When you invest and trade, do you have some kind of account where the stocks and /or money are kept?

Question

Where does the brokerage keep the money you want to use to invest in the market or to use to trade with?

Can you take your funds out whenever you need to?

Answer 1

The usual and customary way a stock investor would have his stocks held would be in a "street account."  Meaning that he does not take a certificate.  An  account is opened with a brokerage and you deposit the amount of money you want to trade stocks in that account.  You might have an IRA account in which you can also trade stocks.  Withdrawal of funds?  Absolutely. In fact, I have a checking account with my broker that pays a small interest rate.  Some brokers are trying to attract checking account for people who live in rural areas and are often under-served.  You will open the account, set up a secure account number from which you can start trading. You buy with a "bid" over your computer.  You sell with a "sell" price.  Of course, if you have 500 shares you can sell all or part of the 500 shares.  I think the best approach is to take a check into a brokerage office near your hometown. If possible, I would go with a discount broker.  But, do what is comfortable for you.