12 Best Forex Prop Firms for US & International Traders (2026)
● UPDATED: February 2026 |
● REVIEWED BY: FOREX VITALS TEAM
Proprietary trading firms ("prop firms") let traders prove their skill through an evaluation and then trade
a funded account for a profit split. This page compares prop firms that accept both US and international traders
and (as of the latest review) allow US residents to apply to their affiliate programs.
We focus on the features that actually matter: evaluation fees, profit splits, drawdown rules,
account scaling, payout speed, platform options, and overall legitimacy.
Affiliate disclosure:
Some outbound links on this page may be affiliate links. If you sign up through them, Forex Vitals may earn a commission
at no extra cost to you. We aim to keep comparisons fair and update this guide as programs change.
Risk & content disclaimer:
Trading forex and CFDs is high risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Prop firm terms can change quickly
(including rules, platform access, pricing, and payout conditions). This page is for general information only
and does not constitute investment, tax, or legal advice. Always verify current rules on each firm's official website
before you pay any evaluation fee or trade.
Quick picks (for most traders)
Best overall reputation: FTMO |
Fast payouts: Funded Trading Plus, E8 Funding, FunderPro |
Biggest long-term scaling: The 5%ers, City Traders Imperium, FTUK |
Best value pricing: Smart Prop Trader, Lark Funding |
Instant funding options: TX3 Funding, FTUK, TopOneTrader
Filter prop firms
Use these filters to narrow down prop firms by budget, payout cadence, platform, and program type.
All firms listed accept both US and international traders (based on our latest review).
*Fees and rules vary by account size and program. "Typical" values are shown for easier comparison.
Detailed prop firm reviews
FTMO
Industry leader with strict risk rules and a strong payout track record.
Focus Legitimacy
Typical fee: $540 (100k) - refunded if you pass
Profit split: 80% (up to 90% with scaling)
Drawdown: 5% daily / 10% total
Platforms: MT4/MT5 (US: OANDA/web)
Scaling: +25% every 4 months
Payouts: Monthly (bi-weekly available)
FTMO is one of the most established names in forex prop trading (founded 2015) and is widely viewed as the
"gold standard" for structured evaluations. Expect a disciplined two-step process and strict risk controls.
Best for: Traders who prefer a mature firm, clear rules, and a long-term scaling plan.
Strengths
Strong reputation and consistent payouts over many years.
High profit split with a clear path to 90% via scaling.
US-compliant option via OANDA/web execution.
Watch-outs
Strict daily and overall drawdown limits require disciplined sizing.
Two-step structure can feel slow if you want "instant" funding.
Why traders pick FTMO:
A long track record, clear rules, and a well-known brand make it a common first choice for funded-account traders.
Multiple challenge types plus one of the most active trading communities.
Focus Choice
Typical fee: $500-$1,000 (varies)
Profit split: 80% (up to 90%)
Drawdown: Varies by program (1-step vs 2-step)
Platforms: MT4/MT5, cTrader, Match-Trader
Scaling: Up to $1.5M funded
Payouts: 7-30 day first payout; bi-weekly thereafter
TFT popularized "gamified" challenges and offers both faster (tighter risk) one-step options and more standard two-step programs.
If you like promo codes, contests, and social proof, TFT is frequently mentioned by traders.
Best for: Traders who want lots of evaluation choices (and enjoy an active community + frequent promos).
Strengths
Wide range of challenge structures (1-step and 2-step).
Platform options include cTrader + Match-Trader.
Potentially fast first payout on certain programs.
Watch-outs
Rules and drawdowns vary across programs—read the fine print for your specific plan.
Promo-heavy firms can change offers frequently.
Why traders pick TFT:
Frequent promos, multiple challenge types, and an active community appeal to many traders.
Capital preservation focus with no-time-limit paths and huge scaling upside.
