Money Crashers

Direct Stock Purchase Plans Charge Fees – A $0-Commission Broker Usually Costs Less

Direct stock purchase plans can charge you to buy shares, reinvest dividends, and sell, and they buy only at set times. Find ...
Money Crashers

In Your 30s, Save 15% for Retirement – Get There One Raise at a Time

In your 30s, aim to save 15% of your pay for retirement, match included, and get there by saving half of each raise. Learn ...
Money Crashers

Gifted Stock Carries Your Cost Basis – Give It to Someone in the 0% Bracket

Gifted stock keeps your cost basis, so the recipient owes tax on your gain when they sell. Find out who can sell at 0% and ...
Money Crashers

Investing $10,000 – Fill a Roth IRA, Then Buy a Broad Index Fund

Have $10,000 to invest? Take any 401(k) match, clear card debt, and top up savings, then fill a Roth IRA before a brokerage ...
Money Crashers

Your First $1,000 – Cushion, Card Debt, Then One Fund in a Roth IRA

Your first $1,000 should fill a starter emergency fund, clear card debt, and then open a Roth IRA with one fund. Find out ...
Money Crashers

Investing in Your 20s – Take the Match, Open a Roth IRA, and Own Stocks

In your 20s, get the full 401(k) match, open a Roth IRA while your tax rate is low, and keep mostly stocks. Find out the ...
Money Crashers

Free Stock Is Real Money – Use It to Break a Tie Between Brokers

A broker’s free stock is real money but often only a few dollars. Learn to pick a broker on costs, funds & account options, ...
Money Crashers

How to Start Investing in Stocks – Buy One Index Fund, Then Automate It

Start investing in stocks with a low-cost brokerage account, one broad index fund, and an automatic monthly purchase. Learn how to place your first order.