Open a New Firstrade Account in 2026


Firstrade New Account Application


Firstrade has become more popular as a low-cost broker that also offers a strong range of investments and a capable trading platform as competition in the no-cost and low-cost brokerage industry continues to grow. If you are thinking about opening a Firstrade account, there is little downside because an account is free to open and keep with no minimum balance requirement. This article will guide you through the account opening process step by step.


Opening a Firstrade Account


The first step in opening a Firstrade account is to visit its website and then click on the orange “Open an Account” button near the top center of the page.

This will take you to the first step of the application (shown below). There, enter your full name and email address.


How to Open a Firstrade Account


The next step is to choose the type of account you want to open (see our other Firstrade article for a description of the different account types). This is also where you can decide whether you want special features for your account, including extended hours trading, options trading, and margin access (this option requires a $2,000 minimum balance).


How to Open an Account at Firstrade


Next, Firstrade will ask for your contact details, such as your mailing address, SSN, phone number, and more. Firstrade needs this information for several reasons, with the main one being that it is legally required to collect it before opening your account. Just as importantly, this information tells the firm how to contact you if needed and where to send important account and tax documents.


Open a Firstrade Account


On the next screen, Firstrade will ask for your employer’s name and address, along with your salary and net worth. While this may feel less important than the personal details they already requested on the previous screen, brokers usually collect this information as part of the account-opening process and to evaluate eligibility for certain features and services.

We’re almost done… just a few more questions. The next screen asks for a few more details about your investing goals and experience and then asks about any possible ties to financial organizations, such as FINRA, or any involvement with or ownership in publicly traded companies. All brokers are required to ask these questions, and most people answer no.

The final step is to fund your account (which you can do immediately or later) and agree to Firstrade’s terms of use. You can fund the account by linking your bank account and entering the required banking information. ACH transfers may take several business days to clear, although Firstrade may provide limited buying power sooner.


Firstrade Review


Firstrade rating

Read a complete review of Firstrade »


How Long Does Firstrade Application Take?


The account opening process at Firstrade usually takes about a day, although it can take a bit longer. According to the firm itself, if the process takes more than 3 days for any reason, it is very likely due to the account signup team confirming some of the information provided in the application.


How To Open Firstrade Account Conclusion


In summary, opening a Firstrade account is a quick and easy process. Firstrade keeps it simple by only asking for the standard personal information that all brokers will request. Once this is submitted, you can instantly view and deposit funds to your account.


Updated on 7/11/2026.


About the Author
Chad Morris has been analyzing investment firms for Brokerage-Review.com since 2015. Backed by FINRA Series 65, 66, and SIE credentials, his work reflects a deep knowledge of the retail brokerage industry and digital trading tools.