Options accounts & routing
What is the minimum net liquidation value requirement to maintain a Portfolio Margin account tier?
By Easy Money Scanner · Educational reference · Not investment advice
The short answer
FINRA rules require a minimum of $100,000 in account equity to establish and maintain a Portfolio Margin account, though individual brokerages may impose higher minimums for approval.
How it works
This threshold reflects the increased leverage and complexity risk-based margining allows, and firms must continuously monitor accounts to ensure they remain above minimum equity thresholds or face forced position reduction.
An example
An account that drops below the $100,000 minimum due to losses may be converted back to standard Reg T margin or required to deposit additional funds.
Risk & limitations
Falling below the minimum can trigger forced liquidations at an inopportune time, since portfolio margin accounts often carry more leveraged exposure than standard accounts.
Examples are hypothetical, not trade recommendations. US contract and regulatory references do not automatically apply in Canada. Rules, margin requirements and broker policies can change; confirm them with the relevant authority and your broker.