How many credit spread contracts can I sell with my available buying power?
Enter Your Spread
Your Result
Enter your spread's width, credit, and buying power, then click Calculate to see how many contracts you can sell.
How this is calculated
Margin required per contract equals the strike width minus the net credit received, multiplied by 100 shares per contract. This is the standard Reg T margin requirement most brokers use for a defined-risk vertical credit spread.
Maximum contracts equals your available buying power divided by the margin required per contract, rounded down to a whole contract.
This is the same number as the spread's maximum possible loss per contract, since a credit spread's max loss and margin requirement are the same calculation under standard rules.
Broker-specific requirements can differ, especially for accounts with pattern day trader margin, portfolio margin, or additional house requirements. Some brokers also add a small buffer on top of the standard requirement.
This tool sizes the trade to your buying power. It does not check whether that many contracts fits your personal max risk-per-trade rule. Check that separately before placing the trade.
Risk & liability disclaimer: This calculator applies the standard Reg T margin requirement formula for a defined-risk vertical credit spread (strike width minus net credit, times 100 per contract). It does not represent your specific broker's actual margin requirement, which can include additional buffers or house rules. It is not financial advice and is not a recommendation to trade any specific options strategy. Trading Habits is not a broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, or tax professional, and is not affiliated with any broker, exchange, or data provider. Confirm your actual margin requirement and buying power directly with your broker before placing a trade. Options trading involves substantial risk of loss.
Size the Spread to Your Buying Power, Not Your Excitement
More Trading Tools
Related tools for sizing and evaluating defined-risk options spreads.