While TD Ameritrade is more of a basic investment broker experience, its sister platform, thinkorswim, offers advanced trading tools and analysis for more active traders. Trading stocks does not have to be complicated, but if you want more options than just “buy the dip,” there are several platforms for you.

This platform does not charge for most standard transactions, such as depositing or withdrawing money. However, some niche fees can apply depending on specific transactions. Broker-assisted trading is available for $24.99 per trade.

TD Ameritrade's mission statement is "To help people realize their financial dreams through investing. Together, we have nearly a century of investing experience, and a proven record of pushing the industry forward for investors and traders."

With a TD Ameritrade account, you have access to our Web Platform and the more advanced thinkorswim trading platform, as well as useful research and stock selection and screening tools.

TD Ameritrade alternatives recommendations E*TRADE is recommended for investors and traders looking for solid research and a great mobile trading platform. Charles Schwab is recommended for investors and traders looking for solid research, low fees and great customer service.

TradingView may also be the better choice for traders who want to use a simple and modern interface that is easy to use and access from any browser. Thinkorswim may be the better choice for traders who are already TD Ameritrade customers or who want to trade options.

Is TD Ameritrade free? TD Ameritrade offers commission-free trading of stocks, options and ETFs, and charges no annual or inactivity fees, which means you can hold an account at the broker for free. How does TD Ameritrade make money?

No platform fees. No data fees. No trade minimums. Introducing $0 commissions on online stock, ETF, and option trades.* When you add this to our best-in-class platforms, award-winning education and service, and a network of over 175 branches, you'll see why TD Ameritrade is the smarter way to trade.

TD Ameritrade is best for: Beginner investors. Advanced traders. Investor education/advice. Fund investors.

TD Ameritrade is a top choice for day traders thanks to their commission-free structure, the wealth of available asset classes and securities, and the irreplaceable thinkorswim platform. Getting started is quick and easy, plus you can give the platform a test spin using the paper trading account on thinkorswim.

TD Ameritrade Account Options for Day Trading Cash Account: Investment services managed with a cash account are considered the ”standard” for those who day trade. With a cash account at TD Ameritrade, you can deposit funds with no minimum and begin day trading instantly since PDT rules do not apply to cash accounts.

What is the minimum amount required to open an account? There is no minimum to open a new account; however, a $2,000 deposit is required to be considered for margin and certain options privileges, regardless of any promotional offer.