Focus Scaling
Typical fee: ~ $235 (Bootcamp) - varies by program
Profit split: 50-80% (can reach 100%)
Style: Lower leverage / risk-managed programs common
Platforms: MT5 (US: web/TradingView solution)
Scaling: Up to $4M allocation
Payouts: Bi-weekly or on-demand
The 5%ers is known for a slower, more "career trader" approach. Many programs remove time pressure and
emphasize consistent risk control. The reward is one of the most impressive scaling paths in the space.
Best for: Patient, risk-controlled traders who want no-time-limit evaluations and long-term compounding/scaling.
Strengths
No-time-limit options reduce "rush trading."
Education + trader development focus.
Scaling can reach very large allocations over time.
Watch-outs
Lower leverage/risk caps can feel restrictive for aggressive traders.
Profit split structure varies widely by program.
Why traders pick The 5%ers:
No-time-limit paths and a capital-preservation style are attractive for traders who prefer steady growth.
US-based prop firm known for frequent payouts and trader-friendly targets.
Focus Payouts
Typical fee: $588 (100k two-step)
Profit split: 80% (up to 90%)
Drawdown: 5% daily / 8% overall (typical)
Platforms: MT4/MT5 (US: TradeLocker)
Scaling: Combine accounts up to ~ $1M
Payouts: Bi-weekly; first payout can be fast
E8 stands out for fast payout cycles and relatively achievable targets on common evaluation tracks.
The guide highlights bi-weekly withdrawals and an early first payout window after funding.
Best for: Traders who value getting paid frequently and want US-friendly platform access.
Strengths
Bi-weekly payouts with fast first payout options.
US-friendly platform path via TradeLocker.
Performance-based path to higher profit splits.
Watch-outs
Tighter overall drawdown than some "10% total" models.
Some payout rules include mild consistency constraints.
Why traders pick E8 Funding:
Bi-weekly withdrawals and a focus on payout cadence appeal to active traders who prioritize getting paid regularly.
Simple rules + some of the fastest payout options in prop trading.
Focus Speed
Typical fee: $610 (100k two-step)
Profit split: 80% (up to 90%)
Drawdown: 4% daily / 6% max (two-step); 10% static (one-step)
Platforms: MT4 / MT5
Scaling: Up to $2.5M (multiple programs)
Payouts: 3 / 5 / 7 day withdrawal options
Funded Trading Plus is positioned as a "no red tape" prop firm with fewer gotcha rules. The biggest draw is payout speed:
some programs let you withdraw within days, not weeks.
Best for: Traders who want minimal complexity and fast access to profits.
Strengths
No-time-limit options reduce pressure.
Very fast payout cycles relative to the market.
Clear rules compared with "fine-print heavy" firms.
Watch-outs
Drawdown style differs by program (trailing vs static) — check your specific plan.
As with any fast-payout firm, confirm payout eligibility conditions in advance.
Why traders pick Funded Trading Plus:
High conversion potential when paired with "fast payouts" comparison and clear program explanation.
Smart Prop Trader is built around competitive pricing and platform choice. If your audience is price-sensitive,
this is often the type of offer that earns clicks—especially when paired with a simple two-step path.
Best for: Traders who want strong value per account size and prefer modern platforms like cTrader.
Strengths
Competitive fee-to-capital ratio versus many mainstream firms.
Platform variety (including cTrader) can suit discretionary traders.
No-time-limit options can reduce "rush trading."
Watch-outs
Always confirm the exact drawdown method (static vs trailing) for your chosen plan.
Newer firms can change programs quickly—verify current pricing and payout rules.
Why traders pick Smart Prop Trader:
Pricing + platform flexibility is the main appeal for many traders.
Lark Funding stands out with program variety—especially if you like the idea of a slower multi-step path that
reduces pressure. "No time limit" programs are often a better fit for traders who want to focus on process rather than a deadline.
Best for: Traders who want a no-time-limit option and prefer a wider choice of evaluation paths (including 3-step).
Strengths
No-time-limit style options can reduce forced trading.
Multiple step formats let you choose a pace that matches your risk tolerance.
