15 Best Forex Prop Firms in the US 2025 [Ranked & Reviewed]

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Find the best forex prop firms for US traders in 2025. We analyzed 15 top firms including FTMO's US return, instant funding options, and 12-hour payouts.

Finding reliable forex prop firms in the United States has become increasingly challenging as regulatory changes reshape the landscape for American traders. This comprehensive guide examines the best forex prop firms for American traders in 2025, analyzing their funding models, profit splits, fee structures, and overall reliability to help you make an informed decision.


15 Best Forex Prop Firms for US Traders in 2025

We have ranked and reviewed the following 15 top-tier proprietary firms accepting US traders,

  1. FTMO
  2. Apex Trader Funding
  3. The5ers
  4. FundingPips
  5. Seacrest Funded
  6. Hola Prime
  7. FTUK
  8. FXIFY
  9. DNA Funded
  10. BrightFunded
  11. Blueberry Funded
  12. GoatFundedTrader
  13. Instant Funding
  14. Traders with Edge
  15. RebelsFunding

What Is Forex Proprietary Trading?

Forex proprietary trading is an arrangement where traders use capital provided by a trading firm rather than their own money to trade currency pairs in the foreign exchange market.

In this model, skilled traders prove their abilities through evaluation challenges, and upon success, receive access to substantial trading capital—often ranging from $5,000 to $200,000 or more—while keeping a significant portion of the profits they generate, typically between 70% and 90%.

How Forex Prop Firms Work

Trading with a prop firm might sound complicated, but the process is actually quite structured. Here’s a clear breakdown of how it works:

1. Start with an Evaluation Challenge

  • You first purchase an evaluation challenge from the prop firm.

  • During this stage, you trade on a demo account (not real money).

  • The goal is to hit profit targets while following strict rules such as:

    • ✅ Maximum daily loss limits

    • ✅ Overall drawdown restrictions

  • Most challenges last 30–60 days, though some firms allow unlimited time.

2. Pass the Assessment & Get Funded

  • Once you pass the evaluation, the firm gives you access to a funded account.

  • Even though it feels like trading with firm capital, most prop firms use simulated accounts rather than direct live execution.

  • You must continue following the firm’s rules to maintain your account.

3. Earn Profits & Get Paid

  • When you generate profits, you share them with the firm based on your profit split agreement.

  • Common payout schedules:

    • Bi-weekly

    • Monthly

4. Follow Risk Management Rules

  • Risk rules stay in place even after funding.

  • Typical limits include:

    • ❌ Daily loss: 3–5% of account balance

    • ❌ Maximum drawdown: 6–10%

  • Breaking these rules usually results in account termination.

5. Unlock Scaling Plans

  • Many firms reward consistent traders with scaling opportunities.

  • Accounts can grow from $10,000$100,000$200,000+ as you prove steady profitability.

The forex prop firms listed in this article give US traders the chance to trade larger accounts, but success depends on discipline, risk management, and consistency.


Best Forex Prop Firms in the US 2025: Detailed Reviews

1. FTMO

FTMO stands as one of the most established names in prop trading, founded in 2015 in the Czech Republic. After temporarily suspending US trader registrations in January 2024 due to regulatory complexities, FTMO has recently resumed accepting US traders through a strategic partnership with OANDA, marking a significant development for American forex traders seeking access to this premier prop firm.

Trustpilot Rating: 4.9/5 (Excellent) based on over 17,000+ reviews

Funding Model: Challenge-based evaluation
FTMO requires traders to pass a two-step evaluation process consisting of the FTMO Challenge (Stage 1) and Verification (Stage 2).

