Introduction
Options trading, a versatile investment strategy that offers numerous benefits, has become increasingly popular among investors of all levels. TD Ameritrade, one of the leading online brokerages, caters to this growing demand by providing access to a wide range of options trading opportunities. Understanding TD Ameritrade’s trading hours for options is crucial for successful navigation of this dynamic market.

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This article serves as a comprehensive guide to TD Ameritrade’s options trading hours, exploring both regular trading hours and extended hours trading. By staying abreast of these crucial timeframes, traders can maximize their trading efficiency and avoid any potential pitfalls.
Regular Trading Hours
TD Ameritrade’s standard options trading hours align with the market hours of the exchanges they are listed on. These hours are as follows:
- Monday-Friday: 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM Eastern Time (ET)
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
During these hours, traders can place orders, monitor market activity, and execute trades seamlessly.
Extended Hours Trading
In addition to regular trading hours, TD Ameritrade offers extended hours trading for select options contracts. Extended hours trading provides traders with additional flexibility and opportunities to adjust their positions outside of regular market hours. TD Ameritrade’s extended hours trading hours for options are as follows:
- Pre-market trading: 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM ET
- Post-market trading: 4:15 PM to 6:00 PM ET
It’s important to note that extended hours trading may come with certain restrictions, such as limited liquidity and higher volatility. Traders should carefully consider these factors before engaging in extended hours trading.
Options Expiration
Understanding options expiration is critical in options trading. Options contracts expire on specific dates, and trading ceases at a designated time on the day of expiration. TD Ameritrade’s options expiration trading hours are as follows:
- Expiration Day Trading Hours: 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM ET
- Expiration Day Closing Auction: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM ET
Trading activity terminates during the closing auction, which determines the final settlement price for expiring options contracts.

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Commission Structure
TD Ameritrade’s commission structure for options trading is designed to cater to different trading styles and preferences. Traders can choose from various pricing options, including:
- Per-contract fee
- Tiered pricing based on volume
- Fixed-fee per trade
Traders should thoroughly review TD Ameritrade’s commission schedule to select the option that best suits their trading needs.
Advantages of Trading Options with TD Ameritrade
TD Ameritrade offers numerous advantages for options traders, including:
- Advanced trading platform: TD Ameritrade’s thinkorswim platform provides a comprehensive suite of trading tools and features tailored for options traders.
- Educational resources: TD Ameritrade offers a robust collection of educational materials, webinars, and courses to help traders enhance their options trading knowledge.
- Excellent customer support: TD Ameritrade’s dedicated customer support team is available to assist traders with any inquiries or issues they may encounter.
By leveraging TD Ameritrade’s platform and resources, traders can enhance their options trading experience and achieve their financial objectives.
Tdameritrade Trading Time For Options

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Conclusion
Understanding TD Ameritrade’s trading hours for options is essential for maximizing trading opportunities and mitigating potential risks. By adhering to regular and extended trading hours, traders can strategically enter and exit positions while minimizing market fluctuations. It’s crucial to conduct thorough research and carefully consider factors such as commission structure and options expiration when engaging in options trading. TD Ameritrade’s advanced trading platform, educational resources, and excellent customer support further empower traders to navigate the options market with confidence and expertise.