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Do you pay all of your bills and then feel as if the amount of money you have left over for your financial goals is a big zero? Unfortunately, many Americans live paycheck to paycheck (78% of us, according to a 2025 Getting Paid In America survey conducted by PayrollOrg), and economic trends such as inflation can strain even the most financially stable households.

It’s a frustrating feeling not to have cash to put towards longer-term goals like, say, buying a house or retirement. While every person’s financial circumstances differ, your budget should allow room for important goals, such as building an investment account or padding out an emergency fund.

The question is, how much extra money should you have after paying your bills? The answer will depend on your income, expenses, and financial goals. Here’s a closer look.

What Is a Good Amount of Money to Have After Paying Bills?

Everyone’s financial circumstances are different, so it’s hard to pinpoint a good amount of leftover money after bills. For example, you might have a medical bill weighing down your otherwise healthy budget. Or you could have limited income as a student or retiree.

In most cases, it’s vital to prioritize spending on your needs and stay motivated when paying off debt. You’ll also want to start stashing away cash for other goals.

With this perspective in mind, the 50/30/20 rule represents a good way to allocate money. The numbers act as a guide: 50% of your take-home income pays for necessary expenses like food, housing, and debts. Unnecessary expenses, like entertainment or dining out, are considered wants, not needs, and they account for the next 30%. Finally, 20% of your income goes toward investments and savings (as well as debt payments beyond the minimum).

Based on this framework, it’s recommended to have at least 20% of your income left after paying all of your essential and nonessential expenses, which will allow you to save for both short- and long-term goals.

Tips for Managing Your Bills

Sometimes, though, putting aside 20% of your paycheck can be a real challenge. Here are some strategies that can help you pay your bills and still have some money leftover to put towards your goals.

Getting to the Root Cause

If you often scramble to make it to payday, there’s likely a problem lurking in how your income and expenses are aligning. Fortunately, dozens of apps and banking tools are available to help you see where each dollar goes every month. Of course, you could also keep paper receipts and bill statements the old-fashioned way. Either way, keeping tabs on your cash flow can show you if you’re spending too much at restaurants or if you should up your income through a new job or a low-cost side hustle.

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Organizing Your Bills

Most of us have monthly obligations. One thing that can help you get on top of those living expenses is to take some time to organize your bills. For example, you might make a master list of all of your monthly bills, listing the amounts and when payment is due. It’s also a good idea to set up automatic bill payment — this ensures everything gets paid on time and helps you avoid late fees and interest. Just be sure you have enough funds in your checking account to cover these debits so you don’t wind up overdrafting your account (and triggering bank fees).

What Are the Bills That Are Necessary to Pay?

The following bills are essential for the average American household:

•   Rent or mortgage for housing

•   Food and toiletries

•   Utilities such as gas, water, and electricity, as well as WiFi

•   Transportation expenses, such as a car, vehicle upkeep, or bus pass

•   Minimum debt payments on student loans or credit cards

•   Premiums for health coverage, car insurance, and renters/homeowners insurance

Identifying these bills as top priority and knowing how much of your paycheck they account for can help you budget better. It can help you answer the question “How much extra money should I have after bills?” and hopefully tweak your spending to make sure you can save.

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Which Bills Are Expenses That Can Potentially Be Canceled?

Cutting back on luxuries and treats can be painful, but there’s no feeling quite as rewarding as ending the month with your bills paid and a substantial deposit to your retirement account with money to spare. If you need to make room in your budget, consider canceling the following expenses:

•   Cable television or streaming subscriptions you rarely watch

•   Smartphone upgrades and high data plans

•   Gym or workout memberships

•   Shopping memberships

•   Digital cloud services

•   Overly expensive gifts for holidays and birthdays

•   Dining out and takeout

•   Cigarettes, vapes, and alcohol

•   Items that you can buy used instead of new, such as clothing, books, and more

Budgeting All Expenses

One of the best ways to ensure that you can cover your bills and still have money leftover is to set up a simple budget. A budget will act as a spending and saving plan to help you stay on track.

To do this, you’ll need to comb through your bank and credit card statements from the last several months and list all of your monthly expenses, including both necessary and unnecessary spending. Next, you’ll want to tally up your average monthly income. Once you see how your cash inflows and outflows line up, you may find that you need to make some adjustments in your spending.

Getting Another Job or Side Hustle

If you reduce your bills to a minimum but still experience financial challenges, picking up a side hustle can help you make ends meet. Whether you find a part-time job with an employer or work independently for a company like a ride-sharing or food delivery app, an extra 10 to 15 hours weekly can make a substantial difference in your budget. On the other hand, if your day job meets all your expenses, a second job can help you beef up your retirement account or pay for an expensive hobby.

Tracking Your Spending

Coffees and checkout impulse purchases at the grocery store can stealthily ding your budget. Luckily, there are more apps and tools than ever for tracking every expense. You can ditch pens, paper, and envelopes for a spending tracker on your phone or an Excel budget spreadsheet. Your bank might provide a free financial management app to help as well. Use these tools to help maximize how much money you should have leftover after bills.