Capital Allocation: $10,000, $25,000, $50,000, $100,000, and $200,000 account sizes

Trading Platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and DXtrade

Profit Payout: 80% profit split (90% available with Scaling Plan)

Payout Speed & Withdrawal Frequency: Payouts processed within 1-2 business days; available every 14 days after the first payout

Fees:

  • Challenge fees: $155 (€155) for $10K, $345 (€345) for $25K, $645 (€645) for $50K, $1,080 (€1,080) for $100K, $1,280 (€1,280) for $200K
  • No monthly subscription fees
  • Refund policy: Full challenge fee refunded with first profit split from funded account

Pros & Cons:

Pros
Cons
  • Industry-leading reputation with 4.9/5 Trustpilot rating
  • Two-stage evaluation can be time-consuming
  • Full challenge fee refunded upon first payout
  • Higher challenge fees compared to some competitors
  • Scaling plan allows growth up to $2 million
  • Strict consistency rule may limit aggressive trading styles
  • Multiple platform options including cTrader
  • Recent US market re-entry may still have limitations
  • No time limit on evaluation phases
  • Weekend holding restrictions on certain instruments

2. Apex Trader Funding

Apex Trader Funding has emerged as a leading prop firm specializing in futures trading, headquartered in Austin, Texas. Known for its trader-friendly profit split structure and transparent rules, Apex has built a strong reputation among US-based traders seeking futures market opportunities.

 

Trustpilot Rating: 4.5/5 (Excellent) based on over 15,000+ reviews

Funding Model: Challenge-based evaluation
Single-step evaluation with straightforward rules and no consistency requirements.

Capital Allocation: $25,000, $50,000, $100,000, $150,000, and $300,000 account sizes

Trading Platforms: Rithmic, TradingView, NinjaTrader, and Quantower

Profit Payout: 100% of first $25,000 in profits, then 90% thereafter

Payout Speed & Withdrawal Frequency: Bi-weekly payouts every 8 trading days; processed within 24-48 hours

Fees:

  • Challenge fees: $147 for $25K, $167 for $50K, $207 for $100K, $297 for $150K, $377 for $300K (PA accounts)
  • Static account option: $137/month for $100K
  • Refund policy: No refunds on evaluations, but unlimited reset options available

Pros & Cons:

Pros
Cons
• 100% profit share on first $25,000 earned per account
• Focused on futures only, not forex currency pairs
• Bi-weekly payout frequency (fastest in industry)
• No refund policy on challenge fees
• No minimum trading days requirement
• 30% profit guard rule can limit withdrawal flexibility
• Unlimited account resets available
• Evaluation-only accounts require monthly fees
• Based in United States with strong US trader support
• Scaling primarily through multiple accounts, not single account growth

3. The5ers

The5ers has been operating since 2016 and maintains one of the highest reputations in the prop trading industry, particularly known for its impressive scaling opportunities up to $4 million. The firm caters to traders seeking long-term growth with unlimited evaluation time and a supportive trading environment.

Trustpilot Rating: 4.9/5 (Excellent) based on over 17,800+ reviews

Funding Model: Challenge-based evaluation
The5ers offers a single-stage evaluation with no time limits, allowing traders to work at their own pace.

Capital Allocation: Starting at $20,000, scalable up to $4,000,000

Trading Platforms: MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5

Profit Payout: Profit splits ranging from 50% to 100%, with 100% available at higher scaling levels

Payout Speed & Withdrawal Frequency: Monthly payouts with processing time of 3-5 business days

Fees:

  • Challenge fees: $300 for $20K account
  • No monthly subscription fees
  • Refund policy: Challenge fee refunded after reaching specific profit milestones

Pros & Cons:

Pros
Cons
• Exceptional 4.9/5 Trustpilot rating showing strong trader satisfaction
• Higher entry fee compared to some competitors
• Industry-leading $4 million scaling potential
• Monthly payout frequency slower than bi-weekly options
• No time limit on evaluation challenges
• Limited account size options at entry level
• 100% profit split achievable at top scaling tiers
• Requires consistent profitability to reach higher scaling levels
• Established firm with 9+ years of operation
• No instant funding option available

4. FundingPips

FundingPips launched as a trader-centric prop firm offering flexible evaluation models and competitive pricing structures. The firm provides weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly payout options with profit splits up to 100%, making it attractive for traders seeking faster access to their earnings.

