Query regarding API usage (from Interactive Brokers)

Updated: July 14, 20251 min read

When using an automated trading system (ATS) like OptionsApp in conjunction with Interactive Brokers (IBKR), you'll be asked to provide information about your API usage in the IB customer portal.

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First, you need to confirm whether API messages are manually approved or created and transmitted by an automated system. In most cases, both apply, so you can check both corresponding boxes. For the system used, you can select "Other" and enter an appropriate designation in the text field, such as "OptionsApp" or "own automated system".

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In the next step, you need to specify how IBKR should label API messages for you. In most cases, the first option is used: all messages are either manually approved or created by an automated system and monitored by you.

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Finally, you need to provide information about system monitoring outside business hours. In most cases, you can select that you trade during regular trading hours and are available.