How to use subaccounts for Bybit contract trading?

Bybit subaccounts enable isolated trading with unique credentials, API keys, and margin settings, ideal for strategy separation and team management.

Aug 11, 2025 at 11:22 am

Understanding Subaccounts on Bybit

Bybit offers a subaccount system that enables users to create multiple accounts under a single main account. This feature is particularly useful for traders managing different strategies, risk levels, or portfolios. A subaccount operates independently in terms of trading and order execution but remains linked to the main account for security and fund management. Each subaccount has its own API keys, trading history, and isolated margin settings, allowing for granular control. However, fund transfers between subaccounts must go through the main account, meaning direct transfers between subaccounts are not supported.

Subaccounts are ideal for institutional traders, fund managers, or individuals who want to separate their spot and contract trading activities. They also allow for team-based operations where different members can manage specific subaccounts without accessing the main account’s credentials. Two-factor authentication (2FA) is required when creating and accessing subaccounts, ensuring high security standards are maintained.

Creating a Subaccount on Bybit

To begin using subaccounts for contract trading, the first step is creating one. Log in to your Bybit main account and navigate to the "Subaccount" section under the account settings. Click on "Create Subaccount" and follow the prompts. You will need to:

• Enter a unique subaccount name (e.g., “BTC_Strategy_1”)
• Set a secure password that meets Bybit’s complexity requirements
• Confirm the action using your 2FA code from Google Authenticator or SMS
• Wait for email confirmation to complete activation

Once created, the subaccount appears in your subaccount management dashboard. You can generate API keys for it separately, assign trading permissions, and monitor its activity. Note that each main account can have up to 10 subaccounts. If you reach the limit, you must delete an inactive one before creating a new one.

Funding a Subaccount for Contract Trading

Subaccounts do not hold funds independently. To trade futures or perpetual contracts on a subaccount, you must transfer funds from the main account. Navigate to the "Transfer" section within the main account dashboard. Select the source as "Main Account" and the destination as the desired subaccount. Choose the asset type (e.g., USDT or BTC) and enter the amount.

It is crucial to ensure sufficient balance in the main account before initiating the transfer. The transfer is instant and internal, meaning no blockchain fees are incurred. After the transfer, the funds appear in the subaccount’s wallet under the "Assets" tab. You can now use these funds for isolated margin or cross margin contract trading. Remember, withdrawals can only be initiated from the main account, so profits must be transferred back before withdrawal.

Configuring Contract Trading Settings on a Subaccount

Once funded, access the subaccount by logging in with its unique credentials. Navigate to the Derivatives section and select either USDT-margined or Inverse contracts based on your strategy. Key settings to configure include:

• Leverage: Adjust per position using the leverage slider. For example, set 25x leverage for aggressive BTC/USDT trading
• Margin Mode: Choose between Isolated Margin (risk limited to allocated funds) or Cross Margin (uses entire wallet balance as collateral)
• Trading Interface: Customize layout, enable advanced charts, and set default order types (Limit, Market, Post-Only)

You can also enable TP/SL (Take Profit/Stop Loss) directly when placing orders. For algorithmic trading, use the subaccount’s API keys to connect to bots or third-party platforms like 3Commas or Bitsgap. Ensure the API key has "Trade" permission enabled but avoid granting withdrawal rights unless absolutely necessary.

Managing Risk Across Multiple Subaccounts

Using multiple subaccounts allows for strategic risk segmentation. For instance, one subaccount can focus on high-leverage scalping while another handles low-frequency swing trades. To manage risk effectively:

• Assign different leverage levels per subaccount based on strategy volatility
• Monitor PnL (Profit and Loss) separately for each subaccount in the reports section
• Use dedicated API keys with restricted permissions to prevent unauthorized actions
• Regularly transfer profits back to the main account to reduce exposure

By isolating strategies, a loss in one subaccount does not affect the capital in others. This setup is especially beneficial for traders testing new systems or managing client funds. Set up email and in-app alerts for liquidation warnings or large drawdowns on each subaccount.

Troubleshooting Common Subaccount Issues

Users may encounter issues when setting up or using subaccounts. Common problems include:

• "Invalid API Key" errors: Recheck that the API key belongs to the correct subaccount and has proper permissions enabled
• Funds not appearing after transfer: Refresh the page or check the transfer history; delays are rare but possible during high traffic
• Unable to place contract orders: Confirm the subaccount has sufficient margin and the contract type (e.g., USDT-margined) is supported
• Login failures: Ensure you’re using the subaccount’s email and password, not the main account’s

If problems persist, use Bybit’s live chat support or submit a ticket under the Help Center. Provide the subaccount email and a detailed description of the issue for faster resolution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a subaccount open positions larger than its available balance?

No. A subaccount cannot exceed its available balance when opening contract positions. The system enforces margin requirements based on current leverage and position size. If insufficient margin exists, the order will be rejected with a "Balance Insufficient" message.

Is it possible to share API keys between subaccounts?

No. Each subaccount must use its own unique API keys. Sharing keys across subaccounts is not supported and poses a security risk. Generate separate keys for each subaccount through the API management panel.

Can I change the subaccount’s email address after creation?

Yes. Log in to the subaccount, go to "Security Settings," and select "Change Email." You must verify the new email via a confirmation link and provide 2FA authentication. The main account does not control this process.

Do subaccounts have access to Bybit Earn or Launchpool?

No. Subaccounts cannot participate in Bybit Earn, Launchpool, or referral programs. These features are restricted to the main account only. Any rewards or staking must be managed directly through the main account interface.