The 8 Best Ways to Invest $500 Right Now Invest With a Robo Advisor. ... Contribute to a 401(k) or IRA. ... DIY With Commission-Free ETFs. ... Buy Fractional Shares of Stocks. ... Buy Bonds. ... Invest In Real Estate. ... Pay Off Your Debt. ... Beware of Trying to Invest $500 For a Quick Return. Dec 2, 2022