Final table deals: chip chop and ICM chop explained
At a final table, players can sometimes agree to split the remaining prize money instead of playing it out. This is called a deal or chop. Whether deals are allowed — and how they’re done — depends on the site or casino rules. Online, many sites offer a built-in deal tool; live, the tournament director supervises.
The two common methods
Section titled “The two common methods”Chip chop
Section titled “Chip chop”Everyone first locks in the lowest remaining prize, and the rest of the money is split in proportion to chip stacks.
Example: 3 players left, prizes $1,000 / $600 / $400 (total $2,000). Each gets $400 first ($1,200), leaving $800. Stacks: 50%, 30%, 20% of chips → $400, $240, $160 extra. Final: $800, $640, $560.
ICM chop
Section titled “ICM chop”The prize money is split using the ICM model, which estimates each player’s chance to finish in every place based on stacks. ICM usually gives short stacks more and big stacks less than a chip chop. See ICM.
Who each method favours
Section titled “Who each method favours”| Method | Better for |
|---|---|
| Chip chop | The chip leader |
| ICM chop | Short and medium stacks |
Tips for beginners
Section titled “Tips for beginners”- Check the rules first: some events don’t allow deals, or require all players to agree.
- Know your ICM number — many sites show it in the deal screen.
- Consider skill: if you’re the best player at the table, playing on may be worth more than a deal; if you’re the weakest, a deal locks in money.
- Often a small amount is left for first place (and a trophy or title) so the game continues.
- Never feel pressured: you can always say no.
See also final table strategy and tournament payouts.
What is a chop in a poker tournament?
Section titled “What is a chop in a poker tournament?”An agreement between the remaining players to split the prize money instead of playing to the end.
What is a chip chop?
Section titled “What is a chip chop?”Everyone locks in the lowest remaining prize, then the rest is split in proportion to chip stacks.
What is an ICM chop?
Section titled “What is an ICM chop?”A split based on the ICM model, which usually gives short stacks more than a chip chop.
Are deals always allowed?
Section titled “Are deals always allowed?”No. It depends on the site or casino rules and all players must agree.