If you already have option trading permissions and a Reg T margin account, the minimum balance required for trading options depends upon the following considerations:
- If you are looking to purchase an option, you need to have the funds necessary to pay for the option in full.
- You are required, by regulation, to maintain account equity of at least USD 2,000 to retain margin eligibility. If you do not, you would not be able to sell options on an uncovered basis. If you do maintain account equity above USD 2,000, you would still need to have sufficient equity to satisfy the margin requirement were the sell order to be executed. If you do not have sufficient equity, your order will be rejected.
Additional Information