---
title: Instant Buying Power
group: Deposits & Withdrawals
subtitle: Start trading immediately after a deposit, before funds fully settle.
description: Rules, limitations and frequently asked questions of instant buying power. 
---

When you make a deposit, Light Horse provides **instant buying power** — the ability to place trades before your deposit fully settles. This means you don't have to wait 5 business days to start investing.

## How much instant buying power do I get?

**New accounts** (less than 30 days old or with limited trading history):

- Up to **$1,000** in instant buying power on your first deposit

**Established accounts:**

- The lower of:
  - Your deposit amount, or
  - **50% of your total account assets** minus any unsettled cash

## Restrictions on instant buying power

While you can trade immediately with instant buying power, you **cannot withdraw** deposited funds until they have fully settled (typically 5 business days). This restriction applies even if you sell the positions you purchased with instant buying power.


## Frequently asked questions

### What happens if the deposit is returned?

If your bank returns the deposit after you've already used the instant buying power to trade, Light Horse may liquidate the positions to recover the funds. A **$30 return fee** also applies.

### Can I withdraw the funds that I just deposited?

No. Deposited funds must settle (typically 5 business days) before you can withdraw them. You can trade with instant buying power in the meantime.