how do you buy stock on etrade app

How to buy stock on the E*TRADE app

This article answers the core question: how do you buy stock on ETRADE app and what you need to know before, during, and after placing a buy order on ETRADE or Power E*TRADE mobile applications. Read on to learn step-by-step onboarding, funding, order entry, order management, settlement, fees, security, and practical tips for beginners.

(Note: this guide focuses on buying U.S. stocks and ETFs via the mobile apps, not cryptocurrencies or Web3 trading.)

As of 2026-01-23, according to ETRADE's official product and knowledge pages and independent how-to coverage, ETRADE offers $0 online commissions for U.S.-listed stock and ETF trades and provides both a standard ETRADE app for beginners and Power ETRADE for more active traders.

Overview of E*TRADE mobile platforms

ETRADE provides two primary mobile apps for trading U.S. securities. Knowing the difference helps answer how do you buy stock on ETRADE app in a way that fits your experience level.

• E*TRADE (standard app): Designed for beginners and investors who want a clean, guided experience. It includes simple trade tickets, watchlists, basic charting, news, educational content, and portfolio overviews.

• Power ETRADE (advanced app): Built for active traders and those who need advanced charting, conditional and complex order types, option chains, and a trading ladder. Power ETRADE exposes more execution details and advanced tools.

Both apps allow searching for stocks and ETFs, viewing quotes, pulling up research and charts, building watchlists, and placing buy orders. The choice depends on your comfort with trading features and level of detail you want while answering how do you buy stock on E*TRADE app.

Prerequisites before buying stock

Before you place your first order and truly learn how do you buy stock on E*TRADE app, make sure you understand account types, the opening process, funding methods, and regulatory checks.

Account types and selection

• Individual taxable (brokerage) account: For general investing. Capital gains/losses are reported on regular tax forms.

• Traditional IRA / Roth IRA: Tax-advantaged retirement accounts. Contribution and withdrawal rules apply.

• Custodial accounts: For parents/guardians managing assets on behalf of minors.

Choose the account type that aligns with your tax planning and investing goals before funding and placing trades.

Account opening process

To open any E*TRADE account, expect to provide personal information: full name, address, Social Security number (or taxpayer ID), employment details, financial profile, and investment experience. Identity verification is typically done electronically.

Approvals can be immediate for basic accounts but may take a day or more if manual review is required. Knowing expected timing helps when you ask how do you buy stock on E*TRADE app and plan your first trade.

Funding your account

Common funding methods accepted in the apps include:

• ACH bank transfer (electronic transfer): Often free; can take 1–3 business days to clear depending on bank and verification.
• Wire transfer: Faster same-day credit but may incur bank or intermediary fees.
• Check deposit: Slower; physical check processing times apply.
• ACAT transfer (transfer from another broker): May take several business days to weeks depending on assets moved.

There is usually no minimum to open a basic brokerage account, but funding timing affects when you can trade settled cash.

Regulatory and identity checks

ETRADE must comply with KYC rules. Expect to complete tax forms (W-9 for U.S. citizens) and respond to suitability or options-approval questions if you request margin or options trading. These checks are part of the onboarding that precedes the actions described in how do you buy stock on ETRADE app.

Preparing to trade on the app

Before placing a live buy order, familiarize yourself with the app interface and research tools so your first trade goes smoothly.

Navigating the app interface

Key screens you will use when learning how do you buy stock on E*TRADE app:

• Markets / Home: Snapshot of major indexes, movers, and market news.
• Search / Quote page: Lookup tickers, view current quotes, intraday charts, and news.
• Watchlists: Track selected securities and quick access to the trade ticket.
• Trade ticket: Where you build and submit buy or sell orders.
• Account / Portfolio: View holdings, positions, balances, and order history.

Spend time tapping through these screens so placing a trade becomes routine.

