How Do I Open an Account with Vanguard?

Vanguard, based in Malvern, Pennsylvania, is a leading investment advisor in the world, and many use its services to grow their portfolio. If you are looking to expand your holdings and want to give it a try, you may be asking "How do I open an account with Vanguard?" You can learn more about Vanguard accounts by contacting investor support here, and below are steps to opening your new account.

Before Opening an Account

There are some requirements that must be met before you can open a Vanguard account. Only those that meet the following criteria can open an account:

1. You must be a permanent resident of the United States.
2. If you are opening an account through an employer, you must include the employer address.
3. A valid social security number is also required to open an account. This is used to comply with any tax laws regarding earnings.

Opening Your Account

Opening your account can be completed online at Vanguard's website. To open your account, follow these steps:

1. Open Vanguard's website in your browser.
2. Click 'Open an account" from the menu bar at the top.
3. Select "Start your new account" in the box labeled "Open a new account."
4. Choose the way you will fund your account from the options below:
   • Either from an electronic transfer from your bank or another Vanguard account,
   • Rolling over your employee 401k earnings, or
   • Transferring any investments you have from another firm.
5. Select "Continue" in the "No I'm new here" box.
6. On the registration page, click "No" to show you are not registered and select "Continue."
7. Determine the kind of account you want to open from the types listed. When you click on the type of account, it will tell you the minimum amount you must deposit or transfer to open the account. The types of accounts include:
   • Regular IRA/retirement account,
   • Savings account (individual account, joint account, or trust account for a minor),
   • An education account, and
   • An employer or business account.
8. Complete the online application by filling out the forms that open on your screen.
9. Create your login credentials.
10. Add banking information if needed.
11. Provide answers to the remaining questions.

Using Your New Account

Once your new account is opened, you must wait three business days before you can start investing in most cases, but there are some investments that require a seven calendar day period before they can be purchased. Withdrawals on your account may carry tax penalties if the withdrawal is made early.

Opening an account with Vanguard is easy using its online portal. The process can be completed in a few steps and usually takes less than 10 minutes. For more information or assistance in opening your Vanguard account, contact investor support here.