Getting started as an investor can feel like a real challenge, but many brokerage platforms are making it more accessible and rewarding than ever.
One of the most popular ways they’re attracting new users is by offering free stocks as a sign-up bonus or through referral programs. The promotions provide a risk-free way to start investing, allowing you to own a piece of a company without spending your own money.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to take advantage of free stock offers available in September. We’ll walk you through promotions from some of the most popular platforms, explain the requirements, and highlight important details like potential tax implications so you can start investing with confidence.
How it Works: Earning Your Free Stock
The concept behind free stock promotions is simple: Brokerages are in a competitive race for new clients and offering a freebie is a powerful incentive.
The process typically involves three key steps:
- Opening and funding an account: The most common requirement is to open a new, eligible brokerage account and fund it with a minimum amount of money. This can be as low as $1 to more than $100.
- Meeting offer terms: Once you’ve funded your account, you must fulfill any additional requirements. This could include maintaining a minimum balance for a set period or making a qualified trade.
- Claiming your reward: After you’ve met all the conditions, the brokerage will credit your account with a cash value or a fractional share of stock. You can sell the stock or use the cash to invest in something else.
Current Free Stock Offers
Free stock offers are constantly changing. Below are some of the promotions currently available. Be sure to check the official terms and conditions for the most up-to-date information because offers can change without notice.
Robinhood
- How it works: Robinhood offers free stock for new users who sign up and link their bank accounts. The stock’s value is random and can range from a small amount to a much larger one.
- Offer details: New users who open and fund a Robinhood brokerage account can receive a fractional share of stock with a cash value ranging from $5 to $200. (About 99% of new users will receive a stock worth $5.) No minimum deposit is required to qualify. You can claim the reward after your account is approved and funded. You must keep the cash value of the stock in your account for 30 days before withdrawing it.
SoFi
- How it works: SoFi Invest offers new users a chance to receive a significant stock bonus through its The Claw promotion.
- Offer details: New customers who open and fund an Active Investing account with at least $50 are eligible for a stock bonus valued up to $1,000. You must fund the account within 45 days of opening to qualify. The probability of receiving a high-value stock is low, but the offer provides a chance for a substantial reward. The bonus is typically credited as stock that you can use to purchase fractional shares. SoFi also offers referral bonuses when clients refer family and friends to the platform.
Webull
- How it works: Webull’s promotions are often tied to specific deposit tiers, offering a graduated system of rewards.
- Offer details: Webull is offering welcome rewards of up to $600 for new users who sign up and fund their accounts. The reward is tiered based on your initial deposit and holding period. For example, a deposit of at least $2,000 might yield a $100 cash bonus, while a larger deposit of $10,000 or more could unlock a more significant reward. You typically must maintain the balance for 30 to 90 days to qualify.
Public
- How it works: Public offers a promotion for investors who transfer their existing portfolios from another brokerage.
- Offer details: For a limited time, new and existing members who transfer their brokerage account to Public can earn a cash bonus of up to $10,000, depending on the value of the transferred assets. Public will also cover transfer fees up to $100 for accounts with a value of $5,000 or more. The cash bonus is applied to qualifying accounts one month after the transfer is complete. The funds must remain in the account for the required holding period.
Tax Implications
When you receive a free stock, it is generally considered taxable income.
The value of the stock at the time you receive it is reported to the IRS and may be subject to ordinary income tax. For instance, if you receive a free stock worth $10, you are responsible for paying taxes on that $10.
If the stock’s value increases after you receive it and you sell it later, any gains you make would be subject to capital gains tax. If the value drops and you sell it at a loss, you can typically use that loss to offset other capital gains.
A Launchpad Into Investing
Free stock promotions are a great way to dip your toes into investing. They eliminate the initial barrier to entry and offer an opportunity to start building a portfolio without risking your own capital. While the most valuable rewards are rare, even a small, free stock can provide a valuable learning experience.
Before you sign up, read the fine print to understand all the specific requirements, including minimum deposits, holding periods and potential fees. Promotions are designed to encourage long-term engagement, so consider which brokerage best fits your overall investment strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a free stock promotion?
A free stock promotion is an offer from a brokerage platform to give new users a free share of stock or a cash bonus for opening and funding an account. It’s a way for companies to attract new clients and a low-risk way for new investors to get started.
Are there any requirements to get a free stock?
Yes, most offers require you to open a new brokerage account and meet certain criteria, such as funding the account with a minimum deposit or maintaining a specific balance for a set period of time. You may also need to fulfill additional terms, such as making a qualified trade.
Do I have to pay taxes on a free stock?
Yes, the free stock you receive is generally considered taxable income. The value of the stock at the time you receive it is reported to the IRS and may be subject to ordinary income tax.
