Step-by-step instructions for executing vertical put spreads and naked puts at major brokers.
Important: Always verify margin requirements and option approval levels with your broker before trading. Spreads typically require Level 2 approval, while naked puts require Level 3 or 4.
TD Ameritrade / thinkorswim
Execute spreads and naked puts on thinkorswim platform
Option Approval Levels
Level 2 (Standard): Vertical spreads (bull put spreads)
Level 3 (Advanced): Naked puts (cash-secured)
Executing a Vertical Put Spread
Open thinkorswim and navigate to the Trade tab
Enter the stock symbol (e.g., AAPL) in the symbol box
Click on the Option Chain button
Select the expiration date matching your analysis
To create the spread:
• Right-click on the BID price of the higher strike put (short leg)
• Select SELL → Vertical
• The platform will automatically create a spread order
• Verify the lower strike (long leg) matches your analysis
Review the order details:
• Net Credit: Should match your expected credit (±$0.05)
Adjust the limit price if needed (start at mid-price, adjust toward bid for faster fill)
Set the number of contracts
Select order type: Limit (recommended) or Market
Click Confirm and Send
Executing a Naked Put
Follow steps 1-4 above to open the option chain
Right-click on the BID price of your chosen strike
Select SELL → Single
Review the order details:
• Credit: Premium received × 100 × contracts
• Buying Power Effect: Verify matches your calculation
• TD typically uses: 20% of strike × 100 × contracts
Ensure you have sufficient buying power (check account summary)
Set limit price and number of contracts
Click Confirm and Send
TD Ameritrade Tip: Use the "Analyze" tab to visualize your profit/loss graph before placing the order. This helps verify you've entered the correct strikes and direction.
Common Pitfalls
• Wrong direction: Make sure you're SELLING the spread (credit), not buying it
• Inverted strikes: Short strike must be HIGHER than long strike for bull put spread
• After-hours execution: Options don't trade after hours; wait for market open
• Wide bid-ask spread: Start with mid-price and adjust; don't accept the bid immediately
General Tips for All Brokers
Before You Trade
• Verify you have the required option approval level
• Check your available buying power
• Confirm the expiration date matches your analysis
• Double-check strike prices and order direction (sell vs buy)
Order Entry Best Practices
• Start with a limit order at mid-price (between bid and ask)
• If no fill after 30 seconds, adjust toward the bid by $0.05
• Avoid market orders on options - slippage can be significant
• For spreads, enter as a single combo order, not two separate orders
• Check volume and open interest - aim for at least 100 OI per leg
After Execution
• Verify the fill price matches your expectation (±$0.05)
• Check that buying power reduction equals max loss
• Set up alerts for when stock approaches your short strike
• Consider setting a profit target (e.g., close at 50% max profit)
• Monitor position daily, especially in the last week before expiration
Closing Positions
• To close a spread: Buy it back (opposite of opening)
• Many traders close at 50-80% of max profit to free up capital
• Avoid holding until expiration unless you want assignment risk
• If assigned, contact your broker immediately to understand obligations