What is a GTC order vs a day order?

A day order expires at the end of the trading day if it does not fill. A Good Till Canceled (GTC) order stays active until it fills or you cancel it — typically for up to 60–90 days depending on the broker. Use day orders for short-term tactics and GTC orders when you want to buy at a specific price that the market has not yet reached and you are willing to wait.