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When planning a move to a new city or state, the cost of living is an important consideration. Here’s why: Cost of living tells you how much money it takes to maintain a basic standard of living in a given place. If you were offered your dream job in a city 1,000 miles away, you’d want to know whether the salary would allow you to live well or whether you’d have to be on a super tight budget.

Location typically plays a major role in determining the level of income needed to finance your lifestyle. For instance, a dollar doesn’t buy as much in New York City as it would in Des Moines. If the cost of living is higher because you live in a major city, you’ll likely have to allocate more of your budget toward everyday expenses, such as housing, food, and transportation.

It’s important to understand the factors that affect cost-of-living calculations and what a higher or lower cost of living means for your finances. Otherwise, you could wind up with an uncomfortable level of “sticker shock” if you relocate.

What Is the Cost of Living?

The cost of living is the cost to cover basic household expenses. The cost of living can vary from state to state and city to city. As you might guess, renting a 1,500-square-foot home is likely to be much more affordable in a small town in the middle of the country than in a hip neighborhood in San Francisco.

That said, you can also have different costs of living within the same metro area. For example, someone who owns a home in the suburbs of a major city may have higher or lower expenses compared to someone who lives downtown.

In terms of what the cost of living is used for, it’s a gauge for determining affordability. Before moving to a new location, you might look at the cost of living in that area to help you decide if it’s realistic for your budget.

How Does the Cost of Living Work?

Cost-of-living calculations work by measuring how much it costs to live in a specific location, using basic living expenses as a guide. The cost of living is not static. It can go up or down over time. Looking at cost-of-living trends for a certain city, region, or state can give you an idea which way consumer prices are trending.

There are a number of entities that perform cost-of-living calculations. The Council for Community and Economic Research, for example, maintains a cost-of-living index for participating cities across the U.S. Other organizations calculate cost of living for locations around the world.

On a personal level, the most important question to ask is, “What does the cost of living mean for me?” The simple answer is that cost of living can determine how far your income is able to go toward funding your lifestyle.

Factors That Determine Cost of Living

When discussing cost of living and expenses, you’re talking about necessities. In other words, the things you need to spend money on to live each month. According to the Economic Policy Institute, that includes:

•   Housing

•   Food

•   Child care

•   Transportation

•   Health care

•   Taxes

•   Other necessities, such as clothing, household supplies, and personal care items

Cost-of-living calculators use prices for those types of expenditures in a particular area to determine how much it costs to live there on average. Consumer prices for goods and services are largely a product of supply and demand, and what’s happening with inflation. Inflation is the general upward trend in prices over time.

When inflation is higher, prices tend to rise across the board, which brings a higher cost of living. Even when inflation is lower, prices may still be higher in some areas than others if there’s higher demand for goods and services.

Calculating Cost of Living

Cost-of-living indexes collect information about various costs for different cities and locations, then use average prices to determine how much it costs to live there. If you’re comparing two cities, you can use a cost-of-living index to see which one is less expensive.

If you’d like to calculate your personal cost of living, you’d use your spending history to determine your average monthly expenses for these categories:

•   Housing

•   Food

•   Transportation

•   Utilities

•   Child care, if applicable

•   Health care

•   Taxes

•   Other necessary expenses

Using those numbers can tell you how much it costs to maintain your basic standard of living each month. You can also add in your average monthly spending for debt repayment or non-essentials or discretionary expenses, such as dining out, travel, or recreation, to get a sense of what your actual cost of living adds up to.

What Is the Cost-of-Living Index?

Generally speaking, a cost-of-living index is a measurement of average prices. Similar to a stock market index, a cost living index is meant to provide a benchmark for comparison. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is often referred to as a cost-of-living index, though that description isn’t entirely accurate.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) defines the CPI as a measure of the average change in prices over time for a market basket of consumer goods and services. The CPI isn’t a true cost-of-living index but an inflation index. Changes to the CPI can be an indicator of how inflation is changing, whether it is rising, falling, or remaining flat.

Does Cost of Living Vary State by State?

The cost of living by state is not uniform and what you might pay to live in one state could be very different from what you’d pay to live in another. That’s important to keep in mind if you’re considering moving across state lines to a new location. The more expensive a state is, the less purchasing power your money holds.

For example, the California cost-of-living index is much higher than the Texas cost-of-living index. So why do some states have a higher cost of living? Again, it depends largely on things like supply and demand, though taxes and average incomes can also play a part.

When the average income in a state is higher and job opportunities abound, that can lead to more people moving to that state. That means higher demand for housing, which can send home and rental prices soaring. More people can also mean more demand for everyday goods and services, such as food or utilities. As demand rises, prices can follow suit.

So, in our example above, if you were living in Texas in a two-bedroom rental apartment and were offered a job at the same salary in California, you’d face a higher cost of living. If you moved there, you might have to rent a smaller home. Your groceries would likely be more expensive, as would your other monthly necessities. You might find you couldn’t eat out or go to concerts as often due to higher prices.

Recommended: What Percentage of Income Should Go to Rent and Utilities?

Which State Has the Lowest Cost of Living?

As of the second quarter of 2026, Oklahoma had the lowest cost of living in the U.S., with a cost-of-living index of 83.0. For perspective, cost-of-living indexes are generally based on 100 as an average. So an index of 83.0 means that the cost of living in Oklahoma is 17.0% less than the national average.

Housing, which is typically the biggest expense most people have, is nearly 35% cheaper in Oklahoma compared to the U.S. average. The median sale price for a home there was $263,901 as of August 2026.

Which State Has the Highest Cost of Living?

Hawaii is the most expensive place to live in the U.S., with a cost-of-living index of 185.8. Housing is more expensive there than in any other state in the country, with a median list price of $755,853 as of August 2026. A home buyer would have to shell out considerably more to live in Hawaii’s natural paradise than elsewhere in America.

But housing demand isn’t the only factor. Higher taxes and higher costs for transporting goods and materials to the state are some of the other factors that drive up the cost of living in Hawaii. Other states that rank among the most expensive include New York, California, and Massachusetts.

How Much Should Your Cost of Living Be?

Your cost of living should be a figure that, given your income, you can reasonably afford to pay. When your expenses exceed your income, that can cause shortfalls in your budget each month. You may need to use credit cards or loans to fill the gap, which can leave you with a pile of bills, wondering how to pay off high-interest debt.

When calculating your ideal cost of living, start with your income. Then work your way backwards to determine how much you should be spending on things like housing, food, transportation, utilities, and other necessities. If your income comfortably covers those things, you can then decide how much to allocate to savings, debt repayment, or “wants” like travel and entertainment.

Also, consider your household size. The cost of living for a single person can be very different from the cost of living for a family of four. So you may need to allocate more of your budget for necessities if you have a spouse, partner, or children in your household.

Quick Tip: If you’re saving for a short-term goal — whether it’s a vacation, a wedding, or the down payment on a house — consider opening a high-yield savings account. The higher APY that you’ll earn will help your money grow faster, but the funds stay liquid, so they are easy to access when you reach your goal.

Tips to Improve Cost of Living

If you’ve run the numbers and your cost of living is higher than you’d like it to be, you aren’t necessarily out of luck. There are some things you can do to try and bring it down. Here are some ideas for ways to reduce your cost of living:

•   Eliminate unnecessary spending from your budget.

•   Move your money to a different financial institution to avoid bank fees and/or earn higher interest.

•   Plan meals at home, and cut down on restaurant meals.

•   Consider refinancing student loans or your mortgage to lower your interest rate.

•   Consolidate credit card debt using a 0% balance transfer offer.

•   Shop around for better rates on auto, homeowners, or renters insurance.

•   Aggressively pay off debt.

•   Consider moving to a cheaper area.

•   Take on a roommate to share expenses.

•   Downsize into a smaller home.

•   Sell a vehicle if you own more than one.

Some of these money-saving ideas are relatively easy to implement, while others may seem a bit more extreme. But the more you can cut your expenses, the easier it may be to improve your cost of living.

You can also research different ways to make more money. That might mean taking a different job, getting a part-time gig, or starting a side hustle. If you’re contemplating a move for a higher-paying role, remember to factor in the cost of living in a new location to see how far a higher salary might go. A higher cost of living could eat up the salary boost you’ll receive, so you’ll want to be prepared for that.

The Takeaway

Achieving a manageable cost of living starts with keeping a close eye on your budget and spending. Even making small changes, such as cutting out high banking fees and earning more interest, can free up more cash that you can use to save and fund your financial goals.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

Better banking is here with SoFi, named the #1 Bank in the U.S. for the fourth year in a row by Forbes (2026).* Enjoy up to 3.10% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

What is a cost-of-living adjustment?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) applies a cost-of-living adjustment to Social Security benefits, based on changes to the Consumer Price Index. That means benefits can rise as the cost of living does. In other words, these adjustments are designed to ensure that recipients’ benefit payments are able to keep pace with inflation.

How can I compare the cost of living between two cities?

The easiest way to compare the cost of living between two cities is to use a cost-of-living index, which measures the relative cost of living in different areas of the U.S. You can subtract the cost-of-living index for the city that’s lower from the one that’s higher to figure out how much cheaper it is.

Which country has the highest cost of living?

Monaco is the most expensive country to live in. The average monthly cost of living there, as of 2025, is $7,831.

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About the author

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This content is for educational and informational purposes only. The products, services, or features discussed may not currently be available via the SoFi platform. Any references to third-party products, services, or companies do not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or solicitation by SoFi. Readers should independently evaluate their options and consider their individual financial needs and circumstances before making any decisions. ©2026 SoFi Technologies, Inc. All rights reserved.

SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2026 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

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At some point in your financial life, you may need to issue a stop payment on a check to prevent it from being cashed. This might happen because a check gets lost or stolen. Or perhaps you need to cancel a check because you filled it out with the wrong information, such as an incorrect payee or amount. Or maybe you accidentally issued a duplicate payment and are worried about overdrawing your bank account.

If you take action quickly, you could prevent a check or an electronic payment from being processed with a stop payment order. It may be as simple to complete as contacting your bank.

What Is a Stop Payment on a Check?

A stop payment on a check is a way of requesting that a financial institution cancel a check or other payment that hasn’t been fully processed yet. It involves intervening to stop a payment you initiated, perhaps because you filled out incorrect information or have reason to think the check may have been lost or stolen.

Doing so can help lessen your financial stress if you have a check that’s circulating with incorrect information on it or that could cause you to overdraft your account.

You may have to pay a fee for this checking account service, and it can only happen if the check or other payment has not yet been processed. If the recipient of the funds has cashed the check, you cannot use a stop payment to reverse that.

Issuing a Stop Payment on a Check

If you are in a situation where you want to stop payment on a check (say, you filled the check out for the wrong amount or to the wrong person), there are steps you can follow. This might also be a method for canceling an ACH payment vs. a check, such as a recurring electronic payment you set up.

The following outlines the specifics on how to stop payment on a check.

1. Checking Your Bank Account to See if the Check Cleared

Before you start the process of canceling a check or payment, it’s a good idea to make sure it hasn’t already been processed.

You may do this by pulling up your account online or in-app or calling the bank’s automated phone line to see if the check or payment has already been deducted from your account.

If the amount has been processed, your opportunity to stop payment is unfortunately gone. If it hasn’t, however, you can likely stop the check or payment from being cashed or deposited.

Note: You cannot put a stop-payment order on a cashier’s check or money order as these are prepaid forms of payment, although there are usually other options to pursue refunds or cancellations.

2. Compiling the Check Info

Next, in order to contact your bank with the full story on the check in question, gather the following information:

•   Your account number and routing number

•   The recipient’s or payee’s name

•   The date you wrote the check

•   The check number

•   The amount of the check

For ACH payments, you may be asked to supply the company name, bank account number, ACH merchant ID, and the payment amount.

3. Contacting Your Bank

The next step in how to stop payment on a check is contacting your financial institution. You’ll want to do this as quickly as possible. Here’s how this typically works:

•   You might call your bank’s customer service number or reach out online. Some people prefer to go in person to a brick-and-mortar branch if they keep their accounts at a traditional bank vs. an online bank. You may be able to stop payment in your financial institution’s app.

•   It’s possible that your bank will want you to fill out a stop-payment form in order to initiate the process. You may need to complete this within 14 days to prevent the stop-payment order from expiring.

•   You may need your ID handy to prove your identity.

Once your bank authorizes your stop-payment request, the check or payment should no longer be valid.

4. Getting in Touch With the Payee

Depending on your reason for requesting a stop-payment order, you may also want to contact the payee in order to let them know about the stop payment. You can then arrange for a new payment if needed.

Recommended: What Is a Duplicate Check?

5. Extending the Stop Payment if Needed

A stop-payment order is a formal request to cancel a check or ACH payment (such as a recurring monthly bill payment) before it’s been processed.

Stop-payment orders on checks typically last for six months. This is the same amount of time as how long personal checks are good after being issued. So that should, therefore, be a sufficient amount of time to prevent the check from being cashed.

However, many banks allow you to renew a stop-payment order if the check is still outstanding. If your bank charges a stopped check fee, they may also charge a fee to renew the stop-payment order.

Stop-payment orders on ACH payments generally don’t automatically expire.

Recommended: Guide to Altered Checks and How to Spot One

How Much Does It Cost to Stop Payment on a Check?

Now that you know how to stop a check, here’s how much it’s likely to cost you at a traditional bank. Just as with cashing a check, fees for stopping payment on a check vary from one bank to the next, but it’s usually up to $35. Some traditional banks, however, may waive the stop-payment fee for customers with premium-tier checking accounts.

Recommended: How to Write a Check

Alternatives to Stop-Payment Orders

A stop-payment order is one way to prevent a payment from being processed. With an electronic payment, another option may be to contact the business or vendor directly.

Whether it’s your electric bill or a monthly streaming service, companies can typically stop or delay billing on request. A couple of considerations:

•   If you stop a bill payment via the bank without reaching out to the service provider, the company could respond by cutting off your access to its services.

•   If you instead delay the automatic debit by working with the vendor, you may be able to avoid a disruption in service and also avoid paying a stop-payment fee to the bank.

The Takeaway

Mistakes and miscommunication can happen, and checks sometimes get lost or stolen. That’s when a stop-payment order might come in handy, canceling a check or electronic debit payment that’s waiting to be processed. While useful in some situations, note that stop payments often incur a fee that may cost around $20-$30. Some banks may waive this fee.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

Better banking is here with SoFi, named the #1 Bank in the U.S. for the fourth year in a row by Forbes (2026).* Enjoy up to 3.10% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

How long does a stop payment on a check take?

The time required for a stop-payment request will depend on your financial institution. You may be able to do it very quickly in person, by phone, or electronically with your bank (especially if you have all the pertinent details handy) and have it authorized within minutes. At other banks, you may need to fill out and submit a stop payment request and wait for the bank to process it. Once in place, stop payment orders typically last six months.

Is a stop payment the same as canceling a check?

Yes, a stop payment is similar to canceling a check that has not been processed or paid yet. Note, however, that there is a more complex process of check cancellation that is sometimes available for prepaid checks such as a cashier’s check or money order.

How much does it cost to put a stop payment on a check?

A stop payment may cost about $20-$30 when you issue this order. In some cases, a bank may waive the fee; you can check with yours to see if this is possible.

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This content is for educational and informational purposes only. The products, services, or features discussed may not currently be available via the SoFi platform. Any references to third-party products, services, or companies do not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or solicitation by SoFi. Readers should independently evaluate their options and consider their individual financial needs and circumstances before making any decisions. ©2026 SoFi Technologies, Inc. All rights reserved.
SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2026 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

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If you are denied a checking account, the problem might be your past banking history, an error on your bank reports, or a mistake you made filling out your application, among other reasons. Once you find out why you can’t open a bank account, you can take steps to remedy the situation and hopefully get approved.

A checking account serves as a hub for many people’s financial lives. It’s where your paycheck is likely deposited and it may be how you pay your bills. Here’s what to do if you are refused a bank account and the information you need to move forward with a checking account.

Reasons Why You Can’t Open a Bank Account

There are a few possible reasons why an individual can’t open a bank account, including these.:

Negative Information on ChexSystems

When you apply for a bank account, banks tend to review your prior banking account activity via ChexSystems, a popular banking reporting agency. ChexSystems provides information on your banking history. The banks typically use this information to decide whether to qualify you for a checking account.

Negative items on your ChexSystems report may result in you being denied a checking account. They might cause banks to consider you a high-risk customer for financial services. Negative information may include:

•   Forced account closures

•   Bounced checks or overdrafts

•   Suspected fraud or identity theft

•   Unpaid fees or negative bank balances from a current or closed account

•   Too many account applications submitted over a short period

These negative marks on your record can last up to five years.

Errors on Your ChexSystems Report

Just as there may be credit report errors, so too can your ChexSystems report have mistakes. This could trigger your bank account application to be rejected, even if your past checking account management was good.

You can obtain a copy of your ChexSystems report once a year or whenever your application for a bank account is denied based on the report. Keep in mind that applying for a bank account too many times counts as a black mark against you, which is important to know as you are managing your money. If you get rejected, it’s probably a good idea to investigate your banking report vs. just submitting more applications. You’ll find details below on how to access your report.

Bankruptcy

If you have filed for bankruptcy, the bank may find out about it if it reviews your credit report as part of the application process. However, not all banks review credit reports when you open a checking account, and approval criteria can vary by institution.

Your Identity Can’t Be Verified

An application for a bank account, whether it’s a high-yield savings account or a checking account may be rejected because there are mistakes on it and/or the information entered does not match the documents you submitted.

For example, if you’ve recently moved, the verification source may not recognize your new address. Or, you might have answered security questions incorrectly when prompted by the verification system.

Here are other reasons your identity might not be verified:

•   Your submission had an error or typo (perhaps in your Social Security number).

•   Your credit profile may be affected by inaccurate information in your credit reports.

•   Your credit report could be frozen if there is suspicion of fraud or identity theft.

•   Your documents may have expired.

•   Your documents may be illegible.

•   You may have submitted a phone number that is not associated with your address.

•   Your proof of identity, such as a copy of your driver’s license or passport, and the information typed into the application don’t match.

Recommended: How to Secure Your Bank Account From Hackers

What to Do if You Are Refused a Bank Account

If you’ve been denied a checking account, you may want to switch banks and apply elsewhere. But a word of warning: Doing so might cause your application to be rejected because you are requesting too many new accounts too often. To maximize your chances of success, it’s generally wise to take the following steps before you reapply.

1. Ask the Bank to Reconsider

If your application is denied based on information in a consumer report, the bank is required by law to provide you with an adverse action notice explaining the decision. However, banks make their own approval decisions based on their internal criteria. It may be worth contacting the bank to ask for more details and request a review. You can also ask whether a typo in your application or an outdated overdraft affected the decision.

2. Check Your Banking Report

You may obtain a copy of your ChexSystems report once a year and whenever you are denied a bank account, if the report is the cause of your rejection. Visit the ChexSystems website or call 800-428-9623.

3. Look for Errors and Fraudulent Activity

Read the report from ChexSystems carefully, looking for fraudulent activity or mistakes in information such as your name, address, phone number, or Social Security number. For any errors, contact the agency, and be ready to provide supporting information to ensure the issue gets corrected.

4. Clean Up Your Report

Look at the negative actions in your report and fix them. You can file a dispute for anything inaccurate by going to the ChexSystems website. Pay off any debts and unsettled fees. Then, ask to have the negative activity removed. Otherwise, it can stay on your report for up to five years.

Recommended: What Does It Mean to Be Unbanked?

Consider Alternative Solutions

If you’ve been denied a bank account and can’t quickly resolve the issue, here are a couple of options to consider.

Second-Chance Checking Account

Some banking institutions offer a second-chance account to those denied a traditional checking account. These accounts typically provide services that are limited, such as caps on debit card usage, no paper checks, and no overdraft protection. Also worth noting: These accounts often come with higher-than-usual fees. Nevertheless, this kind of account may help improve your financial life if managed responsibly.

After you’ve provided what you need to open a bank account and you use a second-chance account for a while, you might want to apply for a traditional checking account again. Over time, you may be able to upgrade to a regular checking account by maintaining a positive balance and avoiding issues. These accounts may help you build a stronger banking history.

Prepaid Debit Cards

If you need a way to spend on daily expenses and pay bills without a bank account, prepaid debit cards could be a solution. You load a dollar value onto these cards (they’re available at many retailers, such as gas stations and supermarkets), and you can then tap or swipe to use the funds.

Make sure you’re aware of any fees you might incur when using or reloading your card, and know that the usage of these cards isn’t reported. In other words, it won’t build your credit score or your banking history. But it may be a valuable stopgap measure when you don’t have a bank account and need a convenient way to transfer funds.

The Takeaway

Having an application for a bank account denied is an upsetting experience that could limit your financial life. The reason for the denial may be that ChexSystems or another consumer banking reporting agency reported that you are a high-risk customer. Or your application might have been rejected because mistakes were made, or your identity couldn’t be verified. By taking steps to remove errors and repair damage, you may be on the road to getting the account you need to keep your financial life humming along.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

Better banking is here with SoFi, named the #1 Bank in the U.S. for the fourth year in a row by Forbes (2026).* Enjoy up to 3.10% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

Why can’t I open a checking account?

There are several reasons you could be denied a checking account, including mistakes on your application, negative activity on your checking account history, or errors on your ChexSystems or similar report. Banks may also deny applications based on their internal policies and screening criteria.

Can you get a bank account if you have committed fraud?

If you’ve committed fraud, you will probably have a negative history with banking reporting agency ChexSystems, and you will likely have your bank account application declined. However, you might be able to get a second-chance checking account. If you maintain a positive balance and avoid any issues with that account, you may be able to upgrade to a regular checking account over time.

Can a bank refuse to let you open an account?

Yes, banks can decide whether or not to offer an account to an applicant. They might deny an account if you have negative activity, such as unpaid overdraft fees and account closures on your ChexSystems report, or if there’s a mistake on your application. Banks aren’t always required to explain why your application was denied, but they must provide a notice if the decision was based on information in a consumer report.

How long does negative information stay on a ChexSystems report?

Negative information typically stays on a ChexSystems report for five years. However, if you fix the negative actions on the report, or dispute any errors, you can ask for the negative information to be removed.

Can I get a bank account with bad credit?

It’s possible. Banks typically don’t check credit reports when you apply for a bank account. Instead, they check your ChexSystems report for any negative banking activity. However, if your bank account application is denied, you could apply for a second-chance bank account instead. Over time, if this account is managed responsibly, you may be able to upgrade to a traditional bank account.

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Photo credit: iStock/skynesher

This content is for educational and informational purposes only. The products, services, or features discussed may not currently be available via the SoFi platform. Any references to third-party products, services, or companies do not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or solicitation by SoFi. Readers should independently evaluate their options and consider their individual financial needs and circumstances before making any decisions. ©2026 SoFi Technologies, Inc. All rights reserved.
SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2026 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
This article is not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for advice.

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If you rarely write checks, you might think there’s no need to balance your checkbook. But balancing your checkbook — also known as reconciling your checking account — is still a useful way to track your transactions and maintain control of your finances.

While mobile banking apps make it easy to check your balance and review transactions, the balance shown may not account for every transaction you’ve made, particularly checks, pending transactions, or payments that have not yet posted. Routinely reconciling your account — either manually or digitally — can help you make sure your records match the bank’s records, avoid overdrafts, and catch errors or potentially fraudulent transactions.

Here’s what it means to balance your checkbook in the digital age and how to do it.

What Does Balancing a Checkbook Mean?

Balancing a checkbook refers to the process of recording and reconciling the transactions in your checking account. While the process traditionally involved tracking paper checks in a check register, it can now include debit card purchases, electronic transfers, automatic payments, direct deposits, and other digital transactions.

Balancing a checkbook involves keeping a record of your deposits and withdrawals, updating your balance as transactions occur, and periodically comparing your records with your bank’s records to make sure they agree.

Recommended: Guide to Direct Deposit

Benefits of Balancing Your Checkbook

Balancing your checkbook can offer a number of benefits. Here are some to consider:

Knowing Your Balance More Accurately

When you record every transaction, you can keep a running bank account balance that accounts for payments and deposits you have made, even if they haven’t posted to your account yet. This can give you a more accurate picture of how much money you have available to spend.

For example, suppose your checking account shows a $2,000 balance, but you wrote a $1,000 check yesterday that the recipient has not yet deposited. Your bank may not have deducted the $1,000 yet, but that money is still committed. Recording the check in your check register would give you a running balance of $1,000.

The same principle can apply to electronic payments that you have authorized but that have not yet posted to your account.

Tracking Spending and Sticking to a Budget

Reconciling your checkbook requires you to review your transactions and know where your money is going. It can help account for transactions that have not yet cleared the bank, giving you a more complete picture of your spending.

The process can also reveal patterns and recurring expenses, like daily coffee purchases or subscriptions you no longer use. Instead of wondering where your money went each month, you can see exactly how much you spent and where it went. This can help you determine whether your spending aligns with your priorities and budget.

“There is real truth to the saying ‘What gets measured gets improved,’” says Brian Walsh, CFP^® and Head of Advice & Planning at SoFi. “There’s no way to fix problems like overspending without understanding exactly what goes in and what goes out.”

Reviewing Your Account for Errors, Fraud, or Billing Changes

When you balance your checkbook, you compare your personal transaction records against your bank’s records. Reviewing each transaction can make it easier to spot any discrepancies.

Banks and merchants can occasionally make mistakes, such as processing a payment for the wrong amount or charging a fee more than once. Reviewing your transactions can also help you identify unauthorized charges, unfamiliar withdrawals, or subscriptions you may have forgotten about. You may also notice when an automatic monthly payment has increased.

The sooner you identify a discrepancy, the sooner you can contact your bank or the merchant to address it.

Are There Reasons Not to Balance Your Checkbook?

While balancing a checkbook was once an essential part of managing a checking account, technology has made the traditional process of recording every transaction and doing the math by hand less necessary for some people.

Banking apps and online dashboards make it easy to review account activity, while automated alerts can notify you about low balances, large withdrawals, or other transactions. Budgeting and personal finance apps can also sync with bank accounts, categorize transactions, and track monthly spending without requiring manual entries.

Skipping the paper ledger does not mean ignoring your finances, however. If you don’t want to maintain a traditional check register, you can instead review your checking account regularly — such as daily or weekly — and compare your transaction with your bank’s records. The important thing is to have a system that helps you keep track of your money and identify discrepancies.

How to Balance a Checkbook in 4 Steps

Whether you use a paper check register, spreadsheet, or digital tool, the basic process is the same. Here’s an easy step-by-step approach to balancing your checkbook.

1. Record Your Current Balance

Start with your checking account’s current balance, which generally reflects transactions that have posted to the account. You can find this information through your online banking dashboard, mobile app, or most recent bank statement.

Record the balance in your check register, spreadsheet, or other tracking system. If you don’t have a check register, you can create your own spreadsheet or use a digital budgeting or money-management tool.

If your bank displays both a current balance and an available balance, you’ll want to make sure you understand the difference before using either one as your starting point. Available balances may reflect certain pending transactions or holds, so using the same starting point consistently can make reconciliation easier.

3. Record Your Transactions

Record the transactions you make, including deposits, debit card purchases, checks, electronic transfers, withdrawals, automatic payments, bank fees, and interest earned.

Ideally, you’ll want to record transactions as they occur rather than waiting for them to post to your account. This can help you maintain a running balance and account for payments you have made but that the bank has not processed yet.

You can update your records as you go or collect receipts and other transaction information and enter everything at the end of the day or week.

3. Compare Your Records With the Bank’s

Review your bank statement or online transaction history and compare each transaction with your check register or other records. Check that the amounts match and look for transactions that you may have missed, such as an automatic bill payment or bank fee.

If you find a transaction on the bank’s records that isn’t in your register, add it and update your balance. Likewise, check for transactions in your register that have not yet cleared the bank.

If the numbers don’t match, go back through your records and the bank’s transaction history to identify the discrepancy. Check for simple mistakes, such as entering the wrong amount, as well as missed transactions or duplicate entries.

4. Investigate and Correct Discrepancies

If you identify a discrepancy, determine whether it is the result of a simple bookkeeping error, a transaction that has not yet cleared, or an issue that needs to be addressed with your bank or a merchant.

For example, if a store or service provider charged you more than expected, contact the business. If you find an unfamiliar transaction that you did not authorize, contact your bank as soon as possible and follow its instructions for reporting the transaction.

After making any necessary corrections, update your records and recalculate your balance. Your records should then reconcile with the bank’s records, allowing for legitimate transactions that have not yet cleared.

What Is a Check Register?

A check register is a personal or business record used to track financial transactions in a checking account. It can help you maintain a running balance and keep track of transactions before they clear your bank.

A traditional check register is typically organized as a table with columns for specific details about each transaction. It usually includes:

•   Check number: The unique number of the paper check used. This can be left blank for debit card purchases, electronic transfers, and other transactions.

•   Date: The date the transaction occurred.

•   Description: The name of the merchant, person, or source of the funds.

•   Debit (-): The amount spent or withdrawn from the account.

•   Credit (+): The amount deposited or added to the account.

•   Balance: The updated amount remaining in the account after adding or subtracting the transaction.

A check register can be maintained on paper, in a spreadsheet, or through a digital money-management tool.

Is Knowing How to Balance a Checkbook Now Obsolete?

Knowing how to balance a checkbook may be less essential than it was when paper checks were a primary way to make payments, but the underlying skill is still useful. Understanding how to track deposits, payments, withdrawals, and your running balance can help you manage your checking account more effectively.

You also don’t have to use a traditional paper-and-pencil check register. Online banking, spreadsheets, and budgeting apps can all help you keep track of your transactions and reconcile your account.

Digitally Balancing a Checkbook

Many banks offer online banking tools and mobile apps that allow you to view account transactions and monitor your balances. You can also use a personal finance or budgeting app that links to your different bank accounts.

To balance your checkbook digitally, log into your bank account regularly — such as weekly — and review your balance and transaction history. Compare the transactions shown by your bank with your own records, including purchases, withdrawals, deposits, checks, and automatic payments.

Pay particular attention to transactions that have not yet posted. For example, if you wrote a check that has not cleared, make sure it is included in your own records even though it may not appear in your bank’s posted transaction history.

Budgeting apps can also help you manage your checking account. In addition to tracking inflows and outflows, they may categorize transactions and provide information about your spending habits. Some budgeting apps are free, while others charge a monthly subscription fee. Your bank may also provide budgeting or money-management tools at no additional cost.

Streamlining Modern Money Management

You don’t necessarily need to maintain a traditional check register to get the benefits of balancing your checkbook. The goal is to have a reliable way to track your transactions, compare them with your bank’s records, and identify discrepancies.

If you prefer a digital approach, you might use your bank’s online banking tools, a spreadsheet, or a budgeting app. You can also set up account alerts to notify you about certain transactions or a low balance. These tools can reduce the amount of manual work involved while still encouraging you to review your account regularly.

Whether you use a paper register or digital tools, consistency is key. A quick weekly review can help you stay aware of your spending and catch potential problems before they become larger financial issues.

The Takeaway

Even in an increasingly paperless world, balancing your checkbook can still be a useful financial habit. Regularly reconciling your checking account can give you a clearer picture of both how much money you have and where it is going. The process involves recording your transactions, comparing your records with the bank’s, and investigating any discrepancies. You can do this with a traditional check register or use digital tools to make the process easier. Either way, regularly reviewing your account can help you track spending, avoid overdrafts, identify billing changes, and spot errors or potentially fraudulent charges.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

Better banking is here with SoFi, named the #1 Bank in the U.S. for the fourth year in a row by Forbes (2026).* Enjoy up to 3.10% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

What is the purpose of balancing your checkbook?

The purpose of balancing your checkbook is to keep an accurate record of your checking account activity and compare it with your bank’s records. Reconciling your account can help you track spending, account for transactions that have not yet cleared, avoid overdrafts, and identify errors, unexpected charges, or potentially fraudulent transactions. You can balance your checkbook using a traditional paper register, spreadsheet, or digital money-management tool.

How do I balance a checkbook if my numbers do not match?

If your numbers do not match, compare your check register or other records with your bank’s transaction history. Look for missed transactions, duplicate entries, or simple mistakes such as entering the wrong amount. Also check for transactions that you recorded but that have not yet cleared. If you identify an unfamiliar charge or another bank or billing error, contact the bank or merchant as soon as possible. After correcting any errors, update your records and recalculate your balance.

What happens if you do not balance your checkbook regularly?

If you do not regularly reconcile your checking account, you may have a less accurate picture of how much money you have available. You could overlook transactions, forget about pending payments, or fail to notice an error or unauthorized charge. This can make it easier to overspend or overdraw your account. You do not necessarily need to maintain a paper check register, but regularly reviewing your transactions and comparing them with your bank’s records can help you stay on top of your finances.

How does an online bank simplify balancing a checkbook?

Online banks can simplify the process by making account information and transaction histories available through online banking and mobile apps. You can typically review deposits, withdrawals, payments, and other transactions without waiting for a paper statement. Many online banks also offer account alerts that can notify you about transactions or low balances. These tools can reduce the amount of manual recordkeeping involved, although it’s still a good idea to review your transactions regularly and compare them with your own records when appropriate.

Can automated alerts replace manual checkbook balancing?

Automated alerts can make it easier to monitor your checking account, but they do not necessarily replace balancing or reconciling your account. Alerts can notify you about transactions, low balances, or other activity, but they generally don’t require you to compare every transaction with your own records. If you use alerts instead of a traditional check register, it’s still wise to regularly review your account activity to make sure transactions are accurate and identify anything unexpected.

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A debit card combines some of the features of an ATM card and a credit card to give you an easy way to access cash and pay for purchases. For many people, tapping, swiping, or entering their digits online has become a favorite way to conduct everyday financial transactions.

Debit cards resemble credit cards, but they don’t involve a line of credit or accruing interest charges. The money spent is deducted directly from your checking account. This (and other features) can be a benefit or a downside, depending on your particular situation.

Debit Cards Defined

A debit card is a payment card that allows you to spend money without carrying cash.

When you use a debit card, the funds are your own, so there’s nothing to pay back later.

Most debit cards look just like credit cards. They typically feature an account number on the front, along with the cardholder’s name and the expiration date.

There will likely also be a smart chip on the front, along with a logo in the lower right-hand corner that tells you which payment network the card is connected to (such as Visa, Mastercard, or Discover). On the back you’ll likely see a place to sign, as well as a three-digit security code (CVV/CVC).

But there are some major differences between debit cards and credit cards.

When someone uses a credit card the money is borrowed. Credit card holders receive a bill every month for what they owe, and the balance must be paid in full or they can be charged interest.

When you use a debit card to get cash or make a purchase, the money comes directly from an account you have with a bank or some other type of financial institution, typically a checking account. The funds are your own, so there’s nothing to pay back later.

How a Debit Card Works

Now that you know what a debit card is, here’s how a debit card typically works:

•   You tap, swipe, or insert the card at a terminal and enter your PIN (personal identification number) in many cases. The PIN adds a level of security to the transaction.

•   The information is communicated (the amount of your purchase), and your bank verifies that the funds are available in your checking account. The transaction is approved in that case, or it will be denied if you don’t have enough funds available.

•   In a similar way, a debit card can allow you to deduct funds from an ATM.

Worth noting: Debit cards may have spending limits capping the amount you can use in a single day, even if you have more than that amount on deposit. Check with your financial institution to learn what may apply.

Features of a Debit Card

Debit cards have many features that make them an asset to managing your financial life:

•   Safer than carrying cash

•   More convenient that using checks, plus no fee for ordering checks

•   Quick and easy way to make purchases or access cash

•   Accepted for purchases by many vendors

•   Does not charge interest since it draws directly from your bank account

•   Typically doesn’t charge fees

•   May offer cash back rewards

•   May have daily spending limits

How Do You Get a Debit Card?

If you don’t already have one, you may wonder how people get debit cards. These are the steps to getting a debit card:

1.    Open a checking account. Checking accounts (whether at a bank, credit union, or online financial institution) typically come with a debit card at no cost that can be used to get cash at ATMs or to make purchases.

A brick and mortar bank may be able to issue customers a new debit card right away. With an online institution, it might take a few days for the card to come by mail. Card holders also receive a personal identification number (PIN), which is a security code they’ll use with their account.

2.    Activate the card. Typically, you can activate a new debit card at the financial institution’s website, at one of its ATMs, or by calling a designated phone number and answering or keying in some basic identifying information.

3.    Start using your card. You should be ready to start tapping, swiping, and entering your card’s digits online to make purchases.

Where Can You Use a Debit Card?

A debit card can be used to make withdrawals at an ATM, to make in-person or online purchases, and to make automatic payments for recurring bills.

Each type of transaction works a bit differently. Here are tips for using your debit card.

At the ATM

One of the great conveniences a debit card has to offer is that it can be used to get cash (or make a deposit, transfer funds, or just view your account balance) just about anywhere there’s an ATM.

You just push your debit card into the slot, and enter your PIN to get access to your account. Once you finish and retrieve your receipt and debit card, it’s a good idea to double check that the machine has returned to its welcome screen before turning it over to the next user.

If you use an ATM that’s not in your bank’s network, you could end up paying a non-network fee to your bank and an ATM surcharge to the ATM’s owner. If you’re overseas, you might also be charged a foreign transaction fee.

If you’re a big-time ATM user, you might be able to avoid ATM fees by scouting out in-network ATM locations in your area or where you are going to be traveling ahead of time. Or you might open an account at a financial institution that doesn’t charge fees and/or reimburses certain fees.

In-Person Purchases

The process for using a debit card to purchase goods or services can be a little different from one merchant to the next.

Typically a customer will be asked to swipe, insert, or tap their debit card themselves at a card reader on the counter. Then, they may be prompted to authorize the purchase, either by entering their PIN or by signing as they would with a credit card.

Either way, the money to pay for the purchase comes out of the card holder’s account, though the transactions are processed somewhat differently.

The transaction method also may affect any points or other rewards a card holder is hoping to earn on a purchase. Some programs reward PIN purchases only, some reward signature purchases only, and some reward both.

A retailer also may allow customers making a PIN transaction to ask for cash back on top of the total amount of their purchase, so they don’t have to make a separate trip to an ATM. However, you may be charged a small fee for this convenience.

Online Purchases

You usually can use a debit card online, even if you do not see debit card listed as a payment method when you want to buy something online. But if there’s a credit network logo on the front of your debit card, you should be able to use your card for the transaction.

When a merchant’s website asks for a payment method, debit card users can choose “credit card,” and then enter their debit card account number, expiration date, and three-digit security code to have the purchase processed as a signature transaction. A PIN transaction won’t be a payment option online.

Automatic Payments

A debit card also can be used to make automatic payments on monthly bills, such as student loans, car loans, subscriptions and memberships, and utility bills.

To set up automatic debit payments, the card holder provides the company with a debit card account number, expiration date, and CCV/CVC and authorizes future electronic withdrawals. The payment can be the same amount every month, or, if the amount is likely to vary a bit from month to month (as utility bills generally do), the card holder can specify a range.

With automatic debit payments, card holders give businesses permission to take payments from their account, which is different from arranging with the bank to make authorized recurring payments. In both cases, however, it can be important to track those payments and be sure the transactions are accurate.

Is There a Difference Between a Debit Card and an ATM Card?

There are differences between a debit card and an ATM card to note:

•   A debit card can be used to make withdrawals at an ATM, but it also can be used to make purchases and to pay bills.

•   An ATM card can be used only to get funds from a checking or savings account at an ATM.

Is It Better to Use a Credit Card or a Debit Card?

As with most financial tools, it’s up to each individual to decide what works best for them. Here are some ways to evaluate the pros and cons of using a debit card vs. a credit card.

Budgeting

Using a debit card for a majority of transactions may make it easier to stick to your budget, because you can spend only what you have in your account. You aren’t borrowing money as you would with a credit card, so you may find yourself paying more attention to every purchase and whether you can really afford it.

With a credit card, it can be tempting to pay now and worry about the bill later. If you’re super disciplined about paying off your entire credit card balance every month, that might work for you.

But if, like many Americans, you’re likely to carry forward a balance on your credit card (or cards) every month, the debt could eventually grow out of control with interest.

Convenience

Both debit and credit cards are easy to use, but there are a few ways in which debit cards may have an edge when it comes to convenience.

