PFB Methodology 2026
Transparent. Data-Driven. Unbiased.
What is the PFB Methodology?
The PFB Methodology is a comprehensive, risk-first evaluation framework developed by Prop Firm Audit to analyze prop firms based on how their rules, systems, and operational behavior affect real traders. Rather than focusing on surface-level features like advertised profit splits or low entry prices, the methodology examines how firms behave when traders are profitable, under drawdown pressure, or requesting payouts.
Rating Categories
Firms classified as Trusted demonstrate consistent and repeatable operational patterns. They clearly document their rules, enforce them predictably, and process payouts without unnecessary friction. Payout reliability is a key characteristic.
Moderate firms operate legitimately but present noticeable limitations. These may include stricter drawdown models, newer histories, slower support, or mixed feedback. Payouts do occur but may involve more friction.
High Risk firms exhibit patterns that significantly increase risk for traders — consistent payout denials, vague or discretionary rules, retroactive enforcement, or unresolved operational issues.
Evaluation Criteria
Drawdown models (static vs trailing, balance vs equity), profit targets, scaling logic, leverage, instruments, and trading restrictions including news, EA, and copy trading rules.
Response times, accuracy of rule explanations, quality of support documentation, dispute handling, and communication transparency across all official channels.
Dashboard accuracy, real-time visibility of drawdown limits, intuitiveness of evaluation and funded phases, and platform stability and reliability.
Payout frequency, approval timelines, consistency with stated schedules, verification requirements, withdrawal method variety, and historical payout reliability.
Independence & Transparency
Prop Firm Audit operates with complete editorial independence. We do not accept payments, sponsorships, revenue-sharing agreements, or promotional incentives from any prop firm in exchange for coverage, ratings, categorization, or visibility. Every review, score, and classification is based solely on documented rules, observable operational behavior, and verified trader experiences.