Guide to IRA Margin Accounts

Guide to IRA Accounts With Limited Margin

An IRA account with limited margin is a retirement account that allows investors to trade securities with unsettled cash. It’s a more lenient structure versus a cash account, where you must wait for trades to settle before using the money for further trading. But an IRA account with limited margin isn’t a true margin account in that you can’t use leverage.

Nonetheless, an IRA account with limited margin offers a few advantages, including the ability to defer or avoid short-term capital gains tax, and you’re protected against good faith violations. That said, there are still restrictions, so before setting one up, it may be beneficial to learn more about how these accounts work.

What Is an IRA Account With Limited Margin?

An IRA account that may have limited margin — often called simply a limited margin IRA — presents a more flexible option to invest for retirement than a traditional IRA. These types of IRAs may allow you to trade with unsettled funds, meaning that if you close a position you don’t have to wait the standard two days after you trade, you can use those funds right away.

There may also be tax benefits. In a traditional IRA margin account, capital gains taxes are deferred until funds are withdrawn. This is similar to a regular IRA, where you don’t pay taxes on contributions or gains until you withdraw your money.

You may also be able to use limited margin in a Roth IRA, and there may be even more tax benefits when using limited margin in a Roth IRA. You don’t pay any capital gains because Roth accounts are tax-free, since Roth contributions are made with after-tax money.

As noted, an IRA account with limited margin may allow investors to trade with unsettled cash. However, a limited margin IRA is just that — limited. It is not a true margin account, and does not allow you to short stocks or use leverage by borrowing money to trade with margin debits. In that sense, it is different from margin trading in a taxable brokerage account.

You may be able to use limited margin in several IRA types. In addition to having margin IRAs with traditional and Roth accounts, rollover IRAs, SEP IRAs, and even small business SIMPLE IRAs are eligible for the margin feature. While mutual funds are often owned inside an IRA, you cannot buy mutual funds on margin.

💡 Quick Tip: How to manage potential risk factors in a self-directed investment account? Doing your research and employing strategies like dollar-cost averaging and diversification may help mitigate financial risk when trading stocks.

How Does Limited Margin Work?

Limited margin works by allowing investors to trade securities without having to wait for funds to settle. You can think of it like an advance payment from positions recently sold.

The first step is to open an IRA account and request that the IRA margin feature be added. Once approved, you might have to request that your broker move positions from cash to margin within the IRA. This operational task will also set future trades to the margin type.

IRAs with limited margin will state your intraday buying power — you should use this balance when day trading stocks and options in the IRA.

An advantage to trading in limited margin IRAs is that you can avoid or defer capital gains tax. Assuming you earn profits from trading, that can be a major annual savings versus day trading in a taxable brokerage account. If you trade within a pre-tax account, such as a traditional or rollover IRA, then you simply pay income tax upon the withdrawal of funds. When using Roth IRA margin, your account can grow tax-free forever in some cases.

The drawback with an IRA with limited margin versus day trading in a taxable account is you are unable to borrow money from your broker to create margin debits. You are also unable to sell securities short with an IRA with limited margin account. So while it is a margin account, you do not have all the bells and whistles of a full margin account that is not an IRA.

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Borrow against your current investments at just 12%* and start margin trading.


*For full margin details, see terms.

Who Is Eligible for an IRA With Limited Margin?

Some brokerage firms have strict eligibility requirements such as a minimum equity threshold (similar to the minimum balances required in full margin accounts). When signing up, you might also be required to indicate that your investment objective is the “most aggressive.” That gives the broker a clue that you will use the account for active trading purposes.

Another restriction is that you might not be able to choose an FDIC-insured cash position. That’s not a major issue for most investors since you can elect a safe money market fund instead.

IRA Margin Calls

An advantage to having margin in an IRA is that you can more easily avoid margin calls by not having to wait for cash from the proceeds of a sale to settle, but margin calls can still happen. If the IRA margin equity amount drops below a certain amount (often $25,000, but it can vary by broker), then a day trade minimum equity call is issued. Until you meet the call, you are limited to closing positions only.

To meet the IRA margin call, you just have to deposit more cash or marginable securities. Since it is an IRA, there are annual contribution limits that you cannot exceed, so adding funds might be tricky.

💡 Quick Tip: One of the advantages of using a margin account, if you qualify, is that a margin loan gives you the ability to buy more securities. Be sure to understand the terms of the margin account, though, as buying on margin includes the risk of bigger losses.

