Charles Schwab

What is the difference between luck and a miracle? If my stocks are down, that's luck; if my stocks are up-that's a miracle.

I would not call Charles Schwab (aka: schwab.com) a miracle, but I would call it reliable. Charles Schwab has been my broker since 1989, and I have been trading stocks online with them since 2000.

The main reason why I have stuck with Schwab for so long is their outstanding customer service. They have always been on top of every concern or question I have ever had. They very seldom make mistakes, but when they do, they are quick to make things right.

On one occasion, they forgot to credit my account for around $400. When I pointed this out, I not only received the credit and an apology, Schwab also rebated the commission I had paid.

Schwab's brokerage contract or customer agreement is the best I have seen in the brokerage business. There are no clauses, for example, that allow them to trade stocks in your account without your permission, except if you experience a margin call (your account has insufficient funds to cover the money you borrowed to trade shares of stock). Even then, they make a diligent effort to notify you of their intent to liquidate some or all of your holdings to cover the margin.

Some other brokerage firms have agreements that are egregious. To do business with them, you must agree to allow them to do whatever they want to your account. Just give them a signed blank check and call it a day-it will be easier on your nerves.

Schwab.com

When you go to schwab.com, you will notice that their web address has a "https" in it. That signifies that the web site uses a secure server. That is good news, because it means that computer hackers cannot easily infiltrate your brokerage account. Knock on wood. In the six years I have been trading at this web site, no hackers have given me any trouble.

You log into your account with your username and password. My username and password is...whoops! Never mind. I almost slipped up there. Once you are logged in you have several menu tabs and services to choose from. And heeeeeeeere they are!

Services Offered.