Discover the full breakdown of Apex Trader Funding’s two 30% rules—consistency and unrealized drawdown. Learn how to stay compliant, pass your evaluations faster, and avoid payout denials. Perfect for traders searching for a prop trading evaluation discount or looking for cheap futures prop firm evaluations.


For day traders looking to get funded quickly and efficiently, Apex Trader Funding is one of the best prop trading firms for beginners. But there’s a catch that many traders overlook: the 30% rules. These rules have led to countless payout denials and confusion among new and seasoned traders alike. This comprehensive guide breaks down both the 30% consistency rule and the 30% unrealized P&L rule, how they work, how to avoid violations, and how you can still succeed using Apex’s unique setup.

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What Are the Apex Trader Funding 30% Rules?

Apex Trader Funding enforces two separate 30% rules:

1. The 30% Unrealized P&L Rule (Per Trade Drawdown)

This lesser-known but crucial rule was introduced in November 2023. It governs your open trade losses relative to your current profit.

Key Points:

  • Your open trades cannot draw down more than 30% of your total profit.
  • Applies on a per trade basis, not over the course of the day.
  • In early stages (low profit), the drawdown is based on Apex’s trailing threshold.

Example:

  • $50,000 account, $4,000 in profits → Max drawdown allowed per trade = $1,200 (30% of $4,000).
  • If your profit grows to $5,200 and you’ve reached Apex’s safety net, your drawdown allowance could increase to $2,600 (50% of $5,200).

This rule is dynamic, meaning as your profits grow, so does your risk buffer—provided you follow proper evaluation growth steps.

🚨 Tip: Violating this rule on a single trade can instantly deny your payout, even if you were profitable overall.


2. The 30% Consistency Rule (Payout Eligibility)

This is the more commonly misunderstood rule and a leading reason for payout denials.

What It Means:

No single trading day’s profit can exceed 30% of your total cumulative profit since your last approved payout (or since the start if no payout has been made).

Simple Formula:

Highest Profit Day ÷ 0.3 = Minimum Total Profit Required

Example:

  • Highest profit day = $1,500
  • 1,500 ÷ 0.3 = $5,000 total profit needed

If you’ve only made $3,000 total profit and your top day is $1,500, you’re in violation.

Why It Matters:

  • Violating this rule resets your payout eligibility.
  • It’s a forward-looking rule, resetting after each payout.

🔥 Pro Tip: If you’re barely over the 30% threshold for one day, consider taking a small loss to rebalance your consistency.


How These Rules Affect Your Trading Strategy

Many traders—especially trend traders—struggle with the 30% consistency rule because they naturally let winners run. To stay compliant:

  • Manage daily profits carefully. Avoid letting one big day ruin your eligibility.
  • Use multiple accounts to offset strong performance days.
  • Understand buffer building for the unrealized rule. Avoid risking too much before you grow the account.

These rules require a strategic mindset, not just skill.


Why Traders Love Apex (Despite These Rules)

Despite these strict rules, Apex remains a favorite among futures traders. Why? Because their evaluation process is fast, affordable, and fair.

📢 Apex Trader Funding Highlights:

  • 80% OFF ALL Evaluations and Future Months
  • Pass in just 1 Day
  • $40 resets for ALL Evaluations
  • $130 one-time PA activation fee
  • Up to 20 funded accounts allowed per trader
  • Over $470 Million paid out to traders!

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Conclusion: Master the Rules, Maximize Your Payouts

Understanding Apex Trader Funding’s 30% rules is essential to becoming a successful funded trader. Don’t let one misunderstood policy derail your profits. With the right approach, you can use these rules to your advantage.

✅ Manage daily profit consistency ✅ Respect trade-by-trade drawdown limits ✅ Scale responsibly and stay within thresholds

If you’re ready to trade with one of the best prop trading firms for beginners, grab your prop trading evaluation discount today and start your journey to funding.

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⚠️ Disclaimer ⚠️

This content is provided for informational purposes only. Authors and contributors on our site are not certified or registered financial advisors. Before making any financial decisions, you should consult a financial professional. The discount codes and prop firm deals listed on this website are for informational purposes only. Before using any prop firm, please conduct your own research and due diligence. We do not endorse or guarantee any specific firm, and we are not responsible for any financial losses, disputes, or issues that may arise.

By using any discount code or signing up with a prop firm, you acknowledge that you are making an independent decision at your own risk. Please review each firm’s terms, conditions, and policies carefully before proceeding.

Risk Disclaimer:

Trading futures and other financial instruments involves substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. There are no guarantees of profit, and traders should be prepared for the possibility of significant losses, including amounts exceeding their initial investment. This website provides educational content only and does not offer financial, investment, or trading advice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Before engaging in trading, carefully consider your financial situation, experience level, and risk tolerance. If necessary, consult with a licensed financial professional.

Trade responsibly!