 

Trustpilot Rating: 4.5/5 (Excellent)

Funding Model: Multiple options available
Traders can choose from one-step, two-step, and three-step evaluation programs based on their preferences.

Capital Allocation: Up to $300,000 initially, scalable to $2 million

Trading Platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader

Profit Payout: 95% profit split standard, with 100% profit split available for “Hot Seat” top performers

Payout Speed & Withdrawal Frequency: Weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly options available.

Fees:

  • Challenge fees start at $29 for $5K account, ranging up to $499 for larger accounts
  • No monthly subscription fees
  • Refund policy: All fees refundable upon first profit split payout

Pros & Cons:

Pros
Cons
• Extremely affordable entry point starting at just $29
• 15% consistency requirement limits trading flexibility
• Flexible payout schedules including weekly options
• Lower starting profit split (95%) compared to some competitors
• 100% profit share available for top-tier traders
• Relatively new firm with less established track record
• Full refund of challenge fees after first payout
• Scaling to $2M requires consistent performance over time
• Multiple evaluation pathways for different trader types
• 1:50 leverage may be limiting for certain strategies

5. SeacrestFunded

Founded in June 2022 as MyFundedFX, SeacrestFunded rebranded in February 2025 to align with its brokerage arm, Seacrest Markets, and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas. The firm has built a solid reputation with US traders, particularly for its flexible evaluation models and strong payout history.

Trustpilot Rating: 4.3/5 (Great) based on trader reviews

Funding Model: Challenge-based evaluation
One-step and two-step evaluation options available

Capital Allocation: $5,000 to $200,000, scalable to $1 million

Trading Platforms: MetaTrader 5, cTrader, MatchTrader, and DXtrade

Profit Payout: Profit splits up to 90%

Payout Speed & Withdrawal Frequency: 5-day payout cycle available for faster access to profits

Fees:

  • Challenge fees: Starting at $99 for $5K account up to $599 for $200K
  • No monthly subscription fees
  • Refund policy: Challenge fee refunded with first profit withdrawal

Pros & Cons:

Pros
Cons
• US-based firm with strong domestic trader support
• Lower maximum account size ($200K) compared to top competitors
• Fast 5-day payout cycles available
• 90% profit split lower than firms offering 95-100%
• Multiple platform options including cTrader
• Rebranding in 2025 may cause initial confusion
• Strong 2024 payout history ($10M+) demonstrates reliability
• Scaling cap at $1M lower than industry leaders
• Flexible evaluation models for different skill levels
• Newer brand recognition despite operational history

6. Hola Prime

Hola Prime is a retail prop firm that promises all payouts within one hour, along with transparency, offering traders four platforms and a maximum profit share of up to 95%. The scaling plan ensures skilled traders can manage up to $4M, making it attractive for growth-oriented traders.

Trustpilot Rating: Currently under review (Note: In early 2025, Trustpilot removed over 1,300 reviews citing suspected manipulation, which has impacted the firm’s online reputation)

Funding Model: Multiple evaluation options
Prime (one-step), Pro (two-step), and Direct (instant funding) models available

Capital Allocation: Starting from $5,000, scalable up to $4,000,000

Trading Platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and DXtrade

Profit Payout: Up to 95% profit splits

Payout Speed & Withdrawal Frequency: Lightning-fast one-hour payouts, available on demand

Fees:

  • Challenge fees: Starting at $69 for $5K account up to $599 for larger accounts
  • Direct funding requires monthly subscription
  • Refund policy: Varies by program type

Pros & Cons:

Pros
Cons
• Industry-leading 1-hour payout speed
• Trustpilot controversy raises trust concerns
• Impressive $4M scaling potential
• Unannounced rule changes (25% consistency rule added Sept 2024)
• 95% profit split among highest available
• Relatively new firm with less established track record
• Multiple evaluation pathways for flexibility
• Recent addition of strict consistency requirements
• Five unique funding programs for different styles
• Less transparent communication about policy changes

7. FTUK

FTUK is a global instant funding prop firm offering 1 & 2-step funded forex trading accounts. The firm positions itself as an accessible entry point for traders seeking both instant funding options and traditional evaluation pathways.

