TD Ameritrade Brokerage Account Options and Features

TD Ameritrade offers a range of brokerage account options to suit different investors' needs.

You can choose from a standard brokerage account, an IRA account, or a custodial account for minors.

TD Ameritrade also offers a variety of research tools and resources, including thinkorswim, a powerful trading platform.

The thinkorswim platform offers advanced charting capabilities, real-time data, and customizable layouts.

TD Ameritrade's mobile app allows you to trade and manage your account on the go.

The app offers real-time quotes, news, and analytics, as well as the ability to set price alerts.

TD Ameritrade offers a wide range of investing options, including commission-free trading in stocks, ETFs, and options. You can trade with confidence, knowing that you won't be charged commissions on these trades.

TD Ameritrade has over 3,900 no-transaction-fee (NTF) mutual funds available, making it one of the largest selections in the industry. This means you can invest in a variety of mutual funds without incurring additional fees.

The platform also offers selective portfolios, which require a minimum investment of $25,000 and come with variable management fees. These portfolios are best suited for investors with a larger portfolio and more complex investment needs.

Here are some of the key investing options available on TD Ameritrade:

Stocks and ETFs are a great place to start when it comes to investing. TD Ameritrade facilitates commission-free trading in exchange-traded and over-the-counter stocks in the U.S. and select foreign markets.

You can trade stocks with no commission fees, which is a huge advantage. Commission-free trading in exchange-traded and over-the-counter stocks is available in the U.S. and select foreign markets.

TD Ameritrade's commission-free ETF database includes hundreds of index, sector, and objective-driven securities. This means you have a wide range of options to choose from when it comes to ETFs.

Here are some key facts about trading stocks and ETFs with TD Ameritrade:

Overall, TD Ameritrade offers a solid platform for trading stocks and ETFs with no commission fees.

Fixed Income Securities are a great option for investors looking for stable returns. Government bonds, such as those offered by TD Ameritrade, can provide tax advantages, even in taxable portfolios.

Pricing for fixed-income securities varies by product and transaction size. This means that the cost of buying or selling a bond can be different depending on the specific bond and the amount being traded.

Government-issued bonds are a popular choice for investors seeking fixed income. They often have a lower risk profile compared to other types of investments.

Selective Portfolios is a high-end robo-advisor with human support to back it up. It's a great option for investors who want a more personalized experience.

To qualify for Selective Portfolios, you'll need an account balance of at least $25,000. This is a relatively high minimum, but it's worth considering if you're looking for a more hands-on approach.

Selective Portfolios feature a wide range of ETFs and mutual funds to choose from. This gives you flexibility in your investment strategy and allows you to tailor your portfolio to your specific goals.

The management fees for Selective Portfolios vary depending on the composition, complexity, size, and goals of each investor's portfolio. This means that the fees will be different for each person, but they're generally higher than what you'd pay with a traditional robo-advisor.

Overall, Selective Portfolios is a solid choice for investors who want a more personalized experience and are willing to pay a bit more for it.

TD Ameritrade offers four distinct platforms with no platform charges or hidden fees. The thinkorswim platform is widely respected among traders, offering charts, customizable scans, news feeds, and more.

TD Ameritrade's thinkorswim platform is available on the web, Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It also has a mobile app with the same tools as the desktop platform, making it a great option for traders on the go.

The thinkorswim Mobile app replaces the previous TD Ameritrade Mobile Trader, offering the full power of thinkorswim in mobile form for experienced traders.

TD Ameritrade offers four distinct platforms with no platform charges or hidden fees.

The main TD Ameritrade platform is for average users, but thinkorswim is its renowned advanced trading platform.

Thinkorswim is available on a wide variety of platforms, including the web, Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.

TD Ameritrade also has a mobile app that’s designed like its website.

The thinkorswim platform offers elite-level tools, including full charting, market monitoring, beta weighing, pairs trading, paper trading, and Strategy Roller.

TD Ameritrade has a helpful primer on thinkorswim for those who want to know more.

TD Ameritrade offers a basic mobile trading platform, TD Ameritrade Mobile, which is a stripped-down version of the Web platform.

TD Ameritrade’s thinkorswim platform is widely respected among traders and offers charts, customizable scans, news feeds, and more.

