The 10 Most Satisfying Jobs You Can Get in America Without a Degree

If you don’t have a college degree, certain jobs may be out of your reach. But does that mean that you can’t feel professionally fulfilled? Absolutely not. There are many careers that don’t require post-secondary education and can provide workers with a sense of happiness and purpose.

Here’s a look at the characteristics that make a job rewarding, the industries that offer the greatest sense of well-being, and the most satisfying jobs you can get in those industries that don’t require a degree.

Key Points

•   High-paying jobs without a degree include construction site manager and senior real estate manager.

•   Networking and industry-specific job boards help in finding satisfying roles.

•   Satisfying jobs offer flexibility, benefits, and safe working conditions.

•   Some industries with the happiest workers are construction, accounting, manufacturing, real estate, health care, education, technology, tourism, legal, and retail.

•   Examples of satisfying jobs without a degree are construction inspector, real estate broker, musician, truck driver, and legal secretary.

Characteristics of a Satisfying Job

It can be tough to pin down the characteristics of a satisfying job. That’s because satisfaction can be subjective. There are plenty of roles out there that you may prefer to avoid but others would be over the moon to try.

That said, the most rewarding jobs tend to share some qualities. According to the Urban Institute, good jobs typically offer:

•   Liveable wages that allow employees to cover basic needs.

•   Growth opportunity within the company to improve skills and advance.

•   Workplace flexibility and control over one’s schedule.

•   Benefits, such as paid leave, health care, and retirement contributions.

•   Safe working conditions.

Once you find a satisfying job and start earning a paycheck, a money tracker app can help you manage your finances. The SoFi app connects all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see all of your balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score monitoring, plus you can get other valuable financial insights.

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Why Is It Difficult to Find a Satisfying Job Without a College Degree?

There are other characteristics you might find necessary to consider work satisfying. For example, you might want a job where you help people, like a doctor, or a job where you work with animals, like a veterinarian.

Unfortunately, without a post-secondary degree, your pool of available jobs will likely be limited. Depending on the job market in your area, that may mean you have to compromise on the job you choose or relocate so you can be closer to meaningful work you qualify for.

Recommended: Should I Go to Community College?

Tips for Finding a Satisfying Job Without a College Degree

It’s a good idea to start your job hunt with online search engines. Your search will likely lead you to large job sites that compile listings from industries across the country. If you’re looking for a particular type of role, you may want to try industry-specific job boards.

Networking and word of mouth are also good ways to find work. Reach out to people in your area who work in the industry you’re looking to join. Ask to meet with them to learn what you need to do to successfully apply for a job in that field, and put the word out that you are actively looking.

Just because a job doesn’t require a degree doesn’t mean you won’t be able to find one that pays well. Consider exploring high-paying trade jobs and high-paying vocational careers to find jobs that pay top dollar.

Once you begin to earn a salary, consider using a spending app to help you budget and track your money.

Recommended: 25 High-Paying Trade Jobs in Demand

Top 10 Most Satisfying Jobs You Can Get in America Without a Degree

Now for the tricky part: How to take a subjective measure like satisfaction and apply it to a list of jobs that don’t require a degree?

For this list, we looked at TollFreeForwarding.com’s roundup of 10 industries that offer the greatest sense of well-being, which was based on data from the job and recruiting site Glassdoor. Those fields include:

•   Construction

•   Accounting and taxes

•   Manufacturing

•   Real estate

•   Health care

•   Education

•   Technology

•   Tourism

•   Legal

•   Retail and e-commerce

What are the most satisfying jobs? Read on for examples.

Travel Agents

Travel agents help people plan and book their travel arrangements, including transportation, lodging, and entertainment options.

Median annual wage: $47,410

Job outlook: Employment in this industry is expected to grow 3% through 2033.

Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents

Real estate brokers and sales agents help people who are looking to rent, buy, or sell properties. They tend to be self-employed and are usually able to set their own hours.

Median annual wage: $56,620

Job outlook: Employment is expected to grow 2% through 2033, which is slower than average.

Construction and Building Inspectors

Construction and building inspectors work alongside or as part of a team to make sure that new buildings meet codes, ordinances, zoning restrictions, and match up with specifications made in building contracts.

Median annual wage: $67,700

Job outlook: Employment for this job is expected to remain flat through 2033.

Computer Support Specialist

A computer network support specialist typically tests and evaluates a company’s network system, performs routine maintenance on it, and troubleshoots issues. It may be a good fit for people who want a job with little social interaction.

Median annual wage: $60,810

Job outlook: Employment is expected to grow 6% through 2033, which is faster than average.

Legal Secretary

Legal secretaries typically work in law offices and provide administrative and research support to lawyers and paralegals. In addition to traditional secretarial duties, they may also schedule appointments with clients, organize and maintain legal documents, and prepare court statements and forms.

Median annual pay: $56,330

Job outlook: Legal secretary jobs are expected to grow 2.1% through 2033.

