10 Prop Firms With the Best-Documented Rules for Inactivity

10 Prop Firms With the Best-Documented Rules for Inactivity
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There’s more to choosing a prop firm than simply looking at profit splits, account sizes and evaluation fees. Traders also need to know how long they can leave an account inactive before restrictions or even closure follow. In this guide, we’ll take a look at Prop Firms With the Best-Documented Rules for Inactivity, including inactivity limits, account types, qualifying trades, and what happens if you breach them. Traders can get a better sense of the requirements for each firm and select an account that is aligned with their trading style, schedule, and long-term goals by comparing these policies.

How to Choose a Prop Firm With Fair Inactivity Rules?

Review Inactivity Limits: Select a prop firm that offers a reasonable period of inactivity that matches your trading frequency, personal schedule and ability to stay in the game.

Compare Account Types Before you settle on your preferred trading program, find out if the inactivity rules are different for evaluation, funded, futures and instant funding accounts.

Know Your Qualifying Activity. Find out if simply making a trade is enough, or if you need to open and close positions to meet the firm’s activity requirements.

Look over the account closure policies: Pick a broker who clearly states the violations that lead to account closure such as inactivity, and if traders can get their accounts back after not meeting the required trading period.

Alert Notifications: Search for prop firms that offer you early warnings, email notifications or reasonable chances to start trading again before your account becomes inactive.

Understand the Calendar-Day Rules: Confirm whether the inactivity period counts weekends and holidays so you can plan your trading breaks accordingly without accidentally violating account rules.

Check Exceptions and Extensions: Find out if companies offer any exceptions to inactivity rules for holidays, illness, travel or other situations, or if prior support approval is needed.

Check the current official terms: Before you purchase a challenge, read the latest account agreement to see the inactivity deadlines, the qualifying trades, any policy changes, and the rules for getting reinstated.

10 Prop Firms With the Best-Documented Rules for Inactivity

  1. FTMO – Clearly documents that inactive accounts may be reviewed after several weeks, and traders can request an account freeze for planned inactivity.
  2. FundedNext – Publishes a straightforward 30-day inactivity rule, with accounts deactivated after 30 consecutive calendar days without a trade.
  3. The5ers – Defines inactivity limits separately for evaluation and funded accounts, making expectations easy to understand.
  4. E8 Markets – Transparently states inactivity thresholds, including 60-day limits for classic accounts and 7-day limits for futures accounts.
  5. Funding Pips – Clearly lists a 30-day inactivity requirement and specifies that traders must close at least one trade within that period.
  6. Apex Trader Funding – Provides one of the most detailed inactivity policies, including qualifying activity requirements, warning notices, and closure procedures
  7. Blue Guardian – Maintains dedicated rule documentation, including inactivity and account status policies within its knowledge base
  8. MyFundedFX – Known for publishing comprehensive rulebooks and trading conditions, helping traders understand account maintenance requirements.
  9. Fidelcrest – Has historically offered detailed challenge and funded-account rule documentation with clearly defined account-management requirements.
  10. Topstep – Provides extensive help-center documentation covering account activity expectations, evaluation requirements, and funded-account management rules.

1. FTMO

FTMO has an inactivity policy that differs between simulated evaluation accounts, simulated funded accounts and live funded accounts. The published terms for its standard evaluation and verification accounts define prolonged inactivity as failure to place at least one simulated trade within 30 consecutive calendar days.

FTMO

Separately, the futures program notes that Sim-Funded Accounts are closed after 30 consecutive calendar days of inactivity, but Live-Funded Accounts have no inactivity rule under that policy. Traders should know their exact account type before applying the limit. If the prolonged inactivity is applicable, the account may be terminated and access to that stage will be ended.

FTMO — Company Overview

ParticularDetails
Company NameFTMO
Founded2015
HeadquartersPrague, Czech Republic
FoundersOtakar Šuffner and Marek Vašíček
Business ModelSimulated trading evaluation and performance-based rewards
Trading MarketsForex, indices, commodities, and other CFD markets; futures offerings are also available
Evaluation Programs1-Step and 2-Step Challenges, plus other account options
Inactivity Research FocusEvaluation account and funded-stage inactivity rules must be checked separately

2. FundedNext

FundedNext has varying inactivity requirements for its CFD and futures accounts. As per its latest published CFD rules, Stellar 1-Step, Stellar 2-Step, Stellar Lite and Stellar Instant accounts are deactivated after 60 consecutive calendar days of inactivity (i.e. without placing a trade).

