MetaTrader Error 130 “Invalid Stops”: Causes and How to Fix It
Short answerError 130 means your stop-loss or take-profit is closer to price than the broker's minimum distance (the stops level), or the price is stale. Widen SL/TP beyond the stops level plus current spread.
What triggers it
Every symbol has a stops level (SYMBOL_TRADE_STOPS_LEVEL) — the minimum distance an SL/TP or pending order must sit from price. Place one inside that band and the server rejects it with error 130. A spread that widens at news or rollover can push a previously-valid order inside the band.
How to fix it
- Convert the stops level to a price distance with the Stops-Level Checker.
- Keep SL/TP at least stops-level + current spread away from price.
- For market orders, open first and set SL/TP by modifying the live position.
- On Instant-execution accounts, expect requotes — verify the model in the EA Compatibility Checker.
Frequently asked questions
What is error 130 in MetaTrader?
The server rejected your SL/TP or pending order because it's closer to price than the symbol's stops level, or the price is stale.
How do I avoid invalid stops?
Never place SL/TP inside the stops level; add the current spread as a buffer, especially around news and rollover.
Is error 130 the broker or my EA?
Usually the EA placing stops too close for that broker's stops level — a per-broker setting. Widen the distance.