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How to Invest for Kids: 7 Best Investing Accounts
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How to Invest for Kids: 7 Best Investing Accounts
You can open and fund a custodial brokerage account, Roth IRA, ABLE account, special needs trust or 529 and help your kids select investments. It's never too early to start.
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Arielle O’Shea leads the investing and taxes team at NerdWallet. She has covered personal finance and investing for nearly 20 years, and was a senior writer and spokesperson at NerdWallet before becoming an editor. Previously, she was a researcher and reporter for leading personal finance journalist and author Jean Chatzky, a role that included developing financial education programs, interviewing subject matter experts and helping to produce television and radio segments. Arielle has appeared on the "Today" show, NBC News and ABC's "World News Tonight," and has been quoted in national publications including The New York Times, MarketWatch and Bloomberg News. She is based in Charlottesville, Virginia. Published in Head of Content, Investing & Taxes + more + more
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Expertise financial planning wealth management high net worth underserved communities retirement planning Raquel Tennant, CFP®, is a financial guide at Fruitful, a financial wellness platform providing members with unlimited financial advice and access to financial planning to the masses at a low cost. Tennant began her career in the fee-only RIA firm space, serving ultra high-net worth clients and is now proud to align her passion for helping younger, diverse and underserved clients, who often feel neglected by traditional firms. A graduate of Towson University, Tennant is one of the first 12 inaugural graduates of Towson's CFP Board Registered Financial Planning major and the first of her class to pass the CFP exam. She proudly collaborates with her alma mater as a writer and guest speaker to students, faculty and staff, bringing awareness to both the financial planning major and the RIA financial planning industry. She has been featured on 2050 TrailBlazer’s podcast episode “The Power of Partnership”, CFP Board’s "Stay on Your Path" video, and Towson’s College of Business & Economics “Finding the Right Fit” news feature. Tennant is also a CFP Board professional mentor. At NerdWallet, our content goes through a rigorous editorial review process. We have such confidence in our accurate and useful content that we let outside experts inspect our work. Certified Financial Planner® + more + more
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Expertise Investing basicsAlieza Durana is a former investing writer at NerdWallet. She has over a decade of journalism experience covering housing, labor, gender and public policy issues for the Eviction Lab, The Fuller Project for International Reporting, New America and Slate. Her work has appeared in USA Today, The Washington Post, The Atlantic and Harvard Business Review. She is based in St. George, Utah.
Alieza Durana is a former investing writer at NerdWallet. She has over a decade of journalism experience covering housing, labor, gender and public policy issues for the Eviction Lab, The Fuller Project for International Reporting, New America and Slate. Her work has appeared in USA Today, The Washington Post, The Atlantic and Harvard Business Review. She is based in St. George, Utah. Lead Writer + more + moreHelping your kid open an investment account can teach them valuable lessons about money and the power of investment growth.
Helping your kid open an investment account can teach them valuable lessons about money and the power of investment growth.One of the biggest keys to successful investing is a long time horizon for your money to grow — and kids have a lot of time on their side. If they're willing to let their money remain invested for several years, they're likely to see a nice return on their initial investment. Seeing their money grow can encourage them to be good savers and investors as adults.
One of the biggest keys to successful investing is a long time horizon for your money to grow — and kids have a lot of time on their side. If they're willing to let their money remain invested for several years, they're likely to see a nice return on their initial investment. Seeing their money grow can encourage them to be good savers and investors as adults.Whether it's your kid, grandchild, friend or family member, here are seven types of accounts to get kids started investing.
Whether it's your kid, grandchild, friend or family member, here are seven types of accounts to get kids started investing.1. Custodial brokerage accounts
1. Custodial brokerage accountsHow it works: A custodial account is a specific type of financial account that is established on behalf of a child and managed by an adult. Although the account will initially be in your name, the child will automatically take complete control once they reach age 18 or 21, depending on state laws.
How it works: How it works: A custodial account is a specific type of financial account that is established on behalf of a child and managed by an adult. Although the account will initially be in your name, the child will automatically take complete control once they reach age 18 or 21, depending on state laws.Types: The two main custodial accounts are often referred to as UGMA or UTMA accounts. The difference comes down to what assets can be added to each type of account. A UGMA account allows for financial assets such as stocks, bonds and liquid cash, whereas UTMA accounts are broader, allowing for the addition of property, jewelry and other tangibles.
