Use micro-investing apps to start with spare change

Apps like Acorns ($3/mo), Stash ($3/mo), or Public (free) let you start investing with as little as $1-5. They offer fractional shares, educational content, and simple portfolio options designed for absolute beginners.

Why It Works

Micro-investing removes the psychological barrier of needing a large sum to start. Investing small amounts consistently builds both wealth and the investing habit over time.

Tips

• Acorns round-up feature invests spare change from every purchase automatically
• Public offers commission-free trading with a social community for learning
• Watch out for fees relative to your balance — $3/month on a $100 balance is effectively 36% per year
• Graduate to a traditional brokerage once your balance grows past $1,000-2,000