Research and screening tools

Both apps include research tools helpful before deciding to buy. You can expect:

• Stock screeners to filter by market cap, sector, price, or fundamentals.
• Analyst ratings and research notes (platform may integrate third-party research).
• News feeds tied to each security and market-level headlines.
• Charting tools with common indicators (moving averages, volume, RSI) — Power E*TRADE offers more advanced chart functionality.

Use research to form a trading plan before executing orders, which is central to how do you buy stock on E*TRADE app responsibly.

Watchlists and alerts

Add securities to watchlists and set price or news alerts so the next time you ask how do you buy stock on E*TRADE app, you’ll be ready to act when a target price or event occurs. Alerts can be push notifications in the app or email updates depending on your settings.

Understanding order basics

A solid grasp of order types, durations, and execution expectations is critical. These concepts directly answer how do you buy stock on E*TRADE app in a way that controls price and risk.

Common order types

• Market order: Executes immediately at the best available price. Use when priority is speed of execution.

• Limit order: Sets the maximum price you are willing to pay (for buys). The order will only execute at that price or better.

• Stop order (stop-market): Becomes a market order when a specified stop price is reached.

• Stop-limit order: Becomes a limit order when the stop price is reached, using a specified limit price.

• Trailing stop: A stop order with a trigger that follows the price by a fixed dollar amount or percentage.

• Market-on-close / Limit-on-close: Executes as close as possible to the market close (useful for end-of-day strategies).

Choose the order type that matches your execution goals when placing a trade via the app.

Price types vs. execution

Market orders aim for immediate execution but can suffer from slippage in fast-moving or illiquid stocks. Limit orders give price control but may not fill. Power users can view depth and routing details; beginners typically rely on standard execution quality provided by the broker.

Order durations and contingencies

• Day orders (Good for Day): The order expires if not executed by market close.

• Good-til-Canceled (GTC): Stays open until filled or canceled (subject to broker policy on GTC time limits).

• All-or-None (AON): Requires the full quantity to execute at once (may limit fills).

Set the duration thoughtfully — it affects when and if your order will execute.

Quantity, partial fills, and minimums

Enter share quantity directly on the trade ticket. Some brokers offer fractional shares for certain stocks or ETFs — check the app if fractional support is available. Partial fills may occur when only part of your order matches available liquidity; the remainder may stay open based on your duration selection.

Step-by-step: placing a buy order in the E*TRADE app

This section walks through how do you buy stock on E*TRADE app from finding a ticker to confirming execution.

Finding the stock

1. Tap the Search field in the app and type the company name or ticker symbol. The search returns matches and quote previews.
2. Open the quote page to review last price, intraday chart, recent news, analyst commentary, and key stats.
3. Confirm you have the correct ticker and that the security is a U.S.-listed stock or ETF (this guide focuses on those instruments).

Including this verification step prevents accidental purchases of similarly named securities.

Filling out the trade ticket

On the quote page, select Trade or Buy to open the trade ticket. Fill in:

• Action: Buy (ensure Buy is selected rather than Sell).
• Quantity: Number of shares or fractional amount if offered.
• Order type: Market, Limit, Stop, etc.
• Limit price: If you chose a limit or stop-limit order, enter your desired price.
• Time in force: Day, GTC, or other options available.
• Account: Choose which of your E*TRADE accounts to use for this trade (taxable, IRA, etc.).

The trade ticket will typically show an estimated cost and whether the trade requires margin or special approvals.

Reviewing and submitting the order

Carefully review all order details on the confirmation screen. Confirm:

• Ticker and quantity
• Order type and limit or stop prices
• Account being debited
• Estimated total cost (including commissions and fees shown by the app)

When satisfied, tap Submit. You will usually see an on-screen acknowledgement with an order reference number.

After submission: order status and notifications

Monitor order status via the Orders or Activity tab. Common statuses:

• Pending / Working: Order is active but not filled yet.
• Executed / Filled: Order has been fully executed. The app will show the execution price and time.
• Partially Filled: Part of your order executed; remaining quantity remains active if allowed.
• Cancelled / Rejected: The order was cancelled or rejected (insufficient funds, trading halt, or other reasons).