The thinkorswim Mobile app replaces TD Ameritrade Mobile Trader, offering the full power of thinkorswim in mobile form for experienced traders on the go.

All TD Ameritrade account holders have access to these four distinct platforms.

TD Ameritrade has a physical branch network in most states, with a branch list available for account holders to view. This means you can visit a branch in person if needed.

All account holders are entitled to free investment consultations with branch-based staff, not just managed portfolio clients. These meetings are a good opportunity to get personalized advice and guidance.

However, be aware that these meetings can also be a chance for TD Ameritrade to sell you on more profitable services, such as managed portfolios. This might not be what you're looking for, especially if you're a DIY investor.

If you're a committed DIYer, you'll probably never need to set foot in a TD Ameritrade branch unless you have an unusual account type that requires in-person funding or paperwork processing.

With a TD Ameritrade brokerage account, you can easily manage your accounts online or through their mobile app.

You can link multiple accounts to a single login, making it convenient to view and manage all your investments in one place.

To access your account, simply log in to the TD Ameritrade website or mobile app, and you'll be able to view your account balances, holdings, and transactions.

TD Ameritrade offers a variety of account types, including Individual, Joint, and IRA accounts, to suit your specific needs.

Joe Moglia vacated the CEO position in May 2008, becoming Chairman.

Fredric Tomczyk succeeded Moglia as CEO, bringing a new perspective to the company.

Tomczyk retired as CEO in 2016, making way for Tim Hockey to take the reins.

Hockey's tenure as CEO was marked by a disagreement with the board over the company's growth.

Joe Moglia retired from his role as Chairman of the Board of TD Ameritrade in July 2020, bringing an end to his second stint in the position.

Personalized Portfolios offer a high-end experience with wholly customized portfolios and access to a dedicated financial consultant. They work closely with advisors from Morningstar Investment Management.

The minimum investment for Personalized Portfolios is $250,000, aggregated across all active TD Ameritrade investment accounts. Management fees vary by portfolio composition, complexity, goals, and size.

Reporting features for Personalized Portfolios are far more advanced, including custom goal-tracking and account snapshots across TD and non-TD accounts. This level of detail can be a big help for investors who want to keep a close eye on their finances.

TD Ameritrade’s portfolio managers closely manage portfolio balance and performance, working with advisors from Morningstar Investment Management to ensure the best possible results.

You can make multiple day trades on TD Ameritrade, but it depends on your account type and size.

If you're under the PDT and trading with a margin account, you'll have to consider those restrictions.

With a cash account, you have to wait until your funds settle before making another trade.

Account size is also a factor in determining your trade frequency.

TD Ameritrade is known for its competitive pricing, but it's essential to understand the various fees associated with your brokerage account.

There are no account opening or closing fees with TD Ameritrade, which is a great perk for new investors.

However, a $75 fee is charged for a full account transfer, so be aware of that if you're planning to switch to a different brokerage.

Commission-free trading is available for stocks, ETFs, and options, which is a huge advantage for frequent traders.

Broker-assisted trades, on the other hand, cost $25, so it's worth considering online or mobile trades to save money.

TD Ameritrade also offers commission-free trading for hundreds of no-transaction-fee mutual funds, which can help you save on fees.

But, if you're trading options, you'll pay a per-contract fee of $0.65, which can add up quickly.

Here's a breakdown of the various fees you might encounter:

It's essential to be aware of these fees to make informed decisions about your trading and investing activities.

TD Ameritrade's Education and Support features are truly impressive. With a wealth of learning tools, you'll have everything you need to become a skilled investor.

The Education Center is a standout feature, offering a full immersive curriculum, articles, videos, webcasts, and even live virtual events - all at no extra cost. This is a major selling point for many investors.

You'll find instructional videos, articles, and tutorials to help you learn the ropes. Plus, access to dozens of investing publications, some of which may charge subscription fees for premium content.

The "Talking Green" podcast is a great resource, regularly producing new episodes with expert insights. TD Ameritrade Network is another valuable tool, offering a subdued, lower-budget version of Bloomberg TV.

TD Ameritrade's Goal-specific education modules are also worth checking out, covering topics like investing for retirement or college education.

