If you are experiencing difficulties trading in your paper trading account, there are several potential reasons and solutions to consider:
Trading Permissions
If you are getting an error message about lacking trading permissions:
Request trading permissions through Client Portal:
- Log into Client Portal with your live trading account username and password.
- Click the User menu (head and shoulders icon in the top right corner) followed by Settings.
- If you manage multiple accounts, select an account by clicking on the account number to popup the Account Selector.
- Under Account Settings find the Trading section.
- Click on Trading Permissions.
- To add trading permissions, select Add/Edit or Request under the product you wish to trade and check the box next to whichever trading permission or program you want to request.
- To remove trading permissions, select Add/Edit under the product you wish to edit and uncheck the box next to the permissions you want to remove.
- Once you have finished making your selections, click the CONTINUE button at the bottom of the page.
- Review any additional disclosures presented and continue through until you have completed all of the prompts.
- Review your financial information and investment objectives on the following pages and make any necessary changes and confirm your request.
- Allow 24-48 hours for the request to be processed.
Account Setup and Configuration
Ensure that:
- Your paper trading account has been properly set up and activated
- You have sufficient paper trading funds allocated to your account
- The markets you are trying to trade in are currently open
Platform-Specific Issues
- Verify you are using the correct platform for paper trading, not the live trading platform
- If using desktop applications, ensure you are not trying to access live and paper trading accounts from different computers, as this can cause issues
Connecting to Third-Party Platforms (e.g., TradingView)
- If you are having trouble connecting your paper trading account to platforms like TradingView, double-check that you are using the correct paper trading credentials obtained from the Client Portal.
Remember, paper trading accounts use simulated cash and do not submit real trades to the market. If you have followed all steps correctly and are still experiencing issues, it may require further technical investigation by Interactive Brokers support team.