Getting Started with an Online Broker

If you feel comfortable making your own investing decisions, consider opening an online trading account. The fees for buying and selling shares are much lower than a full service broker. But you will not get the hand holding that many brokers provide.

Before you select an online broker check:

Account minimum - the dollar amount required to open and maintain the account
Trading fees - cost to buy and sell shares
Account fees - monthly or miscellaneous fees
Availability of stocks and mutual funds - not all may be available
Stock research and news - free or pay
Advice - available or not

Some of the most popular online brokers include:

For more information about online accounts read How to choose the right brokerage for you.