Trustpilot Rating: 4.2/5 (Great)

Funding Model: Multiple options
Instant funding, one-step, and two-step evaluation challenges available

Capital Allocation: Accounts up to $90,000

Trading Platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and proprietary platforms

Profit Payout: 80% profit split

Payout Speed & Withdrawal Frequency: Bi-weekly payouts with 2-3 business day processing

Fees:

  • Instant funding: $99/month for $5K up to $499/month for $90K
  • Challenge fees: $99 for one-step, $149 for two-step evaluations
  • Refund policy: Challenge fees refundable upon meeting profit targets

Pros & Cons:

Pros
Cons
• Instant funding option for immediate trading
• Lower 80% profit split compared to competitors offering 90-95%
• Flexible evaluation models suit different preferences
• Strict 5% daily loss limit may be restrictive
• No country restrictions, truly global accessibility
• Monthly fees for instant funding add up over time
• Fast scaling opportunities available
• Maximum $90K account size smaller than top firms
• Straightforward rules with clear guidelines
• Limited platform options compared to some competitors

8. FXIFY

FXIFY provides funded accounts from $1,000 to $400,000 with instant funding and multiple evaluation options. Launched in April 2023, the firm has quickly gained recognition for its flexible approach and backing by forex broker FXPIG.

Trustpilot Rating: 4.6/5 (Excellent) based on over 8,000+ reviews

Funding Model: Instant funding and challenge-based
One-step (10% target), two-step (10% and 5%), and three-step (5%, 5%, 5%) evaluation options with no time limits

Capital Allocation: $1,000 to $400,000, with scaling plan that doubles your account

Trading Platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and DX Trade

Profit Payout: Up to 90% performance split

Payout Speed & Withdrawal Frequency: Bi-weekly payouts, first payout on demand with no minimum or maximum amount

Fees:

  • Challenge fees: $39 for $5K up to $599 for $200K accounts
  • Instant funding: Monthly subscription model ranging $47-$399
  • Refund policy: Full refund with first profit split for challenge accounts

Pros & Cons:

Pros
Cons
• Wide account size range from $1K to $400K
• Instant funding requires ongoing monthly subscriptions
• On-demand first payout with no minimum amount
• 90% profit split lower than some competitors offering 95-100%
• No time limits on evaluation phases
• Multiple evaluation steps can be time-consuming
• Backed by established broker FXPIG for stability
• Account doubling scaling requires consistent profitability
• Low entry cost starting at just $39
• Customer support response times vary during peak periods

9. DNA Funded

DNA Funded is a broker-backed prop firm partnered with ASIC-regulated DNA Markets, offering traders access to over 800 CFD instruments across five asset classes including forex, commodities, indices, shares, and crypto. The platform is designed for traders seeking simulated funded capital up to $600,000 with flexible challenge options.

Trustpilot Rating: 4.0/5 (Good) based on 62 reviews

Funding Model: Multiple evaluation options
One-step, two-step, and three-step challenges available, plus booster options to fast-track evaluations

Capital Allocation: Starting at $5,000, scalable up to $600,000

Trading Platforms: TradeLocker (proprietary platform)

Profit Payout: Up to 95% profit split

Payout Speed & Withdrawal Frequency: Bi-weekly payouts with 2-5 business day processing

Fees:

  • Challenge fees: Starting at $49 for $5K account up to $699 for larger accounts
  • Booster options available for expedited evaluation
  • Refund policy: Challenge fee refunded upon meeting profit milestones

Pros & Cons:

