| Many investors stay with the first online discount | | | | $25,000. But trading fees are only part of the |
| broker they start with. Because of this it is important | | | | equation. Most discount brokers charge very few |
| to do thorough research into what makes an online | | | | account or maintenance fees. The biggest difference |
| broker right for you. In the last ten years online | | | | between most brokers is in their IRA accounts. IF |
| stock trading has become much more common. | | | | you are starting an IRA make sure you look at all the |
| Internet technology and new companies have made | | | | possible fees that may be charged when you start |
| stock trading possible for much of America. In order | | | | one. The best online brokers will have no fees for |
| to stay competitive there are usually no minimums, | | | | IRA accounts. There is an exception with closing an |
| no inactivity fees, and best of all trades are as low | | | | IRA (because everyone charges to close an |
| as $4.95. Those features are in addition to helpful | | | | account). |
| realtime stock quotes, advanced trading capabilities, | | | | Ease to open account. Some brokers require much |
| and ample free research tools. Starting an account is | | | | more than other brokers. In almost all cases signed |
| easier than ever and you can usually start trading | | | | tax documents are required to be faxed to the |
| within an hour of signing up. But what is the best | | | | broker. The best brokers will allow you to do |
| broker. What are the features that matter most. For | | | | everything online without the need to mail or fax |
| the majority of investors the basic service of any | | | | anything in. Once your account is created the other |
| company will be more than adequate. Beyond just | | | | issue is funding your account. Bank transfers from |
| the basic usage what else matters when comparing | | | | your checking account are the easiest way to fund |
| the best online discount broker. | | | | an account. The best brokers allow you to fund an |
| Trading and Service Fees. If you are trading very | | | | you account within minutes of starting. When a |
| frequently or have a small initial sum to invest these | | | | brokers makes you wait days or have complex |
| fees will make the difference between making a | | | | funding options it delays your potential trading days. |
| profit. With the advent of true discount brokers | | | | Look for brokers that keep you safe but don't |
| these fees have been driven down to almost nothing. | | | | require too much hoop jumping to move money to |
| One company in particular will give you five free | | | | and from your account. |
| trades each month if you have a minimum balance of | | | | |