FundedNext

The 30-day inactivity limit for futures accounts in Challenge and FundedNext Accounts is shorter in Futures Direct Accounts with only seven days. These periods include weekends and require that at least one trade is placed to reset the futures inactivity counter.

Once broken into or disabled, accounts can no longer be traded and may have to be bought anew rather than extended to continue.

FundedNext — Company Overview

ParticularDetails
Company NameFundedNext
FoundedCurrent company-history claims should be verified against official records
Business ModelTrader evaluation and performance-based rewards
Related OperationsFundedNext CFD, FundedNext Futures, and FNmarkets
Trading MarketsCFD and futures programs, depending on the product
Evaluation StructureMultiple account models with different trading conditions
Global PresenceOfficial company information describes operations across multiple regions
Inactivity Research FocusCompare inactivity periods for CFD and futures accounts separately

3. The5ers

The5ers inactivity requirements are different for each trading program. Its futures evaluation rules require traders to make at least one trade every 14 calendar days, but there is no overall deadline for completing the evaluation. If no trading activity occurs in the account during this period, the account may be closed for inactivity.

The5ers

Traders should not confuse this futures requirement with the rules for other rather than assuming that every account has the same deadline. The5ers programs Review the relevant account agreement before pausing, including what constitutes a qualifying trade and whether there are any account-specific conditions that impact continued access.

The5ers — Company Overview

ParticularDetails
Company NameThe5ers
Business ModelProprietary trading evaluation and funded-account programs
Main OfferingTrading challenges and progression through account stages
Trading MarketsPrimarily forex and other instruments offered under individual programs
Evaluation StructureMultiple programs with program-specific conditions
Account TypesEvaluation and funded-stage accounts, depending on the program
Risk ManagementTrading objectives and risk limits vary by account model
Inactivity Research FocusCheck futures-specific rules separately from other programs

4. Markets E8

E8 Markets has different inactivity limits depending on the market and account type. Classic Markets and Perpetual Futures accounts are limited to 60 days and Futures accounts are limited to seven days. The activity requirement is satisfied by opening and closing one or more trades in the relevant period, not by having a position open.

Markets E8

No minimum lot size applies, and the firm states that even a micro-trade of 0.1 lots qualifies for this purpose. The rule also applies to new accounts that have not traded previously. Traders expecting to be away for a long time should talk to support before they travel about their situation.

E8 Markets — Company Overview

ParticularDetails
Company NameE8 Markets
Business ModelSimulated trading evaluations and performance-based account programs
Main Product CategoriesClassic Markets and futures-related offerings
Trading MarketsCFD markets and futures, depending on the account
Account StructureDifferent account models with distinct trading conditions
Evaluation RequirementsVary by program
Risk ManagementProgram-specific trading and drawdown rules
Inactivity Research FocusCompare 7-day futures rules with applicable 60-day account rules, after checking current terms

5. FundingPips

FundingPips’ published legacy rules provide for a 30 consecutive calendar day inactivity limit for applicable evaluation accounts and Master Accounts. In each 30-day window there must be at least one open and one fully closed trade. The time starts from the moment an account is created if there are no trades; if trades have been made, the time starts from the day after the last trade is closed. Being open does not reset the timer itself.

FundingPips

The policy applies to new Evaluation accounts created on or after 27 June 2026 so the account purchase date is important. If a qualifying trade is not completed, a hard breach may occur and the account may be closed immediately without a grace period.

FundingPips — Company Overview

ParticularDetails
Company NameFundingPips
Business ModelSimulated trading evaluation and performance-based rewards
Main OfferingChallenge-based trading programs
Trading MarketsForex and other instruments supported by the selected account
Account StructureDifferent challenge and funded-stage models
Evaluation RequirementsDepend on the chosen program
Risk ManagementAccount-specific loss and trading restrictions
Inactivity Research FocusVerify the qualifying trade definition and the policy applicable to the account purchase date

6. Apex Trader Funding

Apex Trader Funding Performance Account holders must have at least two qualifying trading days in every 30-calendar-day rolling period. Must generate a net profit of at least $50 per day trading qualifying. This applies to Intraday and End of Day Performance Accounts and selected promotional Legacy accounts purchased after 1 March 2026.

Apex Trader Funding

Courtesy notifications are sent after 15 days and again after 20 days without the required qualifying activity. If the requirement is not met for 30 consecutive calendar days, the Performance Account is closed permanently. Access is revoked, accumulated rewards and payout eligibility are lost and closed accounts cannot be reactivated.