Being Frugal for a Temporary Time

If you have lingering debts or want to save up a specific amount of money, being thrifty for several months can propel you into financial wellness. For example, you could make grocery shopping lists based on the coupons you clip each week. Or, if online shopping is your Achilles’ heel, you may want to unsubscribe from sales email lists for a while.

Some people enjoy monthly spending challenges. One month, you might say you are not going to spend any money on movies or music and put the savings towards your emergency fund. The next month, you might order takeout only twice and deposit the money you saved versus your usual habits into your travel fund.

Downsizing Your Possessions

Just as some monthly payments are unnecessary, you may have toys, gadgets, unused appliances, and more lying around that you don’t use regularly. You can pad your wallet by selling your stuff through Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or ThredUp. If selling online doesn’t appeal to you, a garage sale could be an option. These moves can help you have more money after bills.

Why Money Management Is Important

Life gets expensive, and making the most of your hard-earned dollars is crucial. Here are some principles to consider:

•   Failing to manage your money could cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars annually. Solid financial management can transform your spending habits, quality of life, and retirement income.

•   Money management can help you become more financially disciplined, which can be a key characteristic of successful people. The fortitude you build from sticking to a budget can help increase your overall stability in life.

•   Budgeting can help you achieve your future goals. For example, managing your money is vital for saving for your child’s education, affording a down payment for a house, or creating an emergency fund.

•   Actively managing your money can help you make more intelligent financial decisions. For example, you might have two main goals: building an emergency fund and repaying debts. However, you might only have enough income for one of the two. You can analyze your finances to understand whether it’s wiser to save or pay off debt.

•   Having your finances under control can reduce stress. Constantly worrying about money can present mental and physical health challenges. Getting a grip on your money is an excellent way to improve your life circumstances and create a bright future for you and your family.

The Takeaway

So, how much money should you have after paying bills?

Your financial situation will help determine the right amount of leftover money after bills. If you’re struggling to find leftover money at the end of the month, organizing your bills, setting up a budget, cutting back on nonessential spending, and picking up some extra income can help ensure you have money left after covering all of your bills. You can then use these funds to grow your savings, achieve your goals, and build wealth over time.

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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 do I avoid living paycheck to paycheck?

You can avoid living paycheck to paycheck by tracking your spending, following a budget, and cutting back on unnecessary expenses, such as entertainment and dining out. If you find you need more money to cover your bills, analyze your monthly expenses to explore how you might be able to redistribute your spending.

How do I get a second job when I do not have the time?

You might find a second job that fits into your off-hours, like walking dogs when you have free time on the weekend. Also, if you can find a gig that pays well enough, you may be able to reduce how much you’ll have to work. It’s a good idea to map out a schedule to help divide work from leisure and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Is the 50/30/20 budget the only good rule of thumb?

The 50/30/20 budget rule can be a helpful guideline. It states that you should spend up to 50% of your after-tax income on needs, 30% on wants, and 20% on saving and debt payments beyond the minimum, but it’s fine to play with the percentages. If you live in an area with a high cost of living, for example, you may be better off with a 70/20/10 budget. The idea is that you include saving as part of your monthly spending plan.

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Photo credit: iStock/RichVintage

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Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
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.
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SOBNK-Q326-058

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The average natural gas bill in the United States is $90 per month. Your monthly gas bills could vary significantly depending on the time of year, where you live, the size and age of your home, and other factors.

Read on for a breakdown of what can cause your gas bill to go up and down from one month to the next, how to budget for those price changes, and how you might be able to lower your costs in the future.

How Much Does a Gas Bill Cost Per Month on Average?

The average cost of gas per month in the U.S. is $90, according to 2026 data. Your household’s cost could be much lower or higher depending on your location and its cost of living by state, the size and age of your home, the appliances you use, inflation, and the ever-fluctuating cost of natural gas. Your bill might be much higher, for example, than that of a friend who has the same size house in a state with a warmer climate. And it could be less than what your next door neighbor pays if your home is smaller or more energy efficient.

Recommended: Does Net Worth Include Home Equity?

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Why Is My Gas Bill Higher Than Usual?

If your gas bill seems higher than usual, it could be that your provider is charging a higher rate. (You can check that by comparing two or more months’ worth of gas bills, or credit card statements if that’s how you pay your bills.) It could also be that you’re simply using more gas because it’s colder outside. Or maybe you’ve been taking more hot showers or running the dishwasher, clothes dryer, or gas fireplace more often. Working from home is a common reason that utility bills are sometimes higher.

If you can’t come up with a reasonable answer for the cost increase, you may want to talk to your gas provider or check your statement to see if your usage is up. But be prepared: The calculations that go into determining your monthly gas bill can be complicated.

