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Can you deposit cash at an ATM? The answer depends on your bank, the ATM you’re using, and a variety of other factors — but generally speaking, yes, you can make cash or check deposits at many ATM terminals.

For most customers, though, depositing money at an ATM isn’t the only option — or even necessarily the most convenient. Still, it’s a good system to understand if you’re someone who regularly deals with cash payments and you’d like to use those monies to pay for things like utility bills, where cash may not be accepted or can be inconvenient.

In this article, we’ll walk you through:

•   How to deposit cash an ATM

•   Potential problems with depositing money at an ATM

•   Whether you pay fees when you deposit cash at an ATM

•   Alternative payments to ATM deposits that may work better for some customers

Depositing Cash at an ATM

In order to deposit cash via ATM, the first thing you need to do is ensure that the ATM you’re visiting is capable of taking cash deposits — and that your bank takes deposits through that particular type of ATM. For example, if you have an account with Bank of America, you’ll likely be able to make a cash deposit at an ATM located at or inside a physical Bank of America location — but you may not be able to make a cash deposit at the third-party ATM at your local grocery store or concert venue.

In order to avoid wasting time at an ATM that won’t do the trick, it’s a good idea to do some research ahead of time. Log onto your bank’s website and look for an ATM locator, which will show you all nearby locations and may also specifically mention which services those ATMs can perform (including whether or not they accept cash or check deposits).

Now, here’s the nitty-gritty of how to deposit cash at an ATM: When you arrive at the ATM, you’ll most likely need to use your bank card and personal identification number (PIN) to confirm your identity and pull up the ATM’s service options, though some banks may allow you to access an ATM using cardless withdrawal technology through your phone. Either way, once you’ve got the ATM’s options screen pulled up, you’ll follow the instructions to make a cash deposit, and then select the account you want the deposit to go into (if you have multiple accounts, such as a checking and savings account, for example).

Some ATMs may have limits as to how many paper bills they can take at once, and ATMs typically don’t take coin deposits. As with any situation where you’re feeding bills into a machine (like when you’re trying to get a vending machine snack in your office lobby), you may end up with one or more bills fed back to you if the machine reads them as damaged or potentially counterfeit.

In general, though, how to deposit cash at an ATM is that simple: just feed the money in, confirm the amount of the deposit, and be sure to verify that you’re signed out of the ATM before you get on your way!

Recommended: Don’t Let Your Bank Rob You: How To Avoid ATM Fees

When Is the Money Available with ATM Deposits?

Once again, the answer to this common question is, “it depends.” At some ATMs, cash deposits are made available immediately, while with other ATMs you may experience some lag between the moment you feed the money into the machine and the moment the money shows up in your account balance.

The FDIC does have regulations that require banks to make cash deposits available within a certain amount of time — but in the case of a proprietary ATM, availability is not required until the second business day after the deposit. And at a third-party ATM, funds don’t have to be made available until the fifth business day, so be sure to plan ahead if possible!

Again, your bank may have more specific information available on their website as to their specific policies.

Recommended: Understanding Funds Availability Rules

Potential Problems With ATM Deposits

You’ve now learned the answer to the question, “Can I deposit cash at an ATM?” Next, let’s address, “What can go wrong with ATM deposits?”

Well, for starters, the length of time a deposit may be held can be problematic for some customers if they need access to the funds as soon as possible. And the automated reader on some ATMs may refuse to accept legitimate bills, at least on the first try, which can be frustrating.

For another thing, your bank or financial institution may simply not allow it. Certain online-only banking services, such as Chime, don’t offer ATM cash deposit capabilities. Instead, you must deposit cash at local retail partners (like Walgreens) through an at-the-counter transaction.

The good news is, most ATMs have a phone number printed on the machine itself that you can call if you experience any technical errors or other problems. And, as always when interacting with ATMs, be sure to look out for your personal safety. Make the deposit during the day and ideally with the company of someone you trust. Never give out your PIN.

Recommended: How Old Do You Have to Be to Open a Bank Account?

Are There Any Fees for Depositing Cash at an ATM?

Yet again, the answer to this question is, “It depends.” If you’re using an in-network ATM that’s directly linked to your bank, you’re unlikely to encounter any fees. But if you’re using an out-of-network ATM, there are a couple of fees you might need to be on the lookout for.

•   ATM fees are sometimes charged by the third-party owner of the ATM itself, and may be as little as $1.50 or as much as $10 per transaction.

•   Out-of-network ATM fees may also be charged by your bank, which could add an additional charge of $2 to $3.50 to the transaction.

•   Finally, keep in mind that foreign transaction fees can rack up quickly if you’re using an ATM overseas.

As always, we recommend checking with your bank ahead of time to get a better grasp of their specific policies and avoid these unnecessary fees if possible.

Why Make an ATM Cash Deposit?

You may be wondering why this topic even needs to be addressed. So many of us rarely use cash these days (or even use it), now that cards are nearly universally accepted. That’s one alternative to using cash. Digital money transfer apps like Venmo and CashApp also make it easy to split the bill and pay back friends and family without touching paper money. Plus, the COVID-19 pandemic caused some businesses to at least temporarily suspend the use of cash altogether to avoid further what were feared to be potential routes for contamination.

But many workers still get paid at least partially in cash, particularly those whose income includes cash tips, such as waiters and baristas. If you are among their ranks, you’ll definitely want to know, “Can you deposit money at an ATM?”

And as digital-first, online bank accounts become more common, some people don’t have the option of walking into a brick-and-mortar bank to make their deposits.

Making ATM cash deposits is sometimes the best way to get that money into an account where it can be more readily used to pay bills — or transferred to a savings or investment account, where it may earn more interest.

The Takeaway

Can you deposit cash at an ATM? Yes, you often can. And if you need to make your cash available for paying bills or other non-cash financial transactions, depositing it at an ATM can be a quick and potentially cost-free way to do so. While it may not be the most common financial transaction these days, it’s definitely a possibility that can help you easily manage your money.

At SoFi, we’re all about making banking simple. And profitable for you. When you sign up for our Checking and Savings with direct deposit, you’ll earn an amazing APY and you won’t pay any of the usual fees (not monthly, minimum-balance, or overdraft).

FAQ

How do I deposit cash at an ATM?

To deposit cash at an ATM, you’ll likely need your bank card and PIN, and then you simply follow the directions on the machine’s screen. However, it’s good to research first where ATMs in your network are or else what the fee will be to deposit cash at an out-of-network ATM.

Can I deposit checks at an ATM?

Yes, you can usually deposit a check into an ATM, though some machines may not accept them. It often takes a couple of days for the check to clear and for you to be able to access the funds.

Are there ATM deposit fees?

Whether or not you will pay to use an ATM varies. Typically, you will not be assessed a fee to use an ATM that belongs to your bank. However, if you use an out-of-network machine, you will likely pay a couple or a few dollars for a transaction.

SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2023 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
The SoFi Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.60% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a deposit to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate.

SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

SoFi Bank reserves the right to grant a grace period to account holders following a change in Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits activity before adjusting rates. If SoFi Bank grants you a grace period, the dates for such grace period will be reflected on the APY Details page of your account. If SoFi Bank determines that you did not have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits during the current 30-day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, then you will begin earning the rates earned by account holders without either Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until you have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Direct Deposit.

Members without either Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.

Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 10/24/2023. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

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.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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.

Photo credit: iStock/RgStudio
SOBK0422013

Online and mobile banking is now woven into many people’s daily lives. It’s fast, easy, and so convenient. But with its benefits come some downsides. One of the biggest negatives is the rising ranks of fraudsters and hackers, who put your money at risk. It’s up to each of us to manage our bank accounts responsibly and use the tools at our disposal to keep our accounts secure.

This guide explains why it’s so important to keep your bank account safe, how to log in to your account safely, which tools that are available to ensure secure banking, and how to recognize fraud. Follow these tips, and you’ll likely reduce the odds of getting hacked or scammed.

Importance of Keeping Your Bank Account Safe

Research shows that almost two out of three Americans are banking online. Much as you may enjoy the convenience of online and mobile banking, you may also be concerned with how to keep your bank accounts safe from criminals and fraudsters.

If your personal and financial information is stolen, the thief could open credit cards using your name. Money can be swiped from your account via fraudulent wire transfers, and you could be inconvenienced for weeks as you close accounts, open new ones, and replace compromised credit and debit cards. Who wants to deal with that kind of stress? No one. So here’s how to help keep your bank accounts safe online.

Tips for Keeping Your Bank Account Safe

Want to do what you can to stymie criminals? We thought so. Here are some ways to keep your bank account safe from fraudulent activity.

Not Accessing Financial Information on Public Wi-Fi

Public WiFi networks offer free access to the internet when you are not at home. It can seem like a gift while you’re on the go, but the connections at coffee shops, restaurants, airports, and hotels are simply not secure.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, public WiFi connections usually involve unencrypted sites, so other users on the network can see what you are doing. It’s easy for hackers to hijack your session and then login with your credentials. Stay safe if you are using public WiFi : Only visit encrypted sites that say “https:” at the start of the URL and show the lock symbol. Also consider setting up a personal virtual private network (VPN) service on your device to add a layer of protection.

Monitoring Auto Payments and Limit Withdrawals

Auto withdrawals occur when you give permission to a service provider to withdraw payments from your bank account on a recurring basis. This requires you to give the company your checking account or debit card information and permission to electronically withdraw money from your account. If you have signed up for automatic bill pay for, say, your utilities or streaming services, then you are familiar with this process.

These auto payments should be closely monitored. Some companies may fail to stop an automatic withdrawal when you request that they do so.

Before you give a company permission to make automatic withdrawals, check that they’re legitimate and trustworthy, ask for written terms of agreement for the automatic payment, watch for overdraft and insufficient funds (NSF) fees, and make sure you know how to stop payments.

Watching Out for Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are ever more prevalent and sophisticated. These scams trick you into providing your personal and banking information that can then be used for fraudulent activity.

For example, you could receive an email, supposedly from your bank, saying there’s been a problem with your account and sharing a link where you are asked to login and update your information. The website you are led to could look just like your bank’s website. If you input your details, hackers now have your login information. A couple of ways to avoid these scams:

•   If you get communication that says it’s from your bank and asks you to click a link, don’t. Log into your banking website or app, and check messages there to see what’s going on. Or call your bank to ask if the message is legitimate.

•   Hover over the email sender’s address. You may be surprised to see the message is coming from a different identity than the one it’s pretending to be. If that’s the case, don’t click on anything; mark the email as spam.

Safeguarding Your Checkbook, Debit Cards, and Credit Cards

Checkbooks, debit cards, and credit cards still have a place in our increasingly digital and contactless world of banking. They are, however, vulnerable to robbery and other criminal activity. Here are moves that help protect these items and your bank account safe.

1.    Keep your checkbook locked away at home; you don’t want to risk anyone getting your bank account and routing number, which is printed on each check. Also don’t leave your wallet, checkbook, or bank cards in your vehicle. It’s bad enough if your car is broken into, but even worse if the thieves find your wallet and credit cards.

2.    Report a lost or stolen debit card to your bank immediately to avoid fraudulent charges.

3.    Keep an eye on your mail. Thieves may steal your credit card bills and then apply for a new one in your name. Or if you’ve ordered checks, they could steal those. Alert your bank if they don’t arrive on time and report the checks as lost; if they are stolen and get used, report identity theft.

4.    Never make a check payable as cash until you are ready to cash the check. If you fill it out and then lose it, whoever finds it gets the cash.

5.    Watch for skimming devices that steal information from your debit or credit card. These devices are most commonly placed in ATMs or the card slots at gas pumps; you can learn to identify skimmers because they appear raised and bulkier than normal. Put your card in, and your card number and PIN code can be stolen, giving the criminal access to your account.

Not Pre-signing Blank Instruments or Documents

It may seem temptingly convenient to sign some checks for future use, without putting the name of the payee, just so you’re better prepared. Or, you might write the name of the payee but not the amount if someone is delivering the check for you. If the check is lost, whoever finds it can add in their name and pay the check into their account. Never pre-sign a blank check or a one that’s lacking a payee and dollar amount.

Verifying Transactions

Don’t assume that your banking is happening like clockwork. Instead, check your balance regularly and make sure there aren’t unexpected transactions. Digital banking makes this process much easier because you can access your bank account at any time by a website or app and see what’s going on. The idea here is to be vigilant about suspicious activity and catch any issues early.

Not Sharing Bank Details

Once in a blue moon, it may be necessary to share bank details with a close family member, perhaps in an emergency. But otherwise, simply don’t let anyone know the login details for your bank account. The same holds true for your credit card; don’t share your account number, expiration date, or CVV code. If these numbers fall into the wrong hands, they can allow fraudsters to hack your finances.

Choosing Unique and Strong Passwords

Criminals love nothing more than a password that’s super simple to figure out, like your birthdate or, say, “password123.” To help secure your online banking life, follow the following advice:

•   Don’t use personal information, such as your name, your pet’s name, or your address. It’s too obvious for hackers.

•   Use a combination of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters in your password.

•   Don’t use the same password for multiple logins.

•   Change your passwords regularly.

Enabling Two-Factor Authentication

Financial institutions increasingly use two-factor authentication, which adds an additional layer to protection and security. With two-factor authentication, you typically log in in the usual way but then need to pass a second level of security. You may be asked to enter a special code to verify your identity using a free authenticator app that you downloaded when you set up your account. If your bank offers this technology, opt in. It can help deter hacking.

Signing Up for Banking Alerts

Go ahead and turn on banking alerts. Notifications such as email, app, or text alerts can help you protect your bank account. These alerts are sent in the event of new credit and debit transactions, failed logins, password changes, and outgoing wire transfers. If there is fraudulent activity on your account, you’ll be notified right away and can take action.

The Takeaway

Online banking is convenient, but it can have risks, such as getting hacked or scammed. You can fight back by managing your digital and physical banking assets to help protect your finances. From storing your checkbook safely to knowing how to avoid phishing and skimming, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk.

Keeping your money safe is a priority at SoFi, and so is growing it. Sign up for our Checking and Savings with direct deposit, and you’ll earn a competitive APY, pay no account fees, and get access to your paycheck up to two days early.

FAQ

What is the best way to keep my bank account safe?

Keep your bank account safe by protecting your bank cards, checks, and your digital and mobile accounts. Use strong passwords for logins, two-factor authentication, and avoid accessing your bank account over public WiFi. Sign up for text and email alerts, and if you lose a debit or credit card or suspect fraudulent activity, contact your bank immediately.

How can I protect the money in my bank account?

The money in your bank account is vulnerable to hackers and fraudsters. To protect it, manage your passwords well, never give your banking details to anyone, and take the time to verify all your transactions. If you don’t recognize a withdrawal, contact your bank.

Where is the safest place to keep your money?

Bank accounts are safe and FDIC-insured, but there are other options. For instance, U.S. Treasury bonds are considered one of the safest places to invest and to keep your money because they are low risk and provide an annual return.

SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.60% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a deposit to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate.

SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

SoFi Bank reserves the right to grant a grace period to account holders following a change in Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits activity before adjusting rates. If SoFi Bank grants you a grace period, the dates for such grace period will be reflected on the APY Details page of your account. If SoFi Bank determines that you did not have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits during the current 30-day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, then you will begin earning the rates earned by account holders without either Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until you have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Direct Deposit.

Members without either Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.

Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 10/24/2023. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2023 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
The SoFi Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

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.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Photo credit: iStock/insjoy
SOBK0322019

To be or not to be: Hamlet’s existential question may well be applied to the question of should I get a credit card. While stories of snowballing debt can scare people away, credit cards can be valuable financial tools when used responsibly.

Before you apply, however, you should consider the reasons why to get a credit card and understand the ins and outs of using one. Read on for a rundown of when you should get a credit card, and when you might reconsider.

What Is a Credit Card?

A credit card is a payment mechanism that can substitute for cash or a check. The credit card itself — a thin piece of plastic or metal that may be presented in physical form or saved on your phone — is usually an unsecured line of credit.

Your credit card will have a credit limit, which represents the maximum amount of money you can borrow. The average credit limit is around $30,000, but limits vary depending on credit history and credit score.

Your card will also come with an interest rate, which is the amount of interest you’ll pay on any balance remaining at the end of each billing cycle. Interest rates can range from 0% and up; a good APR for a credit card will depend on your specifics, such as your credit card, but in general, the lower the better.

Credit cards also may have rewards programs, such as travel rewards, cash back, access to events or programs and more. There may also be benefits included with a card like purchase protection and insurance offerings.

Recommended: Does Applying For a Credit Card Hurt Your Credit Score

When to Consider Getting a Credit Card

Should I apply for a credit card? The answer to this depends on a few factors. For one, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting a credit card for the right reasons. Potentially valid reasons for why to get a credit card may include:

You want to build credit. A credit card can be a great way to build your credit history. By using a credit card and then paying off the balance on time and in full each month, you practice good credit habits and help improve your credit score. A strong credit score can potentially aid you in getting approved for car loans, mortgages, apartment rentals, and more.

You’re making a large purchase. Whether it’s a laptop for school or furniture for your apartment, putting a purchase on a credit card can provide purchase protection. This includes potentially being able to get your money back if the product isn’t as expected or services aren’t rendered. Additionally, some credit cards may offer promotional deals on APR, which could allow you to spread out your payments on your big purchase without paying interest.

You want more protection for your money. While fraudulent charges can still occur on a credit card, there are more protections in place to help protect your credit and identity with a credit card as opposed to cash or a debit card. Many major credit card companies even offer zero liability protection, which means you aren’t liable for any fraudulent charges made on your card in the event of theft or fraud.

You’re planning a trip. A credit card can be a good “just in case” tool to have in your wallet if you’re traveling. Some people like using a credit card for trip planning and expenses. Credit cards also may offer travel perks, such as checked baggage at no cost, or insurance protection, depending on the card.

Recommended: What is a Charge Card

Things to Know Before Getting Your First Credit Card

A credit card can make you feel like you have financial freedom. But with freedom comes responsibility. Here are some tips to keep in mind before you get your first credit card:

Pay your bills on time. Your payment history is a large part of your overall credit score. Setting up autopay as soon as you get your card can ensure that you never accidentally miss a payment.

Understand your credit utilization ratio. Your credit utilization ratio is the amount of money you owe on your cards compared to how much money is available for you to borrow. The lower your credit utilization ratio, the better. Even if you can’t pay your balance in full, paying as much of the balance as you can is helpful in keeping your credit utilization ratio low.

Check your statement every month. Be aware of how much you’re spending on the card. Check your statements and flag any charge that seems unfamiliar. This could be a sign of fraudulent activity.

Create financial habits that stick. Some people like to use their card for automated payments each month on a standard bill, like a cell phone bill. Others like to use their card for specific purchases, like gas or groceries. There are many “right” ways to do credit cards, so it’s helpful to figure out what works for you before you start swiping.

Stay within your means. Some people are tempted to spend when they have a credit card. Make sure to stick within your means and only purchase what you would have been able to cover with cash. It isn’t easy to get credit card debt forgiveness if you take on more debt than you can handle, so you’ll want to avoid that road if possible.

Recommended: When Are Credit Card Payments Due

When Not To Consider Getting a Credit Card

You know yourself best, and you may have a sense opening a credit card may make it too tempting to go overboard. Here are some reasons to not open a credit card:

A partner or friend is pressuring you to do so. If a partner or friend needs access to money and suggests you open a credit card, this could lead to pressure to spend beyond what you can afford.

You’re still working on money management. If you’re still working on money management, sticking to debit cards or buy now, pay later arrangements may help you build up to being able to confidently use a credit card.

You want to buy something you can’t afford. It may be tempting to put a trip or a big purchase on a credit card, but this can potentially cause your finances to spiral out of control. Even if a credit card offers 0% interest, only putting what you can afford to pay off on a credit card is a good rule of thumb.

Pros and Cons of Opening a Credit Card

Weighing the pros and cons of a credit card can help you assess whether or not you should get one.

Avoiding Credit Card Traps

As evidenced in the history of credit cards, high interest rates and the ease of spending beyond your means with a credit card can land you in debt. However, you can have a credit card and avoid these traps with these tips in mind:

•   Only spend what you can afford. One way to avoid racking up debt on your credit card is to treat your credit card as you would cash. This means only spending as much as you already have in your pocket, with other budgetary concerns still in mind.

•   Always pay your balance in full. Whenever possible, it’s important to pay your balance in full each month. This can help you from incurring interest, which can easily tip you into a debt cycle and make it more difficult to pay off your credit card balance in subsequent months.

•   Set your bill payments to autopay. You can always set the autopay to the minimum, then manually log in and pay the balance in full. This will ensure you’re always on time with your payments — an important factor in determining your credit score.

•   Check your credit card statement each month. Make sure to look over your statements every month to check for any errors or unexpected charges. This can also help you to notice your spending habits and anywhere you can potentially cut back.

•   Don’t get stuck chasing rewards. Rewards can be a helpful part of how credit cards work, but as you’re learning to use credit, simpler is better. Consider sticking to just one card in the first few years of building credit, and be careful about spending just to snag rewards.

Alternatives to Using a Credit Card

There are alternatives to credit cards, which can still give you some of the benefits that a credit card might offer.

Use Buy Now, Pay Later Loans

Loans that offer fixed payment strategies to pay off a purchase are becoming more popular. Called installment loans, these loans offer funds that cover the amount of a purchase. Many do not charge interest, but late fees may apply for missed payments.

Like credit cards, it can be easy to overspend with a buy now, pay later loan. Additionally, your creditworthiness may get checked each time you use one of these loans to cover a purchase, which could negatively impact your credit score if it’s a hard inquiry.

Become an Authorized User

As an authorized user, your name is added to someone else’s credit card account, such as that of a parent. In some cases, you may get your own card and be able to make purchases. But in other cases, the person may add you to the card without giving you access. Either way, this can help build your credit history and credit score without the responsibility of having a credit card account under your own name.

Recommended: Tips for Using a Credit Card Responsibly

Consider a Secured Credit Card

A secured credit card can be helpful for people who don’t have a credit history and may not be able to get approved for a traditional credit card. With a secured credit card, you may pay a deposit, such as $500. This then becomes your credit limit. Over time, and with good credit behavior, you may be able to switch your card to a traditional, unsecured card.

The SoFi Credit Card offers unlimited 2% cash back on all eligible purchases. There are no spending categories or reward caps to worry about.¹

FAQ

Should I get a credit card at age 18?

You can get a credit card at age 18, but you don’t have to do so. If your parents or a relative has a good credit history, consider asking to become an authorized user on their account, which can help build your credit. Keep in mind that if you do decide to apply for a credit card at 18, you must either provide proof of income or get a cosigner.

Are there risks of having a credit card?

Risks of having a credit card include spending beyond your means. This, coupled with high interest rates, could lead to debt that is hard to pay down. By learning to use a card responsibly, you can help mitigate these risks.

How do I choose the right credit card?

The right credit card for you depends on multiple factors, including how you plan to use the card, the interest rate offered, and the perks and rewards of the card. But it’s okay to keep things simple for your first credit card and not get too into the weeds comparing rewards and perks. As you build your credit, you can potentially explore additional cards.

How can I get a credit card with no credit history?

If you have no credit history, you can become an authorized user on a relative or trusted friend’s account. Another option is to apply for a secured credit card. With a secured credit card, you’ll put down a deposit that will become your credit limit. You can then use the card to build credit. Over time, you may be able to switch your credit card from a secured credit card to an unsecured credit card as your credit grows.

SoFi cardholders earn 2% unlimited cash back rewards when redeemed to save, invest, a statement credit, or pay down eligible SoFi debt.

¹See Rewards Details at SoFi.com/card/rewards.

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.

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

The SoFi Credit Card is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A. pursuant to license by Mastercard® International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

¹Members earn 2 rewards points for every dollar spent on purchases. No rewards points will be earned with respect to reversed transactions, returned purchases, or other similar transactions. When you elect to redeem rewards points into your SoFi Checking or Savings account, SoFi Money® account, SoFi Active Invest account, SoFi Credit Card account, or SoFi Personal, Private Student, or Student Loan Refinance, your rewards points will redeem at a rate of 1 cent per every point. For more details please visit the Rewards page. Brokerage and Active investing products offered through SoFi Securities LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. SoFi Securities LLC is an affiliate of SoFi Bank, N.A.

Photo credit: iStock/Georgii Boronin
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