Profit Target: Varies by level (typically 8-12% monthly)
• Daily Loss Limit: 2% of account balance
• Maximum Loss: 6% total drawdown limit
• Profit Split: 70-80% to trader (increases with experience)
• Payout Frequency: Bi-weekly payouts available
• Pricing: $7,000 one-time membership fee + $5,000 risk capital + $199/month base fee

Pros & Cons

Best For: Experienced traders with significant capital who want comprehensive training and large allocation potential.

2# T3 Trading Group

Overview & Key Stats:

• Country of Origin: United States
• Year Founded: 2010
• Trustpilot Rating: 4.1/5
• Assets: Options, Stocks, ETFs, Futures
• Trading Platforms: Sterling Trader Pro, CQG, TradingView
• Maximum Allocation: Up to $1,000,000

Program Details:

• Account Sizes: $50,000 – $1,000,000 starting capital
• Evaluation Steps: 3-phase evaluation process
• Profit Target: 10% profit target in evaluation phase
• Daily Loss Limit: 3% of account balance
• Maximum Loss: 8% total drawdown limit
• Profit Split: 65-90% to trader
• Payout Frequency: Monthly payouts
• Pricing: $5,000-$15,000 evaluation fee (varies by account size)

Pros & Cons:

Best For: Professional traders seeking regulatory protection and willing to obtain proper licensing.

3# FX2 Funding

Overview & Key Stats:

• Country of Origin: Czech Republic
• Year Founded: 2022
• Trustpilot Rating: 4.3/5
• Assets: Forex, Indices, Commodities, Stocks, Options (Limited)
• Trading Platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader
• Maximum Allocation: Up to $400,000

Program Details:

• Account Sizes: $10,000 – $400,000
• Evaluation Steps: 2-step evaluation process
• Profit Target: 8% (Phase 1), 5% (Phase 2)
• Daily Loss Limit: 5% of account balance
• Maximum Loss: 10% total drawdown limit
• Profit Split: 80-95% to trader
• Payout Frequency: On-demand payouts (within hours)
• Pricing: $99-$2,499 evaluation fee (account size dependent)

Pros & Cons

Best For: Cost-conscious traders who prioritize fast payouts and high profit splits, with some options trading capability.

Maverick Trading vs T3 Trading Group vs FX2 Funding

Prop Trading Firms That DON’T Offer Options Trading

Some beginners make the costly mistake of paying evaluation fees to firms that don’t actually offer options trading. These firms often have great marketing but focus exclusively on forex, futures, or basic stock trading.

Knowing which major prop firms DON’T offer options trading can save you hundreds or thousands in wasted evaluation fees:

• TopStep – Futures only (commodities, indices, currencies)
• FundedNext – Forex and basic CFDs only
• Funder Trading – Forex focus with limited stock CFDs
• DNA Funded – Forex and synthetic indices only
• Sway Funded – Forex and commodities, no options
• WFunded – Forex trading exclusively
• Maven Trading – Forex and basic indices only
• FundedPrime – Forex and CFD trading focus
• Equity Edge – Stock trading only, no options derivatives

What do they offer instead? These prop trading firms typically focus on:

• Forex pairs (EUR/USD, GBP/JPY, etc.)
• Futures contracts (ES, NQ, crude oil, gold)
• Basic stock trading (long positions only)
• CFDs (contracts for difference on various assets)

The reason most prop firms avoid options is simple: options trading requires significantly more sophisticated risk management, deeper market knowledge, and higher regulatory compliance standards. It’s easier and cheaper for firms to stick to straightforward directional trading.

How Do Options Prop Trading Firms Work?

Understanding the mechanics behind options prop firms helps set realistic expectations and prepares you for the journey ahead. The process typically unfolds in several distinct phases.

Phase 1: Application and Evaluation

Unlike traditional employment, you pay to prove your trading skills. Think of it as paying for a comprehensive driving test before being allowed to drive a Formula 1 car:

1. Initial Assessment – You submit trading history, complete questionnaires, and sometimes take knowledge tests
2. Paper Trading Period – Most firms require 1-3 months of profitable paper trading
3. Live Evaluation – You trade with firm capital under strict rules and profit targets
4. Risk Management Review – Your trades are analyzed for risk compliance and strategy consistency

Phase 2: Funded Account Management

Once you pass evaluation, you receive access to firm capital with specific parameters:

• Position sizing limits – Maximum risk per trade and portfolio
• Strategy restrictions – Approved options strategies only (usually conservative approaches)
• Daily/weekly reporting – Regular performance and risk updates
• Ongoing monitoring – Real-time trade surveillance and risk management

