Starting to invest? Need help

Hex said: "What do I have to do to start investing? Can someone please describe it in step-by-step terms? Basically all I know is that I have to go to a bank and start a brokerage account with a $500 deposit. Then afterwards start investing with an online firm sort of like scottrade.com and pay commission fees every time I buy/sell a stock trade? Is there any other ways where I can keep my trade holdings at besides a brokerage? Also what is the fee from scottrade.com, if lets say I want the actual stock certificate mailed to my home? Feedback would be useful, Thank you"

Heather said: "Hello and welcome to the forums! There are a few different inline brokerages to choose from. Ameritrade might be another one to consider. To keep fees down, most statements are done electronically. Quicken has some program features that can help you keep track of your trades both in and out."

Hex said: "but don't you need to start one at a bank aswell?"

HappyHarry said: "When you want the certificate, the fee is "I think" $35 or so, so it can add up."