Home Health Aide

Home health aides are among the fastest-growing jobs. They help people with chronic disabilities or illness perform acts of daily living, like getting dressed and eating. They may work in a client’s home, a group home, or a day service facility.

Median annual wage: $33,530

Job outlook: Jobs for home health aides are expected to grow 21% through 2033, with about 820,500 openings projected.

Musician

Musicians sing or play musical instruments in recording studios or in front of live audiences in concert halls, clubs, and churches. Many singers work part-time.

Median hourly wage: $39.14

Job outlook: Employment for singers is expected to grow through 2033 by 2%.

Truck Driver

Truck drivers are charged with transporting goods from one place to another. It’s typically a pretty solitary line of work, but if being on the open road brings you happiness, it might be worth considering.

Median annual salary: $54,320

Job outlook: Employment is expected to grow 5% through 2033, which is average for all occupations.

Material Recording Clerk

Material recording clerks help track product information and keep supply chains running and businesses on schedule.

Median annual wage: $44,210

Job outlook: Employment is expected to decline 4% through 2033.

Retail Sales Worker

Retail sales workers help customers in stores find the products they need and then ring them up at the cash register. They may also restock shelves.

Median hourly wage: $16.30

Job outlook: Employment is expected to stay the same through 2033.

The Takeaway

Not having a college degree doesn’t mean you can’t find fulfilling work. Satisfying jobs that don’t require a degree can be found in any industry, though certain roles may provide a great sense of well-being. Examples include a construction inspector, a real estate broker or sales agent, a retail sales associate, a musician, a truck driver, and a legal secretary. As you hunt for a job, look for roles that match up with what you want in terms of the type of work, workplace, amount of social interaction, and wage requirements.

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

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

FAQ

What are the most satisfying jobs?

According to a 2024 Washington Post analysis of AmeriCorp data, the most satisfying jobs can be found in community and social services. Examples of such jobs include community health workers, school counselors, and social workers.

What jobs pay over $100,000 without a degree?

It is possible to find jobs that pay over $100,000 a year and don’t require a college degree. Two examples are construction site manager and senior real estate manager.

How can I make $100,000 a year without a degree

If you want to make more than $100,000 a year without a college degree, begin by researching jobs that offer high wages and only require a high school diploma. You may then consider taking an entry-level position that allows you to gain the skills and experience needed so you can advance to higher wages.


Photo credit: iStock/Pekic

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.

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.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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What Does Annual Income Mean When Applying for a Credit Card?

When you apply for a credit card, the credit card issuer will ask you for your annual income. They want to be sure you have the means to pay your bills on time. Issuers may ask you to calculate your income in specific ways. For example, they may ask for net income or gross income when filling out an application.

If you’re single and work a salaried job, this may be fairly easy to figure out. However, for many people, income can be complicated and comes from a wide variety of sources. It also might be shared with a spouse.

Here’s a look at what you need to know about what annual income means on a credit card application, and how to know what types of income to include if you have multiple sources.

Key Points

•   Annual income includes salary, wages, commissions, tips, bonuses, and income from a spouse or partner.

•   Pension benefits, Social Security, public assistance, alimony, and child support are also part of annual income.

•   Gross annual income is the total of all income sources before deductions.

•   Net annual income is calculated by subtracting taxes, retirement contributions, and insurance premiums.

•   Misrepresenting income on a credit card application can lead to severe legal penalties.

Check your score with SoFi

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What Counts as Income?

For the most part, any money that is paid to you directly and that you have reasonable access to counts as income. This includes money you received from an employer or, if you’re self-employed, from clients. It can also come from other sources, such as investments or retirement benefits. Note that income tends to vary by age, and it is not the same as net worth.

The following are some examples of types of income credit card issuers may consider:

•   Salary and wages

•   Commissions

•   Tips

•   Bonuses

•   Income from a spouse or partner

•   Pension benefits

•   Social Security benefits

•   Public assistance

•   Alimony and child support payments that you receive

•   Interest

•   Dividends

You may not have to include alimony or child support payments as income on a credit card application. The reason? Credit card issuers understand that those payments may already be earmarked for the support of an individual.

What Is the Difference Between Gross and Net Income?

When it comes to calculating income, it’s helpful to know what gross income and net income mean.

Your gross income is the total amount of money you make before any other deductions are taken from it. Deductions may include things like taxes, 401(k) contributions, and health insurance premiums. Your gross income represents income from all sources.

Your net income, on the other hand, represents how much money you have once all deductions have been made. For individuals, this is their “take-home” pay, which can be considerably smaller than their gross income. Credit card issuers may ask for net income as it represents money that you can access and isn’t earmarked for other purposes.

Tools such as spending apps can help you organize and manage the money you earn.

