Is Cash App a Brokerage Account or a Bank Account

Author

Reads 166

Smartphone showing Cash App screen on laptop keyboard, next to glasses and notebook.
Credit: pexels.com, Smartphone showing Cash App screen on laptop keyboard, next to glasses and notebook.

Cash App is a financial service that offers a range of features, but it's often misunderstood as to whether it's a brokerage account or a bank account. In reality, Cash App offers both types of services, but with some key differences.

Cash App does offer a brokerage account, which is a type of account that allows users to buy and sell stocks, ETFs, and other investment products. This is made possible through Cash App's partnership with a third-party brokerage firm.

However, Cash App also offers a bank account, which is a type of account that allows users to receive direct deposits, pay bills, and use a debit card for purchases.

Intriguing read: Bank Brokerage Account

What Is

Cash App is a mobile payment service that allows users to send, receive, and store money. It's not a traditional bank account, but rather a peer-to-peer payment platform.

Cash App offers a range of features, including the ability to invest in stocks and cryptocurrencies. Users can even invest as little as $1 in fractional shares.

Credit: youtube.com, Cash App Invest Beginners Guide 2025

Investing through Cash App is easy, with no minimum balance requirements or management fees. This makes it accessible to anyone with a smartphone.

However, Cash App's brokerage account is not suitable for long-term investing or retirement savings. It's more geared towards short-term trading and speculative investments.

Cash App's brokerage account is not a registered investment advisor, and users are not provided with personalized investment advice. This means users are responsible for making their own investment decisions.

Opening and Managing an Account

To open a Cash App Investing account, you're creating a brokerage account associated with Cash App Investing LLC, which allows you to buy and sell stocks and exchange traded funds (ETFs).

All stock and/or ETF purchases are funded by your Cash App Balance or other linked payment instruments, in accordance with the Cash App terms of service. This means you can use your existing Cash App funds to invest in the stock market.

If this caught your attention, see: Cash App Stock Symbol

Woman using a secure mobile app, showcasing data encryption on a smartphone.
Credit: pexels.com, Woman using a secure mobile app, showcasing data encryption on a smartphone.

The balance associated with your Investing account is different from your Cash App balance and is the total current value of investments you've made. This "stock balance" is separate from your general Cash App balance.

The securities in your Investing account are held by a third-party custodian, DriveWealth, LLC, which is also the carrying broker for purchased stocks and ETFs. This means your investments are safe and secure with a reputable company.

If you need more funds to cover a stock or ETF purchase, they will be pulled from your linked debit card to your Cash App Balance. This ensures you have enough money to invest in the stock market.

You can manage your Investing account by keeping an eye on the value of your "stock balance", which is shown separately from your general Cash App balance. This will help you stay on top of your investments and make informed decisions.

Account Features and Options

Credit: youtube.com, PROS & CONS of Cash App | Is it Worth it? 2023

Cash App Investing offers a range of account features and options that make it a solid choice for investors. You can open an individual brokerage account without any minimum deposit requirements.

The mobile app is highly rated among Apple and Android users, with 2FA and biometrics capabilities for added security. You can also contact customer support through live chat or phone, with generally quick response times.

Here are some key account features:

  • No annual fee or inactivity fee
  • $75 full outgoing account transfer fee
  • Fractional share trading available
  • Trading during normal market hours only

Where Shines

Cash App Investing shines in several areas, making it a great option for casual investors. It offers a decent collection of company metrics and research tools.

One of the standout features is the user-friendly interface and seamless integration with the Cash App, making it easy to manage investments on the go. This is especially helpful for users who already use the Cash App for other financial activities.

Cash App Investing also offers fractional shares, allowing users to invest with any budget. No commission fees are charged for buying or selling stocks and ETFs, which can save users a significant amount of money.

A Client in Agreement with a Mortgage Broker
Credit: pexels.com, A Client in Agreement with a Mortgage Broker

Here are some of the key features that make Cash App Investing stand out:

Overall, Cash App Investing is a solid choice for casual investors looking for a simple and cost-effective way to manage their investments.