Types: Types: The two main custodial accounts are often referred to as UGMA or UTMA accounts. The difference comes down to what assets can be added to each type of account. A UGMA account allows for financial assets such as stocks, bonds and liquid cash, whereas UTMA accounts are broader, allowing for the addition of property, jewelry and other tangibles.Contribution limits: No limits, but contributions can be subject to gift tax rules if they exceed the yearly gifting limit.
Contribution limits: Contribution limits: No limits, but contributions can be subject to gift tax rules if they exceed the yearly gifting limit.Eligibility: Custodians can open the account for minors below the age of 18 or 21 (varies depending on the state).
Eligibility: Eligibility: Custodians can open the account for minors below the age of 18 or 21 (varies depending on the state).» See our list of the best custodial accounts
» » See our list of the best custodial accounts2. Roth IRAs
2. Roth IRAsHow it works: A custodial Roth IRA is an investment account owned by a child with earned income but controlled by their parent or guardian until the child is able to take official ownership of the account as an adult. The account functions identically to a standard Roth IRA and follows the same rules.
How it works: How it works: A custodial Roth IRA is an investment account owned by a child with earned income but controlled by their parent or guardian until the child is able to take official ownership of the account as an adult. The account functions identically to a standard Roth IRA and follows the same rules.Types: A Roth IRA, in particular, is ideal for children, as your child's contributions to the account will grow tax-free and can be pulled out at any time. The investment growth portion can generally only be used for retirement, but it can also be tapped for specific qualified purposes such as a first-home purchase or higher education expenses.
Types: Types: A Roth IRA, in particular, is ideal for children, as your child's contributions to the account will grow tax-free and can be pulled out at any time. The investment growth portion can generally only be used for retirement, but it can also be tapped for specific qualified purposes such as a first-home purchase or higher education expenses.Contribution limits: The contribution limit for 2026 is $7,500.
Contribution limits: Contribution limits: The contribution limit for 2026 is $7,500.Eligibility: Similar to a brokerage account, a custodian can open a Roth IRA for a child, and control is handed over once they reach the age of majority. However, to be eligible, the child must have earned income. This can be from a part-time job, such as babysitting, raking leaves, etc.
Eligibility: Eligibility: Similar to a brokerage account, a custodian can open a Roth IRA for a child, and control is handed over once they reach the age of majority. However, to be eligible, the child must have earned income. This can be from a part-time job, such as babysitting, raking leaves, etc.» See our list of the best Roth IRA accounts
» » See our list of the best Roth IRA accountsBrokerage firms
Brokerage firms
Brokerage firmson Charles Schwab's website
on E*TRADE's website
on Vanguard's website
on Fidelity's website
3. 529 savings and investing accounts
3. 529 savings and investing accountsHow it works: If saving for a child’s education is the goal, a 529 account is tax-advantaged for education expenses. Investments grow tax-free and can be withdrawn for qualified expenses like textbooks, tuition, and room and board. Most 529 accounts come with a curated list of investment options, such as target-date funds, which are mutual funds that automatically adjust how much risk they take as the target date approaches (in this case, that date is your child's college age). Some states also offer tax deductions for contributions up to a certain limit.
How it works: How it works: If saving for a child’s education is the goal, a 529 account is tax-advantaged for education expenses. Investments grow tax-free and can be withdrawn for qualified expenses like textbooks, tuition, and room and board. Most 529 accounts come with a curated list of investment options, such as target-date funds, which are mutual funds that automatically adjust how much risk they take as the target date approaches (in this case, that date is your child's college age). Some states also offer tax deductions for contributions up to a certain limit.Types: 529 accounts typically come in two forms: the general 529 college savings plan and prepaid plans. The prepaid plan is usually favored by people who want to lock in the tuition price at a local or in-state public school by pre-paying part or all of the tuition. The general 529 savings plan is the more popular type, since it offers greater flexibility in how you can use the funds for qualified expenses.
