M1 Finance Review
Bottom Line
M1 Finance is best for set-it-and-forget-it investors who want custom automated portfolios. Free automated investing and fractional shares make it stand out, though one trade window per day (free) is worth considering.
Key Features
Rating Breakdown
Pros & Cons
M1 Finance Pros
- + Free automated investing
- + Fractional shares
- + Custom portfolio pies
- + Borrow and spend features
- + Great for DCA
M1 Finance Cons
- - One trade window per day (free)
- - No tax-loss harvesting
- - Limited research
- - No options trading
Who Is M1 Finance Best For?
M1 Finance is ideal for set-it-and-forget-it investors who want custom automated portfolios. If that describes you, it's one of the strongest options available in 2026.
Key advantages include free automated investing, fractional shares, custom portfolio pies. The main drawbacks to be aware of are one trade window per day (free) and no tax-loss harvesting.
Our Verdict: 4.3/5
M1 Finance is a strong option that delivers solid value. While not perfect, it's a great choice for the right user.
Frequently Asked Questions
M1 Finance is a regulated brokerage. Customer accounts are typically protected by SIPC up to $500,000 ($250,000 for cash). Always verify current regulatory status and SIPC membership before investing.
M1 Finance charges $0 for stock trades and N/A for options. Fee structures can change — confirm on their website.
M1 Finance does offer fractional shares, allowing you to invest in high-priced stocks with any dollar amount.
M1 Finance requires $100 to open an account. This makes it best for investors with some capital ready to deploy.
M1 Finance is best for set-it-and-forget-it investors who want custom automated portfolios. Free automated investing make it attractive, though one trade window per day (free) may require more experience to navigate effectively.