The annual fee the fund charges. Aim for under 0.20% for index funds.
Whether you're a hands-off beginner or a seasoned pro, the "best" platform depends on how much help you want and what you're willing to pay. 🏆 The Heavy Hitters (Best for DIY) best platform to buy mutual funds
They charge an annual management fee (usually 0.25%) on top of the fund fees. 📱 The Modern App (Best for Small Amounts) The annual fee the fund charges
These platforms are the "Big Three." They own the funds they sell, meaning you get the lowest possible expense ratios. 🏆 The Heavy Hitters (Best for DIY) They
The gold standard for low-cost, long-term indexing. Best if you want to "set it and forget it."
💡 Some brokers charge $50+ to buy a fund that isn't on their "preferred" list. Always look for No-Transaction-Fee (NTF) funds.
Some mutual funds require $1,000 to $3,000 to start.