If you're going to invest independently, you've got to wait until you're 18 and a legal adult.  However, you can invest at any age if your parents open a custodial investment account on your behalf.  Custodial investment accounts fall under the banner of UTMA (Uniform Transfers To Minors Act) or UGMA (Uniform Gifts To Minors Act). UTMA and UGMA custodial accounts have some differences, but both must be opened by an adult trustee such as a parent. With both types of accounts, the money belongs to the minor child. However, the child can't access the account until legal age. If you are under age 18, talk to your parent or guardian about opening a custodial account in your name.