Pros
Cons
• Backed by ASIC-regulated broker for added credibility
• Limited to TradeLocker platform only (no MT4/MT5)
• Access to 800+ instruments across 5 asset classes
• Newer firm with less established operational history
• High 95% profit split competitive with industry leaders
• Some users report KYC verification delays
• Booster options available for faster progression
• 4.0 Trustpilot rating lower than top-tier competitors
• Crypto trading available alongside traditional forex
• Customer support response times inconsistent during peaks

10. BrightFunded

BrightFunded has built a strong reputation for transparency and customer satisfaction, holding an excellent Trustpilot score of 4.6 out of 5 stars, with 86% of users rating it 5 stars. The firm has distributed over $6 million to its traders, demonstrating consistent payout reliability.

Trustpilot Rating: 4.6/5 (Excellent)

Funding Model: Challenge-based evaluation
One-step and two-step evaluation options available

Capital Allocation: Up to $400,000 with access to more than 150 instruments

Trading Platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader

Profit Payout: 80% profit split standard, scaling to 90%

Payout Speed & Withdrawal Frequency: Bi-weekly payouts; fast payouts highlighted in positive feedback

Fees:

  • Challenge fees: Starting at $99 for smaller accounts up to $599 for $400K
  • No monthly subscription fees
  • Refund policy: Full refund of challenge fee with first profit withdrawal

Pros & Cons:

Pros
Cons
• Outstanding 4.6/5 Trustpilot with 86% five-star reviews
• 80% initial profit split lower than some competitors
• Over $6M paid out demonstrating strong track record
• Scaling to 90% requires consistent performance metrics
• Clear policies and transparent rules praised by users
• Maximum $400K account size smaller than industry leaders
• Responsive support team consistently mentioned in reviews
• Limited to three platform options
• Multiple platform choices including cTrader
• UAE-based company may concern some US traders

11. Blueberry Funded

Blueberry Funded became a founding member of The Prop Association (TPA) in April 2025, demonstrating its commitment to industry standards and trader protection. With low spreads, biweekly payouts, flexible rules, and scaling plans, Blueberry Funded is among the top tier prop trading firms in 2025.

Trustpilot Rating: 4.7/5 (Excellent) with strong trader satisfaction scores

Funding Model: Challenge-based evaluation
One-step, two-step, and rapid challenges available

Capital Allocation: Starting at $10,000, scalable upward with capital increments available every 3 months for traders with at least 10% net profit

Trading Platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and DXtrade

Profit Payout: 80% profit split, scaling to higher percentages with consistent performance

Payout Speed & Withdrawal Frequency: Bi-weekly payouts with fast processing times

Fees:

  • Challenge fees: Competitive pricing starting at $99
  • No hidden fees or monthly subscriptions
  • Refund policy: Challenge fee refunded upon reaching funded status

Pros & Cons:

Pros
Cons
• Founding member of TPA showing industry leadership
• 80% initial profit split standard for entry-level traders
• Excellent 4.7/5 Trustpilot rating demonstrates reliability
• Scaling requires 3-month periods with specific metrics
• Flexible challenge options suit different trader styles
• Must process 4 payouts within 3 months for scaling
• Low spreads competitive with industry best
• No instant funding option currently available
• Strong regulatory oversight and operational transparency
• Platform selection limited to three options

12. GoatFundedTrader

Goat Funded Trader is widely recognized as one of the best instant funding proprietary trading firms, offering traders immediate access to funded accounts through its innovative hybrid funding model. The firm provides a unique approach that allows traders to bypass traditional evaluations.