How to Calculate Your Gross Annual Income

Calculating gross income is relatively simple. You’ll need to add up income from all sources. For tax purposes, this will include wages, tips, bonuses, commission, capital gains, dividends, alimony, pension payments, interest, and rental income. You can find your adjusted gross income by subtracting above-the-line tax deductions, such as contributions to 401(k)s and traditional IRAs.

Credit card issuers can look at other income that’s not necessarily taxed, such as life insurance payouts or gifts. So be sure to include that in your calculation for a credit card application.

How to Calculate Your Annual Net Income

Calculate your net income by taking your gross income and subtracting deductions, including taxes, such as income taxes, capital gains tax, and employment taxes. You’ll also need to subtract contributions to retirement accounts and insurance premium payments.

If you receive a paycheck, there may be a line that spells out net income.

Recommended: How to Calculate Your Net Worth and Wealth

What Types of Income Don’t Count on a Credit Card Application?

There are some types of income that you can’t include on a credit card application. Generally, these are forms of income that you don’t have access to. For example, if your wages are being garnished to pay off a debt, you cannot include that amount of the garnished wages as income, as that money belongs to your creditor. Similarly, you can’t include money that goes toward alimony or child support payments or that you need to use to pay off tax debt.

What Happens If I Lie About My Income on a Credit Card Application?

It may be tempting to fudge your income on a credit card application. After all, tacking on a few thousands dollars to your income may be the difference between being approved for a credit card and being rejected. That said, you should never lie about your income on a credit card application. If you do, you’re committing fraud, and it’s a federal offense. So while it may not seem like a big deal to give your income a little boost, if you’re caught, you could face up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million.

What Other Information Does a Credit Card Application Require?

In addition to income, you can expect a credit card issuer to ask for the following information on a credit card application:

•   Legal name and a valid U.S. address

•   Housing costs, which help the issuer determine how much debt you can afford to pay back

•   Your Social Security or Individuals Taxpayer Identification Number, which is needed for the credit card issuer to make a hard pull on your credit report to check your credit score

Issuers consider your credit score when they determine whether to extend credit to you. A high credit score shows lenders that you have a history of responsibly managing debts and paying your bills on time. Lower credit scores indicate that a borrower is less likely to make on-time payments, and lenders may be less likely to approve them for a card.

The best way to maintain a healthy credit score is to always pay your bills on time. You can receive a free credit report each year from the three major credit reporting bureaus: Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. Check your credit report regularly to ensure there are no mistakes that could be dragging down your score. Report mistakes to the credit bureaus immediately.

Recommended: How Do I Check My Credit Score?

The Takeaway

Credit card companies look at your annual income to determine how much credit you can afford and to assess their risk in extending you credit. Some may specify how they wish you to calculate your annual income, frequently asking for gross or net income. Gross income is the total amount of money you make before any other deductions are taken from it. Net income represents how much money you have after deductions have been made. To calculate either figure, you’ll need to gather information about all your income sources.

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

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

FAQ

What does it mean when a credit card application asks for annual income?

Credit card companies may specify how they want you to report your annual income. They may ask for gross income, which includes all income before taxes and deductions, or net income, which is income after taxes and deductions have been subtracted.

What counts as annual income?

Annual income includes all money that you can say you reasonably have access to. This typically includes salary and wages, commissions, tips, bonuses, income from a spouse or partner, pension benefits, Social Security benefits, public assistance, alimony and child support payments, interest, and dividends.

What doesn’t count as annual income?

You cannot include income that you don’t have access to, such as garnished wages, alimony and child support payments you’re required to make, or money that must be used to pay off tax debt.


Photo credit: iStock/max-kegfire

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.

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.

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How Rising Inflation Affects Mortgage Interest Rates

Inflation and Mortgage Rates: An Overview

The inflation rate doesn’t directly affect mortgage rates, but the two tend to move in tandem. Rising inflation shrinks purchasing power as prices of goods and services increase. Higher prices can then influence the Federal Reserve’s interest rate policy, affecting the cost of borrowing for lending products like mortgages. Then, as inflation cools, mortgage interest rates often ease as well.

Key Points

•   Inflation does not govern mortgage rates but indirectly impacts them through Federal Reserve interest rate policies.

•   Historical data shows a correlation between inflation rates and mortgage rates.

•   Inflation impacts adjustable-rate mortgages more directly than fixed-rate mortgages.

•   Homebuyers and homeowners should consider current economic conditions when making mortgage decisions.

•   Inflation is only one factor to take into account when deciding whether or not to purchase a home.

What Is Inflation?

To understand how inflation and mortgage loan rates are connected, it helps to first understand what inflation is in the first place: a general increase in prices and a related drop in the purchasing value of your hard-earned money.

When prices rise but paychecks remain steady, people feel the pinch of inflation. The Federal Reserve, the central bank of the United States, tracks inflation rates and trends using several key metrics, including the Consumer Price Index (CPI), to determine how to direct monetary policy. A target inflation rate of 2% is considered ideal for maintaining a stable economic environment over the long run, and in 2024, many borrowers were relieved to see the inflation rate — which trended upward in 2022 — ebb. By the end of 2024, it had come close to the target goal.

