How to Open an Account with TD Ameritrade in 2026?

Opening a TD Ameritrade account in 2026 is simple, even after the Charles Schwab merger.
If you are wondering how to open a Ameritrade account, how to open an Ameritrade account, or how to open an account on TD Ameritrade, this guide will show you each step.

Since Charles Schwab acquired TD Ameritrade, new accounts are usually opened through Schwab. However, traders still get access to TD Ameritrade’s platforms, like Thinkorswim and powerful tools. We will walk you through TD Ameritrade registration, TD Ameritrade sign-up steps, account types, funding methods, and more.

Quick insights

Why choose TD Ameritrade? Key benefits for 2026

TD Ameritrade, now a part of Charles Schwab, is a well-established American brokerage firm offering exceptional online trading and investment services in OTC markets. Founded 1975 as First Omaha Securities, it evolved into an online broker in 1998.

As a member of FINRA and SIPC, the firm supports over 11 million client accounts. TD Ameritrade is known for its transparent pricing, cutting-edge trakding platforms equipped with professional analytics, and a wide selection of investment products.

Step-by-step guide: How to open a TD Ameritrade account

How do you access your former TD Ameritrade account at Schwab? Following the integration of TD Ameritrade, Inc. with Charles Schwab, all TD Ameritrade accounts have been transferred to Schwab. If you were a TD Ameritrade client, here is how you can access and manage your account.

1. Set up your Schwab login

• TD Ameritrade new account setup? If you are new to Schwab, go to official website to create your Schwab account.
• Initial login & verification: Log in and verify your identity using a security code sent to your mobile phone. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.
• Device recognition: Opt to trust your device for easier future logins.
• Mobile verification: If logging in via mobile, you may need to verify with a security code and can choose to trust the device.
• Support: Contact Schwab customer service or check their website’s FAQ for assistance. Phone support at 800-435-4000 U.S. or +1-415-667-8400 International.

If you already have a Schwab account, simply use your existing Schwab login credentials no need for a new registration.

Read also: Forex brokers in the USA

2. View historical account information

How to open TD Ameritrade account? You can access previous TD Ameritrade documents through Schwab.

• Statements & tax forms: Navigate to accounts > statements & tax forms on Schwab website or via the Schwab mobile app.
• Transaction history: Review up to 4 years of transaction history at accounts > history on Schwab website.
• Realized gains/losses: Available on the realized gains or losses page at Schwab website.
• Historical balances: Refer to TD Ameritrade statements or your Schwab personal value chart, updated a few days after account transition.

TD Ameritrade account types: Which one is right for you?

As of 2024, TD Ameritrade is no longer operating as a standalone platform. It has been fully merged into Charles Schwab following Schwab’s acquisition of TD Ameritrade, which began in 2019 and was completed over several years.

• TD Ameritrade accounts have been transitioned to Charles Schwab. Most users were migrated to Schwab platforms by late 2023.
• New accounts can no longer be opened through TD Ameritrade; instead, you will need to use Charles Schwab.
• The thinkorswim trading platform, originally from TD Ameritrade, has been retained and is now offered under the Schwab brand.
• Customer support and account access are now managed through Schwab.

So, while TD Ameritrade as a brand is being phased out, its tools, like thinkorswim and accounts, continue to operate under Charles Schwab.

Learn more about Charles’ fees and commissions by clicking here.

Funding your TD Ameritrade account: Deposit & withdrawal methods

As of 2025, you can no longer deposit directly through TD Ameritrade if you are a new client. Here’s the current situation

Existing TD Ameritrade clients

If your account has not yet been transitioned to Charles Schwab, you can still deposit using.

• ACH transfers
• Wire transfers
• Mobile check deposits via the TD Ameritrade app
• Account transfers (ACAT)

For new clients

• TD Ameritrade is no longer accepting new accounts.
• All new brokerage accounts must be opened through Charles Schwab.
• Deposits must be made using Schwab’s platform if your account is already migrated.

Transitioning clients

If your TD Ameritrade account has been migrated to Schwab, you must deposit through Charles Schwab’s channels.

Conclusion

As of 2025, TD Ameritrade no longer operates as a standalone platform. All accounts have been moved to Charles Schwab, where clients can still access tools like thinkorswim, view historical data, and manage their investments. New accounts and deposits must now go through Schwab. While the TD Ameritrade brand is phased out, its features continue under Schwab’s management, offering a seamless trading experience.