Types: Types: 529 accounts typically come in two forms: the general 529 college savings plan and prepaid plans. The prepaid plan is usually favored by people who want to lock in the tuition price at a local or in-state public school by pre-paying part or all of the tuition. The general 529 savings plan is the more popular type, since it offers greater flexibility in how you can use the funds for qualified expenses.Contribution limits: There is no federal limit, but states impose their own annual contribution maximums (see 529 contribution limits by state here). Importantly, money you contribute to a 529 plan is considered a gift, so that means if you contribute more than the annual limit, you may need to file a gift tax return.
Contribution limits: Contribution limits: There is no federal limit, but states impose their own annual contribution maximums ( see 529 contribution limits by state here ). Importantly, money you contribute to a 529 plan is considered a gift, so that means if you contribute more than the annual limit, you may need to file a gift tax return.Eligibility: Anyone can open a 529 account on behalf of a beneficiary.
Eligibility: Eligibility: Anyone can open a 529 account on behalf of a beneficiary.» Learn more about the 529 plan offered by your state
» » Learn more about the 529 plan offered by your state4. Stock trading accounts
4. Stock trading accountsHow it works: If your teen asks about stock trading, your mind might go to investment apps that are popular with younger generations (such as Robinhood and Webull). However, these often don't offer investment accounts for kids. Some brokerages are filling in the gap by offering new account types specifically geared toward teens who want to learn to trade investments.
How it works: How it works: If your teen asks about stock trading, your mind might go to investment apps that are popular with younger generations (such as Robinhood and Webull). However, these often don't offer investment accounts for kids. Some brokerages are filling in the gap by offering new account types specifically geared toward teens who want to learn to trade investments.Types: Check to see if your chosen brokerage offers this type of program. Fidelity, for example, has a Youth Account, which lets teens ages 13 to 17 control the account but lets parents monitor its activity, trades and transactions, complete with alerts. Once they turn 18, the Youth Account will be converted to a standard Fidelity brokerage account.
Types: Types: Check to see if your chosen brokerage offers this type of program. Fidelity , for example, has a Youth Account, which lets teens ages 13 to 17 control the account but lets parents monitor its activity, trades and transactions, complete with alerts. Once they turn 18, the Youth Account will be converted to a standard Fidelity brokerage account.If your child is interested in trading but doesn't have money to invest — or doesn't want to risk the money they do have — you might consider pointing them toward a broker that offers paper trading accounts. These allow people to practice trading stocks or other investments with fake money.
If your child is interested in trading but doesn't have money to invest — or doesn't want to risk the money they do have — you might consider pointing them toward a broker that offers paper trading accounts . These allow people to practice trading stocks or other investments with fake money.Eligibility: Rules and terms will vary by provider.
Eligibility: Eligibility: Rules and terms will vary by provider.5. ABLE accounts
5. ABLE accountsHow it works: An ABLE savings account, named for Achieving a Better Life Experience, is a type of 529A account that allows people with disabilities to save money and wages without losing public benefits
How it works: How it works: An ABLE savings account , named for Achieving a Better Life Experience, is a type of 529A account that allows people with disabilities to save money and wages without losing public benefits Internal Revenue Service (IRS). ABLE Accounts - Tax Benefit for People with Disabilities. Accessed Mar 27, 2024. . Unlike custodial accounts or trusts, an ABLE account is owned by the person with a disability. Family and friends may contribute, and contributions grow tax-free. The money may be used for a wide range of qualified expenses, from housing to transportation to education.Types and eligibility: ABLE accounts are typically available through state plans to people with a disability that began before the age of 46. Eligibility also depends on whether the person is receiving Social Security Insurance and/or whether their disability meets certain diagnostic criteria. The ABLE National Resource Center can help you determine if you meet the requirements, as well as how to find and vet a state ABLE plan.
