How Does Time Decay (Theta) Affect the Value of an Option?

Time decay, or Theta, is one of the "Greeks" and represents the rate at which an option's value erodes as its expiration date approaches. Options are wasting assets; as time passes, the probability of the option expiring in-the-money decreases, causing its time value to decline.

This decay accelerates significantly in the final weeks before expiration. Time decay is a constant drag on the value of a long option position.

How Does Theta Impact the Value of an Option as Its Expiration Date Approaches?
Define “Theta Decay” and How It Impacts OTM Options as Expiration Approaches
What Is the Concept of “Time Decay” (Theta) in Options Trading?
How Does Vega Change as an Option Approaches Its Expiration Date?
What Is the Relationship between Gamma and the Expiration Date?
What Is “Time Decay” (Theta) and How Does It Affect the Premium?
Explain the Relationship between Theta and the Calendar Days Remaining until Expiration
How Does Theta Affect the Value of an Option as Expiration Approaches?

Glossar