Avoiding Good Faith Violations

A good faith violation happens when you purchase a security in a cash account then sell before paying for the purchase with settled cash. You must wait for the funds to settle — the standard is trade date plus two days (T+2 settlement) for equity securities. Only cash and funds from sale proceeds are considered “settled funds.” Cash accounts and margin accounts have different rules to know about.

A good faith violation can happen in an IRA account without margin. For example, if you buy a stock in the morning, sell it in the afternoon, then use those proceeds to do another round-trip trade before the funds settle, that second sale can trigger a good faith violation. Having margin in an IRA prevents good faith violations in that instance since an IRA with limited margin allows you to trade with unsettled funds.

Pros and Cons of Limited Margin Trading in an IRA

Can IRA accounts have margin? Yes. Can you use margin in a Roth IRA? Yes. Should your IRA have the limited margin feature added? It depends on your preferences. Below are the pros and cons to consider with IRAs with limited margin.

Pros

Cons

You are permitted to trade with unsettled cash. You cannot trade using actual margin (i.e. leverage).
You can avoid good faith violations. You cannot engage in short selling or have naked options positions.
You take on more risk with your retirement money.

The Takeaway

An IRA account with limited margin allows people investing in individual retirement accounts to trade securities a bit more freely versus a cash account. The main benefit to having an IRA with limited margin is that you can buy and sell stocks and options without waiting for lengthy settlement periods associated with a non-margin account.

But remember: Unlike a normal margin account, this type doesn’t allow you to use leverage. That means a margin-equipped IRA doesn’t permit margin trading that creates margin debit balances. You are also not allowed to have naked options positions or engage in selling shares short.

Ready to invest in your goals? It’s easy to get started when you open an investment account with SoFi Invest. You can invest in stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), mutual funds, alternative funds, and more. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).

Get one of the most competitive margin loan rates with SoFi, 12%*

FAQ

Is an IRA a cash or a margin account?

An IRA can either be a cash account or a limited margin account. While a cash account only lets you buy and sell securities with a traditional settlement period, a limited margin IRA might offer same-day settlement of trades. You are not allowed to borrow funds or short sell, however.

Is day trading possible in an IRA?

Yes. You can day trade in your IRA, and it can actually be a tax-savvy practice. Short-term capital gains can add up when you day trade in a taxable brokerage account. That tax liability can eat into your profits. With a limited margin IRA that offers same-day settlement, however, you can buy and sell stocks and options without the many tax consequences of a non-IRA. The downside is that, in the case of losses, you cannot take advantage of the $3,000 capital loss tax deduction because an IRA is a tax-sheltered account. Another feature that is limited when day trading an IRA is that you cannot borrow funds to control more capital. A final drawback is that you are limited to going long shares, not short.

Can a 401(k) be a margin account?

Most 401(k) plans do not allow participants to have the margin feature. An emerging type of small business 401(k) plan — the solo brokerage 401(k) — allows participants to have a margin feature. Not all providers allow it, though. Also, just because the account has the margin feature, it does not mean you can borrow money from the broker to buy securities.


Photo credit: iStock/Drazen_

SoFi Invest®

INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE

SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below: Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.

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.

*Borrow at 12%. Utilizing a margin loan is generally considered more appropriate for experienced investors as there are additional costs and risks associated. It is possible to lose more than your initial investment when using margin. Please see SoFi.com/wealth/assets/documents/brokerage-margin-disclosure-statement.pdf for detailed disclosure information.
Claw Promotion: Customer must fund their Active Invest account with at least $25 within 30 days of opening the account. Probability of customer receiving $1,000 is 0.028%. See full terms and conditions.

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Choosing the Best IRA for Young Adults

Saving for retirement may be lower on the priority list for young adults as they deal with the right-now reality of paying rent, bills, and student loans. But the truth is, it’s never too soon to start saving for the future. The more time your money has to grow, the better. And saving even small amounts now could make a big difference later. An IRA, or individual retirement account, is one option that could help young adults start investing in their future.

There are different types of IRAs, and each has different requirements and benefits. So which IRA is best for young adults? Read on to learn about different types of IRAs, how much you can contribute, the possible tax advantages, and everything else you need to know about choosing the best IRA for young people.

Understanding IRAs

First things first, what is an IRA exactly? An IRA is a retirement savings account that allows you to save for the future over the long term. It typically also has tax advantages that may help you build your savings more efficiently.

There are several types of IRAs, but the two most common are traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs. The key difference between the two accounts is how they’re taxed. With a traditional IRA, you contribute pre-tax dollars. That means you take deductions on your contributions upfront, which may lower your taxable income for the year, and then pay taxes on the distributions when you take them in retirement.

With Roth IRAs, you contribute after-tax dollars. Your contributions are not tax deductible when you make them. However, you withdraw your money tax-free in retirement.

How much you can contribute to an IRA each year is determined by the IRS, and the amount generally changes annually. In 2024, those under age 50 can contribute a maximum of $7,000 to a traditional or Roth IRA. (Those 50 and up can contribute an extra $1,000 in 2024 in what’s called a catch-up contribution.) However, the contribution cannot exceed the individual’s earned income for the year. So if a child made $2,000 babysitting for the year, the most they could contribute is $2,000 to a Roth IRA that year.

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SoFi IRAs now get a 1% match on every dollar you deposit, up to the annual contribution limits. Open an account today and get started.


Only offers made via ACH are eligible for the match. ACATs, wires, and rollovers are not included.

Factors to Consider & Eligibility

When choosing the best IRA for young adults, it’s important to consider your specific situation, the eligibility requirements, and what type of tax treatment would benefit you most.

Eligibility

The eligibility rules are different for traditional and Roth IRAs. One thing that’s not a requirement for either type is age — an individual of virtually any age can open an IRA as long as they have earned income for the year. How much money you make is another matter. Roth IRAs have income limits, while traditional IRAs do not.

How a Roth IRA works is that your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) must be below a certain level to qualify for a Roth. In 2024, the limit on MAGI is $146,000 for those who are single. Single individuals who earn more than $146,000 but less than $161,000 can contribute a partial amount to a Roth, while those who earn more than $161,000 are not eligible to open or contribute to a Roth. For married couples who file taxes jointly, the limit in 2024 is $230,000 for a full contribution to a Roth, and between $230,000 to $240,000 for a partial contribution.

Young adults starting out in their career might be earning less than they will in the future — in fact, the average college grad salary for 2024 is projected to range from $61,000 to slightly more than $76,000, depending on the type of degree earned. So it could make sense for a young adult to open a Roth now when they may not have to worry about earning too much to qualify. In this case, a Roth might be the best IRA for young people.

Taxes

Another important factor to consider when looking at which IRA is best for young adults is taxes. For those who are currently in a lower tax bracket, the upfront tax deductions with a traditional IRA may not be as beneficial. On the other hand, a Roth, with its tax-free distributions in retirement, might be worth exploring, especially if the individual expects to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement.

With a traditional IRA, your income is important in determining how much of your contributions you can deduct. Deduction limits depend on your MAGI, whether you are single or married, your tax filing status, and if you’re covered by a retirement plan at work.

For instance, if you’re single and not covered by a retirement plan from your employer, you can deduct the entire amount you contribute to a traditional IRA in 2024. But if you’re covered by a workplace retirement plan, you can only deduct the full contribution limit if your MAGI is $77,000 or less. Those who earn $87,000 or more can’t take any deductions at all.

Individuals who are married filing jointly and aren’t covered by a retirement plan at work can deduct the full amount of their traditional IRA contributions. However, if their spouse is covered by a workplace retirement plan, they can only deduct the full amount of their contribution if their combined MAGI in 2024 is $230,000 or less. If their combined MAGI is $240,000 or more, they can’t take a deduction. And if they themselves are covered by a retirement plan at work, they can deduct the full amount of their contributions only if their combined MAGI is $123,000 or less. If their combined MAGI is $143,000 or more, they can’t take a deduction.

Withdrawals

Whether you choose a Roth or traditional IRA, the idea is to keep your money in the account without touching it until retirement, when you begin making withdrawals. In fact, both types of IRA accounts have early withdrawal penalties.

With a traditional IRA, individuals who take withdrawals before age 59 ½ will generally be subject to a 10% penalty, plus taxes. A Roth IRA typically offers more flexibility: Individuals may withdraw their contributions penalty-free at any time before age 59 ½. However, any earnings can typically only be withdrawn tax- and penalty-free once the individual reaches age 59 ½ and the account has been open for at least five years. This is known as the Roth IRA 5-year rule.

That said, there are exceptions to the IRA withdrawal rules, including:

•   Death or disability of the individual who owns the account

•   Qualified higher education expenses for the account owner, spouse, or a child or grandchild

•   Up to $10,000 for first-time qualified homebuyers to help purchase a home

•   Health insurance premiums paid while an individual is unemployed

•   Unreimbursed medical expenses that are more than 7.5% of an individual’s adjusted gross income

Building a Strong Investment Strategy

As you explore the best IRA for young people, you’ll want to make sure that you’re getting the most out of your investing strategy to help you achieve financial security. Here are some ways to do that.

Contribute to a 401(k) and an IRA.

If your employer offers a 401(k), enroll in it and contribute as much as you can. If possible, aim to contribute enough to get the matching contribution, which is, essentially, “free” or extra money that can help you build your savings.

If you don’t have a workplace 401(k) — and even if you do — open an IRA as another account to help save for retirement. Contribute as much as you are able to. With an IRA, you typically have more investment options than you do with a 401(k), and you can also choose the type of IRA that could give you tax advantages.

Automate your contributions.

With a 401(k), your contributions usually happen automatically. Opening an investment account for an IRA could help you do something similar. Many brokerages allow you to set up automatic repeating deposits in an IRA. This way you don’t have to even think about contributing to your account — it just happens.

Understand your risk tolerance.

When you’re deciding what assets to invest in, consider your risk tolerance. All investments come with some risk, but some types are riskier than others. In general, assets that potentially offer higher returns (like stocks) come with higher risk.

If a drop in the market is going to send your anxiety level skyrocketing, you may want to make your portfolio a little more conservative. If you’re willing to take risks, you might want to be a bit more aggressive. Either way, try to find an asset allocation that balances your tolerance for risk with the amount of risk you may need to take to help meet your investment goals.

Diversify your investments.

Building a diversified portfolio across a range of asset classes — such as stocks, bonds, and REITs (real estate investment trusts), for instance — rather than concentrating all of it in one area — may help you offset some investment risk. Just be aware that diversification doesn’t eliminate risk.

Reassess your portfolio regularly.

Once or twice a year, review the performance of your portfolio to make sure it’s on track to help you get where you want to be in terms of your financial future.

Maximizing Your IRA Investments

After you open an IRA, contribute up to the annual limit if you can to help maximize your investments. If you’re not sure how to fund an IRA, you can start with a few basic techniques.

For instance, you could use your tax refund to contribute to an IRA. That way, you won’t be pulling money out of your savings or from the funds you have earmarked to pay your bills. The same is true if you get a raise or bonus at work, or if a relative gives you money for a birthday. Put those dollars into your IRA.

Another way to fund an IRA is to make small monthly contributions to it. You could start with $50 or $100 monthly. You could even set up a vault bank account specifically for money designated to your IRA so that you don’t end up spending it on something else.

Finally, when you change jobs, consider rolling over your 401(k) into an IRA (learn more about an IRA transfer vs. rollover). Once you’ve rolled the money over, you can choose how to invest it.

Considerations for Young Adults Looking to Start Investing

Young adults who are ready to begin investing should aim to get started as soon as possible. Thanks to the power of compounding returns, the longer your money has to compound, the bigger your account balance may be when you reach retirement.

When choosing an IRA, consider the tax advantages of traditional and Roth IRAs to decide which type of account may be most beneficial for your situation. Once you’ve opened an IRA, try to contribute as much as you can afford to each year, up to the annual limit.

Young adults should also think about their financial goals, at what age they plan to retire, and what their tolerance is for risk. Each of these factors can affect how they invest and what kinds of assets they invest in.

The Takeaway

An IRA can be a great way for young adults to start saving for retirement. The earlier they start, the longer their money may have to grow, which can make a big difference over time.

In order to choose the best IRA for young people, weigh the different tax benefits of Roth and traditional IRAs. If you’re leaning toward a Roth IRA, make sure you meet the income limit requirements, and if you’re considering a traditional IRA, check to see if you can deduct your contributions.

Once you’ve chosen the right IRA for you, start contributing to it regularly if you can. And no matter how much you’re able to contribute, remember this: Getting started with retirement savings is one of the most important steps you can take to build a nest egg and help secure your financial future.

Ready to invest for your retirement? It’s easy to get started when you open a traditional or Roth IRA with SoFi. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).

Help grow your nest egg with a SoFi IRA.

FAQ

What are the different types of IRAs?

There are several types of IRAs. Two of the most popular are traditional and Roth IRAs, which individuals with earned income can open and contribute to. Contributions to traditional IRAs are made with pre-tax dollars and the contributions are generally tax deductible; the money is taxed on withdrawal in retirement. Contributions to Roth IRAs are made with after tax dollars, and the money is withdrawn tax-free in retirement.

Other types of IRAs include SEP IRAs for self-employed individuals and small business owners, and SIMPLE IRAs for small businesses with 100 employees or fewer.

Which IRA is suitable for young adults?

It depends on an individual’s specific situation, but for young adults choosing between a traditional or Roth IRA, a Roth may be the better choice for those in a low tax bracket now and who expect to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement. That’s because with a Roth, contributions are made with after tax dollars and distributions are withdrawn tax-free in retirement. With traditional IRAs, contributions are deducted upfront and you pay taxes on distributions when you retire.

Still, it’s important to weigh the different options and benefits to choose the IRA that’s best for you.

What factors should young adults consider when choosing an IRA?

Young adults should consider their current tax bracket and the tax bracket they expect to be in during retirement when choosing an IRA. If they’re in a low tax bracket now and anticipate that they’ll be in a higher tax bracket when they retire, a Roth IRA may make more sense since distributions are withdrawn tax-free in retirement. Conversely, if they’re in a higher tax bracket now than they expect to be in retirement, a traditional IRA may be a better option.

How can young adults maximize their IRA investments?

To maximize IRA investments, young adults should start contributing money to their IRA as early as possible. The longer their money has to compound, the bigger their IRA balance may grow over time. In addition, they should contribute as much as they can to their IRA each year, up to the annual limit ($7,000 for those under 50 in 2024).


Photo credit: iStock/andresr

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.

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.


Investment Risk: Diversification can help reduce some investment risk. It cannot guarantee profit, or fully protect in a down market.

SoFi Invest®

INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE

SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below: Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

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Guide to a Retirement Money Market Account

Guide to a Money Market Account Held Within a Retirement Account

When you open an individual retirement account (IRA) or 401(k), you can generally choose from a variety of different types of investments, such as stocks, bonds, options, real estate, and more. You may also be able to put some of the money in a money market account, where it will typically earn a higher annual percentage yield (APY) than in a traditional savings account yet still remain liquid.

While you might choose to keep most of your retirement savings in potentially higher-return investments, it may make sense to keep some of your retirement funds in a money market account, since it is a relatively low-risk place to store cash. Even if the return may be lower than other investments, it’s predictable.

Another reason to have some of your retirement money in a money market account is to serve as a holding place as you sell investments or transfer money between investments.

Unlike a regular money market account, a money market account that is offered as a component of a retirement account is subject to the benefits and restrictions of those accounts. Here’s what else you need to know about retirement accounts that offer a money market component.

What Is a Money Market Account That Can Be Used for Retirement?

While there is no such thing as a “retirement money market account,” some retirement accounts allow you to keep some of your money in a money market within the account. The money market account (MMA) could be within a traditional, rollover, or Roth IRA, a 401(k), or other retirement account, which means those funds are governed by the rules of that account.

If the MMA is a component of a traditional IRA, that means you can contribute pre-tax dollars (up to certain limits), your money can grow tax deferred, and you won’t be able to withdraw funds before age 59 ½ without paying taxes and penalties.

Money held in the money market component is liquid. This is usually where money is held when you first transfer money into your retirement account, or when you sell other investments in your account. You can use the funds in the money market to purchase investments within the retirement account.

Recommended: The Different Between an Investment Portfolio and a Savings Account

What Is a Money Market Fund?

Bear in mind an important distinction: A money market fund, which is technically a type of mutual fund, is different from a money market account. A money market fund is an investment that holds short-term securities (and is not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, or FDIC). For example, these funds may hold government bonds, municipal bonds, corporate bonds, cash and cash equivalents.

A money market account is essentially a type of high-yield savings account and it’s FDIC insured up to $250,000.

Boost your retirement contributions with a 1% match.

SoFi IRAs now get a 1% match on every dollar you deposit, up to the annual contribution limits. Open an account today and get started.


Only offers made via ACH are eligible for the match. ACATs, wires, and rollovers are not included.

How Does a Money Market Within Your IRA Work?

If you are starting a retirement fund that has a money market component to it, you’ll want to make sure that you understand how these money market accounts work. One major way they differ from regular money market accounts is that they are governed by a retirement plan agreement.

This can place some limits on what you can do with the money. Typically, that will mean that you can’t withdraw the money until you have reached a certain age. But one advantage is that the money in the account will grow tax-free or tax-deferred (depending on what type of retirement account it is in).

For example, a money market account in a Roth IRA would follow different rules than money in a traditional IRA.

•   You can deduct contributions to a traditional IRA, but a Roth IRA is funded with after-tax money.

•   You can’t withdraw money from a traditional IRA until you’re 59 ½, except under special circumstances.

•   Because contributions to a Roth are post tax, you can withdraw your contributions at any time (but not the earnings).

Advantages of a Money Market Account Held Within a Retirement Account

•   Since these accounts are held at a bank, they are insured by the FDIC up to $250,000. By contrast, money held in a brokerage account is not FDIC-insured.

•   The money market component can be used to store proceeds of the sales of stocks, bonds, or other investments.

•   Many money market accounts offer the ability to write checks against the account (just keep in mind that withdrawals are subject to restrictions).

Disadvantages of a Money Market Account Held Within a Retirement Account

•   Money market accounts offer a relatively low rate of return compared to what you might be able to earn in the market over time.

•   Opening this type of money market account requires opening a retirement account.

•   You may not be able to withdraw money until retirement age without paying a penalty.

Money Market Account Within a Retirement Account vs Traditional Money Market Account

The biggest difference between a money market account that is a component of a retirement account vs. a traditional money market account is where they are held. Unlike a regular money market account, the money market component is held inside a retirement account, such as a 401(k) or IRA account.

While you can generally access money in a traditional money market account at any time, early withdrawal from a money market that is part of a retirement account can trigger taxes and penalties.

Recommended: What is an IRA and How Does it Work?

What Should I Know About Money Market Accounts Held Within IRAs?

If you are wondering how to save for retirement, there are a few things to keep in mind before opening a retirement account with a money market component.

The most important is that money put into the money market component is subject to the same conditions as any other money you invest into a retirement account. You generally will not be able to access it without penalty until you retire.

You’ll also want to bear in mind that these are low-risk, generally low-return accounts. The money that you deposit, or money that is automatically transferred, is not going to provide much growth.

In some cases, when you open a retirement account, the funds will be automatically deposited in the money market component. In these instances, be sure to check that the money in that part of your account is then used to purchase the securities you want. Given the relatively low yield of an MMA, you may only want a certain portion of your savings to remain there.

Opening a Money Market Account That Is Part of an IRA

If you want to put some of your retirement savings in a money market account, you likely won’t be able to open the account separately, as you can with a traditional MMA.

Instead, you would open a retirement account with your bank, brokerage firm, or company provider. Depending on your IRA custodian, they may automatically include a retirement money market account as an investment option inside your IRA account.

Does It Make Sense to Put Retirement Funds in a Money Market?

There are many different types of retirement plans, so you’ll want to make sure to choose the options that make the most sense for you. While it might make sense to put some money into the money market component of your 401(k) or IRA, you might not want to put much money in it.

The reason for this is due to the relatively low interest rate that money market accounts pay. In some cases, the interest rate may be lower than the rate of inflation. If so, the money kept in the money market component will lose purchasing power over time.

The one exception to this rule would be retirees who are currently living off of the money in their retirement accounts. These investors already in retirement will often want to keep some of their money in money market accounts so they have to worry less about market volatility.

Alternatives to Money Market Accounts Held Within Retirement Accounts

There are any number of low-risk alternatives to money market accounts within retirement accounts, including vehicles outside a retirement account, such as a high-yield savings account. For similar alternatives within a retirement account, you could consider investing in bonds, bond funds, and other lower risk investment options.

The Takeaway

A money market account is often a component of a retirement account, such as an IRA or 401(k). This type of account has the advantages of being FDIC-insured and fairly liquid. However, it may not earn enough interest to outpace inflation. Many investors will want to keep the money in their retirement accounts in investments that can provide higher rates of return. That said, one advantage to keeping some of your retirement funds in a money market is that it can become part of the low-risk, cash/cash equivalents portion of your portfolio.

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

Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 4.50% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

Can you keep some of your retirement funds in a money market account?

Yes, some retirement accounts offer a money market component. To keep some of your retirement savings in a money market account, you’ll need to open up an individual retirement account (IRA), 401(k), or other type of retirement account. Many retirement account custodians will include a money market account as one “investment“ option for your account.

What is the difference between an IRA and a money market account?

A standard money market account is similar to a regular savings account. An Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is an account that allows you to save for retirement with tax-free growth or on a tax-deferred basis. An IRA account can be used to invest in a variety of different ways. Many IRAs will have a money market component to them.

What is the difference between a money market account and a 401(k)?

A money market account is similar to a savings account in that the money is liquid and earns interest. A 401(k) is a special tax-advantaged account designed to help people prepare for retirement.

With a 401(k), contributions are typically tax-deductible and the money grows tax-deferred until retirement. By contrast, a money market account is funded with after-tax dollars, and there are no tax benefits associated with these accounts. The only exception is if the money market account is a component of a retirement account. In that case, it is governed by the rules of the retirement account it’s in.


Photo credit: iStock/Pixelimage

SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.50% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit 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, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with direct deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

As an alternative to direct deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.50% 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 members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

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 4.50% 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 8/27/2024. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://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.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

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Extra Income Sources for Retirees

11 Ways of Earning Money in Retirement

Many retirees are looking for ways to earn money, whether by doing online or seasonal work, tapping their entrepreneurial streak, or perhaps downsizing in order to raise cash. Here’s why: The average Social Security retirement benefit as of February 2024 is $1,772.51, which probably isn’t enough income to support a comfortable life for most people in the United States, especially older people who can often require more health care services.

Read on for some ideas for discovering extra income sources for retirees, plus tips on how seniors can maximize their money.

Key Points

•   Many retirees seek additional income through online jobs, seasonal work, or by starting their own businesses.

•   Virtual assistant roles and bookkeeping are viable online job options for retirees seeking flexible work from home.

•   Seasonal opportunities during holidays, tax season, or tourist seasons offer potential income without year-round commitment.

•   Starting a business post-retirement can utilize one’s professional skills or passions in consulting or service-oriented roles.

•   Downsizing personal belongings and reducing fixed costs can also provide financial relief and additional income in retirement.

Online Jobs for Seniors

For people who want to earn money from the comfort of home, there are many online jobs that require varying degrees of experience. Often you can work when you like, in your sweats if you prefer. This is, after all, supposed to be your time. Here, some work-from-home jobs for retirees:

1. Virtual Assistant

Virtual assistants tackle jobs that companies don’t have the money or inclination to hire full-time employees for. This might include anything from handling social media to managing customer emails or handling the CEO’s schedule. Often, they work for small companies, but they may be called in to help large ones as well. Some virtual assistants make very good money; six figures, even. The key is to create a niche, an area where you already have expertise to set you apart from the competition.

2. Bookkeeper

Bookkeeping can be a fairly easy skill to learn; it isn’t accounting, and bookkeepers don’t handle all the tasks of an accountant. A bookkeeper might create new accounts, handle payroll, and pay and issue invoices, usually with the help of bookkeeping software. They probably won’t be responsible for closing out the books, reporting taxes, or other tasks that have the legal liabilities of an accountant. One bookkeeper might be able to handle several clients.

3. Teacher

Even if you haven’t taught before, if you have knowledge to share and have always been good at explaining things to others, online teaching might be for you. You could teach English to non-English speakers, or tutor in any subject in which you have depth of knowledge. Earnings can range from several dollars an hour to more than $25 (or multiples of that) depending on your expertise. An online search can lead you to many options.

4. Customer Service

You’d be surprised how many jobs there are for customer service representatives who want to work from home. You might be hired to help customers via phone, social media, or chat. You could be working with products or services, from selling kitchenware to answering questions about healthcare services. Or if you have management experience, you might manage a team of home-based customer service representatives. This is a job that requires patience and a love of working with people.

💡 Quick Tip: Make money easy. Enjoy the convenience of managing bills, deposits, and transfers from one online checking account with SoFi.

Seasonal Jobs for Retirees

5. Retail, Tax Season, Tourism

You may not want to work all year round. Perhaps just bringing in a little extra money now and again would suit you fine. If so, holidays, tourist season, and tax season may provide all the work you want. For example, US retailers expect to hire many 100,000s of workers for most Christmas seasons, mostly working as sales associates in brick-and-mortar stores. For instance, Walmart alone has hired 40,000 employees during the ramp-up to a recent holiday season.

While Christmas retail may provide the most seasonal jobs, tax season isn’t too far behind and also provides hundreds of thousands of jobs for tax preparers. Many of them must first take a short course and work from the first of the year through Tax Day.

But there are other opportunities, too. All summer and fall people need yard work and gardening help. If you live in a tourist town, attractions need staff, too. Picking up seasonal work means enjoying the leisure of retirement in between picking up extra cash.

Start Your Own Business

The skills you gained during your working years could provide the foundation for your own pursuit, or you could try something different. How many hours you devote to it is your call; flexibility can be a benefit of a side hustle or entrepreneurial business. Some ideas:

6. Consulting

More and more companies are turning to contract work rather than hiring full-time employees. If you have a solid skill set, want to set your own hours, and choose your clients, you can use your connections to begin a consulting company. You may need a website or LinkedIn to promote your services, or you may have a strong enough network you can just reach out to connections and let them know you’re in business!