Types and eligibility: Types and eligibility: ABLE accounts are typically available through state plans to people with a disability that began before the age of 46. Eligibility also depends on whether the person is receiving Social Security Insurance and/or whether their disability meets certain diagnostic criteria. The ABLE National Resource Center can help you determine if you meet the requirements, as well as how to find and vet a state ABLE plan.Contribution limits: The contribution limit for an ABLE account is $20,000 in 2026 — the same amount as the annual gift tax limit. ABLE account owners who work but do not contribute to an employer-sponsored plan, such as a 401(k), can contribute an additional $15,060, with some states providing even higher contribution limits
Contribution limits: Contribution limits: The contribution limit for an ABLE account is $20,000 in 2026 — the same amount as the annual gift tax limit. ABLE account owners who work but do not contribute to an employer-sponsored plan, such as a 401(k), can contribute an additional $15,060, with some states providing even higher contribution limits ABLE | National Resource Center. ABLE Account Contribution Limits (2025). Accessed May 29, 2025. .6. Special needs trusts
6. Special needs trustsHow it works: A special needs trust (SNT) is another way someone with a disability can receive financial support without jeopardizing income-tested government benefits. Someone — usually a parent or guardian — sets up, funds and invests this type of trust, which the beneficiary will inherit. Some SNTs can also be funded by the beneficiary.
How it works: How it works: A special needs trust (SNT) is another way someone with a disability can receive financial support without jeopardizing income-tested government benefits. Someone — usually a parent or guardian — sets up, funds and invests this type of trust, which the beneficiary will inherit. Some SNTs can also be funded by the beneficiary.Types and eligibility: There are several types of SNTs, including third-party, first-party and pooled trusts. The type of trust that makes sense for you depends on how it’s funded, how access to the funds is determined, among other factors.
Types and eligibility: Types and eligibility: There are several types of SNTs, including third-party, first-party and pooled trusts. The type of trust that makes sense for you depends on how it’s funded, how access to the funds is determined, among other factors.Contribution limits: There are generally no limits, but there are costs associated with setting up and managing SNTs.
Contribution limits: Contribution limits: There are generally no limits, but there are costs associated with setting up and managing SNTs.7. Trump Account (pilot program)
7. Trump Account (pilot program)How it works: The "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" introduces a pilot program designed to help parents jumpstart their children’s savings through a government-backed investment vehicle known as a “Trump Account.” Under this program, children with a Social Security number who are 17 or younger are eligible for the account. Children who are born between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2028, can receive an initial $1,000 government-funded deposit, which will be invested in a stock index fund.
How it works: How it works: The "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" introduces a pilot program designed to help parents jumpstart their children’s savings through a government-backed investment vehicle known as a “Trump Account.” Under this program, children with a Social Security number who are 17 or younger are eligible for the account. Children who are born between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2028, can receive an initial $1,000 government-funded deposit, which will be invested in a stock index fund.Contribution and withdrawal limits: Parents or others may contribute up to $5,000 annually to the account until the child turns 18. Employers may contribute up to $2,500 per year. Once the account holder turns 18, the annual contribution limit increases to match the current IRA limit, which is currently $7,000 for people under age 50. Distributions are not permitted until the account holder turns 18. Withdrawals made after the age of 18 and before age 59 ½ will be subject to ordinary income tax plus a 10% early withdrawal penalty.
Contribution and withdrawal limits: Contribution and withdrawal limits: Parents or others may contribute up to $5,000 annually to the account until the child turns 18. Employers may contribute up to $2,500 per year. Once the account holder turns 18, the annual contribution limit increases to match the current IRA limit, which is currently $7,000 for people under age 50. Distributions are not permitted until the account holder turns 18. Withdrawals made after the age of 18 and before age 59 ½ will be subject to ordinary income tax plus a 10% early withdrawal penalty.» MORE: How do Trump Accounts compare with other investment accounts for kids?
» MORE: » MORE: How do Trump Accounts compare with other investment accounts for kids?How to open an investing account for kids
How to open an investing account for kids1. Decide on an account type
1. Decide on an account typeTo get your kid started investing, you should first decide which investment account is best for them. The most common choices are outlined above; the ultimate decision largely hinges on two main factors: whether they have earned income and whether they have a disability. If the answer to both those questions is no, you're likely looking at a custodial brokerage account or a 529 (if the goal is building a college fund).
