Prop Firm Payout Methods: ACH, Wire, Crypto, and Deel Explained
Prop firm payouts aren’t complicated. You earn profit, you request a payout, and the firm sends it using one of a few standard methods. The problem is traders don’t understand the differences in speed, fees, and risk. Here’s how each payout method actually works.
The Four Main Prop Firm Payout Channels
Every legitimate prop firm pays traders using one or more of these methods:
- ACH (bank-to-bank transfer)
- Wire transfer
- Crypto payout
- Deel or similar contractor platforms
If you want to see how payouts fit into the bigger business model, check out how evaluation, funded, and payout stages work.
ACH Transfers: Cheap and Simple
ACH is the go-to for U.S. traders. It’s low-cost, usually fast, and supported by most banks.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Speed | 1–3 business days |
| Fees | Usually free |
| Best For | U.S. traders with standard bank accounts |
The downside: some prop firms only allow ACH for smaller payouts.
Wire Transfers: Fast but Expensive
Wires are the default for larger payouts or international traders.
- Same-day or next-day speed
- Higher fees (both sides may charge)
- More scrutiny from banks
If your bank blocks unusual incoming wires, you may need to verify the sender manually.
Crypto Payouts: Fastest and Most Flexible
Crypto is popular because it’s fast, global, and avoids banks altogether. BTC, USDT, and USDC are the common tokens.
- Transfers within minutes to hours
- Lower fees depending on the network
- No bank involvement
The risk: chain selection mistakes. Pick the wrong network, lose the payout. Firms won’t resend.
Deel and Contractor Platforms
Many prop firms pay through Deel because it handles compliance, contractor status, and paperwork. Deel supports payouts to banks, cards, and crypto.
- Strong KYC process
- Clean transaction records
- Multiple withdrawal options
The catch is firm-by-firm rules. Some force Deel as the only payout path.
Processing Times Across Methods
Here’s the realistic timing traders should expect:
| Method | Typical Speed |
|---|---|
| ACH | 1–3 business days |
| Wire | Same day–2 days |
| Crypto | Minutes–hours |
| Deel | Same day–3 days depending on method |
Why Payouts Sometimes Get Delayed
Delays happen because firms batch requests or manually review accounts before releasing funds.
- KYC verification delays
- High payout volume days
- Bank review on large transfers
- Risk flags based on trading activity
If your trading triggered a review, see how hidden risk rules affect payouts.
The Bottom Line
ACH is cheap, wires are fast, crypto is global, and Deel is structured. None are complicated once you know what to expect. Choose the payout method that fits your speed, fees, and banking situation so your profits actually reach you without headaches.