TD Ameritrade is a leading online broker offering innovative technology, extensive product access, personalized education, and award-winning service to help investors stay on top of the market. As a member of FINRA/SIPC and a subsidiary of The Charles Schwab Corporation, TD Ameritrade provides brokerage services with a focus on transparent pricing, diversified investment options, and dedicated support.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Diversified investment choices, all in one place
- Commission-free, online trading with no hidden fees
- Innovative tools available on desktop, tablet, and smartphone
- Free, powerful trading platforms for every kind of investor
- Award-winning, professional service when you need it most
- Experienced associates to help you make informed trades
- No deposit minimums, trading minimums, or hidden fees
Cons
- Market volatility, volume and system availability may delay account access and trade executions
Recommended For
TD Ameritrade caters to a diverse array of investors, from beginners to active traders and long-term investors. With powerful, intuitive platforms filled with innovative tools and features, TD Ameritrade provides the resources necessary for informed decision-making, backed by live-streaming CNBC, real-time quotes, and experienced specialists. Additionally, TD Ameritrade offers personalized education to ensure that each client receives the knowledge they need to become an even smarter investor.
Regulated By
- Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (US)
- Securities Investor Protection Corporation (US)
Top Features
-
Robust asset protection measures
-
Commission-free online trading with no hidden fees
-
Wide range of investment choices
-
Multiple innovative trading platforms for all levels of investors
-
Customizable educational resources
Overview
- Type of Broker Stockbroker
- Regulation & Licensing Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (US), Securities Investor Protection Corporation (US)
- Clients Accepted from Across America, with exceptions to certain restricted states.
- Assets Offered 13,000+
- Platforms Available Web Platforms thinkorswim, desktop thinkorswim, web Mobile Trading
- Mobile Compatibility Android, iOS
Account Types
Standard Account |
Retirement Accounts |
Education Accounts |
Specialty Accounts |
Margin Trading |
|
Offering |
Comprehensive investment products Objective research Intuitive trading platforms |
Pursue retirement goals Tax advantages Plan retirement with TD Ameritrade |
Plan and invest for a brighter future Flexibility for saving at any education level Various account options tailored for education savings |
Tailored planning for the future Account features designed for success Customized solutions based on specific needs and goals |
Increase your trading potential with margin trading Margin account allows borrowing money from TD Ameritrade Potential to boost securities buying power by up to 50% |
Eligibility Requireme-nts |
Generally available to individuals and joint account holders. |
Vary depending on the specific retirement account type. |
Vary depending on the specific education account type. |
Vary depending on the specific specialty account type. |
Typically available to qualified individuals with appropriate risk tolerance. |
Account Currencies |
EUR, GBP, HKD, HUF, AUD, CAD, CHF, USD, ZAR, along with several others. |
EUR, GBP, HKD, HUF, AUD, CAD, CHF, USD, ZAR, along with several others. |
EUR, GBP, HKD, HUF, AUD, CAD, CHF, USD, ZAR, along with several others. |
EUR, GBP, HKD, HUF, AUD, CAD, CHF, USD, ZAR, along with several others. |
EUR, GBP, HKD, HUF, AUD, CAD, CHF, USD, ZAR, along with several others. |
Demo Account |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Swap/Rollover Free |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Trading Platforms
- Thinkorswim: Thinkorswim is the most advanced platform and is ideal for active traders. It offers real-time data streaming, customizable charts, and a variety of technical indicators
- TD Ameritrade Mobile: TD Ameritrade Mobile is a mobile app that allows investors to trade on-the-go with real-time quotes and news
Trading and Investment Tools
- One Click Trading Yes
- Trade off Charts Yes
- Email Alerts Yes
- Mobile Alerts Yes
- 24hr Trading Yes
- Charting Package Yes
- Streaming News Feed Yes
- Stop Order Yes
- Market Order Yes
- Trailing Stop Order Yes
- OCO Orders Yes
- Limit Order Yes
Compliance & Regulation
TD Ameritrade is committed to ensuring the protection of its clients’ assets. As a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC), it offers up to $500,000 in protection for securities and cash in client brokerage accounts. Additionally, TD Ameritrade provides excess SIPC insurance protection, offering up to $152 million per customer in combined coverage. Furthermore, client deposits at TD Ameritrade’s Sweep Program Banks are protected by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).
Fees & Commissions
- Rollover Fee No fee to transfer an account to TD Ameritrade. Some assets may have additional fees, e.g., limited partnerships, private placements in IRAs.
Pricing
TD Ameritrade offers commission-free online trading with no hidden fees or trade minimums. This pricing model allows investors to trade without worrying about additional costs eating into their profits. Furthermore, there are no platform fees or data fees associated with using TD Ameritrade’s services.
Service Details
- Supported Languages English
- Customer Service Hours 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM ET, Monday – Friday
- Email Response Time 24/7
- Telephone Orders Yes
- Personal Account Manager Yes
Reliability & Security
Security is a top priority for TD Ameritrade as it strives to protect clients’ assets from potential threats. In compliance with the SEC’s Customer Protection Rule, TD Ameritrade segregates clients’ fully paid securities from other firm assets and holds them at third-party depository institutions and custodians. The company also follows reporting and auditing requirements set by government regulators to ensure compliance.
User Experience
TD Ameritrade focuses on providing a personalized experience for each investor, offering customizable learning resources tailored to individual needs. The wide range of investment options, including stocks, bonds, CDs, options, non-proprietary mutual funds, futures, forex, and commission-free ETFs, allows investors to stay diversified and take advantage of various opportunities. Furthermore, TD Ameritrade’s award-winning support ensures professional assistance when needed.
Final Thoughts
TD Ameritrade stands out in the investment world by offering a secure and reliable platform for investors of all levels. With its commitment to compliance and regulation, transparent pricing, innovative trading platforms, and focus on user experience, TD Ameritrade has proven itself to be an excellent choice for both new and experienced investors looking to grow their assets.
Contact Info
200 South 108th Avenue Omaha, NE 68154
FAQs
Q: How do I set up electronic (ACH) transfers with my bank?
A: To start making electronic (ACH) transfers, you must create a connection for the bank account you want to use. Before connecting your TD Ameritrade account to your bank account, we suggest contacting your bank to ensure that it allows ACH deposits and withdrawals, and that you have the correct routing and account numbers.
Q: When will my funds be available for trading?
A: The availability of funds for trading depends on the method of deposit used. Here’s a breakdown of when your funds will be available for trading based on different deposit methods:
• Wire from a bank: Immediate once received from the bank (domestic: 1-3 hours; int’l: 1-2 days)
• Bank-initiated ACH: Immediate once received from the bank (1-2 days)
• ACH initiated from your TD Ameritrade account: Immediate if received before 7 p.m. ET on business days
• Mobile check deposit: Typically within minute
• Mailed checks: Typically within one business day after receipt
• Cash transfers between TD Ameritrade accounts: Typically within minutes
Note that certain restrictions may apply to trading options and stocks priced under $5 per share, as well as the availability of funds for withdrawal.