How this calculator works — Margin Calculator
Margin is the deposit your broker freezes to open a leveraged position. It is not a fee and not your maximum loss — it's collateral, returned when the trade closes:
Required margin = Notional ÷ Leverage
0.20 lots EURUSD = 0.20 × 100,000 × 1.0850 = $21,700 → at 1:100 = $217 margin
Margin vs leverage — same trade, three settings
| Trade: 0.20 lots EURUSD ($21,700) | 1:30 | 1:100 | 1:500 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Margin required | $723 | $217 | $43 |
| Free margin left on a $1,000 account | $277 | $783 | $957 |
| Loss if 25-pip stop is hit | $50 | $50 | $50 |
Notice the last row: your risk at stop is identical in all three. Leverage changed only the collateral locked. This is why professionals say “size from risk, then check margin” — never the reverse.
CFDs and Forex are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Ensure you understand how these products work before trading. See our risk disclaimer.
Frequently asked questions — Margin Calculator
How much margin do I need for 1 lot of EURUSD?
One standard lot is €100,000 ≈ $108,500 notional at 1.0850. At 1:100 that's ≈ $1,085 margin; at 1:500 ≈ $217; at 1:30 ≈ $3,617. Enter the live price above for exact figures.
Do I get margin back?
Yes — margin is collateral, not a cost. It's released when you close the position. What you gain or lose is the price movement, plus spread/swap costs.
Why did my broker block a trade for “not enough money”?
Your free margin didn't cover the new position's requirement. Existing floating losses count against free margin, so a trade that “should fit” can be blocked when others are underwater.
Is trading at maximum leverage a good idea?
Maximum leverage minimizes locked margin — useful for hedged or scalping strategies — but it invites oversizing. Choose leverage for flexibility; choose risk with position size.