Get started with futures trading.
From getting your account set up to getting the most out of thinkorswim® platforms, here are some resources to help you with your futures trading experience.
Futures trading is provided by Charles Schwab Futures and Forex LLC.
Let's set up your futures account.
New to Schwab or don't have an eligible brokerage account?*
Follow these simple steps:
- Open a brokerage account.
- Log in to your new account, go to Trade in the navigation, and select Futures.
- Choose your brokerage account from the drop-down menu.
- If eligible, select the Open a futures account button to apply for a futures trading account.
Already a Schwab client and want to apply for a futures account?
Follow these simple steps
- Select the button below to log in to Schwab.com.
- After login, you will be taken directly to the Trade Futures page.
- Choose one of your eligible brokerage accounts from the drop-down list.
- Once your preferred account is selected, click the Apply for futures account button.
Congratulations—you've opened a futures account. Let's get started.
Whether you're new to futures or are an experienced trader, there's always room to learn. Visit our Introduction to Futures page, where we go into detail on what futures are, how they work, their risks, and reasons you may consider trading them.
Explore our suite of thinkorswim platforms.
Trading futures at Schwab is all done on thinkorswim. Discover the innovative tools and features designed for futures traders across our award-winning platforms. Use one—or use them all—it's entirely up to you.
thinkorswim desktop
In addition to all its bells and whistles, thinkorswim desktop has tools specifically made for futures traders:
- A pre-built futures workspace featuring watchlists, Trade Flash, and easy access to charts and analysis
- Quick trade execution with benchmark symbols, one-click order entry, and precision exit tools
- Customizable ladder with real-time bid/ask data and futures-specific charting overlays
Build your futures trading skills with focused education.
Get timely futures news and insights plus live trading demos.
Get live futures support when you need it.
Want to talk through a futures trade idea? Need help using our platforms or placing a trade?
Call our dedicated Trade Desk team 24/5 at 877-656-8748 anytime between Sunday, 5:30 p.m., and Friday, 5:00 p.m. ET.
Ready to trade futures?
Not yet a Schwab client?
Already a client?
Use your eligible brokerage account to apply for a futures trading account.