Where Falls Short

When you're looking for a wide range of investment options, Cash App Investing might not be the best choice. It only offers stocks, ETFs, and Bitcoin, which is a limited lineup compared to other beginner-focused brokers.

Some of these brokers offer a more extensive selection of tradable coins, so if you're interested in investing in multiple types of cryptocurrency, you might want to consider another option.

Cash App Investing charges a variable commission for trading Bitcoin, with trade fees as high as 3%. This can add up quickly, especially if you're a frequent trader.

If you're looking for more control over your investments, you might be disappointed with Cash App Investing's features. But, if you're looking for a simple and easy-to-use platform, Cash App Investing might still be a good choice.

Here are some of the key features that Cash App Investing offers:

  • Portfolio
  • Auto-pilot recurring buys
  • Metrics and insights
  • Custom orders
  • Investing alerts

Fees and Safety

Credit: youtube.com, Cash App Investing Fees Explained

Cash App is considered safe and secure, employing encryption and fraud detection technology to protect users' information and money.

Stock trade fees are a consideration, but the article doesn't specify the exact fee amount.

Cash App Investing is protected by the Securities Investor Protection Corporation for up to $500,000 in the event of the company going out of business.

What Happens to My Balance on Sale?

Your Cash App Balance gets a boost when you sell a stock, as the funds from the sale are automatically transferred to your Cash App Balance.

The funds from stock sales are available to use right away, so you can choose to buy more stocks, spend it on your Cash Card, or send money to friends and family.

You can instantly Cash Out to your linked bank account, and those funds are yours to spend as you like.

The Cash App Investing account only holds the stocks or ETFs you purchase, not the funds you receive when you sell your shares.

Fees

Two hands displaying cash and a smartphone calculator with a digital display, indicating a financial transaction.
Credit: pexels.com, Two hands displaying cash and a smartphone calculator with a digital display, indicating a financial transaction.

Fees can be a significant consideration when choosing a financial service. Cash App Investing has a relatively straightforward fee structure.

The minimum deposit requirement is $0, which is a great perk for beginners or those with limited funds. There's also no minimum balance requirement, so you can invest without worrying about maintaining a certain level of cash in your account.

You won't pay an annual fee to use Cash App Investing, which is a big plus for long-term investors. However, there are some trade fees to be aware of. Stock and ETF trades are free, but government fees still apply.

Here's a breakdown of the fees you can expect to pay with Cash App Investing:

As you can see, the fees are generally low, but it's essential to be aware of them before investing.

How Safe

Cash App Investing is considered safe and secure, thanks to its use of encryption and fraud detection technology to protect users' information and money.

The Securities Investor Protection Corporation protects money and securities for up to $500,000 in the event that Cash App Investing goes out of business.

This level of protection gives investors peace of mind, knowing that their investments are safeguarded in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

For more insights, see: Free Money

Compare to Other Platforms

Credit: youtube.com, I tested out Cash App's investment platform and this is what I found out - Cash App Investing Review

Cash App offers a range of investment options, including buying stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and cryptocurrency.

If you're looking for a more comprehensive investment platform, you may want to consider other options. Cash App's investment features are limited compared to some other platforms.

To give you a better idea, here's a comparison of some of the key features:

Note: This comparison is based on the information provided in the article section facts.

Cash App's investment platform is user-friendly and accessible, making it a great option for beginners. However, if you're looking for more advanced features or a wider range of investment options, you may want to explore other platforms.

Investing in the stock market can be intimidating, but Cash App's "Investments 101" guide can help you get started.

Alternatives and Options

If you're looking for alternatives to Cash App Investing, you have several options. Webull and SoFi Active Investing offer similar features, while Robinhood provides a more straightforward approach to investing.

Public is another alternative that allows you to invest in a variety of assets, including stocks and ETFs.

Trade Options

Credit: youtube.com, Learn Option Selling Hedge Trading with Basic Strategy For Beginners

Trade options can be a great way to manage risk and increase potential returns. By giving you the right to buy or sell a security at a predetermined price, options contracts can help you hedge against market volatility.

