This review dives into TD Ameritrade, a well-established brokerage platform catering to a wide range of investors. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or a complete beginner, TD Ameritrade offers features and resources to suit your needs.
TD Ameritrade is a legitimate and reputable brokerage firm. Established in 1975, it’s a subsidiary of Charles Schwab, another industry leader. TD Ameritrade is regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), ensuring investor protection and fair practices.
What is TD Ameritrade.com?
TD Ameritrade is an online brokerage platform that allows users to buy and sell various investment assets, including stocks, ETFs, options, and futures contracts. It provides a user-friendly interface with comprehensive research tools, educational resources, and excellent customer service.
TD Ameritrade.com Details
Feature | Description |
Account Minimum | $0 |
Commissions | $0 for stock and ETF trades |
Margin Rates | 14.50% – 12.50% |
Available Assets | Stocks, ETFs, Options, Futures, Mutual Funds (limited selection) |
Account Types | Individual, Joint, IRA, Trust, and more |
Mobile App | Yes |
Customer Support | 24/7 phone, email, chat |
Deposits and Withdrawals
Deposits can be made electronically (ACH transfer) or with a check. There are no fees for ACH transfers, but there may be fees for other deposit methods. There is a $75 fee for full account transfers out of TD Ameritrade.
If you have lost money to companies like BITCISE; or Cryptooi; please report it to us on our Report a Scam form.
Account Types
TD Ameritrade offers a wide variety of account types to suit different investment goals. These include individual brokerage accounts, joint accounts, retirement accounts (IRAs), and custodial accounts for minors.
Red Flags and Warning Signs
While TD Ameritrade is a legitimate platform, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- No fractional shares: Unlike some competitors, TD Ameritrade doesn’t allow buying fractions of shares.
- Limited crypto exposure: Direct crypto trading isn’t available, and the only indirect exposure is through crypto funds and futures.
- The Cash sweep program is not automatic: Users need to opt in to earn interest on idle cash.
- Margin rates can be high: Margin rates for borrowing money to invest can be higher than some competitors.
- Post-merger platform unknown: The ongoing integration with Charles Schwab might lead to changes in the platform and its functionalities.
Customer Complaints and Negative Reviews Online
Like any financial institution, TD Ameritrade receives customer complaints. Here are some common issues reported online:
- Login issues during periods of high trading volume.
- Frustration with the lack of fractional share investing.
- Higher margin rates compared to some competitors.
TD Ameritrade.com Alternative Brokers
Here are some reputable brokers to consider as alternatives to TD Ameritrade:
- Fidelity Investments: Offers commission-free stock and ETF trades, fractional shares, and a user-friendly platform.
- Charles Schwab: These features are similar to those of TD Ameritrade, with a focus on research and education (post-merger).
- Interactive Brokers: Ideal for active traders with advanced tools and lower margin rates.
Important Note: This information is for educational purposes only and shouldn’t be considered financial advice. Always conduct your research before making any investment decisions.
Got Scammed by TD Ameritrade.com? We Help Victims! (Not Applicable)
Due to the regulatory oversight by the SEC and FINRA, it’s highly unlikely that TD Ameritrade would directly scam investors. However, if you feel you’ve been the victim of fraud or unsuitable investment recommendations from any financial institution, including TD Ameritrade, it’s important to report it to the authorities. You can report to us today using the form below.
You can contact Broker Complaint Alert to get a free consultation TD Ameritrade is a powerful brokerage platform with a lot to offer investors of all experience levels. Its commission-free stock and ETF trades, extensive educational resources, and excellent customer support make it a strong contender for your business. However, keep in mind the margin rates, lack of fractional shares, and the need to manually opt into the cash sweep program. By weighing the pros and cons, you can decide if TD Ameritrade is the right fit for your investment goals.