To get your kid started investing, you should first decide which investment account is best for them. The most common choices are outlined above; the ultimate decision largely hinges on two main factors: whether they have earned income and whether they have a disability. If the answer to both those questions is no, you're likely looking at a custodial brokerage account or a 529 (if the goal is building a college fund).2. Choose the right broker
2. Choose the right brokerNo matter which type of brokerage account you decide to open for your kids, you'll need to start by finding a broker that offers that account. The best investment accounts for kids charge no account fees and have no minimum initial deposit. This allows your kids to start investing with a small amount of money.
No matter which type of brokerage account you decide to open for your kids, you'll need to start by finding a broker that offers that account. The best investment accounts for kids charge no account fees and have no minimum initial deposit. This allows your kids to start investing with a small amount of money.Consider the costs associated with the investments your child plans to choose. For example, you should ensure the broker charges no trade commissions for kids who want to practice trading stocks.
Consider the costs associated with the investments your child plans to choose. For example, you should ensure the broker charges no trade commissions for kids who want to practice trading stocks.Among the brokerage firms we review, the following make our list for the best custodial accounts:
Among the brokerage firms we review, the following make our list for the best custodial accounts :Brokerage firm
Brokerage firm
Brokerage firmDetails
Details
Detailson Charles Schwab's website
No cost to trade stocks or ETFs; long list of mutual funds that can be purchased with no transaction fees.
No cost to trade stocks or ETFs; long list of mutual funds that can be purchased with no transaction fees.Paper trading available.
Paper trading available.No account minimum.
No account minimum.on Interactive Brokers' website
No cost to trade stocks or ETFs; long list of mutual funds that can be purchased with no transaction fees.
No cost to trade stocks or ETFs; long list of mutual funds that can be purchased with no transaction fees.Paper trading available.
Paper trading available.No account minimum.
No account minimum.on E*TRADE's website
No cost to trade stocks or ETFs; long list of mutual funds that can be purchased with no transaction fees.
No cost to trade stocks or ETFs; long list of mutual funds that can be purchased with no transaction fees.Paper trading available.
Paper trading available.No account minimum.
No account minimum.on Vanguard's website
No cost to trade stocks or ETFs; long list of mutual funds that can be purchased with no transaction fees.
No cost to trade stocks or ETFs; long list of mutual funds that can be purchased with no transaction fees.No paper trading.
No paper trading.No account minimum.
No account minimum.No cost to trade stocks or ETFs; long list of mutual funds that can be purchased with no transaction fees.
No cost to trade stocks or ETFs; long list of mutual funds that can be purchased with no transaction fees.No paper trading.
No paper trading.No account minimum.
No account minimum.No cost to trade stocks or ETFs.
No cost to trade stocks or ETFs.Fidelity mutual funds only.
Fidelity mutual funds only.App is designed for teens to learn how to invest, but no paper trading.
App is designed for teens to learn how to invest, but no paper trading.No account minimum.
No account minimum.No cost to trade stocks or ETFs; long list of mutual funds that can be purchased with no transaction fees.
No cost to trade stocks or ETFs; long list of mutual funds that can be purchased with no transaction fees.No paper trading.
No paper trading.No account minimum.
No account minimum.3. Open the account
3. Open the accountYou can open a custodial account — both a standard brokerage account and a Roth IRA — for your child in under 15 minutes or so. You can complete the entire process online with most brokers.
You can open a custodial account — both a standard brokerage account and a Roth IRA — for your child in under 15 minutes or so. You can complete the entire process online with most brokers.To speed things up, make sure you have the necessary information ready. The broker will likely ask for your and your child's Social Security numbers, dates of birth and contact information.
To speed things up, make sure you have the necessary information ready. The broker will likely ask for your and your child's Social Security numbers, dates of birth and contact information.4. Fund the account
4. Fund the accountEven though you've opened the account, you'll need to fund it before you can start choosing investments. To fund it, link another bank or brokerage account so you can transfer money into the new account. You may also need to supply your employment or other personal information.
Even though you've opened the account, you'll need to fund it before you can start choosing investments. To fund it, link another bank or brokerage account so you can transfer money into the new account. You may also need to supply your employment or other personal information.Brokers increasingly rely on third parties to connect your new account with an existing one, which speeds up the process. For those who don't use these services, you may need to confirm that a deposit in your bank account (often two separate transactions of a few cents each) came from the broker, which can take several days.
