I could have sworn that I asked this question a few months ago, but a forum search under my own name turned up nothing.

I'd like to see the recommendations for online brokerage services. I do not plan on being a heavy or regular trader. I expect that I will purchase stocks from time to time with periods of inactivity. I would like to find a brokerage without inactivity fees.

I don't necessarily need a lot of research or hand-holding by the brokerage. I can do my own due diligence.

I'm not necessarily concerned about securing the lowest transaction rate, but anything above $20 needs to be justified.

I am aware of Ameritrade, ScottTrade, eTrade and Schwab - any others to consider?

I hope I've given enough information about my intentions to help you guide me!

Thanks!

MAc,

I've been happy with Fidelity though I don't do anything with stocks. Just cash and mutual funds within brokerage accounts, IRAs and a 401K. A friend of the family is very happy with Vanguard. From what I've seen, in most respects they seem pretty similar. I like that Fidelity has several local locations for those time I need to do something in person. I can't speak for the other brokerage firms.

Robert



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 01/20/2012 06:25PM by Robert M.

I've been with Scottrade since 2004.

I've gone the last couple of years with no trades. They haven't levied any inactivity fees.

I'm very happy with them.

I use Sharebuilder and Vanguard

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I have used Scottrade since 2005. Honest reps at the local office and low fees.
Their site is well built and consistently available.
I'm pretty happy with their service.

TD Ameritrade also has a lot of great online resources and investment tools. I'm not sure what the thresholds are for getting the best rates and access to all of their resources, but it might be worth looking into...

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Sometimes it is what it is...
and then there's times when it's really better.



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I've had online accounts with both Schwab and Fidelity for several decades (and even before they had online access). For me, the additional thing that I wanted was a local brick and mortar office close to my home. There are time you just might want to talk to a real person, in person.

I've used TDAmeritrade too and it is a good site, fees seem reasonable to me. But, I have heard good things about ScottTrade too. Also USAA bank. Just do your research and find what you like.