Apex Trader Funding — Company Overview

ParticularDetails
Company NameApex Trader Funding
Business ModelFutures trading evaluation and performance-account programs
Primary MarketFutures
Main OfferingEvaluation accounts and Performance Accounts
Account TypesIntraday and End-of-Day models, subject to current availability
Evaluation RequirementsProgram-specific performance and risk rules
Trading ConditionsDepend on the selected account
Inactivity Research FocusCheck qualifying trading days, required net profit, notification periods, and closure conditions

7. Blue Guardian

Blue Guardian requires at least one trade every 30 days to keep an account active. The rules as published say the inactivity clock starts from the date the account is opened but the evaluation trading period starts with the first trade. This is important because buying an account and then waiting to trade could still fall within the inactivity window.

Blue Guardian

The requirement is for the firm’s account offerings subject to its general inactivity policy. The account is breached & inactive if no trade is executed during the allowed period. Depending on the stage of the account, evaluation progress or funded access can therefore be lost.

Blue Guardian — Company Overview

ParticularDetails
Company NameBlue Guardian
Business ModelSimulated trading evaluations and account programs
Main OfferingTrading challenges and performance-based opportunities
Trading MarketsInstruments supported by the selected program
Account StructureMultiple evaluation and account options
Trading ConditionsDepend on the selected model
Risk ManagementProgram-specific trading restrictions
Inactivity Research FocusConfirm when the inactivity clock begins and whether the rule applies to every account type

8. My Funded FX

The main research point for MyFundedFX is if the account is under the firm’s current operating rules or an earlier agreement. The documentation available for this review did not permit independent verification of a reliable, current standalone inactivity limit for each of the MyFundedFX account types.

My Funded FX

So one should not assume a specific 7-, 30- or 60-day deadline as a universal current rule without verification. Traders should refer to their account dashboard, the relevant trader agreement and any policy updates for the inactivity period, qualifying activity, clock start and closure conditions. Clearly label any historical policy separately from current terms.

MyFundedFX — Company Overview

ParticularDetails
Company NameMyFundedFX
Business ModelHistorically associated with simulated trading evaluations and funded-account programs
Current Operating StatusRequires current independent verification
Trading MarketsHistorically included forex and CFD-related markets
Account StructureHistorical programs and terms may differ from current offerings
Evaluation RequirementsMust be verified against the applicable agreement
Risk ManagementConfirm current account rules before publication
Inactivity Research FocusVerify current ownership, operating status, account availability, and applicable inactivity terms

9. Fidelcrest

The published program information for Fidelcrest states that the Challenge phase has trading periods of up to 30 calendar days and the Verification phase has trading periods of up to 60 calendar days, with minimum trading-day targets varying by the selected program. These are program deadlines and trading requirements, not necessarily a separate inactivity limit.

Fidelcrest

The available documentation does not clearly define a universal current inactivity trigger period for every Fidelcrest account. Traders should therefore verify whether their specific agreement contains a separate inactivity clause, how qualifying activity is defined and if inactivity can close an account before its trading period is over. Evaluation deadlines are not to be used as evidence of an inactivity rule.

Fidelcrest — Company Overview

ParticularDetails
Company NameFidelcrest
Business ModelHistorically associated with proprietary trading evaluation programs
Main OfferingChallenge and verification-style trading programs
Trading MarketsHistorically included forex and CFD instruments
Account StructureHistorical account models and program conditions
Evaluation RequirementsMust be checked against the applicable historical or current agreement
Risk ManagementProgram-specific conditions
Inactivity Research FocusVerify current operations and distinguish inactivity rules from evaluation deadlines

10. Topstep

Topstep has different inactivity requirements depending on what stage the account is in. The published rules for Live Funded Accounts state that accounts with no trading activity for more than 30 days may be closed and may not be placed on hold. This wording suggests a potential closure, but does not necessarily mean that all inactive accounts will be closed on a single day.

Topstep

If you are using a Trading Combine or an Express Funded Account, please be sure to check the specific rules for your particular stage and not assume the Live Funded policy covers every account. Before taking a long break, review your account agreement and confirm any activity requirements that might apply to ensure you can access your account and still be eligible for a payout.