Brokers increasingly rely on third parties to connect your new account with an existing one, which speeds up the process. For those who don't use these services, you may need to confirm that a deposit in your bank account (often two separate transactions of a few cents each) came from the broker, which can take several days.5. Help your kid decide what to invest in
5. Help your kid decide what to invest inOnce the custodial account is open and funded, the real fun begins: investing the money. Typically, you can invest in individual stocks, mutual funds, index funds and exchange-traded funds within a brokerage account. To get kids excited about investing, you might consider a two-pronged approach:
Once the custodial account is open and funded, the real fun begins: investing the money. Typically, you can invest in individual stocks, mutual funds, index funds and exchange-traded funds within a brokerage account. To get kids excited about investing, you might consider a two-pronged approach:Help them pick one or two individual stocks. Focus on household names they're familiar with — owning even one share of a brand kids recognize will get them excited about investing.
Help them pick one or two individual stocks. Help them pick one or two individual stocks. Focus on household names they're familiar with — owning even one share of a brand kids recognize will get them excited about investing.Build the rest of the portfolio with index funds. As your child continues to add money to the investment account, consider skipping additional shares of individual stocks and instead focusing on low-cost index funds or ETFs. These funds bring much-needed diversification to the portfolio by pooling hundreds of stocks into one investment. That way, your child can invest in many companies in one transaction for one price.
Build the rest of the portfolio with index funds. Build the rest of the portfolio with index funds. Build the rest of the portfolio with index funds. As your child continues to add money to the investment account, consider skipping additional shares of individual stocks and instead focusing on low-cost index funds or ETFs . These funds bring much-needed diversification to the portfolio by pooling hundreds of stocks into one investment. That way, your child can invest in many companies in one transaction for one price.Once they've selected and purchased their investments, check their earnings and losses every few weeks and compare the small fluctuations with the more significant long-term changes shown on their quarterly statements. This can spark discussion and inspire kids to become more informed investors.
Once they've selected and purchased their investments, check their earnings and losses every few weeks and compare the small fluctuations with the more significant long-term changes shown on their quarterly statements. This can spark discussion and inspire kids to become more informed investors. Frequently asked questionsIf you’re withdrawing money from the custodial account, it must be used for the benefit of the minor — no raiding the account to pay for your own expenses. Also, contributing to the custodial account is a one-way street; you can’t take back any assets held in the custodial account once you’ve given them to the minor. The account and its assets belong to the child in every way, even if you’re the one managing it.
If you’re withdrawing money from the custodial account, it must be used for the benefit of the minor — no raiding the account to pay for your own expenses. Also, contributing to the custodial account is a one-way street; you can’t take back any assets held in the custodial account once you’ve given them to the minor. The account and its assets belong to the child in every way, even if you’re the one managing it.Considering the account belongs to the minor, technically, they’re the minor’s taxes to pay. This is commonly referred to as the kiddie tax, and for 2026 (taxes you file in 2027), the first $1,350 in unearned investment income is tax-free. Unearned investment income of more than $1,350 is taxed at the child's tax rate. Unearned investment income of more than $2,700 is taxed at the parent or guardian's tax rate.
Considering the account belongs to the minor, technically, they’re the minor’s taxes to pay. This is commonly referred to as the kiddie tax , and for 2026 (taxes you file in 2027), the first $1,350 in unearned investment income is tax-free. Unearned investment income of more than $1,350 is taxed at the child's tax rate. Unearned investment income of more than $2,700 is taxed at the parent or guardian's tax rate.If you’re withdrawing money from the custodial account, it must be used for the benefit of the minor — no raiding the account to pay for your own expenses. Also, contributing to the custodial account is a one-way street; you can’t take back any assets held in the custodial account once you’ve given them to the minor. The account and its assets belong to the child in every way, even if you’re the one managing it.
Considering the account belongs to the minor, technically, they’re the minor’s taxes to pay. This is commonly referred to as the
kiddie tax
, and for 2026 (taxes you file in 2027), the first $1,350 in unearned investment income is tax-free. Unearned investment income of more than $1,350 is taxed at the child's tax rate. Unearned investment income of more than $2,700 is taxed at the parent or guardian's tax rate.
