Partnership Disclosure
We might be compensated by one of our IRA partners for an account you open through our platform. This helps us keep the rollover service free, but it never impacts the fees you’ll pay on your new account. We only win if you do, and our job is to help you simplify your retirement accounts. We also help people who already have an IRA account even though we might receive no compensation in these situations—because it’s just the right thing to do!

Merrill Edge IRA vs Schwab IRA

Merrill Edge is a great option if you want a strong trading platform with great access to research and data, integrated with Bank of America.

Consider Schwab if you want an easy-to-use, low-cost trading account from the broker that pioneered low-commission trades.

Merrill Lynch

Merrill Lynch

Self-Directed

Best if you want
A strong trading platform with great access to research and data, integrated with Bank of America.
Fees
0%
What they invest in
Stocks & ETFs, Mutual Funds, Options, Bonds
Limitations
Some extra benefits (e.g. fee discounts) are reserved for Bank of America customers.
Human advisor available?
Account Minimums
$0
Ease of Use
Star filledStar filledStar half
2.5 stars
Customer Support
Call centers, online support, and Bank of America branches.
Charles Schwab

Charles Schwab

Self-Directed

Best if you want
An easy-to-use, low-cost trading account from the broker that pioneered low-commission trades.
Fees
0%
What they invest in
Stocks & ETFs, Mutual Funds, Options, Futures, Bonds
Limitations
Schwab does not offer direct investments in cryptocurrency, though this won't be a limitation for most investors.
Human advisor available?
Yes, the Schwab's Premium Intelligent Portfolios offering; requires $25,000 minimum balance and costs $30 a month in addition to a $300 one time planning fee
Account Minimums
$0
Ease of Use
Star filledStar filledStar filledStar filledStar half
4.5 stars
Customer Support
Great mix of call centers, online help and over 340 branches.
Ready to take control of your assets?
Capitalize helps you consolidate your old 401(k)s by rolling them into an IRA of your choosing. Use an existing IRA if you have one, or we’ll help you open one if you don’t.
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