An independent guide to joining Manifold Markets, a free play money forecasting platform. How to create an account, what mana is, and why there is nothing to fund. Information, not advice. As of March 2026.
Last reviewed 9 March 2026 · Facts as of March 2026 · Illustrative editorial examples
An independent guide to joining Manifold Markets, a free play money forecasting platform. How to create an account, what mana is, and why there is nothing to fund. Information, not advice. As of March 2026.
Figures are indicative and dated. Confirm the current terms on the platform before acting.
Yes. Signing up is free and you receive a starting balance of the site currency, mana. Because it is a play money platform, there is no deposit for ordinary use, as of March 2026.
No. Mana is a site currency for forecasting, not cash, and it is not redeemable. A previous sweepstakes style mode was sunset in March 2025, so do not assume a cash redemption path exists.
Heavy identity checks that regulated United States exchanges must run do not apply to ordinary play money use. Specific features may carry their own terms, so read the platform rules.
Create an account on Manifold's own site or app, usually with an email address or a Google login, confirm your email, and set up a profile. You can then start trading questions with your starting mana.
No. Because no contracts are traded for cash in the core product, it is not a CFTC designated contract market. The rules that govern real money event contracts do not apply to play money use, as of March 2026.
No. Prediction Market Index is an independent informational resource and is not affiliated with any platform. We explain how it works and leave the decision to you.
This page describes Manifold as we assess it. Platform mechanics, fees, and terms change, so verify the current detail before you rely on it.
Facts as of March 2026. General information, not financial advice.