Introduction
Welcome! This guide walks you through everything a new user needs to know about Robinhood — from creating an account to logging in, setting up security, adding funds, and placing basic trades. It is written to be friendly for first-time investors while including helpful tips for returning users. The steps below are platform-agnostic where possible (web or mobile) and include targeted notes for mobile app users.
Who this guide is for
This article is ideal for:
- New investors creating a Robinhood account for the first time.
- Users who need help logging in after a break or password reset.
- Investors wanting best practices for security and funding.
Step 1 — Signing up for Robinhood
Signing up is quick but requires accurate personal information due to financial regulations. You’ll be asked to verify identity details to comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) rules.
Required information
- Legal full name and residential address (P.O. boxes usually not accepted).
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Tax ID (for U.S. residents).
- Date of birth and contact information (email, phone).
- Employment status and approximate annual income (regulatory).
Sign-up steps (web & mobile)
- Open the Robinhood website or download the Robinhood app from the App Store / Google Play.
- Tap “Sign Up” and enter your email and a secure password.
- Follow the on-screen prompts and enter your personal information.
- Complete identity verification — this can take minutes to a few days depending on documentation.
Tips for faster verification
Use matching documents (exact name and address), and upload high-quality scans/photos of ID if requested. If verification stalls, contact support and provide requested documents quickly.
Step 2 — Logging in to Robinhood
After creating your account, you’ll log in with your email/username and password. Robinhood supports biometric login (face/fingerprint) on mobile devices for convenience.
Standard login flow
Go to the login page or open the app and enter your credentials. If you enabled two-factor authentication (2FA), you’ll be prompted for the second factor.
Forgot password?
If you forget your password, choose the “Forgot password” link and follow the reset steps — usually an email sent to your registered address. If you lose access to your email or phone, reach out to Robinhood Support for account recovery.
Quick security note
Never share codes or passwords. Robinhood Support will never ask for your password or 2FA codes over email or chat.
Step 3 — Security & Account Protection
Security is paramount with financial accounts. Set up everything below as soon as your account is active.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
Turn on 2FA in settings. Prefer an authenticator app (like Google Authenticator or Authy) over SMS for better security.
Use strong, unique passwords
Use a password manager to generate and store a robust password for your Robinhood account. Update passwords periodically.
Biometrics
Enable Face ID or Touch ID on your phone for fast but secure access. This reduces the need to type your password frequently.
Recognize phishing attempts
Phishing emails or fake websites may try to trick you into sharing your login info. Look for:
- Misspelled domains (e.g., "robinhood-login[dot]com").
- Urgent language telling you to “verify now” with a link — go to the official site instead.
- Requests for 2FA codes or full passwords via email/chat — do not share them.
Account restrictions & freezes
If suspicious activity is detected, Robinhood may temporarily restrict or freeze account activity. Follow the official support process to restore access.
Step 4 — Funding Your Account
Before trading stocks or ETFs you’ll typically need to fund your account. Robinhood supports bank transfers (ACH), wire transfers, and in some cases, instant deposits for approved accounts.
Linking a bank
Link your bank account by providing routing and account numbers or using an instant link service if available. Micro-deposits may be used to verify accounts.
Deposit timing
Standard ACH transfers can take 2–5 business days to settle. Robinhood may offer instant buying power for a portion of your deposit — this is subject to limits and account eligibility.
Recurring deposits
Set up recurring transfers if you plan to invest regularly. This helps dollar-cost average into positions and keeps investing consistent.
Withdrawals
Withdrawals typically take a few business days after shares are sold and settlement completes (T+2 for most equities). Plan withdrawals accordingly.
Step 5 — Trading Basics
Robinhood offers equities (stocks), ETFs, options, and crypto (crypto availability varies). Here are the basics to place a simple stock trade.
Finding a stock
Search by ticker (e.g., AAPL for Apple) or company name. Review the quote page for price, bid/ask, day range, and recent news.
Order types
- Market order: Executes at the best available price — immediate but no price guarantee.
- Limit order: Sets the maximum (buy) or minimum (sell) price you’re willing to accept.
- Stop order: Triggers market order when a price threshold is hit (use carefully).
Placing your first trade
- Open the stock’s page and tap “Buy” (or “Trade” on web).
- Choose order type, quantity (or dollar amount for fractional shares), and review estimated cost.
- Confirm the trade — you’ll see trade history in the “Activity” or “Orders” tab.
Fractional shares
Robinhood supports fractional share purchases for many stocks and ETFs, allowing you to invest by dollar amount rather than whole shares.
Fees, Rules & Important Notes
Robinhood advertises commission-free trading on U.S. listed stocks, ETFs, and options. However, there are still possible costs and rules to be aware of.
Regulatory and clearing fees
Small regulatory fees and clearing fees may apply, and Robinhood may route orders to market makers (payment for order flow). Understand trade execution and potential price improvement or slippage.
Margin & Robinhood Gold
Robinhood Gold is a paid subscription that provides margin, research, and larger instant deposits. Margin amplifies risk — if using margin, know margin interest rates and maintenance requirements.
Taxes
Trading has tax consequences. You may receive 1099 forms for dividends, sales, and crypto. Consider consulting a tax advisor if you trade actively or use options/margin.
Troubleshooting Common Login & Account Issues
Can’t receive 2FA codes
Check that your phone number is correct, verify signal/connection, and if using an authenticator app ensure the app’s time sync is accurate. If needed, update 2FA method in account settings or contact support.
Account locked or frozen
If your account is restricted, follow official messages from Robinhood (in-app notices and emails) and provide requested documentation. Beware of impostor support messages.
Login from a new device
Logging in from a new device may trigger extra verification. Keep a recovery method on-file to regain access quickly.
Contacting support
Use the in-app support, Robinhood Help Center, or official support channels. Provide case numbers and avoid sharing sensitive info in public channels.
Best Practices & Smart Habits
Follow these habits to keep your investing safe and sustainable.
Start small and learn
Begin with a small allocation and learn trading fundamentals before committing large capital.
Keep an emergency fund
Don’t invest money you cannot afford to lose. Keep liquid savings for emergencies.
Review positions periodically
Set a cadence (monthly/quarterly) to review your portfolio and rebalance as needed according to your goals.
Use educational resources
Robinhood and many third-party sites provide educational content — take advantage of webinars, articles, and courses to build skills.
Helpful Links / Office Links
Below are 10 useful links (“office links”) for official pages, app stores, support, and regulatory resources. They’re styled and ready to use; replace URLs if you have custom affiliate links or office pages.
FAQ — Quick Answers
Is Robinhood safe?
Robinhood is a registered broker-dealer and most customer cash and securities are protected by SIPC up to applicable limits. However, SIPC does not protect against investment losses. Use safety best practices and consider diversification.
How long do withdrawals take?
Withdrawals typically take a few business days after the sale of securities and settlement. Instant withdrawal options may be available for a fee.
Can I transfer my existing brokerage to Robinhood?
Yes — you can transfer accounts via an ACAT transfer. Fees may apply (some brokers charge outgoing transfer fees). Robinhood provides an account transfer tool in the app/website.
Final Notes & Disclaimers
This guide is educational and does not constitute financial advice. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Check Robinhood’s official terms and disclosures before doing business. For tax guidance, consult a professional.