Maintenance margin in crypto futures: what it is
Maintenance margin is the minimum collateral a crypto futures position must keep. Exchanges set the rate by contract and can liquidate below it.
Vahe HakobyanEditor-in-chief
Updated Oct 6, 20263 min readFact-checked
On this page
- Initial margin opens a position; maintenance margin keeps it open.
- Rates vary by contract and size, and can change.
- Leverage and price swings change the distance.
The exchange tracks how much collateral remains as the price moves, and maintenance margin is the level it watches to decide whether the position stays open.
How is maintenance margin set?
Exchanges set a rate for each contract and often split it into tiers by position size. A larger position usually sits in a higher tier, and the exchange can update the tiers over time.
What happens below the level?
If your balance falls below the level, the exchange can liquidate the position. Liquidation closes the contract, and the collateral behind it can be lost. Leverage and price swings move your balance fast, because a small price move controls a large position.
How is it different from initial margin?
Initial margin is the collateral you deposit to open a futures position. Maintenance margin is the lower amount you must keep there to hold it open. The gap between them gives the exchange room to act before losses eat your collateral.
Where can I find the rate?
The current rate sits in the exchange's contract specifications, usually on the contract details page. Check the exact contract, because tiers differ.
Frequently asked questions
Many exchanges send a margin call or alert as your balance nears the level. It does not guarantee time to act.
Adding collateral raises your balance above the level and can keep the position open. Do it before the exchange starts liquidating.
Yes. US-regulated crypto futures trade on CFTC-overseen exchanges, and each publishes its own margin rules. Rates can differ from offshore venues.