Types of Inflation

Several factors may cause inflation. Supply and demand play a large role in how prices rise.

Supply

In supply-side inflation, also known as cost-push inflation, prices rise due to supply challenges. When the cost of labor or raw materials used to make a product increases, prices often follow. Homeowners saw this during the COVID-19 pandemic when building materials were in short supply and renovation projects became much more expensive. More recently, talk of tariffs on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada has caused economists to warn of inflation.

Demand

Demand-pull inflation happens when there is increased demand for a product or service. Sometimes this is a natural outgrowth of demographic patterns, such as when a large population group moves into a new lifestage. Anyone in the home-buying market can relate to this: When there are lots of homebuyers and limited inventory of properties for purchase, sellers can command higher prices.

Inflation Spiral

An inflation spiral — also known as a wage-price spiral — happens when wages rise in reaction to price increases. Increased wages in turn cause elevated demand for goods and services. It can be hard for economic policymakers to break this back-and-forth pattern.

First-time homebuyers can
prequalify for a SoFi mortgage loan,
with as little as 3% down.

Questions? Call (888)-541-0398.


How Are Inflation Rates Related to Interest Rates?

Once you understand the basics of inflation, you might wonder: What does all this have to do with interest rates on a home mortgage? As we’ve said, inflation rates don’t have a direct impact on mortgage rates, but there can be indirect effects because of how inflation influences the economy and the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy decisions.

The Federal Reserve does not set mortgage rates. Instead, the central bank sets the federal funds rate target, the interest rate that banks use when they lend money to one another overnight. A Fed increase in this short-term interest rate often pushes up long-term interest rates for U.S. Treasuries.

Fixed-rate mortgages are tied to the yield on those 10-year U.S. Treasury notes, which are government-issued bonds that mature in a decade. When the 10-year Treasury yield increases, the 30-year mortgage rate tends to do the same.

So in terms of what affects fixed-rate mortgage rates, movement in the 10-year Treasury yield is the short answer. Higher yields can mean higher rates, while lower yields can lead to lower rates. But overall, inflation rates, interest rates, and the economic environment can work together to sway mortgage rates at any given time.

Higher rates can make borrowing more expensive while also providing more interest to savers. People borrowing less and saving more can have a cooling effect on the economy. When the economy is slowing down too much, however, the Fed may lower interest rates to encourage borrowing and spending.

If you track the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rate and the average annual inflation rate, you’ll see that the percentages often move more or less in concert. Here’s a look at the past 22 years and some key dramatic years before that.

Year

Average Inflation Rate

Average Mortgage Rate

2024 2.9 6.72
2023 3.4 6.81
2022 8 4.87
2021 4.7 2.96
2020 1.2 3.11
2019 1.8 3.94
2018 2.4 4.54
2017 2.1 3.99
2016 1.3 3.65
2015 0.1 3.85
2014 1.6 4.17
2013 1.5 3.98
2012 2.1 3.66
2011 3.2 4.45
2010 1.6 4.69
2009 -0.4 5.04
2008 3.8 6.03
2007 2.8 6.34
2006 3.2 6.41
2005 3.4 5.87
2004 2.7 5.84
2003 2.3 5.83
2002 1.6 6.54
2001 2.8 6.97
2000 3.4 8.05
1981 10.3 16.63
1980 13.5 13.74
1979 11.3 11.20
1978 7.6 9.64
1975 9.1 9.05
1974 11.0 9.19


*In October 1981 the rate hit a historical peak of 18.45%
Sources: Consumer Price Index and Freddie Mac

Inflation Trends for 2025

In September 2022, the U.S. inflation rate hit 8.2%, well beyond the Federal Reserve’s 2% target inflation rate. While prices for consumer goods and services were up almost across the board, the most significant increases were in the energy category. Many consumers noticed inflation because of increased food prices: In the year ending August 2022, prices for food at home increased 13.5%, the largest 12-month percentage increase since the year ending March 1979. Prices for food away from home increased 8%.

Rising inflation rates in 2021 and 2022 are thought to have been driven by a combination of increased demand for goods and services, shortages on the supply side, and higher commodity prices due to geopolitical conflicts. The Federal Reserve responded by raising interest rates — 11 times between March 2022 and October 2023. Mortgage interest rates also trended north to 7.00%. But the Fed’s measures appear to have had the desired result, putting the brakes on inflation, although it remained above the target. By early 2024, inflation seemed to be moderating when compared to recent years.

Recommended: Understanding the Different Types of Mortgage Loans

Is Now a Good Time for a Mortgage or Refi?