Investment accounts for kids
1. Custodial brokerage accounts 1. Custodial brokerage accounts 2. Roth IRAs 2. Roth IRAs 3. 529 savings and investing accounts 3. 529 savings and investing accounts 4. Stock trading accounts 4. Stock trading accounts 5. ABLE accounts 5. ABLE accounts 6. Special needs trusts 6. Special needs trusts 7. Trump Account (pilot program) 7. Trump Account (pilot program) How to open an investing account for kids How to open an investing account for kidsInvestment accounts for kids
1. Custodial brokerage accounts 1. Custodial brokerage accounts 2. Roth IRAs 2. Roth IRAs 3. 529 savings and investing accounts 3. 529 savings and investing accounts 4. Stock trading accounts 4. Stock trading accounts 5. ABLE accounts 5. ABLE accounts 6. Special needs trusts 6. Special needs trusts 7. Trump Account (pilot program) 7. Trump Account (pilot program) How to open an investing account for kids How to open an investing account for kids More like this NerdWallet’s Top-Rated Investing Products Investment Basics NerdWallet’s Top-Rated Investing Products Investing Investment Account Reviews How to Invest in Stocks Learn how to invest in stocks, including how to select a brokerage account and research stock market investments. 2 By Chris Davis, Sam Taube Investment Calculator Use our free investment return calculator to estimate how much your money can grow. Enter your planned contributions, timeline, rate of return and compounding frequency to get started. Chris Davis What Is a Brokerage Account? Where and How to Open One Opening a brokerage account is the first step to investing. You can open one in as little as 15 minutes, but you'll need to fund it and select investments to start building out your portfolio. 2 By Arielle O'Shea, Pamela de la Fuente Best Investments: Where to Invest in 2026 Wondering where to invest your money this year? High-yield savings accounts, CDs, bonds, funds and stocks are all considered among the best investments available. Learn more about the risks, potential returns and how to get started. 2 By Chris Davis, Alieza Durana Best Brokers for Beginner Investors: Top Picks for 2026 We spent hours analyzing the best brokers for beginners to find ones that offer low costs, helpful educational content and a broad investment selection. Our testers also looked for trading platforms that are easy to navigate. Alana Benson How to Invest in Stocks Learn how to invest in stocks, including how to select a brokerage account and research stock market investments. 2 By Chris Davis, Sam Taube Investment Calculator Use our free investment return calculator to estimate how much your money can grow. Enter your planned contributions, timeline, rate of return and compounding frequency to get started. Chris Davis What Is a Brokerage Account? Where and How to Open One Opening a brokerage account is the first step to investing. You can open one in as little as 15 minutes, but you'll need to fund it and select investments to start building out your portfolio. 2 By Arielle O'Shea, Pamela de la Fuente Best Investments: Where to Invest in 2026 Wondering where to invest your money this year? High-yield savings accounts, CDs, bonds, funds and stocks are all considered among the best investments available. Learn more about the risks, potential returns and how to get started. 2 By Chris Davis, Alieza Durana Best Brokers for Beginner Investors: Top Picks for 2026 We spent hours analyzing the best brokers for beginners to find ones that offer low costs, helpful educational content and a broad investment selection. Our testers also looked for trading platforms that are easy to navigate. Alana Benson How to Invest in Stocks Learn how to invest in stocks, including how to select a brokerage account and research stock market investments. 2 By Chris Davis, Sam Taube Investment Calculator Use our free investment return calculator to estimate how much your money can grow. Enter your planned contributions, timeline, rate of return and compounding frequency to get started. Chris Davis What Is a Brokerage Account? Where and How to Open One Opening a brokerage account is the first step to investing. You can open one in as little as 15 minutes, but you'll need to fund it and select investments to start building out your portfolio. 2 By Arielle O'Shea, Pamela de la Fuente Best Investments: Where to Invest in 2026 Wondering where to invest your money this year? High-yield savings accounts, CDs, bonds, funds and stocks are all considered among the best investments available. Learn more about the risks, potential returns and how to get started. 2 By Chris Davis, Alieza Durana