How to manage your subaccounts on Bybit?

Bybit subaccounts allow independent trading with unique APIs and permissions, while the master account maintains control over funds, security, and monitoring.

Aug 11, 2025 at 05:14 am

Understanding Subaccounts on Bybit

Bybit allows users to create and manage subaccounts under a single master account. These subaccounts operate independently in terms of trading and fund management while remaining connected to the primary account for oversight and control. This feature is especially useful for institutional traders, fund managers, or individuals who want to separate trading strategies across different markets or risk profiles. Each subaccount can have its own API keys, trading permissions, and isolated margin settings. The master account retains the ability to allocate funds, monitor performance, and manage access rights. It’s important to note that subaccounts do not have independent registration — they are generated directly from the main Bybit account.

Creating a Subaccount on Bybit

To begin managing subaccounts, the first step is to create one through the Bybit platform. Access the "Subaccount Management" section under the user profile dashboard. Select the option to "Create Subaccount". You will be prompted to enter a unique subaccount name and set a password. This name cannot be changed later, so choose it carefully. After submission, the system generates a new login credential set for the subaccount. The master account must enable two-factor authentication (2FA) before creating any subaccount to ensure security. Once created, the subaccount appears in the master account’s subaccount list with a unique Subaccount UID. This UID is essential for internal transfers and permission settings.

Funding and Withdrawing from Subaccounts

Fund allocation between the master account and subaccounts is handled through internal transfers. Navigate to the "Transfer" section in the master account interface. Select the source (main account) and destination (specific subaccount). Choose the desired asset type, such as USDT, BTC, or ETH, and enter the transfer amount. Confirm the transaction using 2FA authentication. The funds appear instantly in the subaccount’s wallet. Withdrawals, however, can only be initiated from the master account after funds are transferred back. Subaccounts cannot directly withdraw to external wallets. To move funds back, reverse the transfer process from subaccount to master. This ensures centralized control over asset outflows and enhances security.

Configuring API Access for Subaccounts

Each subaccount can generate its own API keys for automated trading, bot integration, or third-party services. Log in to the subaccount, go to "API Management", and click "Create API". Assign a name for identification and set permissions: read-only, trade, or transfer. For security, restrict the IP whitelist to trusted addresses. Never enable transfer permissions unless absolutely necessary. After creation, the API key and secret are displayed once — store them securely. To use the API in trading bots, input the credentials into the bot platform and select the Bybit subaccount endpoint. Ensure the bot supports subaccount login by including the Subaccount UID in the configuration if required.

Managing Permissions and Roles

The master account can define access levels for each subaccount. In the "Subaccount Management" panel, select a subaccount and adjust its permission settings. Options include enabling or disabling spot trading, derivatives trading, copy trading, and P2P functions. You can also restrict the subaccount from creating additional subaccounts or modifying security settings. For team-based operations, assign role-based access where certain subaccounts handle only market analysis while others execute trades. These controls prevent unauthorized actions and reduce operational risk. Changes take effect immediately, and the subaccount user must log out and back in to apply new permissions.

Monitoring Performance and Activity Logs

Bybit provides detailed activity logs for each subaccount, accessible from the master dashboard. These logs include login history, API usage, trading activity, and fund transfers. Use the "Audit Trail" feature to filter events by date, type, or subaccount UID. This helps detect suspicious behavior or troubleshoot failed API requests. For performance tracking, export trading history via the "Reports" section. Select the subaccount, choose the time range, and download data in CSV format. Analyze metrics such as P&L, fee costs, and trade frequency. The master account can also set daily trading limits or receive email alerts when a subaccount reaches a predefined loss threshold.

Troubleshooting Common Subaccount Issues

If a subaccount fails to log in, verify the correct username and password. Password resets must be initiated from the master account under "Subaccount Settings". If API calls return errors, confirm that the IP address is on the whitelist and that the API key hasn't expired. For missing funds, check the transfer history to ensure assets were correctly allocated. In cases where a subaccount cannot trade, review the permission settings in the master account to confirm trading functions are enabled. If 2FA is lost for a subaccount, contact Bybit support with the Subaccount UID and proof of master account ownership to regain access.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can a subaccount upgrade to a master account?
  No. Subaccounts are permanently linked to the original master account and cannot be converted into standalone accounts. They cannot exist independently.
  

  • Is there a limit to the number of subaccounts I can create?
    
    Bybit allows up to 10 subaccounts per master account. If more are needed, users may need to contact Bybit’s institutional support for enterprise-level solutions.

  • Can subaccounts use different leverage settings?
    
    Yes. Each subaccount can set its own leverage level independently in the derivatives trading interface. The master account does not impose a unified leverage rule.

  • Do subaccounts have separate referral programs?
    
    No. Referral rewards are tied to the master account. Subaccounts cannot generate referral links or earn commissions independently.