Trustpilot Rating: 4.5/5 (Excellent)

Funding Model: Instant funding available, helping traders bypass evaluations
Also offers traditional challenge-based pathways for those preferring evaluations

Capital Allocation: Starting at $5,000, scaling up to $200,000

Trading Platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5

Profit Payout: 80% profit split standard, up to 90% with performance scaling

Payout Speed & Withdrawal Frequency: Weekly payout options available for instant funding accounts

Fees:

  • Instant funding: Monthly subscription ranging $97-$397 based on account size
  • Challenge fees: $79-$499 for evaluation pathways
  • Refund policy: Varies by funding model selected

Pros & Cons:

Pros
Cons
• Instant funding option eliminates evaluation wait time
• Monthly subscription fees add up for instant funding model
• Hybrid model offers flexibility between instant and challenge
• 80% profit split lower than top-tier firms offering 95%
• Weekly payout frequency fastest among competitors
• Maximum $200K funding smaller than industry leaders
• Simple rules make platform accessible for beginners
• Limited platform options (MT4/MT5 only)
• Company registered in 2025 with modern approach
• Newer firm with less established long-term track record

13. Instant Funding

Instant Funding delivers exactly what the name suggests – fast funding, positioning itself as a straightforward solution for traders who want to start trading immediately without lengthy evaluation processes. The firm focuses on speed and accessibility.

Trustpilot Rating: 4.4/5 (Great)

Funding Model: Instant funding primary model
Subscription-based access to funded accounts without evaluation challenges

Capital Allocation: Account sizes ranging from $5,000 to $100,000

Trading Platforms: MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5

Profit Payout: 80% profit split with potential for scaling

Payout Speed & Withdrawal Frequency: On-demand payouts available after meeting minimum thresholds

Fees:

  • Monthly subscription: $89/month for $5K up to $449/month for $100K accounts
  • No challenge fees (instant funding model)
  • Refund policy: No refunds; subscription-based model with monthly billing

Pros & Cons:

Pros
Cons
• True instant funding with no evaluation required
• Ongoing monthly costs without ownership of capital
• On-demand payouts provide maximum flexibility
• 80% profit split lower than challenge-based firms
• Simple entry process appeals to new traders
• Subscription fees can exceed challenge costs over time
• No evaluation stress or performance pressure
• Maximum $100K account size limits growth potential
• Straightforward pricing with no hidden fees
• Less incentive for firm to support long-term trader success

14. Traders with Edge

Traders with Edge positions itself as more than a prop firm, emphasizing trader education and development alongside funding opportunities. The firm provides trader funding and training, taking traders from struggling part-time trader to full-time funded trader.

Trustpilot Rating: 4.3/5 (Great) based on community feedback

Funding Model: Challenge-based with educational component
Integrated training program accompanies evaluation process

Capital Allocation: Starting at $25,000, scalable based on performance

Trading Platforms: MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5

Profit Payout: 75% to 85% profit split depending on account tier

Payout Speed & Withdrawal Frequency: Monthly payouts with 5-7 business day processing

Fees:

  • Challenge fees: $299-$599 depending on account size and program
  • Training materials included in challenge fee
  • Refund policy: Partial refund structure tied to milestone achievements

Pros & Cons:

Pros
Cons
• Comprehensive training program included with funding
• Lower profit splits (75-85%) compared to competitors
• Educational focus helps develop long-term skills
• Higher upfront costs due to training component
• Mentorship opportunities available for funded traders
• Monthly payout frequency slower than bi-weekly options
• Strong community support and trader development focus
• Limited account size options compared to larger firms
• Holistic approach benefits newer traders significantly
• Processing times longer than industry average

15. RebelsFunding

RebelsFunding is a prop firm since 2008, offering up to $320,000 capital with 90% profit split. Traders benefit from a custom RF Trader platform, unlimited challenge durations, access to over 70 tradable assets and 12-hour payout frequency

Trustpilot Rating: Approximately 4.4/5

Funding Model: Challenge-based evaluation
Five challenge tiers: Copper, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Diamond

Capital Allocation: Up to $320,000 (expandable to $640,000 with multiple accounts)

Trading Platforms: Custom RF Trader platform (proprietary, not MT4/MT5)

