A brokerage account is an investment account that lets you buy and sell securities such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and exchange-traded funds. Unlike a savings account, a brokerage account isn’t FDIC insured against investment losses. Retirement Brokerage AccountsAccounts like a Traditional IRA or Roth IRA are technically a type of brokerage account, but with tax advantages attached. Step 1: Choose Your Account TypeDecide whether you want a standard taxable account, a retirement account like a Roth or Traditional IRA, or something like a custodial or joint account. Final ThoughtsOpening a brokerage account is no longer the complicated process it once was, but choosing the right account type and provider still matters.