Charles Schwab Brokerage Account vs J.P. Morgan Self-Directed Investing
Charles Schwab Brokerage Account returns more on the money it ties up, so it is the better first move for most people. J.P. Morgan Self-Directed Investing still makes sense if its requirement is easier for you to meet.
| Charles Schwab Brokerage Account | J.P. Morgan Self-Directed Investing | |
|---|---|---|
| Bonus | $100 - $1,000 | Up to $1,000 |
| Requirement | Open through a Schwab client referral link and net deposit new money: $25,000 for $100, $50,000 for $300, $100,000 for $500, or $500,000 for $1,000. The deposit must be new money to Schwab and must stay for the qualifying period. | Fund new money, tiered. Top tier needs ~$250K held 90 days. |
| Direct deposit | Not required | Not required |
| Money tied up | $25,000 | $250,000 |
| Hold period | 365 days | 90 days |
| Effective APY | 4.0% | 1.6% |
| Payout | roughly 45 days after the deposit clears | ~15 days after qualifying |
| Last checked | Aug 14, 2026 | Jul 5, 2026 |