1. Entity before deposit
Check which legal entity accepted your application, its regulator and the protections that apply in your country.
2. Account before platform
Confirm Standard, Raw, Zero or Pro pricing and do not assume the lowest advertised spread is the total cost.
3. Server and symbol
Use the correct server and check suffixes such as EURUSD, EURUSDb or XAUUSDx before attaching any EA or indicator.
4. Demo before live
Compile indicators, test inputs and verify chart behaviour on demo. Indicators are not trade instructions.
5. Small operational test
Test a small deposit and withdrawal, retain receipts and record broker versus payment-provider timing separately.