•   It’s easier and cheaper to get quick cash with a debit card. You can get a cash advance with a credit card, but you may have to pay a hefty fee and a higher interest rate on the advance. And with a cash advance, you could be charged interest starting on the day you receive the money. There’s no grace period as there is when you make a purchase with a credit card.

•   You may be able to get a physical cash advance when making a purchase. That benefit usually isn’t available with a credit card.

•   It’s generally easier to get a debit card than a credit card. Most financial institutions will automatically give customers a debit card when they open an account. Getting a credit card can be harder, especially if you’re under 18, don’t have any verifiable income, have poor (or no) history with credit, or lack the typically required identification documents. The requirements are tougher for credit cards because lenders want to be sure their borrowers are capable of repaying their debts.

Penalty Fees

No matter what kind of card you use, debit or credit, you could face a penalty fee if you spend more money than you currently have available.

With a debit card, you may incur an overdraft fee if you spend more than you have in your account (when making a signature purchase, for example, or when using autopay).

With a credit card, you could face an over-limit fee if you push your balance over your credit limit, a late-payment fee if you fail to make your minimum monthly payment, or a returned payment fee if for some reason your payment isn’t accepted.

Rewards

Credit cards can be more likely to offer extra perks than debit cards, such as cash back rewards or points that can be used for travel, though some debits do offer points and rewards.

Spending Limits

One of the things that can make a debit card really useful is that it’s difficult to spend more than you have. But that also can be a drawback if you need to make an expensive purchase. Even if you have a hefty amount of money in your account, you may encounter a daily spending limit when using a debit card.

Those daily limits are meant to protect account holders by limiting the amount fraudsters could spend with a stolen debit card. But if you aren’t aware you have a limit or don’t know what the limit is, you could get an unpleasant surprise when making a major purchase. Don’t know what a debit card’s limit is? Ask your bank.

If you find out you have a debit limit and feel it’s too low, you may be able to request an increase.

Of course, credit cards have spending limits, too, in the form of available credit. Those who go over their credit limit could have their card declined, or they might have to pay a fee. Credit card users can check their monthly statement online or in person, or call customer service to see where they stand.

Building Credit

This may seem like a bit of irony, but even though consumers may be trying to be financially responsible by using a debit card whenever they can, they won’t be directly building their credit score.

Lenders often use credit scores to determine if a person qualifies for a loan, a credit card, or a better interest rate when borrowing money. It reflects an individual’s past credit history and shows how well they’ve handled credit in the past.

When someone uses a debit card to pay for goods and services, the money is coming from their own account, so it doesn’t impact their borrowing record. If you use a debit card to stay out of debt and to make car or student loan payments on time, though, it might indirectly help your credit standing.

Safety

A debit card is linked to your bank account, so if a thief gets hold of your physical card or just your card number, any money they take is yours, not the bank’s, as would be the case with a stolen credit card.

And that could cause a lot of problems if you don’t notice and report the problem swiftly, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Debit card use is protected by the Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA), which gives consumers the right to challenge fraudulent charges. But card holders have to act with some speed to get full federal protection.

And those protections aren’t quite as substantial as the federal law that covers credit card theft, which is the Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA).

If your debit card is lost or stolen, you could have zero liability if you report it before any unauthorized charges occurred. If you report a lost or stolen card within two business days, your loss may be limited to $50. But if you wait more than 60 calendar days after you receive your statement to make a report, you could lose all the money a thief drains from any account linked to your debit card.

That may sound scary, but if your debit card is backed by a credit card network (such as Visa or Mastercard), you likely have the same zero-liability protections credit card users have.

Recommended: 50/30/20 Budget Calculator

Debit Card Alternatives

If you don’t have a debit card or prefer not to use one, here are some options:

•   Cash: It’s still a form of payment that’s accepted at many retail locations.

•   A check: For paying bills or making purchases (typically from smaller vendors), you may be able to write a check.

•   Prepaid cards (also called prepaid debit cards in some cases): Available at various retail stores, these cards hold the amount of cash you put on them. Some are meant for one-time use. Others can be reloaded with additional funds through an app, direct deposit, money transfer, or with cash at a store that offers this service.

Prepaid cards usually work at any ATM or retail location that accepts the card’s payment network. However, there are pros and cons of prepaid debit cards. They tend to come with more fees and fewer protections than traditional debit cards.

The Takeaway

Debit cards are typically offered along with a checking account. You can use a debit card to quickly get cash, either from an ATM or by using the cash back function offered by many merchants. You can also use your debit card to purchase goods and services and even use it for autopay. Because you are using the cash you have on deposit, you don’t accrue any interest fees, but you are likely not building your credit either. These cards can be a convenient aspect of your daily financial life.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

Better banking is here with SoFi, named the #1 Bank in the U.S. for the fourth year in a row by Forbes (2026).* Enjoy up to 3.10% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

Are there debit card fees?

Typically, debit card use does not incur fees, but if you use your card at a non-network ATM to withdraw cash, you could be hit with a fee. Also, if you overdraft your account when swiping, that could incur charges. Lastly, the checking account that it’s connected to may or may not be fee-free.

What do the numbers on a debit card mean?

The numbers on a debit card are similar to the numbers on a credit card. They identify the issuer involved and uniquely capture your account number.

Are debit cards safe?

Debit cards are typically safe, but they can be stolen or lost, which could allow someone to make unauthorized transactions, plus the hackers of the world are usually trying to steal people’s information. That said, using a PIN helps protect transactions, and if you report the loss or theft of your debit card within two business days, your liability should be capped at $50. Some cards offer zero-liability protection.

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This content is for educational and informational purposes only. The products, services, or features discussed may not currently be available via the SoFi platform. Any references to third-party products, services, or companies do not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or solicitation by SoFi. Readers should independently evaluate their options and consider their individual financial needs and circumstances before making any decisions. ©2026 SoFi Technologies, Inc. All rights reserved.

SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2026 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

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