Even though I was not a good enough trader to pass the Gauntlet I can agree with "bpj" that Earn2Trade has the best deal and the most honest and transparent that I have worked with in this field.
Recently, I have found an edge and can pass the Gauntlet, I am sure. I choose to trade my own retail account as I do not want to be considered a professional trader and get the increase in my Exchange Data fees across all of my accounts from $5.00/mo. to $105.00/mo. On top of that some brokers only want retail accounts and do not accept professional traders.
With regard to Tax and Regulation I believe that Earn2 trade has it set up the correct way. How Topstep and the other "educational / trading" firms fit all of these indepedent contractors into the regulations escapes me...and it is possible there could be recourse from the regulators and the IRS. YES this means you too trader.
Anyways..this is my experience and If I were to switch to pro status ..I choose Earn2Trade, in a heartbeat. I want to Thank Ryan for making many under-funded traders a good deal. With the advent of the Micros his market may change...but he is reacting and still offering a great deal!
ES