Top brokerage accounts for new investors in the USA

Published On: May 17, 2025

Navigating the investing world for the first time can be tricky, but you can alleviate many of these challenges with the correct brokerage account for your needs. With many options available within the USA, ease of access, cost, and quality of educational materials should be your priority. This guide will explain why brokerage accounts are essential for new investors and highlight a few of the best options available.

Table of Contents

What Makes a Brokerage Account User-Friendly for Beginners?

For novice investors, a brokerage account must offer clear guidance, low-cost investment options, and support. A well-organized site or mobile app can be highly beneficial when starting. Most top brokerages now support commission-free trades, so you can keep all the profits from your investments. Some accounts offer sign-up bonuses, while others help you get started with as little as a dollar, making investing almost universally accessible. Articles, videos, and webinars are excellent materials for self-education, ensuring you grasp new concepts as you progress. Also, purchasing fractional shares is a bonus since a smaller investment can be made in major companies. Robust customer support ensures help is available during pivotal moments in the investing experience, advancing the users as the final piece of the puzzle.

Best Brokerage Accounts for New Investors

Charles Schwab

Charles Schwab stands out with its simple interface, no commissions on stocks and ETFs, and abundant supporting materials. Its dedicated beginner programs, like the “Schwab Starter Kit,” which features no deposit minimum, truly empower novice investors.

Fidelity Investments

Fidelity Investments is yet another remarkable option. It has a strong platform, offers commission-free trades, maintains an extensive educational content library, and provides a strong platform. For beginners, it offers no minimum deposit on its accounts and allows trades through fractional shares.

Merrill Edge

Merill Edge incorporates Bank of America, thus providing convenience to users who already have bank accounts there. It also offers robust basic guides on analytics research, zero-commission trades, and customized support, which is helpful for beginners.

Webull

WeBull is known for prioritizing mobile users and having an elegant design. It provides commission-free trades and advanced charting tools. Although more technical than its counterparts, it remains approachable for new investors looking to learn.

Robinhood

Among commission-free trading platforms, Robinhood stands out for its simple-to-use trading app and ease of use for investors. With a bare-bones approach to education, it is best for those looking to start investing immediately.

E-Trade

E-Trade offers its users a simple-to-use trading platform packed with educational materials and doesn’t charge commissions. Automated investing is also integrated into the platform via “E-Trade Core Portfolios” for users who prefer a more hands-free approach.

Ally Invest

Users appreciate Ally Invest’s low fees and simple, easy-to-navigate interface. The integration with Ally Invest makes it even more helpful for existing Ally Bank customers.

SoFi Invest

Younger investors are the target demographic for SoFi Invest. It features commission-free trades, complimentary financial advising, community engagement, and educational workshops and materials.

Many other platforms, such as eToro, Public.com, Moomoo, and Firstrade, offer features aimed at beginners, such as social investing, commission-free trades, and educational resources.

Here’s a quick comparison of some key features:

Brokerage	Min. Deposit	Commissions	Fractional Shares	Education
Schwab	$0	$0	Yes	Excellent
Fidelity	$0	$0	Yes	Excellent
Merrill Edge	$0	$0	No	Very Good
Webull	$0	$0	No	Good
Robinhood	$0	$0	Yes	Basic
E-Trade	$0	$0	No	Very Good
Ally Invest	$0	$0	No	Good
SoFi Invest	$0	$0	Yes	Good

Comparing The Best Brokerage Accounts

Considering such factors as minimum deposit requirements, commissions, access to fractional shares, and the quality of offered educational materials can help narrow down the options. For example, Charles Schwab and Fidelity offer zero minimum deposits and excellent education resources, while Robinhood is known for its simplicity and easy access. Merrill Edge and E-Trade are great for those who want to focus on research and guidance, while SoFi Invest shies away from that structure, appealing instead to those looking for a community experience.

Opening Your First Brokerage Account

To start investing is pretty simple. First, select a brokerage that meets your requirements. Then, please create an account by submitting an application and filling out a form on their website. At this stage, you must verify your identity using some documents. After successfully setting up your account, you can transfer money from your bank account. Many brokerages offer step-by-step tutorials or guides on making your first trade. Lastly, consider opening a regular taxable brokerage account, an IRA account for retirement, or a custodial account for minors.

Most Common Mistakes For New Investors

Omitting educational resources is one of the most common mistakes any beginner can make, so take the time to learn. Also, keep an eye on fees, especially in trades, as even small charges can accumulate over time. When investing, consider diversifying; this method will lower your risk than holding just one stock. Finally, avoid making emotionally influenced decisions based on fear or hype. Successful investments require patience and discipline.

All Your Questions Answered Here

Can you start investing with a few dollars? Yes, because many brokerages offer fractional shares and zero minimums. App-based brokerages are safe as long as they are regulated and funded with SIPC insurance. If you wish to learn more about investing, take advantage of your brokerage’s educational resources, join webinars, and read at least the basics.

In Summary

Your first trade will always be a positive step towards financial independence or working towards a more relaxed life. For beginners, the best investing brokerage accounts in the US offer low fees and are there to assist you throughout your trading journey. Take your time to analyze what different brokers are offering while keeping in mind that everyone started where you are right now.

Happy trading!

You may read this: Crypto, Stocks, or Gold? How Young Americans Are Investing in 2025

Information sources: