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A personal loan origination fee is a one-time, upfront charge that a lender collects to cover the costs of processing and setting up a loan. They typically range from 1% to 10% of the loan amount, but you may see ads for zero origination fees. The specific amount depends on factors relating to both the lender and the borrower.

Personal loans can be a good way to receive a lump sum of cash to be used for almost any purpose, but it’s worth noting that there are usually fees beyond the interest you pay. Learn more about origination fees here.

Personal Loan Origination Fees Defined

Personal loan origination fees are an upfront, one-time charge by the lender that covers the costs of processing the loan, including the application, underwriting, and funding.

Typically, lenders charge origination fees as a percentage of the total loan amount. It’s usually 1% to 6% of the principal, but origination fees may go as high as 8%, 10%, or even 12% of the loan amount. In some instances, a lender may charge a flat fee instead.

Not every personal loan has an origination fee, and lenders may differ in how they require consumers to pay it, if it’s included.

Recommended: Should I Get a $5,000 Personal Loan?

How Do Personal Loan Origination Fees Work?

If a lender charges an origination fee for a personal installment loan, it’s usually a percentage of the loan amount, somewhere between 1% on the low end and 10% on the high end. For example, if you take out a personal loan for $15,000 and there’s a 5% origination fee, you’ll pay $750 in fees.

Lenders typically subtract this fee from the total loan amount. In our example, that means they’d offer you a loan for $15,000, subtract $750 from the amount, and give you $14,250. But you’d still have to repay $15,000, plus interest. If you truly need the full $15,000, it’s a good idea to request more than $15K to ensure that you have enough funds after the origination fee is deducted.

In other cases, a lender may require that origination fees be paid out-of-pocket by the borrower, or the fees are added to the loan total. Ask your lender to be sure of their policy.

In this case, the personal loan origination fee would be reflected in the APR, or annual percentage rate, calculation. That’s why experts often suggest comparing loans by their APRs. The APR, which includes the interest rate plus fees, represents the annual cost of a loan and will give you a true picture of what you’ll pay over the life of the loan.

How Much Are Personal Loan Origination Fees Usually?

Personal loan origination fees typically vary between 1% and 10% of the total loan amount. Depending on how much you’re borrowing, this fee can get extraordinarily high.

For example, if you borrow $100,000 with an 8% origination fee, that’s an extra $8K you’re paying on top of the loan amount and interest.

Recommended: What to Know Before You Borrow Money Online

How Are Origination Fees Calculated?

Lenders may advertise a set origination fee or a percentage range. If it’s the latter, how exactly do they determine the percentage you’ll pay?

1. Credit Score and Financial History

Unsurprisingly, lenders primarily consider your credit score and debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. The stronger your credit score and the lower your DTI ratio, the lower origination fees you might be offered. Lenders that don’t charge origination fees at all may have strict requirements that only borrowers with good or excellent credit can meet.

2. Loan Amount and Term Length

Lenders may also consider the length and size of how the personal loan works. Having a cosigner with good credit can help reduce your fees. In addition, lenders may ask your reason for borrowing or use other information from your application when setting your fees.

3. Lender Policies and Market Conditions

The lender’s policies may impact how much you’ll pay in origination fees. Some may feature a 0% offer to attract new clients; others may earn money by charging a double-digit fee.

Market conditions can also impact rates. When lenders need to compete aggressively to win customers, they may drop their fees. Conversely, when rates are high and it may seem riskier to lend, financial institutions may raise the origination fees they charge.

Recommended: Personal Loan Calculator

When Is an Origination Fee a Dealbreaker?

It’s wise to compare the loan APRs, which represent your total annual costs. A loan with no origination fee but a higher interest rate may wind up costing you more in the long run; comparing APRs can help you figure it out.

So when is a personal loan origination fee a dealbreaker? If the fee makes your total cost of borrowing higher than another offer, you should consider the better loan offer.

All lenders are required to disclose their fees as part of the Truth in Lending Act. If a lender advertises no origination fees, it’s a good idea to check the fine print to see if they’ve disguised the fee with a look-alike fee, like an “administrative” or “application” fee. If a lender does this and it gives you bad vibes, go with your gut — you should always feel good about the lender you choose.

Ways to Minimize or Avoid Origination Fees

If you, like most people, want to pay as little in terms of origination fees as possible while still getting a good overall deal, consider the following.

1. Comparing Lenders and Shopping Around

Don’t sign on with the first quote you get, nor assume that a “no origination fees” offer is the best. Shop around, and see the total cost of a loan: what you will pay in terms of interest and fees. That way, you can feel confident that you are getting the best deal.

2. Negotiating Loan Terms

You can ask a lender to work with you on loan costs. They may be willing to make reductions in fees in order to snag your business. This can be especially true if you have a solid credit profile.

3. Considering No-Fee Loan Options

As noted above, some lenders offer no-fee loan options, which can help with affordability. But do your research: Take a close look to make sure that the overall cost of the loan suits your needs. You don’t want to sign on to a no-fee loan with a higher interest rate that makes the loan more expensive overall. Also read to fine print to see if origination fees are actually being charged but appear under a different name, such as application fees.

The Takeaway

When you are thinking about getting a personal loan, origination fees may be charged; these are typically between 1% and 10% of the loan amount, though some no-fee loans may be offered (and flat fees as well). The origination fee you are assessed may vary with the lender’s policies, your credit profile, and market conditions. It’s important to consider how origination fees can impact the overall cost of your personal loan.

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.

FAQ

How much are personal loan origination fees typically?

Personal loan origination fees typically range between 1% and 10% of the loan amount. Factors that impact rates include the lender’s policies, your credit score, and market conditions.

Do private loans always have origination fees?

Many private lenders charge origination fees, but that is not always the case. Before taking out any loan with a private lender, it’s a good idea to compare origination fees and APRs.

Can origination fees be negotiated?

You can often negotiate origination fees for certain types of loans, such as mortgages and personal loans. Just be sure that lower origination fees don’t mean higher interest rates and negate any savings. You’ll be in the best position to negotiate fees with a solid credit profile.

Are origination fees refundable if I pay off my loan early?

Generally, origination fees are not refundable if you pay off a loan early, according to Experian. However, you may be able to get a partial refund from some lenders.

What are other personal loan fees to consider?

In addition to interest and origination fees, personal loans may collect application fees, late fees, and returned payment fees.

Photo credit: iStock/lechatnoir

SoFi Loan Products
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.

SOPL-Q225-034

Thinking about installing a new deck, replacing a front door, or even adding an extra bedroom to your home to help increase its resale value? Considering that your home is one of the biggest investments you’re likely to ever make, it makes sense that you’d be interested in increasing its value with some upgrades.

But as you probably guessed, not all remodeling projects provide the same return on investment (ROI).

Using Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value 2024 report, which compares the average cost of 23 remodeling projects in 150 housing markets, let’s look at some of the most popular home improvements based on estimated ROI, time commitment, and cost.

Things to Consider Before Starting a Home Improvement Project

It’s important to note that national averages only tell part of the story. Labor and supply costs, styles, and consumer preferences can vary by location. So before you dive into a project, you might want to consider hiring a contractor, real estate agent, or appraiser to come to your house and give an opinion on which upgrades might provide the most value based on where you live.

You may also want to factor in any immediate needs that a remodeling project can help satisfy. Let’s say, for instance, you’d like to add an extra bathroom. While you may only recoup part of your expenses, having an additional washroom may be worth the cost of a renovation.

Top Home Improvement Projects to Help Increase Your Home Value

Looking to prioritize your wish list? These remodeling projects earned top spots on the Cost vs. Value report.

Garage Door Replacement

Average Cost: $4,513

Resale Value: $8,751

Costs Recouped: 193.9%

General Time Commitment: A few days

Removing an old garage door and replacing it with an attractive, sturdy new one could return every dollar of your initial investment — and then some, according to the Cost vs. Value report. It’s an effective way to improve your home’s appearance from the outside while increasing your home’s functionality for years to come.

With an average cost of $4,513, which includes the door and the cost of labor, it’s also a relatively affordable renovation. While most homeowners would likely hire someone to help install the new garage door, it is something that you could potentially do on your own (with the help of a friend) over the course of a weekend.

If you hire someone to install the door for you, they will likely come to your home twice: first, to take measurements and give you a quote, and then again to install the door.

Entry Door Replacement (steel)

Average Cost: $2,355

Resale Value: $4,430

Cost Recouped: 188.1%

General Time Commitment: One week

A new, safe front door is an attractive quality to prospective homebuyers. Replacing your entry door and jambs with a steel door, “including clear dual-pane half-glass panel, jambs, and aluminum threshold with composite stop,” should get you a good bang for your buck, according to the Cost vs. Value report.

Even better, you and a friend can probably handle installation on your own, though you can certainly hire an installation expert. If you decide to go the pro route, they’ll likely need to come to your home to take initial measurements and then return for the installation. Another option is to measure and order the door yourself and just get help with the installation.

Recommended: 32 Inexpensive Ways to Refresh Your Home

Manufactured Stone Veneer

Average Cost: $11,287

Resale Value: $17,291

Cost Recouped: 153.2%

General Time Commitment: One month

Removing the vinyl siding and adding a stone veneer to the bottom third of your home’s street-facing façade is an effective way to help increase the value of your home, returning 102.3% of the cost of renovation. First impressions matter when it comes to selling a home, and stone veneer is a popular look right now.

Whether you tackle this project yourself or hire a handyperson to help with the installation, this project will take several days to complete. If you choose to hire someone, understand that the construction days might not be successive, so the exterior of your home could be under construction for several weeks to a month or longer.

Minor Kitchen Remodel (Midrange)

Average Cost: $27,492

Resale Value: $26,406

Cost Recouped: 96.1%

General Time Commitment: Four to eight months

When it comes to kitchen remodels, less may be more, at least when it comes to ROI. According to the Cost vs. Value report, major kitchen remodels recoup anywhere from 38% to 49.5% of costs. Meanwhile, a smaller upgrade recoups 96.1% of costs.

What does a minor remodel include? Think faster-turnaround jobs like installing a new sink and faucet or replacing items like cabinet fronts, cooktop, oven range, refrigerator with new models, countertops, or floors.

When creating your budget, you’ll probably want to factor in the cost of expert help, such as an electrician, plumber, and contractor. You’ll also want to be realistic about how long you can devote to the project — and be without a working kitchen. Expect several months at minimum for a remodel.

Wood Deck Addition

Average Cost: $17,615

Resale Value: $14,596

Cost Recouped: 82.9%

General Time Commitment: Three to six months

Nothing beats enjoying family and friends on a deck in your backyard on a sunny day. Potential buyers are typically rightfully happy to pay extra for a deck, and a wooden deck installation could recoup half of what you spend. And ideally, you’ll get the chance to enjoy the deck before you sell your home.

A deck installation is a pretty large project. It will likely need to pass an inspection and adhere to your city’s building codes, and it could increase your property taxes and home insurance costs. So it pays to get the job done right the first time, which may mean enlisting the help of a designer or architect. These pros can map out an initial plan, and a contractor can handle the building.

An online home renovation cost calculator can help provide you with a rough idea of how much a wooden deck — and any other home upgrade project — could cost.

HVAC Conversion/Electrification

Average Cost: $18,800

Resale Value: $12,422

Costs Recouped: 66.1%

General Time Commitment: Anywhere from 1-2 days up to several days, depending on whether your home requires structural changes

Replacing a fossil fuel-burning HVAC system with one that runs on electricity isn’t cheap. Nor is it one to try to DIY. But according to the Cost vs. Value report, you could stand to get back roughly two-thirds of what you put in. Homeowners who decide to make the conversion may also notice a savings in their heating and cooling bills. And there are environmental benefits to consider as well.

Unless you’re a licensed HVAC technician, this is a project best suited for the professionals. Consider speaking with a few different HVAC installation teams to compare potential systems and cost options.

Remodeling Projects With the Lowest Potential ROI

While these upgrades may not deliver the biggest returns, they could still be worth exploring if they fit your budget and lifestyle needs.

Primary Bedroom or Bathroom Addition

Average Cost: $164,649 for midrange; $339,513 for upscale

Resale Value: $58,484 for midrange; $81,042 for upscale

Cost Recouped: 35.5% for midrange; 23.9% for upscale

General Time Commitment: Four to eight months

Adding on a primary bedroom or bathroom may enhance your living experience, but it might not add much to your bottom line. Despite the project’s hefty financial and time commitment, it generally fails to deliver even one-third of the investment.

However, while not a great return, a home addition project of this size could change to the value of your home. For example, a $300,000 home that adds a primary suite for $164,649 could potentially return about $58,000 on the investment. A home that sells for $358,000 instead of $300,000 is a 19.3% increase in the home’s value. If you were to get enough use from the addition to justify the other cost you can’t recoup, it could still be a fine investment.

Again, these figures are purely hypothetical, and the value of expanding your home can depend on a multitude of factors. And if you decide to move ahead with a primary bedroom or bathroom addition, you’ll want to think through how you’ll finance the project. Some options include applying for a home improvement loan, using home equity, dipping into your savings, or using credit cards.

Recommended: Homebuyer’s Guide

Bathroom Addition

Average Cost: $58,586 for midrange; $107,477 for upscale

Resale Value: $20,334 for midrange; $34,997 for upscale

Cost Recouped: 34.7% for midrange; 32.6% for upscale

General Time Commitment: Four to eight months

A bathroom remodel tends to be cheaper than a primary bathroom addition, and it generally sees a slightly better potential ROI. But again, a bathroom addition or any large remodeling project should be considered in terms of both ROI and what you want to get out of your home while you are living in it. And that’s a calculation that only you and your family can make.

The Takeaway

Home renovation shows make upgrades look quick and easy. And while sometimes they can be, in many cases, renovations can be costly and time-consuming. As you consider which ones to make, you will likely want to factor in your return on investment (ROI).

Not all remodeling projects provide the same level of ROI. Projects such as replacing a garage door or adding a stone veneer to your home’s façade tend to see better ROI than adding an extra primary bedroom or bathroom. But ROI is only one consideration. You should also need to consider what you want to get out of your home and whether the time and cost of taking on a big project are worth it.

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.

FAQ

What home improvements offer the most value?

According to the Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value 2024 report, the top three home improvement projects that have the best ROI are: replacing the garage door (193.9% of costs recouped), replacing the entry door with a steel version (188.1% of costs recouped), and adding manufactured stone veneer to the home’s exterior (153.2% of costs recouped).

Which home improvement is least likely to increase the value of your home?

Wallpapering, built-in electronics, wall-to-wall carpeting, and a swimming pool are examples of projects that typically don’t increase the resale value of your home.

Does new flooring increase home value?

New flooring can potentially boost the value of your home, especially if your current flooring is worn or in poor condition. Hardwood flooring often provides significant ROI, though luxury vinyl plank and tile flooring can also add value.

SoFi Loan Products
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.

SOPL-Q225-016

Legal fees can get expensive. Whether you need to hire an attorney for a divorce case, to represent you against criminal charges, or to guide you through the adoption process, the cost can be prohibitive — but that doesn’t mean you should move forward without legal counsel.

Instead, there are a few different ways to pay for a lawyer, including personal loans. We’ll review how to get a loan for legal fees, as well as other options available to you.

What Are Loans for Legal Fees?

While you cannot find a loan designed specifically for legal fees, you can take out a personal loan to cover your legal costs. If your lawyer mentions taking out a loan for payment, they’re likely referring to a personal loan.

How Do Loans for Legal Fees Work?

Personal loans for legal fees work much like any other personal loan. You borrow a sum of money, and pay it back — with interest — over a period of time.

Loan rates and terms vary by financial institution. In general, the longer the loan term, the higher your annual percentage rate (APR) will be. However, because the repayment is spread out over more years, the monthly payments tend to be lower. Personal loan terms usually range between two and seven years.

When you get a personal loan for legal fees, you’ll get the lump sum from the lending institution to pay your lawyer. Some banks offer same-day funding. Then, rather than owing the lawyer, you’ll owe the lender until the loan is paid off in full.

Keep in mind that, in addition to interest, some personal loans include origination fees and prepayment penalties.

Typical Legal Loan Requirements

When you go to apply for a personal loan, the lender may have a few requirements you’ll have to meet. These may vary by financial institution.

Credit Score

A key factor in getting approved for a legal loan is your credit score. In general, the higher your credit score, the better your chances of approval and at a lower interest rate.

The credit score you need for a personal loan will vary by institution. Some lenders may even grant personal loans to borrowers with bad credit. In those cases, fees and APRs are typically very high.

Speaking of your credit score, most lenders offer soft pulls for personal loans to see if you’re qualified. But once you apply, expect a hard inquiry on your credit report, which will temporarily lower your score.

Debt-to-Income Ratio

Lenders also factor in your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio when considering your loan application. Your DTI ratio is the total amount of your monthly debts (think car payment, student loan payments, credit card bills, mortgage, etc.) divided by your monthly income.

The lower your DTI ratio, the better your chances of getting approved for a personal loan for legal fees with favorable rates and terms.

Proof of Income and Employment

To get a legal fee loan, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to repay it to the lender. That means that lenders may want to see proof of income and employment, such as a signed letter from your employer, pay stubs, and/or W-2 forms.

Self-employed and need a personal loan? You’re not out of luck. Lenders may just want to see your tax returns and/or bank deposit info.

Origination Fees

Some lenders charge a loan origination fee when you take out a personal loan. This is a one-time fee at the start of the loan that covers the administrative costs of processing the loan. (If you’ve ever bought a house, you likely paid a mortgage origination fee as part of your closing costs.)

Personal loan origination fees might be flat fees or a percentage of the loan amount. Not every lender charges these fees.

Collateral

Loans for legal fees are usually unsecured personal loans, meaning they’re not backed by any collateral. Other examples of unsecured loans are traditional credit cards and student loans, where you can borrow money without putting up assets as collateral. Because there’s no collateral, fees and interest rates tend to be higher.

In some instances, personal loans can be secured, meaning you’d have to put up some kind of collateral, like a car or house. Secured personal loans may have lower fees and interest rates, but costs vary by lender.

If you get a secured personal loan for your legal fees, you’ll need to offer some kind of collateral to the lender.

Pros and Cons of Using a Loan to Cover the Cost for Legal Fees

Thinking about using a personal loan to cover legal fees? Here are the pros and cons to consider:

How Legal Fees Are Billed

Legal fees can run the gamut. Your attorney may charge you several types of fees during the course of their representation. Here’s a quick look at some of the fees you might incur when hiring a lawyer:

•   Hourly fees: A lawyer will likely charge you by the hour for their services — and that’s not just the hours you spend consulting with them. Lawyers do a lot of work on your case behind the scenes, and they’ll bill you for it. Hourly rates can range from as little as $100 an hour to as much as several thousand dollars an hour, depending on the lawyer’s experience, the complexity of the case, and geographic location. The average hourly rate for a lawyer in 2024 was $341, according to the Clio 2024 Legal Trends Report.

•   Flat rates: Sometimes, a lawyer might charge you a simple fixed fee for a specific service. This is typically for less involved work (i.e., no court representation). For instance, they may charge a set rate to prepare your will or help you with a real estate transaction, bankruptcy filing, or uncontested divorce.

•   Contingency fees: As the name implies, these fees are contingent. You’ll only pay them if you win your case and are awarded a monetary sum. Often, a lawyer’s contingency fees are a percentage of that sum.

•   Litigation fees: Your lawyer may include this as a line item on your invoice, but really, it’s a catch-all for several fees. These include court filing fees, attorney’s fees, expert witness fees, fees for re-creating an accident or accessing records, copy fees, and others.

Alternatives to Legal Loans

A legal loan is not your only option for covering legal fees. If you don’t want to take out a personal loan or don’t qualify, consider these other options. Just make sure to steer clear of predatory lending.

Credit Cards

Many lawyers accept credit cards as a payment method for their services. If that’s your preferred payment method, ask a lawyer if they accept credit card payments. If they say no, keep looking for a different option.

Just keep in mind that credit cards may have higher interest rates than a personal loan. Check your credit card’s APR to calculate how much you might owe in interest if you don’t pay off your credit card balance quickly.

Legal Payment Plans

Some law offices may offer payment plans to their clients. In this case, you would pay your lawyer in monthly installments rather than in one lump sum.

While not every lawyer offers this option, it never hurts to ask. This is another question you can ask upfront before hiring a lawyer.

Crowdfunding

Asking friends and family for financial help is never easy, but loved ones may chip in if you’re in a bind.

Alternatively, you can seek a wider net of potential benefactors by crowdfunding on social media or using official crowdfund platforms. Just keep in mind that such platforms often keep a percentage of the funds as payment.

The Takeaway

Whether you’re adopting a child, getting a divorce, fighting criminal charges, or suing a person or business as a victim, enlisting the help of a lawyer can give you peace of mind. But it will cost you — the average lawyer charges $341 an hour. The good news is, you have options when it comes to paying for costly legal fees, including paying with a credit card, going on a payment plan with your attorney, or asking loved ones for the money. A personal loan may also be a worthwhile avenue to explore.