Push notifications or in‑app alerts often inform you when an order fills.

Managing and modifying orders

After submitting an order, you may need to change or cancel it. This section explains typical app workflows and limitations.

Editing and cancelling working orders

• Locate the active order in the Orders or Activity tab.
• Select the order and choose Edit or Cancel if available. You can often change a limit price or quantity while the order is working.
• Restrictions: Orders that are partially filled may limit edits. Market orders execute quickly and usually cannot be canceled.

Act quickly if you need to alter a live order; execution is fast in liquid markets.

Closing and selling positions

To sell a position and exit, open the position in your Portfolio and tap Trade or Sell. Use the same order types discussed earlier (market, limit, stop) to manage exit price and timing. Stop-loss or trailing stop orders can automate exits to limit downside, but they are not guaranteed in all market conditions.

Settlement, funds availability, and buying power

Understanding settlement and buying power is important after you learn how do you buy stock on E*TRADE app so you know when funds become available for subsequent trades.

Trade settlement (T+2)

U.S. stock and ETF trades typically settle two business days after the trade date (T+2). Settlement affects when you can withdraw proceeds or use sale proceeds for certain transactions.

Free riding and settlement rules

Free riding occurs when you buy a security using proceeds from the sale of another security that has not yet settled. This can lead to account restrictions if it violates settlement rules. Avoid free riding by ensuring you have settled cash before initiating trades intended to be funded by sale proceeds.

Margin accounts and buying power

If your account is margin-enabled and approved, you can borrow against collateral to increase buying power. Margin trades incur interest and have maintenance requirements and risks (including margin calls). If you plan to use margin, ensure you understand the terms and risks governed by your margin agreement.

Fees, commissions, and costs

Costs matter when answering how do you buy stock on E*TRADE app. Here are the common items to expect.

Commissions and contract fees

As of the reporting date noted above, E*TRADE's standard online commission for U.S.-listed stock and ETF trades is $0 for standard accounts. Options trades typically incur a per-contract fee. Check the app or official fee schedule for the latest rates before trading.

Other costs (spreads, regulatory fees, exchange fees)

You may see small regulatory or exchange fees and clearing charges reflected on trade confirmations or monthly statements. These are typically minimal but should be considered in active strategies.

All costs and fee schedules are subject to change; consult the broker’s official disclosures for current pricing.

Advanced features and tools

For traders who need more control, Power ETRADE and account settings offer advanced options that expand what you can do after mastering how do you buy stock on ETRADE app.

Power E*TRADE advanced order tools

Power E*TRADE includes advanced charting, conditional orders (for example, OCO — one-cancels-the-other), multi-leg option order entry, and ladders that visualize available liquidity across price levels. These tools are aimed at active traders seeking precise control.

Automated investing and core portfolios

E*TRADE also provides managed portfolio solutions for investors who prefer automated asset allocation. These services are not the same as manual buy/sell trading but can be a complement to DIY trading.

Options, futures, and other instruments

The mobile apps support trading additional instruments (options, futures where available) subject to approvals and suitability checks. These instruments carry different risks and trading mechanics; ensure you have the necessary approvals before attempting them.

Security, account protection, and compliance

Security and protection are essential when you use any trading app. This section covers common protections and what to do if something goes wrong.

Authentication and app security

Both apps support multi-factor authentication, device recognition, biometrics (fingerprint or face ID), and secure session controls. Use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication to reduce risk.

SIPC protection and E*TRADE guarantees

E*TRADE customer accounts are typically covered by SIPC protection, which safeguards cash and securities up to SIPC limits in case of broker insolvency. SIPC does not protect against market losses. The broker may also provide additional insurance; review account disclosures for specifics.

Fraud prevention and dispute procedures

If you detect unauthorized activity, contact E*TRADE support immediately, freeze accounts if needed, and follow dispute procedures. Keep records of communications and trade confirmations for any investigations.

Troubleshooting and customer support

Common issues may arise while learning how do you buy stock on E*TRADE app. Here are typical problems and next steps.