Here are some of the key resources you'll find in TD Ameritrade's Education and Research section:

You'll also have access to useful market research tools, including Market Edge, Social sentiment insights, Premier List, and Market Java.

TD Ameritrade has made significant strides in securing its clients' private information since a major hack in 2007 that affected over 6 million customers.

Their website uses robust 128-bit encryption to safeguard sensitive data.

TD Ameritrade's security team employs advanced anomaly detection and intrusion detection technology to identify and neutralize potential threats.

This extra layer of protection gives clients peace of mind when conducting online transactions.

TD Ameritrade also offers robust financial protection through SIPC insurance, which covers brokerage assets up to $500 million, plus an additional $149.5 million of asset insurance through London insurers.

This comprehensive coverage provides clients with an added layer of security for their investments.

If you're interested in cryptocurrency, TD Ameritrade has a few options for you to consider.

You can gain exposure to crypto through over-the-counter cryptocurrency trusts, which are similar to closed-end funds with high volatility.

These trusts have limited liquidity, high fees, and a risk of loss of principal, so be aware of the potential downsides.

TD Ameritrade also offers crypto mutual funds and ETFs, which can be a more diversified way to invest in cryptocurrency.

Bitcoin futures are available through the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME), and may require approval by TD Ameritrade.

Here are the three ways to gain exposure to crypto offered by TD Ameritrade:

TD Ameritrade's servers were hacked in 2007, affecting over 6 million customers, but the company has since improved its security measures.

Their website uses 128-bit encryption to protect client information. This is a significant upgrade from what was likely used at the time of the hack.

TD Ameritrade's security team employs advanced anomaly detection and intrusion detection technology to identify and block potential threats.

All brokerage assets are protected by SIPC insurance up to $500 million, providing a high level of financial protection for clients.

TD Ameritrade also offers an additional $149.5 million of asset insurance through London insurers, giving clients even more peace of mind.

Cash in an Insured Deposit Account (IDA) is FDIC-insured up to $500,000 through TD's banking affiliates, adding another layer of protection.

TD Ameritrade consistently ranks as one of the best full-service brokerage firms, and for good reason. They offer a wide range of services and tools that cater to both self-directed and managed investors.

Their DIY side shines with easy-to-use trading tools and educational resources for self-directed investors. No account minimums are required for self-directed traders, making it easy to get started.

TD Ameritrade has four distinct platforms, including the popular thinkorswim platform, which is ideal for long-term investors who favor buy-and-hold investing. However, their fees may be higher than some other low-cost brokers, making them less suitable for active traders.

TD Ameritrade's commitment to innovation and continuous enhancement ensures it remains at the forefront of the financial market landscape.

TD Ameritrade is consistently rated as one of the best full-service brokerage firms.

We've compared TD Ameritrade to others and found that it stands out.

TD Ameritrade isn't the only full-service brokerage firm out there, but it's definitely a top contender.

One of the reasons TD Ameritrade ranks high on our list is its exceptional services.

TD Ameritrade is a full-service brokerage firm that offers a wide range of investment options, from stocks and bonds to futures and forex. It's known for its user-friendly platforms and comprehensive research tools, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced traders.

TD Ameritrade has no account minimums for self-directed traders, which is a big plus for those just starting out. The firm also offers four distinct platforms, including the popular thinkorswim platform, which is ideal for scanning, charting, and trading.

However, TD Ameritrade's fees can be higher than some other brokers, and its margin rates can be on the higher side. Additionally, some users have reported delays in the account verification process.

If you're a long-term investor, TD Ameritrade might be a good fit for you. The firm offers a wealth of tools and information, and its fees are still relatively competitive. However, if you're an active trader, you might want to consider other options, as TD Ameritrade's trading executions can be slower than some other brokers.

Here are some key pros and cons to consider:

Account verification process can be slow

TD Ameritrade offers a variety of account types to suit different needs and preferences. You can choose from a standard self-directed taxable brokerage account, a Traditional IRA, a Roth IRA, a Rollover IRA, a 529 plan, a Coverdell education savings account, a UTMA and UGMA account, or a specialty account such as an individual trust, business account, or pension account.

For hands-off investors, TD Ameritrade also offers managed portfolios. These accounts require a review of IRS guidance and a conversation with your tax professional to ensure you understand the tax-advantaged account benefits and limitations.

