Evaluation vs Funded Account
Last updated: August 2026
The evaluation is a paid test to prove you can trade profitably within the firm's rules. The funded account is what you earn by passing — a real account where you keep most of the profits.
How It Works
Evaluation phase: you pay a fee, receive a simulated account with real market data, and must hit a profit target without breaching drawdown or violating rules. Most evaluations last until you hit the target or fail. Funded phase: profit targets are usually removed, some rules relax (TradeDay drops consistency), and you receive real payouts based on your profit split.
Example
Key difference: some firms ADD rules when funded. E8 Markets adds the 35% Best Day Rule only after funding. Always check both evaluation AND funded rules before purchasing, as they can differ significantly. The evaluation proves your skill; the funded account is where you get paid.
Related Questions
More answers traders are looking for
What Is Trailing Drawdown?
Quick answer with data-backed analysis.
What Is End of Day (EOD) Drawdown?
Quick answer with data-backed analysis.
What Is a Consistency Rule in Prop Trading?
Quick answer with data-backed analysis.
Prop Firms That Use NinjaTrader (2026)?
Quick answer with data-backed analysis.
Rithmic vs Tradovate for Prop Firms?
Quick answer with data-backed analysis.
Prop Firm Minimum Payout Amount?
Quick answer with data-backed analysis.
Based on FuturesFury's verified firm database. Compare all firms for the latest data.