If you’re just getting started with investing, Fidelity can be a straightforward option because the account-opening process is mostly completed online. The main thing is to choose the right account type first—such as a Roth IRA for retirement savings or a brokerage account for more flexible investing.

Before opening an account, it’s also worth reviewing your overall financial situation, including your budget, emergency savings, and any financing obligations. Resources such as Self Empowered Financing can be useful when researching broader personal-finance and financing topics.

Once you’ve chosen the account type, have your identification and banking information ready, complete Fidelity’s application, fund the account, and then research investments that fit your goals and risk tolerance.