Topstep — Company Overview

ParticularDetails
Company NameTopstep
Business ModelFutures trader evaluation and funded-trading progression
Primary MarketFutures
Main OfferingTrading Combine and funded-account pathways
Account TypesTrading Combine, Express Funded Account, and Live Funded Account stages
Evaluation RequirementsDepend on the account stage
Risk ManagementAccount-specific trading and loss limits
Inactivity Research FocusVerify the 30-day Live Funded Account rule separately from other account stages

Comparison Table of Inactivity Rules: 10 Prop Firms

Prop FirmInactivity LimitApplicable Account TypeQualifying ActivityConsequences
FTMO30 consecutive calendar daysSimulated Evaluation and Sim-Funded AccountsRecord at least one tradeAccount closure after inactivity; no inactivity rule for Live Funded Accounts.
FundedNextCFD: 30 days; Futures: 30 days; Futures Direct: 7 daysCFD evaluation/funded accounts and Futures accountsPlace at least one trade within the applicable periodAccount deactivation; reset or repurchase may be necessary, depending on account type.
The5ersHigh Stakes: 30 days for evaluation and 60 days for funded accounts; Futures evaluation: 14 daysProgram-specific accountsPlace at least one new trade within the relevant periodAccount expiration or termination
E8 Markets60 days for Classic Markets/Perpetual Futures; 7 days for FuturesMarket-specific account typesPlace and close at least one tradeAccount closure or deactivation.
FundingPips30 consecutive calendar daysApplicable new Evaluation and Master AccountsOpen and fully close at least one tradeHard breach and immediate account closure without a grace period.
Apex Trader FundingRolling 30-day periodPerformance Accounts covered by the current policyAt least 2 trading days, each with $50 or more net profitDormant status and courtesy notifications; permanent closure if requirements remain unmet.
Blue Guardian30 daysAccounts covered by the general inactivity policyPlace at least one tradeInactivity breach.
MyFundedFXNot independently verifiedHistorical account programsConfirm current applicable termsCurrent policy and operating status require verification before stating consequences.
FidelcrestNo separate universal inactivity limit verifiedHistorical Challenge, Verification, and trader accountsCheck the specific account agreementDo not confuse evaluation deadlines with inactivity-triggered closure.
TopstepMore than 30 days for Live Funded AccountsLive Funded Accounts; other stages may have separate rulesNo trading activity during the applicable periodAccount may be closed; Live Funded Accounts cannot be placed on hold.

Conclusion

Opting for a prop firm with well-documented rules regarding inactivity is a good way for traders to safeguard their accounts and prevent abrupt closures. FTMO, FundedNext, The5ers, E8 Markets, FundingPips, Apex Trader Funding, Blue Guardian and Topstep all have different activity requirements for their programs and account types.

MyFundedFX and Fidelcrest need to check their current policies further. Before purchasing a challenge, traders have to check inactivity deadlines, qualifying trades, warning notifications and account termination conditions. Ultimately, the best choice is a company with clear, fair regulations that fit your trading routine and long-term objectives.

FAQ

What are inactivity rules in prop firms?

Inactivity rules specify how long traders can leave an account without qualifying trading activity before the firm may deactivate or close it. The deadline depends on the firm’s policy and account type.

Which prop firms have clearly documented inactivity rules?

FTMO, FundedNext, E8 Markets, FundingPips, and Apex Trader Funding publish specific inactivity requirements. Traders should review the latest rules for their particular account before purchasing a challenge.

How many days can a prop trading account remain inactive?

The limit varies by firm and program. For example, FundedNext CFD accounts have a 30-calendar-day limit, while its Futures Direct accounts have a seven-calendar-day limit. E8 Markets also applies different limits to futures and other account types

Do inactivity rules apply to both evaluation and funded accounts?

Yes, some firms apply inactivity rules to both stages, but the conditions may differ. Always check whether your specific evaluation, simulated funded, or live funded account is covered.

Does leaving an open trade count as trading activity?

Not necessarily. E8 Markets requires traders to place and close at least one trade within the applicable inactivity period. Other firms may define qualifying activity differently, so check the exact wording of the policy.

⚠️ Disclaimer: PropFirmLion provides educational and informational content only. Nothing on this page constitutes financial, investment, legal, or trading advice. Always conduct your own due diligence before purchasing any funded trading program or financial service.
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William Jam is a professional prop firm analyst and financial content writer with over 6 years of experience reviewing proprietary trading firms and evaluating funded trader programs. He has researched, tested, and analyzed dozens of leading prop firms, helping traders make informed decisions based on funding models, trading rules, payout systems, and overall reliability. William has contributed prop firm reviews, industry insights, and educational content to international finance and trading publications, including **Forbes** and several well-known prop trading blogs. His work focuses on delivering accurate, transparent, and data-driven assessments of proprietary trading firms worldwide. As the full-time author at PropFirmLion.com, William specializes in in-depth prop firm reviews, comparison guides, and industry news. His mission is to provide traders with trustworthy information that supports smarter trading and funding decisions in the rapidly evolving prop trading industry.