There’s a link between inflation rates and mortgage rates. But what does all of this mean for homebuyers or homeowners? Although interest rates have remained stubbornly between 6.00% and 7.00% for the last couple years, mortgage rates are still below average when viewed through a historical lens. Moreover, the latest market research predictions in early 2025 indicate that mortgage rates may hover around an average of 6.50% in 2025 and drop only marginally in 2026. So if you are thinking about a refi or home purchase, it pays to take that forecast into account.

If you can get a reasonable mortgage rate, buying now with a fixed-rate mortgage could help you lock in that deal. Going with an adjustable-rate mortgage could allow borrowers to benefit from future rate drops, though if interest rates rise, an adjustable rate would follow.

If you own a home and are considering refinancing your existing mortgage, the math gets a bit trickier. You would be wise to determine your break-even point — when the money you save on interest payments matches what you’ll spend on closing costs for a refinance.

To find the break-even point on a refi, divide the closing costs by the monthly savings. If refinancing fees total $3,000 and you’ll save $250 a month, that’s 3,000 divided by 250, or 12. That means it’ll take 12 months to recoup the cost of refinancing.

If you refinance to a shorter-term mortgage, your savings can multiply beyond the break-even point. A shorter term means you will pay less interest over the life of the loan, although monthly payment amounts will be higher than they would be for a 30-year loan.
Keep in mind that the actual rate you’ll pay for a purchase loan or refinance loan will depend on things like your credit score, income, and debt-to-income ratio.

💡 Quick Tip: Lowering your monthly payments with a mortgage refinance from SoFi can help you find money to pay down other debt, build your rainy-day fund, or put more into your 401(k).

The Takeaway

Inflation abated somewhat by the end of 2024, but 2025 presents some unknowns. Homebuyers can likely expect continued variation in interest rates. It’s true that buying a home or refinancing when mortgage rates are lower could mean substantial savings over the life of your loan. But if you’re ready to buy and your finances are in good shape, it doesn’t make sense to wait for slight changes in interest rates — if you’re ready to own your own home, the time is right for you.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

FAQ

What effect does inflation have on interest rates and why?

If inflation rises, interest rates typically follow. The opposite is also true (when inflation ebbs, interest rates usually fall).

Does inflation affect fixed-rate mortgages?

Inflation will not affect the amount of your monthly payment if you have a fixed-rate mortgage because your interest rate remains steady over the life of your loan. Your overall budget may feel tighter when prices of things like groceries and gas rise, but your actual mortgage payment will stay the same.

Does inflation affect adjustable-rate mortgages?

Inflation may have an impact on your monthly mortgage payment if you have an adjustable-rate mortgage. With this type of mortgage, your interest rate usually adjusts every 6 months or every year (after an initial rate period which might be 5, 7, or 10 years, for example). How much the rate can change will depend on your loan agreement.

Does inflation affect housing prices?

Inflation generally means an upward trend in housing prices, in part due to the rising cost of building or refurbishing a home. But this is not always the case. Sometimes the high overall cost of goods and services leads would-be homebuyers to stay out of the market. Less demand might lead to a drop in home prices. Over decades, however, home prices have increased at a rate greater than the rate of inflation.


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*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

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.

Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

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A Complete Guide to Ordering Checks

A Complete Guide to Ordering Checks

Checks may not be used as often as they were in the past, but they’re still a useful financial tool to have around. You may need to write a check when making a large payment, gifting money, making a charitable donation, or even paying rent. A voided check can also come in handy when setting up direct deposit at work.

Often, when you open a checking account, you receive a book of complimentary checks to get you started. Sooner or later, however, you are likely to run out and need some additional checks. When that happens, how do you order a new checkbook? Should you order through your bank? Or is there a faster, cheaper option elsewhere?

Key Points

•   Checks remain a useful financial tool for various transactions, including making payments and setting up direct deposits, despite declining usage in the digital age.

•   Different types of checks exist, including personal, business, cashier’s, and certified checks, each serving specific purposes in financial transactions.

•   Ordering checks through banks can be costly, with prices typically around $30 for a box of 100, but numerous online vendors offer more affordable options.

•   When ordering checks online, it is essential to ensure the vendor’s security measures are in place, and to provide the necessary personal and banking information.

•   Having checks on hand is beneficial for those who may face situations requiring paper payments, despite the increasing prevalence of digital transactions.

What Are the Different Types of Checks?

There isn’t just one kind of check in the world. Get acquainted with these four common options that can play a role in managing your money.

Personal Checks

When people wonder about how to order checks, they are typically referring to personal checks. These are the rectangular documents you usually get when you open a checking account. They allow you to transfer funds from your account to a payee, whether that’s your cousin, your WiFi provider, or your dentist.

When you first open an account, you may get a small number of what are called counter checks, which may not be fully personalized with, say, your name and address.

Later, your fully printed checks are likely to arrive, complete with your name, address, account number, and bank routing number. These checks are not only useful for making payments, but also for setting up direct deposit. A voided check can be used by your employer to route your paycheck to the correct account.

Business Checks

What’s the difference between a business check vs. a personal check? Business checks are similar to personal checks, but are drawn from a business checking account instead of a personal one. If you run your own business, you might use these checks to, say, pay for your office rent or send funds to suppliers.

Cashier’s Checks

Sometimes also called a bank check or official check, this is a secure payment used to make significant purchases.

A cashier’s check requires a teller to withdraw funds from your personal account and then cut a check from the bank to pay the recipient on your behalf.

With these checks, the bank is guaranteeing payment, so there is no chance the check will bounce. There is typically a fee for getting a cashier’s check, often around $10 or $15.

Certified Check

A certified check is a type of personal check that the bank guarantees. When you write the check, the bank verifies you have enough money in your checking account to cover the amount and may place a hold on that money until the check clears.

The bank will typically then stamp or print “certified” on the check. Fees vary depending on which bank you use and the size of the check, but are often in the $15 to $20 range.

Recommended: What Is an Electronic Check (E-Check)?

Reasons Why Checks Are Used Today

In a tap and app world, checks may seem like a byproduct of a past era. Some transactions, however, still require a check. It’s not uncommon, for instance, for some landlords to require a check for a security deposit or for some smaller businesses to prefer cash or check payment.

Here are some of the reasons why checkbooks can still be useful and even a preferred payment form:

•   Checks can protect your money. A transfer can be misdirected with a typo, and cash can get lost or stolen. A check made out to the recipient is challenging to cash if it gets into the wrong hands.

•   If a check is lost, you can stop payment on the check and reissue a new one.

•   A check provides a paper record of payments made.

•   Checks can also be a way to verify identity. A voided check (a check you pull from your checkbook and write VOID so no one can cash it) can be necessary to set up autopay or direct deposit, or as a way to verify your address for certain services. (While you can use a check with an old address, it may cause confusion and can be wise to order a checkbook of new, updated ones.)

Of course, checks have their drawbacks too.

•   There can be a significant delay between the day you write a check and the day it gets processed, which could cause you to accidentally overdraw your account if you don’t keep careful records.

•   Checks can sometimes get lost in transit or stolen. Since a check is good for six months, it can be a smart idea to cancel any checks that don’t get to the intended recipient in a timely fashion.

•   Checks can also come with fees (such as when cashing a check) and other costs (like having to buy checks).

Fortunately, there are ways to cash a check without a fee. And, if you look beyond your bank when it comes to re-ordering checks, you can often pay significantly less.

Where Can I Order Checks?

Many people will order checks through their bank simply because it’s convenient. Traditional banks will often charge $30 or more per box, though they may be less or even free if you are a premium account holder.

However, you don’t have to buy your checks at your bank. There are numerous online vendors, such as Checks In The Mail and Carousel Checks, as well as big box retailers (such as Costco and Walmart) that offer customized personal checks that include the same security features as bank checks.

Prices range from around 10 to 34 cents per check, and minimum orders might be anywhere from 80 to 200 checks.

But how do you order checks from the best vendor? Because you need to input sensitive information, such as your bank account number and the routing information for your bank, it can be a good idea to make sure you choose a vendor that takes security measures seriously and also that the checks you buy are secure.

Some actions that can help maximize security:

•   Making sure the site where you buy checks is secure. A lock image in the address bar of your browser indicates a secure connection and that any information transmitted, such as your bank account info, will be done in a secure manner.

•   Choosing a reputable seller. It can be a good idea to vet any company you are considering buying checks from by taking a look at their Better Business Bureau ratings and reviews.

•   Considering security features. Some check printing companies offer enhanced security features, including watermarks, hard-to-copy microprint, hologram foil, and thermochromic ink (ink that disappears with heat). These features can add to the cost of your checks, but they can make your check payments even more secure.

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

No account or overdraft fees. No minimum balance.

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What You Need for Ordering Checks Online

When you’re wondering “How do I order checks online?” it can be wise to have some key information ready to complete your transaction. This typically includes:

•   Your personal information. This is your name (or the name of your company for business checks) and address.

•   Bank information. This includes the name and address of your bank, which you can find on your existing checks.

•   Your checking account number. You can find this at the bottom of your existing checks or on your bank statement. Of the three listed numbers along the bottom of your check, your account number will be the second number from the left.

•   Your bank routing number. Also known as an ABA number, this number serves as an address so the banking system knows which bank will pay the check. You’ll want to look for the nine-digit number on the bottom left of your checks.

•   Check number. To keep your finances organized, it’s a good idea to have your new checks start with the next number in your checkbook series. For instance, if the last check in your last checkbook is 199, consider starting the new set with check number 200.

When ordering checks, you may want to keep in mind that, depending on the company, production time may take a few weeks. That’s why it can be a good idea to order checks well before you may need them.

Recommended: What Is a Voucher Check?

