How to Place an OTC Trade on Fidelity (Step-by-Step for 2025)

Buying OTC (Over-the-Counter) stocks on Fidelity is a simple process—if you know which types of OTC securities are supported. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to place an OTC trade on Fidelity. You’ll also learn how to avoid common pitfalls. These pitfalls often trip up first-time investors.

What OTC Stocks Can You Trade on Fidelity?

Before placing a trade, make sure the stock meets Fidelity’s requirements. You can only trade:

• OTCQX (the highest tier)
• OTCQB (venture-level companies with reporting standards)
• Some Pink Current Information stocks

You cannot trade:

• Pink No Info
• Caveat Emptor
• Expert Market
• Grey Market

Now, let’s walk through the trade process.

Step-by-Step: How to Buy OTC Stocks on Fidelity

Step 1: Log into Your Fidelity Account

Go to Fidelity.com or open the Fidelity app. Make sure your account is fully set up and funded.

Step 2: Find the OTC Ticker Symbol

You can:

• Use OTCMarkets.com to verify the ticker and tier
• Use Fidelity’s quote search to look up the symbol

Example: Search “NSAV” (traded on OTCQB) in the quote bar.

Step 3: Go to the Trade Tab

Once you find your stock, click:

Accounts & Trade → Trade

Then select:

• Account type (Brokerage, IRA, etc.)
• Action: Buy or Sell
• Quantity: How many shares
• Symbol: Enter the OTC ticker

Step 4: Choose Order Type and Time-In-Force

• Order Type: Market or Limit
  (Limit is recommended for OTC due to price swings)
• Time in Force: Day or GTC (Good ‘Til Canceled)

Step 5: Preview and Place Your Trade

• Double-check all trade details
• Click Preview Order
• If everything looks good, click Place Trade

You’ll get an order confirmation and can track it in your Activity & Orders tab.

Pro Tips for Trading OTC Stocks on Fidelity

• Always use a limit order — OTC spreads can be wide
• Double-check the tier — don’t waste time on restricted stocks
• Check for volume — thinly traded OTCs can be hard to enter/exit
• Read disclosures on OTCMarkets.com before you commit

Conclusion

Trading OTC stocks on Fidelity is safer than you think—as long as you know the rules. Fidelity gives you access to some of the most reputable OTC tickers without charging commissions. Just stick with compliant companies and use smart trading practices.