7. Service Work

Maybe you love cooking and can create a business providing meals for a handful of families every week. Perhaps you love kids and want to work as a nanny. Perhaps you are good at simple carpentry and can do odd jobs. Many families find they lack the time to take care of jobs, kids, homes, and hobbies and would love a reliable person to take on some of their tasks.

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

Open a SoFi Checking and Savings Account with direct deposit and get up to a $300 cash bonus. Plus, get up to 4.50% APY on your cash!


Downsize in Retirement

Life can get fuller and more complicated as the years pass — buying stuff, accumulating debt, having multiple income streams, gaining complexity. Retirement can be the right time to figure out what brings you joy and start shedding that extra stuff which may have become a burden to manage.

8. Sell Stuff

By retirement age, many people have collected a lot of possessions. Instead of just unloading it for free, you might offer it on a site like eBay or Etsy, or one of the dozens of other possible places to sell your things.

If you donate it, make sure to track what you give away and keep receipts for a possible tax deduction.

Recommended: Guide to Reselling

9. Unload Debt

Debt is expensive. Whether it’s a credit card, a personal loan, or even a mortgage, it’s wise to find ways to reduce the cost of that debt. That might mean it’s time to refinance your mortgage and perhaps roll other debts into it to cut the interest rate and boost your tax deductions.

It might mean making extra payments on principal or using the extra income you bring in to whittle away at high-interest loans. It might mean seeing if you can get a better rate by using a personal loan for your car. Talk to a financial advisor to find the best ways to reduce the burden of debt.

10. Reduce Fixed Costs

Use a spending tracker or budget tracker to find ways to reduce your fixed monthly expenses like food, housing, transportation, and healthcare. Could you get by with only one car instead of two? Or maybe it’s time to sell your home and move into a smaller one that gives you more money at the end of the month.

Various tools let you check home values to see how much you could get for your current home. You could also eliminate a couple of streaming services or follow store sales to stock up on favorite items at a lower cost.

11. Ask for Discounts

Take advantage of seniors’ discounts everywhere you go. Many mobile phone services have senior discounts; grocery stores have senior discount days; movie theaters, hotels, airlines, all offer discounts to seniors.

Beyond age-related savings, know that you can also sometimes renegotiate bills for things like insurance and internet service. Don’t be shy: Many companies expect it and build it into their customer retention plans so you’re not asking for “special favors.” You might also try negotiating medical bills as well.

Revisit Your Financial Plan

Financial planning has to evolve as the markets evolve. You should ensure you have a retirement plan and that you regularly evaluate your financial portfolio. You may be able to move money around in a way that provides you extra cash each month.

Continuing to Save Money in Retirement

A couple of other moves can help you manage your finances in retirement.

•   You might hold off on taking Social Security until you are at full retirement age, so you get the highest possible benefit.

•   If you are part of a married couple and want to begin drawing your Social Security benefit, research your options. You may want to have the higher earner hold off and the lower earner claim benefits.

•   Invest carefully. Seniors can still invest (perhaps not as much as in the past); be sure to work with a vetted, respected financial professional since scams and fraud can target elders.

The Takeaway

Many retirees are looking for ways to bring in more cash, and there are plenty of ways to do so, from starting a side hustle to selling unwanted items to taking on seasonal work. You might also benefit from taking a fresh look at your budget and reallocating some funds.

Another important facet of thriving during retirement can be to find the right banking partner. SoFi can be that ally.

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


Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 4.50% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

How can you make extra money after 60?

There are a variety of ways to make extra money after 60, from starting a side hustle to doing seasonal work. Options range from retail to consulting to teaching and beyond.

What is the best side hustle for retirees?

The best side hustle will depend on your skills, interest, and available time and equipment. For instance, if you have a chunk of free time and a car at your disposal, you might drive a rideshare like Uber. If you have deep knowledge on a certain topic, you might teach online.

How to make $1,000 a month in retirement?

A person’s ability to make $1,000 a month in retirement will depend upon how they want to go about earning. Do you have a passive income stream (say, a rental property) you can tap? Can you command top dollar consulting or teaching online? Or can you work for several hours a day at a side hustle or seasonal job? The particulars of your situation (your skill set, available time, and location) will all matter.


Photo credit: iStock/fstop123

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 4.50% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit 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, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with direct deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

As an alternative to direct deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.50% 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 members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

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 4.50% 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 8/27/2024. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://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.

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.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

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