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.

FAQ

Is it legal to take out a loan for legal fees?

Yes, it is legal to take out a loan for legal fees. Legal funding loans are simply personal loans that you take out with a lender to cover the cost of hiring a lawyer.

Can legal fees be tax deductible?

If you’re a business owner who incurs legal fees for your business, you can deduct the cost on your taxes. This applies to property owners who incur legal fees when renting out their property to tenants. In addition, legal fees related to adopting a child are tax-deductible through the federal adoption tax credit.

Can legal fees be paid in installments?

Many law firms offer payment plans to their clients that allow them to make payments in installments. If your lawyer doesn’t offer this and you can’t pay out of pocket, you can also look for a legal finance loan (a personal loan) to cover the cost. While you’ll pay the lawyer in a lump sum, you’ll pay off the loan in installments.

Photo credit: iStock/Andrii Yalanskyi

SoFi Loan Products
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.

SOPL-Q225-011

To pull off a dream wedding on a budget can require smart budgeting and planning. You’ll want to prioritize key elements and think about what you can live without or do for a minimal price.

Here, you’ll learn more about developing and sticking to a budget, including cost-cutting tips that will make the whole process easier on your wallet and your peace of mind.

Average Cost of a Wedding

The average cost of a wedding depends on several factors, including how you do the math. In 2025, the national figure was $36,000, according to wedding registry site Zola. Based on a recent SoFi survey of 1,000 people, however, the median cost of a wedding is $10,000, which may be a more accurate gauge of how much people really spend.

As you might expect, individual figures can vary greatly: If you get hitched in the grand ballroom of a hotel in Chicago with sweeping views of Lake Michigan, it’s going to be much pricier than gathering with just immediate family and your best friends to exchange vows by that same lake.

In real life, the average cost of a wedding varies widely based on location. In Indianapolis, wedding expenses total just under $25,000, according to The Knot. Over in San Francisco, the big day exceeds $50,000. Worth noting: These figures represent average wedding costs, which can be misleading. Just one lavish wedding, for example, can skew the average to be higher than what most people actually paid, which is why a median price tag can better reflect how much you’ll actually spend.

Understanding Your Financial Health

As you embark on financing a wedding, it can be wise to first look holistically at your financial wellness. You want your wedding to be the happiest day of your life, but not one that sinks you into debt that challenges your long-term financial plans.

Think carefully about how much you have saved, what family and friends might contribute, and whether options like a wedding loan would make sense for you. Also factor in your other upcoming money needs. If you are planning on buying a house, you may want to have a lower-cost celebration and instead funnel any cash gifts into a down payment fund.

Major Costs to Include in Your Wedding Budget Breakdown

Next, consider this breakdown for a major, $30,000-plus wedding with all the bells and whistles. While the median cost of a wedding is considerably lower, this will give you an idea of how expenses may be broken down. Most couples go all-in on just one or two priorities for their big day.

Working with an online wedding calculator can help you develop and then tweak your budget.

Remember, these are the costs incurred by and for the bride and groom. The groomsmen and bridesmaids will incur their own costs for being in the wedding.

How to Determine What You Can Afford

No one is born knowing how to plan a wedding. To set your wedding budget, start by asking yourself a few questions:

•   How much of your savings are you willing to use for your overall wedding budget?

•   Are your parents or other relatives planning to contribute financially?

•   Are you considering taking out a personal loan to help cover costs?

•   If you are using savings, how long will it take to save the amount of money you need?

•   Is a wedding really worth the amount of money you want to spend on it?

•   Should a one-day event take priority over other life goals, like traveling together, starting a family, or owning a home?

Getting clarity on these answers will help you come up with a starting number.

Recommended: What Are the Tax Benefits of Marriage?

Wedding Budget Allocation Tips

Budget allocation involves assigning a percentage of your overall fund to each category. Use the percentages below to get a rough idea of how much you can pay for your venue, catering, etc. According to The Knot, a typical budget allocation looks like this:

You may have to factor in alternative or multiple options for some categories, such as live music, DJ, or guest entertainment. In combination with the average wedding costs table above, you should be able to project your total budget without any major surprises.

Common Wedding Budget Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few of the pitfalls to avoid if you are planning a dream wedding on a budget. Consider these as you work on your wedding budget breakdown.

•   Not budgeting enough. Many couples underestimate the amount of money they’ll spend on a wedding. When there’s no plan, everything becomes a priority and you’ll go through money faster than you can imagine. Be sure to make both a wedding budget and a savings plan to make it happen.

•   Not communicating with loved ones about the budget. If you have parents or other loved ones helping to cover expenses, be sure to have a conversation with them to avoid overestimating their contribution.

•   Not saving long enough. Once you know how much you’ll need, be realistic about how long it will take you to save that money. You may want to consider pushing back your wedding date to have enough time to save for it. (Too late to save up? Learn about wedding financing options.)

•   Going into debt. Many couples put wedding expenses on a credit card. If the balance isn’t paid off within the month, you’ll end up paying high interest rates on top of what you budgeted.

•   Forgetting to budget for unexpected costs. Surprise bills always come up. Keep a small amount reserved for unexpected wedding expenses.

•   Not keeping track of your spending. With wedding expenses, it’s easy to lose track of which bills you’ve paid. A money tracker can help you stay organized.

8 Cost-Saving Tips for a Budget-Friendly Wedding

If your list of wedding expenses far exceeds your budget, don’t panic. Trimming your costs isn’t so hard if you know how to go about it. These ideas can help.

1. Limit Your Guest List

Consider shortening your guest list to include only close friends and family members. This can be a blessing in disguise for certain types of weddings. For instance, a destination wedding is especially difficult to coordinate for more than 100 people.

2. Find a Free or Low-Cost Venue

The wedding venue is often your biggest expense — unless you move the ceremony outside or to a private home. Depending on the location, you can reserve a park pavilion for around $100. A permit to hold a wedding ceremony at a national park is around a few to several hundred dollars. Forgoing a fancy venue puts a lot of money back in your pocket.

Recommended: Should I Sell My House Now or Wait?

3. Buy Second-Hand or Rent Decor

Utilizing a few previously owned items is a real budget saver.

•   Wedding decor. Gently used decor is often sold online at a fraction of the cost. Keep your eye on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Etsy for items that work with your theme.

•   Wedding dress. A wedding dress that costs thousands brand-new can be thrifted for a few hundred dollars. If you really want to save money on wedding attire, consider borrowing a dress from a good friend or family member.

4. Ask Friends and Family to Gift Their Skills

Do you have a photographer in your network? What about an aspiring caterer or florist? While it’s worth paying for their skills, you can also try exchanging something of value. Babysitting for busy parents is always a winner.

You can also ask for services in lieu of a gift. Tactfully articulate your desire to start your new life on a budget, while respecting their need to earn a living. If they say they can’t do it, don’t push.

5. DIY Whenever Possible

Many details that cost a fortune to outsource may be pulled together with the help of friends and family.

•   Centerpieces. Your table decor can be made ahead of time by the wedding party or a group of aunties.

•   Invitations. It’s so easy to make your own wedding invitations. Even if you’re unskilled, you can use online tools like Canva to create your design. Save the result as a photo file for cheap printing. Image files cost as little as 10 cents to print. Compare that to formal invitations that typically cost several dollars each to print.

•   Catering. Know someone who makes an incredible main dish or specializes in smoked barbecue? They may be willing to help out for little more than the cost of groceries and supplies.

•   Flowers. Making your own bouquet from flowers sold at the farmer’s market or grocer is an easy way to save a lot of money. Check out a YouTube video tutorial, and you’ll be on your way.

6. Use a Faux Wedding Cake

A faux wedding cake is one that is made just for appearance. It’s frosted to look like a real cake but underneath it’s just Styrofoam or cardboard. It can provide a stunning bit of decor for a wedding at prices of $25 and up. Then you can serve a simple, delicious sheet cake as dessert.

7. Time Your Wedding Strategically

Wedding season traditionally runs from May to October. This is when demand is highest — and prices too. If you can plan a wedding for the off-season (say, December or March), demand and prices are lower. You may be able to get the venue you want for the price you want.

8. Compare Vendors and Negotiate

Do shop around. It may be tempting to use the first vendor you meet if you like them or opt for the person your best friend says is fabulous, but it is really worthwhile to get a couple of bids and compare. You could save a bundle.

The Key to Having Your Dream Wedding Within Budget

Your dream wedding doesn’t have to spawn a nightmare budget. Be mindful of what you really want and what you can really afford. If a backyard potluck is all it takes to make you happy, then don’t worry about what other people say you “should” do.

As you move ahead with your plans, go ahead and feel great about sticking to a budget that frees up funds for other purposes, like your first home or a lengthy honeymoon. Because saving for a dream wedding is just the first step in a couple’s life together.

The Takeaway

Budgeting for a wedding can help you start married life on the right foot financially. First, find out the average costs in your area for major wedding expenses — venue, catering, music, photography. Then determine how much money you can pull together from family, your current savings, paychecks you’ll receive before the big day, or investigate personal loan options.

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.

FAQ

What is the average cost of a wedding?

There are a couple of different ways to look at the typical price tag. The average cost of a wedding is currently $36,000, but the median is $10,000, which may give you a more accurate idea of the price most people spend.

How much should I budget for a 100-person wedding?

While the average per-person cost of a wedding is currently $284, it’s up to you to determine how much you are comfortable spending. You can lower costs by having a wedding at home, in a backyard, or park. You might have friends and family prepare food, or have a cocktail party reception vs. a sit-down, five-course dinner.

What are some ways to reduce wedding costs?

Ways to reduce wedding costs include getting married in the off-season, avoiding pricey venues, inviting fewer guests, DIY-ing flowers and food, and renting or borrowing anything from a wedding dress to decor.

How can I estimate the costs of my wedding?

There are a number of good ways to estimate the costs of a wedding. You can develop a budget based on the usual breakdown of costs for a ceremony and celebration, you might research local costs from vendors, or use an online calculator tool.

What are different ways I can pay for my wedding?

Some options for paying for a wedding include saving for it (or dipping into your savings account), seeking funding from family and friends, or taking out a personal loan.

What is a low budget for a wedding on average?

For a low-budget wedding where no meals are provided for guests, plan on spending a few hundred dollars. At the very least, you need to pay a fee for a marriage license and an officiant. You can wear something you already have, eat a potluck meal, and take your own pictures — and it can still be magical.