Modern platform access (including cTrader).
Watch-outs
Different plans can have different drawdown definitions—confirm your specific plan.
Exchange-rate pricing (CAD vs USD) can change the "effective fee" over time.
Why traders pick Lark Funding:
Flexible step options + no-time-limit paths appeal to traders who prefer a steady pace.
TradeLocker-focused prop firm with a strong emphasis on payout cadence.
Focus Payouts
Typical fee: $550 (typical 100k)
Profit split: 80-90%
Drawdown: 5% daily / 10% total
Platforms: TradeLocker
Programs: 2-step + no-time-limit options
Payouts: Weekly (program-dependent)
FunderPro is a good fit if you want TradeLocker access and prioritize getting paid more frequently.
Weekly payout structures can be appealing to traders who trade actively and want consistent withdrawals.
Best for: TradeLocker users and traders who value frequent payout options.
Strengths
Weekly payout cadence (subject to program conditions).
TradeLocker platform can be a plus for traders who prefer a web-first workflow.
Simple 2-step evaluation structure in common plans.
Instant funding and aggressive scaling, built around DXTrade.
Focus Instant
Typical fee: £550 (instant funding option)
Profit split: 80% (plan-dependent)
Drawdown: 6% fixed (plan-dependent)
Platforms: DXTrade
Scaling: Aggressive scaling (often marketed as doubling)
Payouts: Bi-weekly
FTUK is distinct for traders who want an instant-funding style path and a scaling plan that is marketed as aggressive.
If your audience prefers starting funded from day one (instead of passing a multi-phase evaluation), this is worth a look.
Best for: Traders who want instant funding and are comfortable trading within a fixed drawdown model.
Strengths
Instant funding option can remove the "pass the evaluation first" barrier.
Clear fixed drawdown style on common plans.
Scaling plan is a major selling point for long-term traders.
Watch-outs
Instant funding plans can differ significantly from evaluation plans—check the exact split and rules.
Platform is DXTrade (not MT4/MT5), which may be a deal-breaker for some traders.
Why traders pick FTUK:
Instant funding + aggressive scaling are the main draws.
Innovative newcomer with instant funding and a "profit split ladder" concept.
Focus Instant
Typical fee: $649 (100k 1-step)
Profit split: 75-80% (up to 90%)
Drawdown: 4% daily / 7% trailing (1-step) typical
Platforms: MT5
Scaling: Balance boosts every ~3 months
Payouts: First payout ~30 days, then bi-weekly
TopOneTrader offers both challenges and instant funding, with a tiered profit split that increases across payouts.
If you like the idea of buying a funded account and "earning your way" to 90%, this is a notable model.
Best for: Traders who want instant funding options and don't mind lower leverage caps on some accounts.
Strengths
Clear path to higher profit split through repeated payouts.
Instant funding option in addition to classic evaluations.
No-time-limit options on some challenge types.
Watch-outs
Leverage caps can be lower (e.g., 1:10 on some plans).
First payout waiting period can be longer than "fast payout" competitors.
Why traders pick TopOneTrader:
Works well when positioned as an "instant funding with a clear profit split ladder" offer.
Trader development + huge scaling potential (up to $4M) with paths to 100% splits.
Focus Career
Typical fee: $589 (100k 1-step)
Profit split: 80% (up to 100% in certain programs)
Drawdown: No daily DD (1-step); ~5% max loss example
Platforms: MT4/MT5 (US: Match-Trader)
Scaling: Up to $4M
Payouts: On-demand after consistency (bi-weekly typical)
CTI is positioned as a hybrid of funding + education. If you want structured growth, coaching resources,
and a very ambitious scaling ceiling, it's one of the top options in this list.
Best for: Traders who value mentorship and long-term growth more than quick "challenge flipping."
Strengths
Very high scaling ceiling and "career" growth positioning.
Potential for 100% profit share in some tracks.
Educational resources can improve trader outcomes.
Watch-outs
Lower leverage focus may not suit high-frequency scalpers.