Phase 3: Profit Distribution

Successful months trigger profit payouts based on your agreement:

• Performance calculation – Profits minus losses minus firm costs
• Split application – Your percentage applied to net performance
• Payout processing – Transfer to your personal accounts
• Tax documentation – 1099 forms and trading records provided

The Risk Management Reality:

Options prop firms typically restrict you to conservative strategies initially:

• Covered calls and cash-secured puts – Income generation strategies
• Credit spreads – Limited risk, limited reward approaches
• Protective puts – Downside protection on long stock positions

High-risk strategies like naked calls, short straddles, or complex multi-leg trades are usually prohibited until you demonstrate consistent profitability with basic approaches.

Common Misconceptions Cleared Up:

• “I can trade any options strategy” – False. Most firms heavily restrict strategy types
• “I keep 100% of my profits” – False. Firms take 10-30% as their share
• “Once funded, I have complete freedom” – False. Ongoing rules and monitoring continue
• “I can withdraw profits anytime” – False. Most have monthly or bi-weekly payout schedules

Advantages and Disadvantages of Options Prop Trading

Before diving into options prop trading, it’s crucial to understand both the compelling benefits and significant drawbacks. This isn’t a decision to make lightly, as the investment and commitment required are substantial.

Advantages:

Access to Substantial Capital The most obvious benefit is trading with money you don’t personally own. Instead of being limited to your $5,000 account, you might access $100,000 or more. This amplification can dramatically increase your profit potential – a 2% monthly return on $100,000 beats 10% on your personal $5,000 account.

Reduced Personal Financial Risk While you invest in evaluation fees, you’re not risking your life savings on every trade. This psychological benefit often leads to better trading decisions, as the emotional pressure of potentially losing rent money is removed.

Professional Infrastructure and Support Legitimate prop firms provide advanced trading platforms, real-time data, research tools, and often educational resources that would cost thousands monthly if purchased independently. You also gain access to experienced mentors and risk managers.

Structured Learning Environment The evaluation process forces you to develop disciplined risk management and consistent profitability. Many traders report that prop firm rules actually improved their trading by eliminating emotional decision-making.

Potential for Scaling Successful traders can often increase their allocation over time. Starting with $50,000 and growing to $500,000+ creates exponential income potential that’s impossible with limited personal capital.

Disadvantages:

Significant Upfront Investment Quality options prop firms require substantial initial investment – often $5,000-$15,000 in evaluation fees plus ongoing monthly costs. There’s no guarantee you’ll recover this investment, making it a high-stakes gamble.

Profit Sharing Reduces Returns Even with a generous 80% split, you’re giving up 20% of your trading profits permanently. On a $10,000 profitable month, that’s $2,000 going to the firm – potentially more than you’d pay in commissions trading your own account.

Strict Rules and Monitoring Every trade is watched, every rule violation noted. Daily loss limits, drawdown restrictions, and strategy limitations can prevent you from capitalizing on opportunities or recovering from temporary setbacks.

Performance Pressure and Stress Trading with evaluation deadlines and constant monitoring creates pressure that doesn’t exist in personal trading. Some traders perform worse under this stress, leading to evaluation failures despite having profitable personal track records.

Account Termination Risk Rule violations or poor performance can result in immediate account closure with no recourse. Months of successful trading can be wiped out by a single bad day or rule misunderstanding.

Limited Long-term Security You’re essentially a contractor with no employment protections. Firms can change rules, reduce allocations, or terminate relationships at will. You’re building someone else’s business, not your own.

How to Choose the Best Options Prop Firm in 2026

Selecting the right prop firm can make the difference between a profitable partnership and a expensive lesson. Your choice should align with your trading experience, financial situation, and career goals.

Key Decision Factors:

Your Trading Experience Level

Beginner (Less than 2 years consistent profitability): Consider firms with comprehensive education programs and higher support levels, even if they cost more upfront. Maverick Trading’s extensive training might justify their higher fees if you need skill development.

Intermediate (2-5 years, some profitable track record): Look for balance between cost and allocation potential. You want room to grow without excessive evaluation barriers.

Advanced (5+ years, consistent profitability): Prioritize maximum allocation potential, flexible rules, and high profit splits. You’ve proven your skills; now focus on scaling capital.

Capital Requirements vs. Your Budget

Be brutally honest about what you can afford to lose entirely. If $10,000 represents your emergency fund, you’re not ready for props that require that investment. A good rule: never invest more than you could comfortably lose without affecting your lifestyle.

