> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.topstepx.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.topstepx.com/getting-started/trading-lock-out.md).

# Trading Lock-Out

## Lock-out

The **Lock-Out** feature allows traders to take control of their trading behavior by temporarily locking themselves out from placing trades on their account. This tool is designed to promote disciplined trading and prevent overtrading during periods of high market volatility or emotional decision-making. <br>

Locate the **Manual Lock-Out** button at the top of the trading platform (refer to the screenshot below). Click the button to open the Lock-Out settings modal.\ <br>

<figure><img src="https://2549854448-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2Ffj55gt7IahlmBVVgmbnQ%2Fuploads%2F0SibnAtSHoKVlRPHT5vF%2FScreenshot%202026-03-02%20at%2009.51.35.png?alt=media&amp;token=4daf555a-ad86-42f3-8ff5-65103490fe23" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

**Select a Lock-Out Duration**:

* Choose from the following quick lock-out options:
  * 15 minutes
  * 30 minutes
  * 1 hour
  * All day (until next trading day)
* Alternatively, you can set a custom Lock-Out time to fit your needs

<figure><img src="https://2549854448-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2Ffj55gt7IahlmBVVgmbnQ%2Fuploads%2Fy4HpAG3rFsnnZEirMqeN%2FScreenshot%202026-02-27%20at%2014.27.59.png?alt=media&amp;token=6e81d6e6-dd4e-4fd7-ab55-46fbf8d1bc44" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Once activated, all open positions will be **liquidated**, and any working orders will be **canceled** immediately upon activation of the Lock-Out. The Lock-Out prevents any further trading on the account until the the specified time has ended.&#x20;

**Countdown Timer**:

A timer will appear at the top of the platform, clearly indicating how much time remains until the lock-out ends (see screenshot below).<br>

<figure><img src="https://2549854448-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2Ffj55gt7IahlmBVVgmbnQ%2Fuploads%2F24rLCwh83fH9Ruoo0AEs%2FScreenshot%202026-03-02%20at%2009.53.55.png?alt=media&amp;token=ec16ac2b-4c8d-4a81-84b6-3f7b1fc9da4e" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="warning" %}
Once a Lock-Out is enabled on an account, it cannot be reversed. This feature is intended to provide a break from the markets and promote disciplined trading.
{% endhint %}


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