Some programs include style/discipline rules (e.g., stop-loss requirements).
Why traders pick CTI:
Converts well with audiences that want education + funding, not just "cheap evaluations."
TX3 Funding (backed by TX3 Markets) offers three main forex challenge types: Flex (2-phase), Pro (2-phase), and a 1-Phase model.
The rules, drawdown math, and payout cadence vary by program — so the "best" option depends on whether you prioritize flexibility,
higher default payout share, or payout-on-demand.
Best for: Affiliates targeting US audiences who care about modern platforms, transparent rules, and faster payout options.
Strengths
Program variety: Flex/Pro (2-phase) plus a 1-phase alternative with different risk profiles.
Pro program supports payout-on-demand once eligibility requirements are met.
Up to 90% profit share available via add-on; defaults are competitive (80-85% depending on program).
Help-center documentation clearly outlines drawdowns, consistency rules, and payout timelines.
Watch-outs
Rules differ materially by program (e.g., 1-phase uses a trailing max loss; Flex can include profit caps in funded stage).
Payout eligibility includes minimum thresholds and (in some programs) consistency constraints — read the help center before purchase.
Challenge pricing and add-ons can change; confirm current checkout totals before promoting.
Why traders pick TX3 Funding:
Tiered commissions (12%-25%) with affiliate withdrawals every 30/14/7 days depending on tier, plus lifetime recurring commissions on evaluations/resets/activations. See their FX affiliates page for full terms.
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How to Pass a Prop Firm Challenge (US & Intl)
1. Understand the "Drawdown" Type
Not all drawdowns are created equal.
Balance-Based: Calculated on your account balance (The 5%ers, FTMO). This is the safest.
Equity-Based / Trailing: Moves up as your profit moves up (Funded Trading Plus 1-step, various others). This is harder; if you are up 4% and the drawdown trails 4%, you have less breathing room.
2. Platform Selection is Critical
If you are a US trader, you likely cannot use MetaTrader 4/5 (MT4/MT5) with most firms anymore.
Recommended: Get comfortable with cTrader (excellent UX), DXTrade (highly customizable), or TradeLocker (TradingView charts).
3. The "News Trading" Trap
Many firms ban trading 2 minutes before/after Red Folder news events on "Funded" accounts, even if they allow it during the evaluation. Always check the FAQ for "News Trading Rules" to avoid forfeiting your profits.
Prop Firms vs. Personal Broker Account
Feature
Prop Firm (Funded)
Personal Broker
Capital
$100,000+ (Virtual buying power)
Your own savings
Risk
Evaluation fee only (~$500)
100% of your deposit
Profit Split
You keep 80-90%
You keep 100%
Rules
Strict (Drawdown limits, news rules)
Flexible (Your own rules)
Regulatory Protection
Low (B2B contract)
High (ASIC, FCA, CFTC regulated)
Important notes & FAQ
How should I choose a prop firm?
Start with the rule set you can realistically follow: daily/overall drawdown, trailing vs static limits, and payout eligibility.
Then compare evaluation fees, profit split, and scaling potential. Finally, confirm platform access (MT4/MT5 vs alternatives) and
read the firm's official terms before buying.
Are all these firms available to US and international traders?
This list is curated for prop firms that accept both US and international traders, with US-friendly platform routes where needed.
Because policies change, always confirm your eligibility on the firm's official site before purchasing.
Do these firms have affiliate programs that accept US residents?
As of the latest review, the firms listed here offer affiliate programs open to US residents (and internationally).
Confirm current affiliate terms directly with the firm before promoting.
Is this page financial advice?
No. This is educational comparison content and not investment, tax, or legal advice. Use it as a shortlist tool,
then verify details and assess your own risk tolerance before making any decision.
How often do prop firm rules change?
Rules can change frequently (platform access, fee pricing, payout cycles, drawdown interpretation, and prohibited strategies).
Treat any comparison as a snapshot and always rely on official rules for final decisions.