TD Ameritrade has a few account types that are ideal for day trading, including cash accounts and margin accounts. Cash accounts have no minimum requirement, while margin accounts require a $2,000 account minimum.

TD Ameritrade offers two managed portfolio options: Selective Portfolios and Personalized Portfolios. Both have higher fees than most robo-advisors.

You'll need an account balance of at least $25,000 to qualify for Selective Portfolios. This is a significant minimum, but it may be worth it for hands-off portfolio management.

Personalized Portfolios have an even higher minimum deposit requirement of $250,000. This option is likely geared towards more affluent investors who want personalized investment advice.

TD Ameritrade has phased out its Essential Portfolios robo-advisory service, so these two options are now the only managed portfolio choices available.

TD Ameritrade offers a range of account types to suit different needs and goals.

If you're just starting out, you can open a standard self-directed taxable brokerage account, which is the most common type of account offered by TD Ameritrade.

TD Ameritrade also offers traditional, Roth, and rollover IRAs, which can help you save for retirement while reducing your taxable income.

In addition to these individual accounts, TD Ameritrade offers specialty accounts for businesses, trusts, and pension plans.

TD Ameritrade's account types also include managed portfolios, which are ideal for hands-off investors who want a professional to handle their investments.

You can choose from a variety of account types, including cash accounts and margin accounts, which have different requirements and rules.

To open a margin account, you'll need to deposit at least $2,000, and you'll have to comply with the pattern day trader (PDT) rule, which limits you to three day trades in a rolling five-day period.

In contrast, cash accounts don't have a minimum balance requirement and don't have to comply with the PDT rule, but you'll need to ensure you have sufficient funds to cover your trades.

Here's a summary of the main account types offered by TD Ameritrade:

TD Ameritrade's brokerage account has its fair share of advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, there are no account minimums for self-directed traders, which is a huge relief for newer investors. This means you can start trading without having to meet a minimum balance requirement.

TD Ameritrade also offers four distinct platforms, including thinkorswim, which is a powerful tool for sophisticated traders. The thinkorswim platform is perfect for confident traders who want the flexibility to trade on their own terms.

One of the most significant advantages of TD Ameritrade is its vast array of investing options and account types. You can choose from a wide range of investment products, including blue chip stocks, investment-grade bonds, and forex. This means you can diversify your portfolio and invest in the areas that interest you the most.

Here are some of the key advantages of TD Ameritrade's brokerage account:

On the downside, TD Ameritrade has some high fees for managed portfolios and mutual fund transaction fees. These fees can add up quickly, so it's essential to review them carefully before opening an account.

TD Ameritrade offers a ton of exceptional offerings, including commission-free ETF trades that make using their platforms both convenient and effective.

With no account minimums for self-directed investors, you can get started with investing without breaking the bank. This is a huge advantage for newer, lower-asset investors looking to dip their toes in the water.

TD Ameritrade has four distinct trading platforms, all included at no additional cost. You can choose the one that suits your trading style, from the thinkorswim platform for sophisticated traders to other options that are more suitable for beginners.

The thinkorswim platform is a powerful tool that's perfect for high-frequency traders who want to make the most of their investments. And with 24/5 extended-hours trading, you can trade a range of ETFs outside of regular business hours.

TD Ameritrade's customer service is top-notch, with human agents available 24/7 to help with technical issues and basic questions about trading and investing. You can even visit one of their dozens of physical branches across the US, including one in Alaska and one in Hawaii.

Here are some of the key benefits of using TD Ameritrade:

Overall, TD Ameritrade's services are perfect for everyone, from investors who are just starting out to seasoned traders looking for reliability and options from a trading platform.

TD Ameritrade has some downsides to consider, especially for certain types of traders.

One of the biggest cons is its limited short-selling capabilities. TD Ameritrade's short list is basically nonexistent, making it difficult for short-biased traders to find shares to short.

Another drawback is their execution speed and flow, which may not be as solid as some other contenders.

High mutual fund transaction fees are another issue, especially if you're building a self-directed portfolio with a high proportion of mutual funds.

TD Ameritrade's platform access can be a problem too - none of their four trading platforms offer universal access to every investment product in the brokerage's network.

Here are some specific cons to keep in mind: