Well, to start I was unaware of the rule of 4 trades in a 5 day business cycle so I was restricted for 90 days. I realized it was my fault and accepted the consequences. After that period I resumed making trades. I traded one stock and made 100 dollars (bought low/sold high) and then I was flagged again as a pattern day trader. So I am restricted AGAIN for 90 days. WTF? It was explained to me by this example in a message from my E-broker:
Because a security was sold that had not yet been paid for, this account will only be allowed to make purchases using settled funds for the next ninety days. Learn more about this restriction.
When reading this, I did not understand how they could restrict me. I never used the money I had for over 90 days. So how come my money was unsettled? Any clarification would be great. Of course I am going to call my broker as well.
Basically, you made new trades when the prior trades didn't settle. My advice would be to let the old trade settle before making new trades. Stocks settle in T + 3 or 3 business days after the trade date and options settle in T + 1 or next business day.
Unbeknownst to you, you are being a risky (also unwanted) customer given your trading with "unsettled funds."
Good luck.
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