A prop scaling plan changes a defined account parameter after specified conditions are met. It may increase a simulated allocation, permitted contracts or another limit. Those changes are not interchangeable, and they do not automatically increase every risk allowance proportionally.

Read the exact programme's scaling terms alongside its loss and payout rules.

Two Different Uses of “Scaling”

FTMO's scaling-plan page describes its programme's account-growth conditions. Topstep's Express account documentation includes a position-size scaling plan.

The shared word does not make the mechanics the same. A larger nominal account allocation and permission to trade another contract answer different questions.

Record What Changes and What Does Not

Parameter Check at the next level
Account label or allocation Is the balance actual or simulated, and how is it set?
Position allowance Which contract or lot limits apply?
Loss floor Does it reset, rise, stay fixed or use a different formula?
Daily loss Is the amount recalculated, and on what basis?
Payout conditions Do caps, days or buffer requirements change?
Reward share Is a higher share included or separately conditional?

Save the new agreement or account parameters before increasing size. Do not infer them from the headline account amount.

A Larger Position Can Reduce Your Margin for Error

Suppose one contract's planned stop represents $100 and two contracts represent $200, ignoring slippage and fees. If the account's remaining loss buffer did not double, the larger position consumes a greater share of it.

Recalculate risk using the actual buffer and all open exposure. Eligibility for more contracts is permission, not a recommendation to use the maximum.

Plan Around the Assessment Period

Check how the provider measures performance, whether withdrawals affect eligibility and whether a review is automatic or discretionary. Do not assume a standard 10–15% target, a two-month cycle or unlimited time across providers.

Track milestones without turning them into mandatory daily earnings. If reaching the next level requires changing the strategy, validate that change independently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does scaling always add live capital?

No. It may change simulated allocation or position limits. Read the programme's exact stage description.

Does the loss allowance double when the account size doubles?

Only if the rules say so. Calculate the new floor and usable buffer explicitly.

Should I increase size as soon as eligible?

Eligibility alone does not establish that the larger position fits your risk budget or strategy.

Risk Disclaimer: Trading involves substantial risk of loss. Past performance is not indicative of future results. See our full risk disclaimer.