Rated as the best overall for its low costs, superior customer service, and fractional share trading.
Ideal for long-term "set-it-and-forget-it" investors focused on index funds and ETFs. 2. Open and Fund Your Account
Popular for a streamlined, mobile-first experience and 24-hour market access.
Select a brokerage that aligns with your experience level and goals. Popular options for 2026 include:
Best for beginners, offering extensive educational resources and the "thinkorswim" trading platform.
Buying stock online by yourself is a multi-step process that involves choosing a platform, verifying your identity, and executing trades. Most modern online brokerages offer $0 commission for U.S. stock and ETF trades, making it highly accessible for individual investors. 1. Choose an Online Broker