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Home/Glossary/Activation fee

Fees and payouts · Rookie

Activation fee

By Omer Rapaport · Content updated 11 September 2026

Also searched as: funded activation fee

What does Activation fee mean?

An activation fee is a separate charge required to open the next account stage after an evaluation. It is distinct from the entry fee and from paying to reset a failed challenge.

Example

A trader passes an evaluation but must pay a separate activation charge before receiving the next account.

Illustrative example; not a provider’s quoted offer.

Why it matters for prop traders

Compare the combined evaluation and activation costs, and check the deadline and account type before paying.

Sources and further reading

The following primary sources support the terminology. Provider rules describe their own products and may change.

  • Topstep - Express Funded Account activation

Related terms

  • Account reset
  • Buy now pay later
  • Evaluation fee
← All 181 terms

Frequently asked questions

What should I check before paying an activation fee?

Compare the combined evaluation and activation costs, and check the deadline and account type before paying.

Sources: Topstep - Express Funded Account activation

What is a practical example of Activation fee?

Illustrative example: A trader passes an evaluation but must pay a separate activation charge before receiving the next account.

Sources: Topstep - Express Funded Account activation

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