The Takeaway

If you’re like many Americans, you probably don’t use checks often these days. But checks are still with us, and it can be a good idea to always have checks on hand for those times when you need or want to pay by check.

Buying checks from the bank can be pricey though. Fortunately, it’s fine to search the web for cheaper options, provided you take some security precautions. Another option is to open an account with a bank that doesn’t charge for paper checks.

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 3.80% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

Can you print checks by yourself?

It is possible and legal to print checks at home. However, you will need the tools to do so. This includes: a printer, software to format the checks properly, special paper (known as check stock paper) with security features, a magnetic ink character-recognition font (for the numbers at the bottom of the checks in a way that can be read electronically), and magnetic ink.

How much does it cost to order checkbooks?

When you order additional checkbooks from a bank, a box of 100 may cost $30 or more. Some banks and premium accounts will lower or even eliminate that fee. When you order from check companies or mass merchants, the per-check price can range from ten cents to more than 30 cents per check, with minimum orders typically starting at 80 or 120 checks.

Do I have to order checks through my bank?

You do not have to order checks through your bank. If you want to, you may order from online check companies or merchants like Costco and Walmart.



SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2025 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 3.80% 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 3.80% 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 3.80% 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.

Separately, SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days can also earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. For additional details, see the SoFi Plus Terms and Conditions at https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus.

*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

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.

We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Checking & Savings Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.
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.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, CFP® (with plaque design), and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements.

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At What Age Can You Get a Debit Card?

At What Age Can You Get a Debit Card?

The minimum age to get a debit card with a checking account at a bank or credit union in your name only is 18. However, it’s possible for kids as young as age six to get a debit card when opening a bank account with a parent. There are also fintech companies that offer debit cards for kids with no minimum age requirements.

Getting your child a debit card can be a great way to introduce them to the basics of money management, as long as you do so wisely.

Key Points

•   The minimum age to get a debit card with a checking account at a bank or credit union is 18, but kids as young as six can get a debit card when opening an account with a parent.

•   Debit cards have age limits because opening a bank account is a legal agreement, and minors cannot enter into contracts.

•   Some banks offer teen checking accounts or joint checking accounts that allow minors aged 13 to 17 to have a debit card.

•   Fintech companies provide prepaid debit cards for kids with no specific minimum age requirements, offering more control and flexibility.

•   Giving minors a debit card can teach them financial responsibility, provide convenience, and prepare them for managing money in the digital age.

Why Do Debit Cards Have Age Limits?

Debit cards have age limits because the age requirement for a bank account is usually set at 18. When you open a bank account, you’re entering into a legal agreement with the bank. Since minors cannot legally enter into contracts, banks require you to be a legal adult in order to open a bank account in your name.

There is, however, an exception to this answer to “When can you have a debit card?” Minors under 18 can qualify for a debit card if they’re opening a bank account with their parent’s help. In that case, banks may agree to issue a debit card that’s linked to a teen checking account for a minor aged 13 to 17 or a joint checking account that’s shared by the teen and their parents.

The minimum age to open a bank account can vary by bank or credit union and go even younger. Chase, for example, offers a bank account for kids as young as 6 that includes a debit card. Parents must be current Chase customers to open the account, and they will own the account.

If you’re interested in getting your child a prepaid debit card that isn’t associated with a specific bank account, there are platforms that allow that with no minimum age restrictions for kids. You can link your child’s debit card to your account to deposit funds and set controls on when and how they can spend the money.

💡 If you’re 18 or older and ready, you can get a debit card with SoFi.

Do Minors Need to Have a Debit Card?

Whether your minor child needs to have a debit card can depend on their financial situation and your personal preferences. Some scenarios to consider:

•   If your teen has a part-time job or runs their own business, then it may be worthwhile to give them a debit card that’s linked to a checking account. They can deposit their paychecks or earnings into their account and use their debit cards to make purchases.

•   Likewise, you might want your child to have a debit card if they have bills they’re responsible for paying. For example, you might expect your 17-year-old to pay for their cell phone or car insurance. If they have a debit card, they could use it to pay those bills themselves, versus you having to pay them and collect the money from your teen.

•   Some parents want their kids to learn how to handle money and think managing a debit card responsibly is a good step in that direction. Still others may want their child to be able to, say, buy a snack after school without carrying cash.

•   Whether a minor should have a debit card can also be a question of maturity and their sense of personal responsibility. If you have a child who’s constantly losing or misplacing their stuff or doesn’t necessarily grasp how money works, then a debit card might do more harm than good. But if your child seems capable and you want to improve their money mindset, it could be a wise move.

Is It Possible to Get a Debit Card as a Minor?

It’s possible to get a debit card as a minor, but a young person will likely need a parent or guardian’s help to do so. The options for getting a debit card as a minor include:

•   Opening a teen checking account at a bank or credit union

•   Opening a joint checking account with a parent or guardian

•   Getting a prepaid debit card

Getting a debit card that’s linked to a checking account may be preferable if you’d like your teen or child to be able to deposit money without you having to reload a debit card. On the other hand, a prepaid debit card may offer more control.

