---
title: "Strike Offset ITM Selection Explained"
description: "When to use Strike Offset ITM selection criteria"
url: https://help.optionsautotrader.com/en/articles/151-strike-offset-itm-selection-explained
collection: "Options Auto Trader 101"
updated: 2026-04-16
language: en
---

# Strike Offset ITM Selection Explained

When to use Strike Offset ITM selection criteria

## **Strike Offset ITM**

The **Strike Offset ITM** method selects a strike that is a specific dollar distance in the money from a prior strike. This is useful when trading strategies like spreads, where you want the strikes of your options to be a set distance apart.

### **Example:**

If you set a **$5 Strike Offset ITM**, the auto trader will choose a strike that is **$5** in the the money from the prior strike above it. Meaning if the first trade leg is picked based on a 30 delta level. Then next trade leg will be $5 ITM from where the 30 delta strike price was picked.

-   **When to use**: This method is best for spread strategies where you want to guarantee consistent spacing between strikes, such as credit spreads or iron condors.