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

Understanding the Monthly Cost of Gas

In the U.S., natural gas can be priced in a few different ways, including dollars per therm, dollars per British thermal unit (BTU), and dollars per cubic foot.

Here’s what you really need to know: According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the price residential customers pay for natural gas is determined by two major factors:

•   Commodity cost: The actual cost of the gas

•   Transmission and distribution costs: The costs involved with moving the natural gas from where it’s produced or stored to a local natural gas distribution utility, plus whatever it costs to deliver the gas to customers

If you live in a state with easy access to residential gas, the monthly rate you pay may be lower than if your utility has to transport the gas a long distance to reach you.

The price you ultimately pay for natural gas in your state, city, or subdivision may also be affected by state regulations, taxes and other charges, availability, seasonal consumer demand, and the amount of competition in your location. (By the way, there’s no relation between the cost of natural gas and the price of gasoline.)

Recommended: Budget Planner and Spending App

Average Gas Bill Based on Household Size

Knowing the natural gas rates in your area can help you understand why your bills might be higher or lower than you expected. But the size of your home and the number of people who live there can also influence your average monthly gas bill. Keeping these things in mind can help you predict your gas usage when you make a budget.

Prices can vary significantly by season, with costs rising if you need to stay warm in cold winter months. According to HomeGuide.com, monthly gas costs in winter can be $120-$200 versus $35-$50 in summer.

Here’s a rough estimate of what the average monthly cost of gas could be for various household sizes, based on calculations derived from current U.S. Energy Information Administration residential gas prices.

	Estimated Monthly Bill	Estimated Annual Bill
1 person	$41-$55	$492-$660
2 people	$65-$87	$780-$1,044
3-4 people	$94-123	$1,128-$1,476
5-6 people	$130-$167	$1,560-$2,004
7+ people/large home	$181-$239	$2,172-$2,868

Remember that your costs may be much different depending on how many gas appliances you have in your home, how warm you keep your home in the winter, what you keep the temperature set to on your water heater, and other factors.

Recommended: Should I Sell My House Now or Wait?

What Uses the Most Gas in a Home?

The top uses for natural gas in U.S. households are heating and water heating. But many homes also use gas for cooking, lighting an indoor or outdoor fireplace, drying clothes, or heating a pool. (Worth noting: Replacing home appliances can lead to greater energy efficiency.)

How Can I Lower My Gas Bill?

Even if you earn the average salary in the U.S., it may be challenging to afford your gas bill at times.

There are several steps you can take to lower your natural gas bill. (You may be interested in lowering your car’s gas bill, too.)

Get a Home Energy Assessment

A professional home energy auditor looks at your past bills for information about your energy use and inspects your home to pinpoint problem areas and offer money-saving suggestions. Your gas company may offer assessments to its customers, or you may be able to get help finding an energy audit program through your state or local government.

Balance Costs Across the Year

If your local utility offers a yearly budget plan, you may be able to spread out your costs so that your bill is roughly the same amount each month. This can keep bills from becoming overwhelming in months when you use more gas. Or you can use a money tracker app to determine your average monthly cost of gas and set aside the appropriate amount.

Lower Your Water Heater Temperature

When was the last time you even looked at your water heater? Lowering the temperature to 120 degrees can help you save money, prevent family members from accidentally scalding themselves, and protect your pipes., You can also purchase a special blanket or “jacket” to insulate your water heater and make it more efficient.

Look for Leaks

If your doors and windows are getting older, check whether cold air is coming in and warm air is escaping. Clear plastic film or weather stripping may be all you need to fix the problem.

Lower the Thermostat

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 68 degrees when you’re home during the winter and turning it down a few degrees more when you’re away. If you keep pretty standard hours, a programmable thermostat can ensure the house is comfortable when you get home from school or work. And if you work from home, you can lower the temp when you go to bed or pull on a sweater during the day.

One note: If you get hit with a super-high bill one month (say, due to a polar vortex triggering frigid temperatures), that may be time to dip into your emergency fund. It’s there to help you cover unexpected expenses

Assistance Programs to Help With Your Gas Bill

If you’re struggling to pay your gas bill, you may be able to get some help from a federal, state, or local government assistance program or from a nonprofit agency. Here are a couple options to consider:

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), operated through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, was created to help low-income households pay high home energy bills. Each state has its own rules regarding who is eligible for help and when and how to apply. (Assistance isn’t made directly to households.) For more information, go to the LIHEAP website.

Local Utility Company Programs

Some utility companies offer limited bill-paying assistance programs on their own or working alongside state agencies or nonprofit organizations. Check your local gas company’s website to see if they offer help or try giving them a call. Your gas company may take special circumstances into consideration when it comes to paying your bill.

SoCalGas, for example, offers past-due bill forgiveness, discounted rates, and extended payment dates for certain qualifying customers. The utility also works to provide one-time grants through their Gas Assistance Fund.

