There are companies that allow an investor to purchase stocks directly from the company. This is perfectly okay according to the Securities and Exchange Commission. These are called Direct Stock Plans. It is called a DSPP. The company may require that you already have stocks through employment with the company. It is not required in all companies.
It maybe a good idea to contact an individual company personally. The advantage to contacting the individual company yourself is that it allows you to use your preferences and then do a small amount of leg work. The company representative will give you the necessary forms and provide you with individual advice on how to set up pay roll deduction. In turn you can contact your banking institution, employer human resources or bill payer and set up the account.
If you have a solid company that has shown solid performance this may be a good option for investing. The only thing you have to lose is your time. The time it takes in gathering the information has a big payoff. It will save you commission fees and provide you with a long term relationship with your favorite company.
Utility investments
Some good work horse utility companies are on the stock market. In seeking out the security of a public utility stock you may be interested in dividends. For some investors the utility is a relatively secure method of payment history, any amounts you owe and credit currently in use.
It is very important to keep a good credit-score, usually above 700, to qualify for a lease or any other lending decision. Start by ordering your credit report from Fair Isaac Corp, the company that creates your credit score.
Most of utility companies require some analysis to determine if the company fits your investment portfolio. The utility sector has some pressure due to world wide considerations and the demand of end users. The key is if the company is poised for future growth by enhancing its infrastructure and distribution methods.