How to Start Investing:
A Beginner’s Guide
Learn how to create an account, choose the right investment type, and begin building your portfolio with Robinhood. This comprehensive guide is designed for beginners, covering everything from downloading the app to placing your first trade. Start investing with confidence today!
First Steps
Step 1:
Download the Robinhood App or Visit the Website
Mobile Users: Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and download the Robinhood: Stocks & Crypto app.
Desktop Users: Visit robinhood.com.
Step 2:
Create an Account
Open the app or website and click Sign Up or Get Started.
Enter your email address and create a strong password.
Confirm your email address by clicking on the link sent to your email.
Step 3:
Provide Personal Information
To comply with financial regulations, Robinhood will ask for:
Legal Name Date of Birth (You must be at least 18 years old).
Social Security Number (SSN) (required for tax reporting).
Address (physical, not a P.O. box).Citizenship Status.
Next Steps
Step 4:
Link a Bank Account
Robinhood needs access to your bank account to transfer funds.
Enter your bank’s details (or log in via their secure platform) to link your account.
Verify the account by confirming a small deposit amount (if applicable).
Step 5:
Choose the Right Account Type
Option 1:
Individual Brokerage Account
Description: A flexible, taxable account for trading stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies.
Best For: Beginners or those looking for short- to medium-term investments. Key Features: No withdrawal restrictions. Taxable gains and dividends.
Option 2:
Roth IRA: Contributions are tax-deductible, and withdrawals are only taxed during retirement.
Step 6:
Learn the Basics of Investing
Take some time to:
Explore the Learn section in the app for educational content.
Research stocks, ETFs, or cryptocurrencies you might want to invest in.
Understand basic concepts like risk tolerance and diversification.