Recommended: Free Credit Score Monitoring

The Takeaway

The average cost of gas per month for a house is $90. The location, size, and age of your home — and, of course, the time of year — can affect your gas bill from one month to the next. So can the number of people in your household and the appliances you use. The rate you pay each month for gas may also fluctuate based on factors over which you have no control. All those things combined can mean that budgeting for your monthly gas bill requires some careful oversight.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

How much does the average person pay for gas each month?

The average household pays about $90 per month for natural gas. Your bill could vary significantly, however, based on location, home size, number of residents, your appliances, whether you work from home, and more.

How much should you budget for gas a month?

One way to determine how much to budget for gas each month is to track your spending, then calculate the average monthly amount based on past bills. You may want to budget an amount that’s a bit higher than in the past, just in case the winter is especially cold or gas rates go up. If you don’t end up needing the extra funds, you can put the money toward your emergency fund or another bill.

What’s the average price of natural gas in San Francisco?

According to UtilitiesLocal.com, residential natural gas prices in San Francisco decreased from March 2025 to March 2026. Rates went down by approximately 7% year over year.

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In 2026, the average cost of a wedding is approximately $36,000, according to data from Zola, a wedding registry platform. When you think about all that goes into a wedding, you may understand how the figure can get so high. There’s the venue (whether you book an event space or have a party tent in a backyard), food and drinks, music, photography and videography, the dress and the ring, hair and makeup, flowers, and more.

But whether you want to have a destination wedding or one at home, you’ll likely want to understand what others spend, whether the average expense accurately reflects what most people pay, and how you can develop and wrangle your own budget. Read on for the need-to-know info so you can plan for what may just be the happiest day of your life.

What Is the Average Cost of a Wedding?

As noted above, the average cost of a wedding ceremony and reception in 2026 is $36,000, according to Zola, a wedding registry platform. However, before thinking that you need to spend that much to get hitched, keep in mind a bit of basic math about average vs. median wedding costs.

•   Averages can be inflated by a few super-luxe weddings in the mix. To get the average, you add up the data points and then divide by the number of data points.

For instance, if 8 out of 10 people spend $10,000 for their big day and 2 people spend $125,000 each, the average cost would be $33,000. Even though just two couples splashed out, it looks as if everyone is spending a sum of over $30K.

•   Because of how a few high figures can skew data, it may be more meaningful to look at the median cost. When a median is calculated, the data points are arranged from smallest to largest, and the median is the middle value for sets with an odd number of data points. When there is an even number of data points, the median is the average of the middle two.

If you use the same values as above, the median would be $10,000 because you are only looking at the middle two values when the 10 data points are arrayed from smallest to largest. In other words, the big spenders get eliminated.

So what would the current median cost of a wedding be? SoFi research found that the median cost of a wedding is about $10,000.

Wedding costs will vary based on how elaborate the event is and the unique vendor and venue costs of the region.

And whether typical costs are closer to $10,000 or $36,000, that’s still a considerable investment, a five-figure amount to pull together or to finance with, say, a personal loan.

Average Wedding Cost by State

You’ve just learned that average wedding costs may be inflated vs. median costs. However, most of the world tallies data as averages. Here, you’ll see how much an average wedding costs by state, according to the most recent data from the wedding platform The Knot. Keep in mind that if you were to use medians, the dollar amounts could be significantly lower.

The price tag associated with this fantastic celebration for the couple and their friends and family differs by state. The variations may reflect how the cost of living by state can vary. This is where things stand as of 2026:

•   Alabama: $27,000

•   Alaska: $19,000

•   Arizona: $27,000

•   Arkansas: $19,000

•   California: $39,000

•   Colorado: $31,000

•   Connecticut: $42,000

•   Delaware: $39,000

•   District of Columbia: $42,480

•   Florida: $33,000

•   Georgia: $29,000

•   Hawaii: $33,000

•   Idaho: $18,000

•   Illinois: $38,000

•   Indiana: $24,000

•   Iowa: $21,000

•   Kansas: $20,000

•   Kentucky: $23,000

•   Louisiana: $34,000

•   Maine: $37,000

•   Maryland: $38,000

•   Massachusetts: $45,000

•   Michigan: $29,000

•   Minnesota: $28,000

•   Mississippi: $21,000

•   Missouri: $26,000

•   Montana: $21,000

•   Nebraska: $22,000

•   Nevada: $21,000

•   New Hampshire: $37,000

•   New Jersey: $57,000

•   New Mexico: $22,000

•   New York: $49,000

•   North Carolina: $29,000

•   North Dakota: $22,000

•   Ohio: $28,000

•   Oklahoma: $19,000

•   Oregon: $23,000

•   Pennsylvania: $36,000

•   Rhode Island: $51,000

•   South Carolina: $35,000

•   South Dakota: $21,000

•   Tennessee: $24,000

•   Texas: $31,000

•   Utah: $18,000

•   Vermont: $47,000

•   Virginia: $34,000

•   Washington: $26,000

•   West Virginia: $19,000

•   Wisconsin: $29,000

•   Wyoming: $17,000

Recommended: Wedding Cost Calculator

Average Wedding Cost in Major US Cities

In general, cities can be expensive. The cost of living can be higher because the demand is more intense.