Photo credit: iStock/Prostock-Studio

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A wedding day is typically a celebration you’ve dreamed of and eagerly anticipated, but it can also be a major expense. If you’re wondering if you should finance your wedding, here is some guidance when it comes to making that decision. From payment plans to personal loans and everything in between, options abound for making your big day happen.

Understanding Wedding Costs Before Making a Plan

SoFi’s most recent survey found that the median cost of a wedding is $10,000, and when you look at average costs, you may see figures like the $36,000 price tag shared by Zola, a wedding registry site. Of course, prices can vary tremendously depending on what you plan: A destination wedding or one held in a big city with 300-plus guests will likely be a much bigger expense than having 50 of your nearest and dearest gather in your grandmother’s beautiful backyard flower garden.

Breaking Down Wedding Expenses by Category

Here’s a look at some of the key contributors to the cost of a wedding, according to The Knot, a wedding site:

•   27%: Venue and rentals

•   24%: Catering, cake, and drinks

•   10%: Photography and video

•   9%: Floral and decor

•   8%: Music

•   6%: Clothing and beauty

•   5%: Wedding rings

•   4%: Wedding planner

•   3%: Guest entertainment

•   2%: Transportation

•   1%: Stationery

•   1%: Officiant

Setting a Realistic Budget

To set a realistic budget, it’s wise to delve into some real-world prices and see what’s affordable given your financial situation. You may find that swapping out a swanky hotel ballroom for local, loft-style event space can help you save money, or limiting the guest list to 75 people instead of 175 can be a route to having an affordable wedding of your dreams.

Developing a spreadsheet that lists out your total budget and how much you will spend on each category is a helpful exercise. Also consider what you might be able to borrow or what friends and family can help with (perhaps they can handle flowers and decor).

An online wedding cost calculator can help you set a realistic budget for your wedding, too.

8 Ways to Pay for Your Wedding

There are many variables that can affect the average cost of a wedding, including the time of year you say “I do,” the day of the week, the number of guests, the reception venue, and a host of other factors (such as unexpected wedding expenses).

Whatever your budget may be, here are some ways to fund your big day.

1. Personal Savings

Perhaps you have already saved up a nice bundle of cash that you can put toward your wedding. Or maybe you have just gotten engaged and have a year or two to save up enough money for your wedding. Using this kind of money to finance your wedding helps you avoid interest charges. Keep the cash in a high-yield savings account to help it grow via the power of compound interest.

2. Wedding-Specific Savings Plan

You can also set up a wedding-specific savings plan. This means you have a dedicated amount into which you will regularly deposit a sum of money or use recurring automated transfers to stockpile cash in it. This can help you save enough money for your ceremony and celebration.

3. Family Contributions

Depending on your family situation, your parents and other relatives may be able to pay for some or all of your wedding expenses. It used to be common for the bride’s parents to pay for the wedding, but today, it’s often a matter of the family making a contribution toward the total cost, if at all.

4. Personal Loans

Personal loans are typically unsecured loans that can be used for almost any purpose. The interest rate charged can be lower than those of credit cards, and they offer a lump sum of cash (usually between $1,000 and $50,000 or even $100,000) that is then repaid in installments over a few or several years.

Some lenders specifically offer wedding loans, tailored to the needs of couples planning their big day.

5. Credit Cards

A convenient way to finance wedding costs can be breaking out your plastic. While this is a quick and easy way to pay vendors, be sure you are aware of and can afford this kind of high-interest debt. Also stay aware of your credit limit. Financial experts advise that having a balance that is more than 30% of your credit limit can negatively impact your credit score.

6. Wedding Funds or Registries

You can crowd-source money for your “I do” day by opening a wedding fund. Usually, the couple lets people know that they would prefer to receive cash vs. physical gifts from guests by directing invitees to a cash registry. This money can then be used to pay for wedding costs.

7. Side Hustles and Extra Income

Not everyone has the time or energy for a side hustle, but working a part-time gig can help you pump up your savings for your wedding. Whether that means selling your service as a pet photographer or driving a rideshare every other weekend, these pursuits can help you bring in extra cash to pay for a wedding.

You might also sell stuff you no longer want or need to bring in some additional money.

8. Vendor Payment Plans

You may find that some vendors, such as your event space or caterer, offer payment plans, allowing you to put money toward your debt over time. Check the details carefully to be sure that the interest rate and fees are fully understood and affordable.

The Pros of Financing a Wedding

Here are some of the upsides of financing a wedding:

•   You get your day with all the bells and whistles that you’ve dreamed of. You have the wiggle room to have more guests, a highly sought-after DJ or band, and food that will still be talked about on your anniversary. Mission accomplished in having a special day that will last a lifetime of memories, even if you don’t have all the cash waiting in the bank.

•   You might be able to borrow enough money to have a relaxing honeymoon, too, which might be nice after the stress of wedding planning.

•   You won’t deplete your savings to pay for your wedding. Starting your life together without an emergency savings account can be stressful.

The Cons of Financing a Wedding

Next, here are the downsides of financing a wedding:

•   When the wedding is long over, that monthly loan payment is still owed. Depending on the amount and term of the loan, that can be a big commitment.

•   Interest rates for loans and lines of credit typically vary based on the borrower’s credit rating and other factors. If you don’t qualify for favorable interest rates, you could end up paying a decent amount in interest over the life of the loan.

•   Taking out a loan also increases your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. If you are planning on near-future large purchases that will require another loan, like a mortgage, having a high DTI ratio might make it more difficult to qualify for future loans, or might affect the rates you qualify for.

