Stock Trading and Other Things

How long are stop/limit orders valid for at brokerage firms?

Let's say a stock is trading at $11 and I execute a buy-limit order at $10, how long will it take until my order gets cancelled, or does it stay forever? If you say "it depends", then what is a reasonable number of days/weeks for the average broker?

Public Comments

1. generally you give it a date.

If not -- 30, 60, or 90 days.

2. The broker sets their own rules. E-Trade says that orders expire after 60 days. Scottrade says "the last business day of the month following the month in which it was placed", which translates to about 30-60 days.

3. In thinkorswin, you enter good for the day or set the expiration.

4. Depends on the brokerage. Each has it's own policies. 30 days is common.