One type of option is a call option, which gives you the right to buy a security at a set price. This can be especially useful if you think the security's price is going to rise.

For example, if you buy a call option to buy 100 shares of a stock at $50, and the stock price rises to $60, you can exercise your option and buy the stock at the lower price, then sell it at the higher market price. This can result in a profit of $10 per share.

Another type of option is a put option, which gives you the right to sell a security at a set price. This can be a good strategy if you think the security's price is going to fall.

Options trading can be complex, but it's also a powerful tool for managing risk and potentially increasing returns.

Account Types Available

Credit: youtube.com, 3 Options Trading Brokerage Accounts - Commission and IVR vs IV_Percentile Comparison

If you're new to investing, you'll want to start with a basic brokerage account. This type allows you to buy and sell individual stocks, ETFs, and other securities.

A taxable brokerage account is a great option for those who don't need to worry about taxes right now. You can put in as much or as little money as you want, and you can withdraw your cash at any time.

A retirement account, such as an IRA or 401(k), is perfect for long-term investors. These accounts are designed to help you save for your future, and they often come with tax benefits.

A custodial account is a great way to give a minor a head start on their financial future. These accounts are managed by an adult until the child turns 18 or 21, depending on the state.

If you're looking to invest in real estate, a self-directed IRA can be a great option. This type of account allows you to invest in real estate with tax benefits.

Alternatives

An Elderly Man Using His Mobile Phone while Holding a Credit Card
Credit: pexels.com, An Elderly Man Using His Mobile Phone while Holding a Credit Card

If you're looking for alternatives to Cash App Investing, you have several options. Webull, SoFi Active Investing, Robinhood, and Public are all viable alternatives that offer similar features to Cash App Investing.

Webull and Robinhood are known for their low fees and user-friendly interfaces, making them great options for beginners. SoFi Active Investing also offers low fees and a user-friendly app.

Public is a more unique alternative, offering a social investing experience that allows you to follow and copy the investment strategies of other users.

Check this out: Webull Minimum Deposit

Customer Agreement

Before using Cash App as a brokerage account, it's essential to understand the Customer Agreement. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of using the service, including the fees associated with buying and selling stocks.

Cash App charges a commission of $2.25 per trade, which is lower than some other brokerage accounts. However, there may be additional fees for things like wire transfers.

The Customer Agreement also explains how to withdraw and transfer funds from the account, including the availability of funds and the potential for delays. You can withdraw funds from your Cash App account to a linked bank account.

In the event of a dispute, the Customer Agreement outlines the process for resolving issues, including the use of arbitration. If you're not satisfied with the outcome, you can file a complaint with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).

Related reading: Brokerage Account Fees

Overview of

Credit: youtube.com, Cash App Investing Review 2022 | Investing for Beginners

Cash App Investing is a user-friendly mobile investment platform that allows individuals to buy and sell stocks and ETFs directly from their smartphones. It's a part of the broader Cash App ecosystem.

One of the standout features of Cash App Investing is its seamless integration with other Cash App features. This makes it convenient for users to manage their finances and investments in one place.

Cash App Investing offers a user-friendly interface that's easy to navigate, even for those new to investing. This is a big plus for anyone who wants to start investing but doesn't know where to begin.

Here are some key benefits of using Cash App Investing:

  • User-friendly interface and seamless integration with other Cash App features
  • Fractional shares allow for investing with any budget
  • No commission fees for buying or selling stocks and ETFs
  • Accessible customer service and support

Overall, Cash App Investing is a solid option for anyone looking to start investing in the stock market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you own your stocks on Cash App?

No, you don't own your stocks outright on Cash App, as they're held in a custodial account with a third-party company called DriveWealth, LLC. This means your investments are secured, but you should review the terms and conditions for more information.

Sheldon Kuphal

Writer

Sheldon Kuphal is a seasoned writer with a keen insight into the world of high net worth individuals and their financial endeavors. With a strong background in researching and analyzing complex financial topics, Sheldon has established himself as a trusted voice in the industry. His areas of expertise include Family Offices, Investment Management, and Private Wealth Management, where he has written extensively on the latest trends, strategies, and best practices.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.