Creating Your Wedding Payment Strategy

Paying for wedding expenses can require a significant amount of cash, so it can be wise to be strategic about how you’ll pay your bills. Here are a couple of ideas:

Mixing Different Payment Methods

You don’t have to go all in on just one payment plan. For instance, if your caterer offers a super-low interest rate on their payment plan, you might want to sign up for that, and then use a personal loan to pay for other expenses, such as the wedding dress, rings, music, and photography.

As with any kind of loan or line of credit, but sure you understand the fees and interest rate (and whether, say, prepayment penalties are applicable). Either a lower interest rate or a shorter term may save money in the long run. A personal loan calculator or amortization table can help with this analysis, so you know exactly how much you are spending.

Timeline Considerations

Another important consideration when deciding on financing is how long of a run-up you have to the wedding itself. If you are planning on getting married in, say, two years, you could have a good amount of time to budget and save.

If, however, you are planning on a short engagement, then financing your wedding or asking for cash gifts might better suit your timeline.

Recommended: A Guide to Unsecured Personal Loans

Tips for Reducing Wedding Costs

If you’re having second thoughts about the cost of your wedding and how to afford it, know that with wedding planning, there’s usually a way to reduce expenses.

Off-Season and Weekday Discounts

The high season for weddings is usually late spring through fall. That’s when demand and prices are highest. You may be able to save big by booking a winter wedding or early spring one.

Similarly, you’ll find that costs tend to peak for weekend weddings. If you can swing, say, a Thursday night instead of a Saturday, you could save a significant amount.

DIY Elements

Think about how you could save money by DIY-ing some aspects of your wedding vs. paying a professional. Also, you might tap friends and family to contribute. For instance, if you have a friend who loves to bake, perhaps they would make your cake. Or if you have a friend with a flair for photography, they could shoot your pictures as a gift to you and your partner. If you have a cousin who’s in a band, they might play at your wedding for free or a reduced rate. Perhaps your family members would be happy to create centerpieces and bouquets from affordably sourced flowers. Think freely, and call in those favors!

Any of these ideas will help you save money and avoid financing your wedding’s full cost.

Prioritizing What Matters Most

There’s no law that you have to have a traditional wedding. If what matters most to you is having a wedding that involves dancing till dawn, or having 200 friends and family members with you as you say your vows, go ahead, but then perhaps do a potluck meal so you don’t have to shell out for a huge catering bill, too.

If you’re a foodie, maybe your wedding celebration could be a small dinner in a private room at your favorite restaurant after the ceremony. By prioritizing what matters most to you on your special day, you can have a wonderful wedding without landing in deep debt.

How to Avoid Wedding Debt Altogether

If you are looking for some inspo on how to avoid wedding debt, consider these possibilities:

•   Postpone the wedding. You might be able to avoid borrowing altogether by postponing the wedding to give yourself time to save the money to pay for it. Cutting unnecessary expenses might free up some money in your budget. Or earning extra money by taking on a side hustle might be a good way to add to your savings.

•   Use a zero-interest credit card. Using a credit card to pay for wedding expenses might be another option. While a personal loan might offer a lower rate than a credit card, you might find credit card offers with low introductory rates — perhaps even 0% — for a limited time. If you’re confident that you can pay the card off in full before the introductory rate ends, this could be an attractive option.

•   Ask your family to contribute. Asking parents for money might not be the most appealing option, but it might be a worthwhile consideration. Even though the average age of newlywed couples is rising, which might mean more couples are established financially before they marry, it’s still common for the couple to have help paying for the wedding.

•   Elope. If your priorities are saving for a down payment on a house or paying off college debt, maybe you are the kind of person who would be comfortable eloping or having a city hall ceremony and Champagne with just a few of your nearest and dearest. That can definitely be a way to avoid debt from financing a wedding.

The Takeaway

Your wedding is a special day, but it can be a very expensive one. Think carefully about how to budget for and finance your wedding, which can often cost five figures. Some ideas are saving the money, asking loved ones to contribute, using vendor payment plans, and taking out a personal loan.

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.

FAQ

What’s the best way to pay for a wedding?

There is no one best way to pay for a wedding. Your personal finances and the kind of wedding you are having will play a role in deciding what works best. By saving up for a wedding or asking for help financing it, however, you may be able to avoid some or all of the interest charges you’ll encounter if you take out a loan or use a credit card.

How far in advance should we start saving for our wedding?

A wise way to figure out when to start saving is to calculate how much your wedding will cost, subtract how much relatives might contribute, and then divide that sum by how much you can save every month. So if you want to raise $10,000 and you and your partner can put aside $500 a month, then it would take 20 months to accumulate the funds needed.

Is it common for parents to pay for weddings today?

It is less common than in the past, but many parents do pay for weddings or at least make a contribution to the cost. Since the age at which people marry is rising, it’s become more common for the couple to have the financial means to pay their own way.

How can we ask for money instead of gifts?

You can put the word out tactfully among friends and family, or use a wedding website that clearly shows your registry preference is cash vs. gifts. Zola, Honeyfund, The Knot, and Joy are among the options you may find. Compare fees and features to find the best fit.

Where should I keep a wedding fund?

If you’re saving money towards a wedding, it’s wise to keep it in a high-yield savings account, where it’s safe, accessible, and earning interest.

Photo credit: iStock/PeopleImages

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