Platform Comparison

Stash vs TD Ameritrade

Compare Stash and TD Ameritrade on fees, DRIP, fractional shares and research for dividend investing.

ST

Stash

4

A beginner-friendly investing app with the unique Stock-Back card that rewards your spending with fractional shares instead of cash back.

Higher Rated
TD

TD Ameritrade

4.7

The legendary thinkorswim platform lives on under Schwab. All TD Ameritrade accounts have been migrated—new customers should open a Schwab account directly.

Stash vs TD Ameritrade: Fees, Minimums & DRIP Compared

FeatureStashTD Ameritrade
Our Rating4/54.7/5
Trading CommissionsN/AN/A
Account Minimum$0N/A
Fractional SharesN/AN/A
DRIPAutomaticVia Schwab
Research ToolsBasicGood
Best ForStock-Back EnthusiastsFormer TD Ameritrade Customers

Stash vs TD Ameritrade: Pros and Cons

Stash

Pros

  • + Stock-Back debit card earns fractional shares on purchases
  • + Both DIY and Smart Portfolio (automated) investing options
  • + Automatic dividend reinvestment in managed accounts
  • + Fractional shares let you invest any amount
  • + Round-up investing available

Cons

  • - Monthly fees can be expensive for small balances
  • - No tax-loss harvesting available
  • - Stock-Back rewards are modest (0.125% base rate)
  • - Some ETFs have higher expense ratios than alternatives

TD Ameritrade

Pros

  • + thinkorswim platform retained and integrated into Schwab
  • + All former TD Ameritrade accounts successfully migrated
  • + Commission-free trading continues under Schwab
  • + 400+ technical analysis tools in thinkorswim
  • + Trading simulator for practice without risk

Cons

  • - TD Ameritrade no longer accepts new accounts
  • - TD Ameritrade API permanently shut down
  • - Some interface changes during Schwab transition
  • - Former TD-only features may differ slightly

Which Is Better for Dividend Investors: Stash or TD Ameritrade?

Choose Stash if you...

  • Are in Stash's core audience: stock-back enthusiasts
  • Need automatic dividend reinvestment

Choose TD Ameritrade if you...

  • Are in TD Ameritrade's core audience: former td ameritrade customers
  • Prefer a higher-rated overall platform

Want the full breakdown of fees, DRIP, and research tools? Read our Stash review and TD Ameritrade review.

Investment Disclaimer

Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice.