A Rollout, also known as a Roll Forward, is comprised of an order to close out of an option position with a near-term expiration date and an order to open a new position in the same type (Call or Put) of option with the same underlying and with the same or *different strike price and a longer-term expiration date.
(*Also known as a Rollup or Rolldown when the strike price is different.)
Commissions, taxes, and transaction costs are not included in any of these strategy discussions, but can affect final outcome and should be considered. Please contact a tax advisor to discuss the tax implications of these strategies. Many of the strategies described herein require the use of a margin account. With long options, investors may lose 100% of funds invested. In-the-money long puts need to be closed out prior to expiration, since exercising them could create short stock positions.
Options carry a high level of risk and are not suitable for all investors. Certain requirements must be met to trade options through Schwab. Multiple leg options strategies will involve multiple commissions. Spread trading must be done in a margin account. Please read the options disclosure document titled "Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options."