Profit Payout: 90% profit split

Payout Speed & Withdrawal Frequency: Impressive 12-hour payout frequency

Fees:

  • Challenge fees starting at just $25-$35 for entry-level accounts
  • Maximum leverage of 1:200
  • Refund policy: Up to 200% fee return possible with consistent performance

Pros & Cons:

Pros
Cons
• Established since 2008 with 17+ years experience
• Proprietary RF Trader platform may have learning curve
• Industry-leading 12-hour payout frequency
• No MT4/MT5 support limits familiar platform users
• Extremely affordable entry at $25-$35
• Maximum $320K per account requires multiple accounts to scale
• 90% profit split among highest in industry
• Five-tier system may be complex for new traders
• Unlimited challenge duration removes time pressure
• Lower maximum leverage (1:200) than some competitors

How to Choose the Best Forex Prop Firms for US Traders

Selecting the right prop firm can make the difference between a profitable trading career and wasted challenge fees. Here are 5 critical factors to consider when choosing among forex prop firms for US traders:

1. Verify US Trader Acceptance

Not all prop firms accept US traders due to regulatory complexities. Before investing in any challenge, confirm the firm explicitly welcomes American traders. FTMO’s recent return to accepting US traders through their OANDA partnership demonstrates how the landscape continues evolving. Always check the firm’s current policy on US registrations, as this can change without notice.

2. Evaluate Your Trading Style Against Firm Rules

Different firms impose varying risk management parameters that may conflict with your strategy. Scalpers need firms with minimal restrictions on high-frequency trading, while swing traders benefit from overnight holding flexibility. Review these critical rule sets:

  • Daily loss limits: Typically 3-5% of account balance
  • Maximum drawdown: Usually 6-10% total
  • Profit consistency requirements: Some firms mandate no single day exceeds 25-40% of total profits
  • Weekend holding restrictions: Critical for position traders
  • News trading allowances: Essential for fundamental traders

3. Compare Funding Models: Challenge vs. Instant

Challenge-based funding requires passing evaluations but typically offers higher profit splits (80-95%) and larger account sizes. You pay once and, upon passing, receive refunds with your first payout. This model suits patient traders confident in their abilities.

Instant funding provides immediate market access through monthly subscriptions but often caps profit splits at 80% and limits account sizes. Monthly fees accumulate over time, potentially exceeding challenge costs. This works for traders wanting immediate action without evaluation pressure.

Read also: Instant Funding vs Evaluation Models: Which Prop Trading Part Is Better?

4. Analyze Total Cost Structure

Look beyond headline challenge fees to understand true costs:

  • Upfront challenge fees: Range from $25 (RebelsFunding) to $1,280 (FTMO $200K)
  • Refund policies: Most reputable firms refund fees with first profit split
  • Monthly subscriptions: Instant funding models charge $89-$499 monthly
  • Reset fees: If you fail evaluations, what’s the cost to retry?
  • Hidden fees: Withdrawal fees, inactivity charges, or platform access costs

FundingPips offers the lowest entry at $29, while RebelsFunding starts at $25-$35, making them accessible for traders with limited capital. Conversely, FTMO’s higher fees reflect their premium service and industry-leading reputation.

5. Assess Profit Split and Scaling Potential

Profit splits directly impact your earnings. The market ranges from 75% (Traders with Edge) to 100% (Apex’s first $25K, FundingPips Hot Seat program). Consider both initial splits and scaling opportunities:

  • Initial split: 80-90% is industry standard
  • Scaling percentages: Can you increase to 90-100% with performance?
  • Account size growth: The5ers scales to $4M; Hola Prime to $4M; FTMO to $2M
  • Scaling timeframes: How quickly can you access larger capital?

