We’ve compared the best investing accounts in America for buying and selling stocks, mutual funds and ETFs.
Compare Investment Accounts in the USA
| US Stock Trading Platform | US Stocks Available | Dealing Commission | Margin Rates | Customer Reviews | GMG Rating | More Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 17,913 | 0.003% | 5.33% - 6.33% | Visit Broker | ||
 | 6,000+ | 0% | ❌ | Visit Broker | ||
 | 5,000+ | 0% | 8% - 11% | Read Reviews | ||
 | 4,000+ | 0% | 10.2% - 13.2% | Read Reviews | ||
 | 4,000+ | 0% | 8.575% - 13.075% | Read Reviews | ||
 | 5,000+ | 0% | 8% (Flat) | Read Reviews | ||
 | 7,000+ | 0% | 8.5% - 12.075% | Read Reviews | ||
 | 5,000+ | 0% | 9.49% (Flat) | Read Reviews |
The United States offers a diverse range of investment accounts to help individuals build wealth, save for retirement, and plan for major financial goals. These accounts are regulated by multiple federal agencies to ensure market stability and investor protection. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) oversees securities markets, including stocks, bonds, and ETFs, while the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) supervises brokerage firms and investment advisors. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulates tax-advantaged accounts such as IRAs and 401(k) plans, and the Department of Labor (DOL) governs employer-sponsored retirement plans. Investor protection is further reinforced by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC), which safeguard bank deposits and brokerage accounts.
1. Individual Brokerage Accounts
A stock brokerage account allows individuals to buy and sell securities such as stocks, bonds, ETFs, and mutual funds. These accounts are regulated by the SEC and FINRA, providing flexibility but no tax advantages. Capital gains and dividends are subject to taxation, making them best suited for investors seeking unrestricted access to their funds.
2. Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)
IRAs are tax-advantaged accounts designed for retirement savings. Traditional IRAs allow tax-deductible contributions, but withdrawals are taxed as income. Roth IRAs, on the other hand, require after-tax contributions but offer tax-free withdrawals in retirement. Self-employed individuals and small business owners can utilize SEP IRAs and SIMPLE IRAs, which provide higher contribution limits and employer-matching benefits.
3. 401(k) and 403(b) Plans
Employer-sponsored retirement plans such as 401(k) and 403(b) accounts enable employees to contribute pre-tax income, reducing their taxable earnings while investments grow tax-free. Regulated by the IRS and DOL, these plans are particularly attractive when employers offer matching contributions, effectively providing free money toward retirement. Withdrawals are taxed as income, but funds can be rolled over into an IRA to maintain tax advantages.
4. Health Savings Account (HSA)
An HSA is a tax-efficient account used for medical expenses, available to individuals with high-deductible health plans. Contributions are tax-deductible, investments grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses remain untaxed. Unlike Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), unused HSA funds roll over indefinitely, making them a valuable long-term healthcare savings tool.
5. 529 College Savings Plan
A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged account designed for education savings. Contributions grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses such as tuition, books, and housing are also untaxed. These plans are regulated by the IRS and administered at the state level, making them a popular choice for parents saving for their children’s higher education.
6. Trust Accounts
Trust accounts help high-net-worth individuals manage and transfer wealth efficiently. Regulated by the IRS and SEC, these accounts can be structured to minimize estate taxes and ensure financial security for beneficiaries. Depending on the trust type, they can offer asset protection and controlled distribution of funds.
7. Self-Directed Investment Accounts
For investors interested in alternative assets such as real estate, private equity, and cryptocurrency, self-directed investment accounts provide greater control and flexibility. These accounts are regulated by the SEC and FINRA and are best suited for experienced investors navigating more complex financial markets.
Conclusion
The U.S. investment landscape provides a variety of accounts tailored to different financial goals, from retirement and education savings to active trading and wealth management. Federal oversight ensures investor protection, while tax-advantaged options allow for more efficient wealth accumulation. Understanding the tax implications, contribution limits, and investment opportunities associated with each account type is essential for making informed financial decisions and securing long-term financial stability.