Common issues when placing orders

• Connectivity or app errors: Retry, check network, or use the web platform.
• Insufficient funds: Ensure settled cash or margin availability.
• Rejected orders: Could be due to trading halts, restricted securities, or account restrictions.
• Unusual fills: Partial fills or price slippage can occur in volatile or illiquid markets.

If in doubt, pause and contact support rather than submitting multiple orders.

How to get help

E*TRADE provides 24/7 phone support, in-app help centers, and educational webinars. Use these resources if you encounter unresolved issues. Keep your account number and order references handy for faster assistance.

Risks and best practices

Answering how do you buy stock on E*TRADE app also means understanding the risks and following proven practices to protect capital and set realistic expectations.

Market risks and volatility

Stock prices fluctuate. Past performance does not guarantee future returns. Only risk capital you can afford to lose and avoid excessive leverage without understanding margin implications.

Order placement best practices

• Use limit orders to control entry price when appropriate.
• Consider stop orders or alerts to manage downside risk.
• Diversify holdings rather than concentrating positions.
• Start with a plan: entry price, size, stop-loss, and target.

These habits help you execute trades in a disciplined manner when using the E*TRADE apps.

Tax and recordkeeping considerations

Trading generates tax documents (1099s for U.S. taxpayers). Track realized gains and losses and maintain records of trade confirmations. Consult a tax professional for guidance on reporting and strategy.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I buy fractional shares in the E*TRADE app?

A: Check your app account options. Some brokers support fractional shares for certain U.S.-listed securities. Confirm availability in the E*TRADE app's trade ticket or product FAQ.

Q: Are commissions charged for US stocks?

A: As of 2026-01-23, E*TRADE's online commissions for U.S.-listed stock and ETF trades were reported as $0 on the platform's product pages. Options and certain other transactions may still carry per-contract or activity fees.

Q: How long does funding take?

A: ACH transfers commonly take 1–3 business days. Wires can be same-day but may incur fees. Account verification steps also affect timing.

Q: Can I place after-hours orders?

A: Power E*TRADE and the standard app may permit extended-hours orders for eligible securities, but execution risks and liquidity differ outside regular market hours. Use limit orders to control execution prices in extended sessions.

Q: Where do I see my order history and executions?

A: Use the Activity, Orders, or Account tabs in the app to view current orders, fills, and historical trade confirmations.

See also / Related topics

• Placing option trades on mobile apps (requires approval)
• Using margin and understanding margin requirements
• Transferring accounts between brokers (ACAT transfer)
• E*TRADE educational resources and platform demos

References and further reading

As of 2026-01-23, the following platform resources and third-party tutorials were used to structure this guide about how do you buy stock on E*TRADE app and to reflect typical platform behavior and features:

• E*TRADE official product and knowledge pages (Buy Stocks; How to Trade Stocks; platform overviews) as reported on the brokerage's support materials.
• Independent tutorials and walkthroughs (product walkthrough videos and how-to articles) for mobile order flows and trade-ticket examples.
• Benzinga how-to coverage summarizing trade processes and account setup.

These sources provide up-to-date details on fees, feature availability, and platform user interfaces. Always consult the app's in-app help or official disclosures for the latest pricing and functional changes.

Final notes and next steps

If your immediate goal was to learn how do you buy stock on E*TRADE app, this guide covered the full lifecycle: choose and open the right account, fund it, research and pick securities, build and submit buy orders, monitor settlement and trade execution, and manage risk and security.

For users interested in cryptocurrency trading or Web3 wallets (distinct from stock trading covered here), consider exploring Bitget and the Bitget Wallet for crypto products and custody solutions. Bitget provides wallet and exchange services tailored to digital-asset users and may complement your broader investing activities.

Remember: this guide is educational and not investment advice. Review up-to-date platform disclosures and consider consulting a financial professional for personalized guidance.

Article compiled as of 2026-01-23 using E*TRADE product pages and independent how-to coverage for factual platform features and fee summaries. Check your app for the most current information.