6. Prioritize Payout Speed and Frequency

Fast access to your earnings matters, especially for traders relying on prop trading income:

  • 12-hour payouts: RebelsFunding (fastest in industry)
  • 1-hour payouts: Hola Prime
  • 24-48 hours: Apex Trader Funding
  • Bi-weekly options: FTMO, FXIFY, BrightFunded, Blueberry Funded
  • Weekly options: FundingPips, GoatFundedTrader
  • Monthly: The5ers, Traders with Edge

Apex Trader Funding’s bi-weekly cycle every 8 trading days and FundingPips’ weekly option provide excellent cash flow. Monthly payouts mean longer waits between withdrawals.

7. Check Trustpilot Ratings and Payout History

Trustpilot ratings offer crucial insights into firm reliability, though be aware of manipulation concerns (Hola Prime’s 2025 review removal). Focus on:

  • Rating trends: 4.5+ is excellent; below 4.0 warrants caution
  • Total review count: More reviews = more reliable data
  • Recent reviews: Check the last 30-60 days for current sentiment
  • Payout complaints: Red flag if many traders report payment issues
  • Response to criticism: Good firms address negative feedback professionally

FTMO (4.9/5, 17,000+ reviews) and The5ers (4.9/5, 17,800+ reviews) lead the industry. BrightFunded’s $6M+ in payouts and Blueberry Funded’s TPA membership provide additional credibility markers.

8. Consider Platform Requirements

Your familiarity with trading platforms affects performance. Most best forex prop firms for US traders offer MetaTrader 4/5, but options vary:

  • MT4/MT5: Industry standard, widest availability
  • cTrader: Advanced interface preferred by some professionals (FTMO, Seacrest, BrightFunded)
  • Proprietary platforms: RebelsFunding’s RF Trader, DNA Funded’s TradeLocker
  • Multiple platform access: FTMO offers four platforms; Seacrest offers four

If you’ve optimized strategies on specific platforms, ensure your chosen firm supports them. Learning new platforms during evaluations adds unnecessary complexity.

9. Test Customer Support Responsiveness

Before purchasing challenges, test support quality:

  • Contact via multiple channels (email, chat, social media)
  • Ask specific questions about rules and policies
  • Evaluate response times and helpfulness
  • Check if support operates during your trading hours
  • Review feedback about post-funding support quality

Poor support becomes critical when you encounter technical issues, rule clarifications, or payout questions while holding funded accounts.


Conclusion

The landscape of forex prop firms in the US continues evolving in 2025, with FTMO’s return marking a significant development for American traders. Whether you prioritize FTMO’s industry-leading reputation, Apex Trader Funding’s lightning-fast bi-weekly payouts, RebelsFunding’s 12-hour withdrawal speed, or FundingPips’ $29 entry point, the market offers solutions for every trading style and budget.

The best forex prop firms for US traders share common characteristics: transparent rules, reliable payouts, responsive support, and fair profit splits. Match these fifteen firms against your specific needs—trading style, capital requirements, preferred platforms, and risk tolerance—to identify your ideal partner. Remember that the cheapest option isn’t always best; factor in profit splits, scaling potential, and firm reliability when calculating true value. Start with smaller challenges to test firm operations before committing to larger account sizes, and always maintain disciplined risk management regardless of which firm you choose.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which is the best forex prop firm for US traders in 2025?

FTMO stands out as the best overall choice for US traders in 2025.

2. Do all forex prop firms accept US traders?

No, not all forex prop firms accept US traders due to complex regulatory requirements.

3. What’s the difference between instant funding and challenge-based prop firms?

Challenge-based firms require passing evaluations before receiving funded accounts, while instant funding provides immediate trading access through monthly subscriptions.

4. How much does it cost to join a forex prop firm?

Challenge fees range from $25 to $1,280 depending on firm and account size, while instant funding requires $89-$499 monthly subscriptions.

5. How long does it take to get funded at a forex prop firm?

Challenge-based firms typically require 30-90 days to complete evaluations, while instant funding provides immediate access.

6. Can you withdraw profits from forex prop firms?

Yes, all reputable forex prop firms allow profit withdrawals, though frequency and minimum amounts vary by firm.