How do I upgrade to a Portfolio Margin type account?

CHANGE ACCOUNT TYPE

Clients of IBLLC and IBUK who are currently approved for uncovered U.S. equity options trading and maintain an account minimum of USD 110,000 are eligible to apply for an account upgrade to Portfolio Margin.

Eligible clients can use the button above or follow the below procedure:

1. Log in to Client Portal
2. Click the User menu (head and shoulders icon in the top right corner) followed by Settings
3. Under Account Settings find the Account Configuration section
4. Click Account Type to request an upgrade to "Portfolio Margin".

Please Note

• The request will be reviewed by the IBKR Risk and Compliance Departments. Approval typically takes 24 to 48 hours. Portfolio Margin is calculated for cash and equity products only. Futures margin is always calculated and applied separately using the SPAN margin algorithm.
• If your account is subsequently funded with less than USD 100,000 in Net Liquidation Value (or USD equivalent), you will be restricted from doing any margin-increasing trades until the Net Liquidation Value exceeds USD 100,000.
• Clients of Interactive Brokers' entities other than IBLLC and IBUK are offered a margin account that employs a risk-based model similar to Portfolio Margin to calculate margin requirements.
• To be eligible for Portfolio margin account, you must have approved uncovered options trading strategies enabled which is covered under Level 4 options permissions. For more information, see How do I upgrade to a higher level of option trading permissions?
• Portfolio margining involves a risk-based approach to calculating margin requirements, reflecting the overall risk of a trader's portfolio. It is essential for investors to understand the potential for increased leverage and the associated risks before engaging in portfolio margining, Investors should carefully consider their risk tolerance and investment strategy before utilizing this approach. It is advisable to consult with a financial professional to ensure that portfolio margining aligns with individual investment goals and risk management practices.

Additional Information

• Portfolio Margin on the IBKR website.
• How can I determine the impact of converting my margin type from Reg. T to Portfolio Margin?
• How do I downgrade my account from Portfolio Margin to Margin?
• What are the differences between IB LLC Portfolio Margin accounts and non-U.S. risk-based margin accounts?