Platform and Strategy Compatibility

Ensure the firm supports your preferred trading platforms and allows your profitable strategies. If you’re successful with iron condors but the firm only permits covered calls, you’re setting yourself up for failure.

Geographic and Time Zone Considerations

Some firms require physical presence for training or have specific trading hour requirements. Remote traders should verify they can fully participate in all program aspects from their location.

Decision Framework:

Beginners:

• Prioritize education and support over low fees
• Choose firms with longer evaluation periods
• Accept higher costs for comprehensive training
• Consider starting with smaller account sizes

Intermediate Traders:

• Balance cost with growth potential
• Look for reasonable evaluation criteria
• Ensure strategy flexibility matches your experience
• Consider firms offering multiple account size options

Advanced Traders:

• Maximize profit splits and allocation potential
• Minimize restrictions on proven strategies
• Prioritize fast payout schedules
• Consider multiple firm relationships for diversification

10 Essential Questions to Ask Before Joining:

1. What specific options strategies are permitted?
2. Can you provide exact profit split calculations with examples?
3. What happens if I have a profitable month but violate a rule?
4. How many traders have been funded, and what’s the average success rate?
5. Can I see the complete list of trading rules before paying evaluation fees?
6. What’s the appeals process if I disagree with a rule violation?
7. Are there any hidden fees beyond what’s advertised?
8. How long does the average trader maintain funding?
9. Can I scale up my allocation, and what are the criteria?
10. What support is available if I’m struggling with the evaluation?

Final Thoughts

The world of options prop trading offers genuine opportunities for skilled traders to scale their capital and profits, but it’s not a shortcut to easy money. The three firms highlighted – Maverick Trading, T3 Trading Group, and FX2 Funding – represent the most legitimate and established options in the market today.

Quick Recommendations:

• Choose Maverick Trading if you’re an experienced trader willing to invest significantly for comprehensive training and large capital potential
• Choose T3 Trading Group if you want maximum regulatory protection and don’t mind obtaining professional licensing
• Choose FX2 Funding if you’re cost-conscious and prioritize fast payouts, though their options offerings are more limited

Important Reminders for Beginners:

Success in prop trading requires the same skills as personal trading, just with different pressures and constraints. If you’re not consistently profitable with your own money, adding evaluation pressure and strict rules rarely improves performance.

The evaluation fees are significant investments, not small gambles. Treat them as seriously as starting a business – do your research, understand all terms, and have realistic expectations about success rates.

Related ↓

12 Best Forex Prop Firms 2026

5 Best Prop Trading Firms 2026 for Beginners & Pros

10 Best Futures Prop Trading Firms 2026

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can beginners really succeed with prop firms?

While possible, it’s challenging. Most successful prop traders have 2-3+ years of consistently profitable personal trading before attempting evaluations.

How much money do I need to start?

Minimum investment ranges from $99 (FX2 Funding small account) to $12,000+ (Maverick Trading full program).

What happens if I fail the evaluation?

Most firms keep your evaluation fee – it’s not refundable. Some offer discounted re-attempts, but you’ll need to pay again. This is why thorough preparation before attempting evaluation is crucial.

Are there any hidden fees?

Reputable firms are transparent about costs, but read carefully. Some charge monthly platform fees, data fees, or profit withdrawal fees not prominently advertised. Always ask for a complete fee breakdown before committing.

How long does it take to get funded?

Evaluation periods typically range from 1-6 months, depending on the firm’s structure and your performance. Rushing this process often leads to rule violations and failures – patience is essential.

Can I trade with multiple prop firms simultaneously?

Most firms prohibit this in their contracts, as it can create conflicts of interest and risk management issues. Violating this rule typically results in immediate termination from all involved firms.

What’s the average success rate?

Industry estimates suggest 10-20% of traders who attempt evaluations eventually receive funding, and only about half of funded traders remain profitable long-term. These aren’t encouraging odds, but they reflect the genuine difficulty of consistent profitable trading.

Do I need to pay taxes on prop firm profits?

Yes, prop firm profits are typically treated as self-employment income in the US. You’ll receive 1099 forms and need to handle your own tax planning. Consider consulting with a tax professional familiar with trading income.

Can I withdraw my profits anytime?

Most firms have scheduled payout periods – monthly, bi-weekly, or on-demand with minimum amounts. Immediate withdrawal is rarely available, so plan your personal finances accordingly.

What happens if the prop firm goes out of business?

This is a real risk with newer firms. Your funded account could disappear overnight with little recourse. This is another reason to prioritize established firms with strong regulatory standing and transparent business models.