Here, according to The Knot, is how much it costs on average to finance a wedding in some popular American cities, in descending order:

•   New York City: $88,000

•   Chicago: $54,000

•   San Francisco: $51,000

•   Boston: $51,000

•   Los Angeles: $45,000

•   Philadelphia: $40,000

•   Houston: $33,000

•   Charlotte: $32,000

•   Dallas: $32,000

•   Denver: $31,000

•   Seattle: $31,000

•   Phoenix: $27,000

•   Las Vegas: $22,000

•   El Paso: $20,000

Average Wedding Cost by Number of Guests

If you’re curious about how the number of guests will impact your wedding costs, consider this data about getting married from The Knot. In 2025, the most recent year studied, the average number of guests at a wedding was 117, up slightly from the year prior.

Of course, just because that’s the average number of attendees doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Some people with large families and circles of friends could have twice as many people, while others might prefer an intimate ceremony with just one or two dozen guests.

In terms of cost per guest, the latest figures are $292 per person. Once again, keep in mind that these are averages, and the median cost could be significantly lower. Nevertheless, that can be a considerable sum to pay. Looking into wedding loans could be a wise move.

Average Wedding Cost by Generation

Here’s a look at how age may impact your wedding costs. The wedding cost data from the most recent year studied (2025) reveals the following:

•   Average cost for Gen Z wedding: $30,000

•   Average cost for Millennial wedding: $39,600

•   Average cost for Gen X wedding: $23,000

Notably, Gen Z weddings tend to have higher guest counts on smaller budgets than Millennials because they reallocate where their money goes. And Gen Xers (born between 1965 and 1980) may have the lowest wedding costs since they are older and have other financial priorities than holding a blowout bash (such as education costs for their children from a prior marriage or a mortgage).

Average Wedding Cost by Month

The time of year during which you host your wedding can impact the cost. Interestingly, in generations past, June used to be the most popular and in-demand month for weddings. That’s a factor that can drive up costs. Now, September and October are the most popular months to get hitched.

However, there are regional differences in when people marry (for instance, a Florida wedding in February will be very different from one in Maine), and many other factors impact which date you’ll pick. Here’s a look at average costs by time of year to help you plan your budget well:

•   January-March wedding: $33,200

•   April-June wedding: $34,300

•   July-September wedding: $35,400

•   October-December wedding: $33,200

Recommended: The Cost of Being in Someone’s Wedding

The Takeaway

The current average cost of a wedding in the U.S., according to the data, is $36,000. However, median costs of a wedding reveal a significantly lower figure of $10,000 for the big day. Keep in mind that average costs are just that: an average made up of numerous data points. It’s not how much you will or must spend. Planning a wedding doesn’t have to be a budget breaker, and there are various ways to finance the event, including cash gifts from family and personal loans.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

SoFi’s Personal Loan was named a NerdWallet 2026 winner for Best Personal Loan for Large Loan Amounts.

FAQ

What is the average cost of a wedding in the United States compared to the rest of the world?

The average cost of a wedding in the U.S. is currently $36,000, and the median is $10,000. Wedding costs in America tend to be higher than elsewhere in the world, but figures vary tremendously depending on location, wedding size, and details of the ceremony and celebration.

What is the average cost of a destination wedding?

The current average cost of a destination wedding is $39,000, although the exact price can vary depending on where the wedding takes place, travel expenses, and size and style of the wedding.

How much should I plan to spend for a wedding with 100 guests?

Currently, the average cost per person for a wedding is $292, so a wedding for 100 guests would require a budget of $29,200.

What’s the best way to estimate the costs of a wedding?

In addition to looking at the data and talking to friends and wedding professionals, you can create a budget and research costs for your intended ceremony, such as venue rental, flowers, music, dress, catering, and more.

Are there different ways to pay for a wedding?

Yes, there are options for financing a wedding, including savings, gifts of money from family and friends, and securing a personal loan.

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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

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Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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A death cross is the X-shape created when a stock’s or index’s short-term moving average descends below the long-term moving average, possibly signaling a sell-off. The death cross typically shows up on a technical chart when the 50-day simple moving average (SMA) of a stock or index peaks, drops, and then crosses below the 200-day moving average.

Because the 50-day SMA is a short-term indicator it may be a stronger indicator of near-term volatility than the 200-day SMA, which has averaged in 200 days worth of prices. That said, both the 50-day moving average and the 200-day are, by definition, lagging indicators. Meaning: They only capture what has already happened. Still, some death crosses have appeared to forecast major recessions — although they can also send false signals.

What Is a Death Cross, Exactly?

A death cross is based on a technical analysis of a security’s price. The short-term average dropping below the long-term average to create an X-shape is the “cross”; the “death” part of the name refers to the ominous signal that such a crossing may send for individual securities or overall markets.

A death cross tends to form over the course of three separate phases:

•   First phase: In the first phase, the rising value of a security reaches its peak as the momentum dies down, and sellers begin to outnumber buyers.

•   Second phase: That brings on the second phase, in which the price of the security begins to decline to the point where the actual death cross occurs. That’s typically marked as being when the security’s 50-day moving average dips under the 200-day moving average.

•   Third phase: That crossing alerts the broader market to a potential bearish, long-term trend, which brings about the third and final phase of the death cross. In this phase, the stock may continue to lose value over a longer period.

If the dip following the cross is short-lived, and the stock’s short-term moving average moves back up over its long-term moving average, then the death cross is usually considered to be a false signal.

The death cross pattern is frequently used to identify potential trends in many asset classes. As a technical indicator, traders may apply it to individual stocks, major indices like the S&P 500, and commodities such as oil and gold.

What Does the Death Cross Tell Investors?

The death cross has helped predict some of some of the worst bear markets of the past 100 years: e.g., in 1929, 1938, 1974, and 2008. Nonetheless, because it’s a lagging indicator, meaning that it only reveals a stock’s past performance, it’s not 100% reliable.

Another criticism of the death cross is that the pattern sometimes won’t show up until a security’s price has fallen well below its peak. In order to alter a death cross calculation to see the downtrend a little sooner, some investors say that a death cross occurs when the security’s trading price (not its short-term moving average), falls under its 200-day moving average.

For experienced traders, investors, and analysts, a death cross pattern for a stock is most meaningful when combined with, and confirmed by, other technical indicators.

When interpreting the seriousness of a death cross, experienced investors will often look at a stock’s trading volume. Higher trading volumes during a death cross tend to suggest that more investors are selling into the death cross, and thus buying into the downward trend of the stock.

Investors may also look to technical momentum indicators to see how seriously to take a death cross. One of the most popular of these is the moving average convergence divergence (MACD), which takes the 26-day moving average of a stock and subtracts it from that stock’s 12-day moving average, to give investors a clearer idea of where a stock is trading than one that’s updated second by second.

Death Cross vs Golden Cross: Main Differences

The opposite of a death cross is known as a golden cross, which is also a technical momentum indicator. The golden cross indicator is when the 50-day moving average of a particular security moves higher than its 200-day moving average.

While the golden cross is broadly considered a signal of a bull market, it has some of the same characteristics as the death cross in that it’s essentially a lagging indicator. Experienced investors use the golden cross in conjunction with other technical indicators such as trading volume and MACD.

Is a Death Cross a Reliable Indicator?

As a lagging indicator, the death cross pattern may help provide a barometer of the broader stock market, especially when combined with other technical indicators. It preceded a number of severe downturns, such as the market crash of 1929.

But a death cross doesn’t always predict a broader downturn. Between 1929 and 2022, there have been 49 death crosses in the S&P 500 Index. In those instances, the index realized gains while in the death cross 36 times. And some analysts note when the S&P has reached a death cross, within 30 days it has seen gains 60% of the time.

How to Trade a Death Cross

A death cross is an indicator that investors may use to gauge whether a downturn in an asset, a stock, a sector or a market may be imminent. As such a death cross pattern may help to inform their trading strategy. It’s important to remember, however, that the pattern only shows past trends, and may not predict future trends. In addition, the death cross pattern has also appeared, in the past, prior to market rebounds.

As an investor, it’s equally important to use the death cross in conjunction with other indicators such as the MACD and trading volume, as well as other news and information related to the security you’re investing in.

The Takeaway

Although the ominous-sounding death cross stock pattern is valued by some analysts and investors as a way to foretell a downturn in a certain security or even the broader market, it’s not a guarantee of future performance. The main elements of the death cross — a stock’s short-term moving average and long-term moving average — are lagging indicators that may or may not predict a bearish turn of events.

The typical investor may not use or even look for death crosses as a part of their strategy. But knowing, on a basic level, what the term refers to, and why it may be important to the markets, is a good idea.

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FAQ

Is the death cross a reliable predictor of a crash?

No. A death cross relies on historical data, meaning the cross often occurs after significant sell-off has already occurred. While it has predicted some crashes, historically, it has also appeared as an indicator when no crash ensued.

How is a death cross calculated?

It is calculated by plotting the 50-day moving average of a security or an index as well as the 200-day moving average. The cross occurs when the 50-day average drops below the 200-day average.

Can a death cross pattern occur in any market?

The death cross pattern is frequently used as a technical indicator across different asset classes. Traders may apply it to individual stocks, major indices, commodities, and other assets to identify signals of a potential trend.

What is the opposite of a death cross?

The opposite of a death cross is called a golden cross, which occurs when a short-term moving average surpasses a long-term moving average. A golden cross pattern may indicate a shift to bullish momentum and the potential for rising prices.

How do professional investors use the death cross?

The death cross is one of many technical signals — such as trading volume and moving average convergence divergence — that experienced traders may consider before buying or selling. It can help provide important context around the momentum of a given stock, market, or the broader economy.

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Photo credit: iStock/goir

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.
S&P 500 Index: The S&P 500 Index is a market-capitalization-weighted index of 500 leading publicly traded companies in the U.S. It is not an investment product, but a measure of U.S. equity performance. Historical performance of the S&P 500 Index does not guarantee similar results in the future. The historical return of the S&P 500 Index shown does not include the reinvestment of dividends or account for investment fees, expenses, or taxes, which would reduce actual returns.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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A 401(k) loan allows you to borrow money from your retirement savings and pay it back to yourself over time, with interest. While this type of loan can provide quick access to cash at a relatively low cost, it comes with some downsides.

Read on to learn about borrowing against a 401(k), how 401(k) loans work, when it may be appropriate to borrow from your 401(k), and when you might want to consider an alternative source of funding.

Can I Borrow From My 401(k)?

Borrowing from a 401(k) is possible under many 401(k) plans. In general, it’s wise to let your retirement savings stay invested so you’ll have that money for the future, but in some circumstances, borrowing against a 401(k) could make sense. For instance, if you find yourself in a situation where you need money immediately and have no other options, you may want to consider a 401(k) loan.

A 401(k) loan lets you borrow money from your retirement savings account and pay it back over time with interest. You’re essentially paying back yourself — the money you borrow against your 401(k) goes back into your 401(k) account with interest.

Not all 401(k) plans offer loans, so check with your plan administrator to find out if yours does.

What Is a 401(k) Loan and How Does It Work?

A 401(k) loan is a provision that allows participants in a 401(k) plan to borrow money from their own retirement savings. Here are some key points to understand about 401(k) loans.

Limits on How Much You Can Borrow

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) sets limits on the maximum amount that can be borrowed from a 401(k) plan. Typically, you can borrow up to 50% of your account balance or $50,000, whichever is less, within a 12-month period.

Spousal Permission

Some plans may require borrowers to get the signed consent of their spouse before a 401(k) loan can be approved.

You Repay the Loan With Interest

Unlike a withdrawal, a 401(k) loan requires repayment. You typically repay the loan (plus interest) via regular payroll deductions, over a specified period, usually five years. These payments go into your own 401(k) account.

401(k) Loans vs Early Withdrawals

When you withdraw money from your 401(k), these distributions generally count as taxable income. And, if you’re under the age of 59½, you typically also have to pay a 10% penalty on the amount withdrawn.

You may be able to avoid a withdrawal penalty, if you have a heavy and immediate financial need, such as:

•   Medical care expenses for you, your spouse, or your children

•   Costs directly related to the purchase of your principal residence (excluding mortgage payments)

•   College tuition and related educational fees for the next 12 months for you, your spouse, or your children

•   Payments necessary to prevent eviction from your home or foreclosure

•   Funeral expenses

•   Certain expenses to repair damage to your principal residence

While the above scenarios can help you avoid a penalty, income taxes will still be due on the withdrawal. Also, keep in mind that an early withdrawal involves permanently taking funds out of your retirement account, depleting your nest egg.

With a 401(k) loan, on the other hand, you borrow money from your retirement account and are obligated to repay it over a specified period. The loan, plus interest, is returned to your 401(k) account. However, during the term of the loan, the money you borrow won’t enjoy any potential growth.

Recommended: Can I Use My 401(k) to Buy a House?

Should You Borrow from Your 401(k)?

It depends. In some cases, borrowing against a 401(k) can make sense, while in others, it may not. Here’s a closer look.

When to Consider a 401(k) Loan

•   You’re in an emergency situation. If you’re facing a genuine financial emergency, such as medical expenses or imminent foreclosure, a 401(k) loan may provide a timely solution. It can help you address immediate needs without relying on more expensive forms of borrowing.

•   You have expensive debt. If you have high-interest credit card debt, borrowing from your 401(k) at a lower interest rate can potentially save you money and help you pay off your debt more efficiently.

When to Avoid a 401(k) Loan

•   You want to preserve your long-term financial health. Depending on the plan, you may not be able to contribute to your 401(k) for the duration of your loan. This can take away from your future financial security (you may also miss out on employer matches). In addition, money removed from your 401(k) will not be able to potentially grow or benefit from the effects of compound returns.

•   You may change jobs in the next several years. If you anticipate leaving your current employer in the near future, taking a 401(k) loan can have adverse consequences. Unpaid loan balances may become due upon separation, leading to potential tax implications and penalties.

Pros and Cons of Borrowing From Your 401(k)

Given the potential long-term cost of borrowing money from a bank — or taking out a high-interest payday loan or credit card advance — borrowing from your 401(k) can offer some real advantages. Just be sure to weigh the pros against the cons.

Pros

•   Efficiency: You can often obtain the funds you need more quickly when you borrow from your 401(k) versus other types of loans.

•   No credit check: There is no credit check or other underwriting process to qualify you as a borrower because you’re withdrawing your own money. Also, the loan is not listed on your credit report, so your credit won’t take a hit if you default.

•   Low fees: Typically, the cost to borrow money from your 401(k) is limited to a small loan origination fee. There are no early repayment penalties if you pay off the loan early.

•   You pay interest to yourself: With a 401(k) loan, you repay yourself, so interest is not lost to a lender.

Cons

•   Borrowing limits: Generally, you are only able to borrow up to 50% of your vested account balance or $50,000, whichever is less.

•   Loss of potential growth: When you borrow from your 401(k), you specify the investment account(s) from which you want to borrow money, and those investments are liquidated for the duration of the loan. Therefore, you lose any positive earnings that would have been produced by those investments for the duration of the loan.

•   Default penalties: If you don’t or can’t repay the money you borrowed on time, the remaining balance would be treated as a 401(k) disbursement under IRS rules. This means you’ll owe taxes on the balance. And if you’re younger than 59 ½, you will likely also have to pay a 10% penalty.

•   Leaving your job: If you leave your current job, you may have to repay your loan in full in a very short time frame. If you’re unable to do that, you will face the default penalties outlined above.

Alternatives to Borrowing From Your 401(k)

Because borrowing from your 401(k) comes with some drawbacks, here’s a look at some other ways to access cash for a large or emergency expense.

Emergency fund: Establishing and maintaining an emergency fund (ideally, with at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses) can provide a financial safety net for unexpected expenses. Having a dedicated fund can reduce the need to tap into your retirement savings.

Home equity loans or lines of credit: If you own a home, leveraging the equity through a home equity loan or line of credit can provide a cost-effective method of accessing extra cash. Just keep in mind that these loans are secured by your home — should you run into trouble repaying the loan, you could potentially lose your house.

Negotiating with creditors: In cases of financial hardship, it can be worth reaching out to your creditors and explaining your situation. They might be willing to reduce your interest rates, offer a payment plan, or find another way to make your debt more manageable.

Personal loans: Personal loans are available from online lenders, local banks, and credit unions and can be used for virtually any purpose. These loans are typically unsecured (meaning no collateral is required) and come with fixed interest rates and set terms. Depending on your lender, you may be able to get funding within a day or so.

The Takeaway

Borrowing against your 401(k) can provide short-term financial relief, but there are some downsides to consider, such as borrowing limits, potential loss of growth, and penalties for defaulting.

It’s a good idea to carefully weigh the pros and cons before you take out a 401(k) loan. You may also want to consider alternatives such as using nonretirement savings like an emergency fund or taking out a personal loan or a home equity loan or line of credit.

Considering a personal loan? SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

SoFi’s Personal Loan was named a NerdWallet 2026 winner for Best Personal Loan for Large Loan Amounts.

FAQ

What is a 401(k) loan?

A 401(k) loan allows you to borrow money up to a certain amount from your retirement savings account and pay it back over time with interest. The money you repay goes back into your 401(k) account.

How do 401(k) loans work?

A 401(k) loan allows you to borrow money from your 401(k) account. Not every plan allows 401(k) loans, but many do. There are limits on how much you can borrow — generally up to 50% of your account balance or $50,000, whichever is less, within a 12-month period. In addition, you may have to get your spouse’s permission to take out a 401(k) loan, and you need to repay the amount you borrowed with interest, typically within five years.

When should I consider taking a 401(k) loan?

It’s generally best not to touch money in a retirement savings account if possible so it can potentially keep growing to help fund your future. However, in some situations, it may make sense to take out a 401(k) loan — for instance, if you’re facing an immediate medical emergency or you’re trying to pay off extensive high-interest debt, such as credit card debt. If you have no other financial options, a 401(k) loan might be something to consider.

How do 401(k) loans differ from early 401(k) withdrawals?

With a 401(k) loan, you borrow money from your retirement account and are required to repay it, with interest, to your account over a specified period, typically within five years. An early 401(k) withdrawal, on the other hand, is when you withdraw money from your 401(k) before the age of 59½. These distributions generally count as taxable income. And because you’re under the age the IRS specifies for qualified retirement withdrawals, you typically will also have to pay a 10% penalty on the amount you took out.

There are some possible exceptions to the early withdrawal penalty. If you have a heavy and immediate financial need, such as medical expenses, for example, you may be able to avoid the 10% penalty on an early 401(k) withdrawal.

What are some alternatives to borrowing from my 401(k)?

Alternatives to borrowing from your 401(k) include taking the money from an emergency savings fund, taking out a home equity loan if you have equity in your house, taking out a personal loan, or negotiating with your creditors to see if they might be willing to put you on a payment plan.

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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. 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.

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