Options & Futures

Take advantage of leverage, hedge risk, and potentially enhance returns by trading options and futures. Explore advanced strategies on our intuitive platform and unlock new market opportunities.

How to Get Started with Options & Futures

Whether you’re a seasoned trader or exploring derivatives for the first time, our step-by-step approach will guide you through opening an account, funding, and placing your first trade confidently.

 

Step 1: Open & Fund Your Account

Create or upgrade your brokerage account in minutes. Deposit funds via bank transfer, credit/debit card, or other supported methods to start trading right away.

Step 2: Access Our Options & Futures Platform

Navigate real-time quotes, use advanced charting tools, and set up custom alerts. Our platform is designed to help you spot market opportunities quickly and efficiently.

Step 3: Build Your Strategy

Explore calls, puts, spreads, and futures contracts to hedge existing positions or pursue speculative trades. Our integrated research center offers tutorials, market analysis, and risk management tips.

When Adding Options & Futures to Your Portfolio:

Options and Futures can be powerful tools for hedging, speculation, and portfolio diversification. Before diving in, make sure you understand the mechanics, potential risks, and how our platform supports advanced trading strategies.

  • Complete Your Options & Futures Approval
  • Fund Your Account & Enable Margin
  • Option to set up Balance Connect™ for overdraft protection
  • Paper checks available (no charge or discounted depending on check style)
  • Maintain a combined balance of $10,000 in eligible linked accounts Learn about combined balances

Get Real Insights About Your First Steps in Advanced Trading

Our quick readiness check helps you discover whether you’re prepared to trade options or other advanced products. In just two minutes, you’ll learn about potential risks, margin requirements, and the basic strategies—without affecting your credit score.

Compare Our Brokerage Accounts

Find the perfect account type to fit your trading goals—whether you’re a casual investor or an experienced pro.

  • $0 Monthly Maintenance Fee, $0 Minimum Deposit
  • Commission-free trades on stocks & ETFs*
  • Standard research tools and market data
  • 24/7 customer support via chat and email
  • $0 Maintenance Fee
  • No Minimum Deposit Requirement
  • $25,000 Minimum Deposit
  • Extended-hours trading & margin privileges (subject to approval)
  • Advanced charting, screeners, and analytics
  • Priority phone & chat support
  • $25,000 Minimum Deposit
  • Yes Margin Access
  • $500k minimum deposit
  • Exclusive margin rates and block-trade execution
  • Dedicated account manager & private client support
  • Institutional-level research & IPO allocations (where available)
  • $500,000 Minimum Deposit
  • Yes Private Client Services

Frequently asked questions

Got a question about signing up, trading on margin, or handling your investments? Browse our FAQs below or reach out to our team for more help.

  • First, try resetting your password via the “Forgot Password” link on the login page.
  • Make sure you have two-factor authentication (2FA) codes handy if enabled.
  • If the issue persists, contact our support team via Chat or Email for immediate assistance.
  • You can deposit funds by bank transfer (ACH), debit card, or wire transfer.
  • To withdraw, go to the “Transfers” section in your dashboard and select “Withdraw Funds.”
  • Processing times vary by method; ACH typically takes 1–2 business days.
  • Yes, we provide commission-free trading on most U.S. stocks and ETFs.*
  • Additional fees may apply for certain foreign stocks, OTC securities, or other specialized products. Check our Fee Schedule for details.
  • Log in to your account, then navigate to the “Documents” or “Activity” tab.
  • You can view or download trade confirmations, monthly statements, and tax forms (e.g., 1099) as PDFs.
  • You’ll need to complete our Options & Futures application under “Account Settings.”
  • Approval criteria typically include trading experience, financial background, and investment objectives.
  • Once approved, you’ll see Options & Futures enabled in your trading dashboard.

Ready to get started?