For instance, you might be able to set limits on how much your child can spend per day or where they’re able to use the card.

You can also control when funds are deposited to their prepaid account. If you want them to complete their weekly chores on time, for example, you could make that a condition of adding money to their card.

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

No account or overdraft fees. No minimum balance.

Up to 3.80% APY on savings balances.

Up to 2-day-early paycheck.

Up to $2M of additional
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Benefits of Having a Debit Card as a Minor

There are several good reasons to consider giving your teen or child a debit card.

•   Financial responsibility. Having a debit card can be a good way for kids to learn how to manage money, including how to budget and prioritize saving. Even if your child’s only source of income is allowance, a debit card can still be a helpful tool for teaching them personal finance.

•   Convenience. If your child has their own debit card, they can use it to pay for things themselves without having to borrow from you and then pay it back later. Carrying a debit card also means your child doesn’t have to keep cash on them, which could get lost or stolen.

•   Online purchases. Using a debit card online can spare teens the trouble of having to visit their favorite stores to shop. They can also use their debit cards to enroll in streaming services or make in-app purchases with your consent.

•   Emergencies. A debit card could come in handy in an emergency situation if your child or teen needs money unexpectedly. For example, if your 16-year-old runs out of gas, they could use their debit card to fill up if they’re near a gas station, without having to call you for help.

In terms of what are debit cards good for, the short answer is quite a bit. Learning how to use a debit card at an early age can make it easier for kids and teens to master more complex financial concepts, such as a student checking account or a credit card, as they get older.

When Is the Right Time to Get a Debit Card?

The right time to get a debit card for a minor depends on the child’s age, maturity, and financial needs, as well as the parent’s comfort level. Generally, it may be a good idea to get your child a debit card if they have some form of income, whether it’s allowance, cash received for good grades, money from working a part-time job, or income that’s the benefit of a side hustle.

If you’re considering giving your child a debit card, it’s important to talk to them about what a debit card is and how it’s designed to work. Your child should understand that when they use their debit card to pay, they’re spending real money, even if cash isn’t physically leaving their hands.

It’s also helpful to discuss safety so they know how to protect their debit card. For example, you can explain that they shouldn’t share their PIN or debit card number or let a friend use their card. You can also go over how to stay safe when using their debit card online or when withdrawing cash at an ATM.

What to Look for When Choosing a Debit Card

If you’re ready to get a debit card for your teen or minor child, there are plenty of options to consider. As you compare different debit cards for kids, here are a few things to keep in mind.

•   Traditional or prepaid. The first thing to consider is whether you’d like to get a debit card for your teen that’s linked to a bank account or a prepaid debit card option. You might check the options at your current bank first to see whether it’s possible to set up a teen or joint checking account with a debit card before looking at prepaid platforms.

•   Fees. Account fees can nibble away at your child’s balance, so it’s important to check the fees you might pay, either for a traditional debit card that’s linked to a bank account or for a reloadable debit card for teens. The list might include out-of-network ATM fees, reload fees for prepaid cards, or monthly maintenance fees.

•   Access. It’s also important to look at how your teen or child will be able to manage and access their money. This may involve deciding whether to opt for a traditional bank vs. an online bank. If you’re opening a teen checking account at a brick-and-mortar bank, they should have branch and ATM access, along with online and mobile banking. A prepaid debit card might offer online and mobile banking access only. Many online banks partner with national ATM networks to offer fee-free access to ATMs, but it’s important to check to make sure.

•   Parental controls. The level of control you’ll have with a debit card for kids or teens can depend on where it’s issued. Your bank may offer debit cards for minors with parental controls built in. But if not, you might need to search for another card option that allows you the level of oversight you prefer.

The Takeaway

Teens and kids may qualify for a debit card, which can build financial literacy and money skills. However, finding the right one for them, with the level of parental control you like and the lowest fees, can take some research.

Opening a free checking account for your teen can be a great introduction to money, and it’s a simple way to give them access to a debit card. You might also be interested in switching banks yourself if you’re ready to take a break from paying high fees.

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 3.80% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

At what age can a minor have a credit card?

Minors may be added to a parent’s credit card account as an authorized user as young as 13. Otherwise, they’ll need to be at least 18 with their own income in order to get a credit card in their name without a parent’s consent.

Is it better for a minor to have a debit or credit card?

A debit card can be a good stepping stone for a minor to learn how to manage money, without the risk of them creating debt. Once your child begins to learn the fundamentals of finance, you could add them as an authorized user to your credit card to help them learn how credit works.

Do all banks allow minors to have debit cards?

Every bank has its own policy with regard to who can have a debit card or checking account and whether that includes minors. If you’re unsure whether your current bank or credit union offers debit cards for minors, ask them. If the answer is no, you can look around for other banks that have teen or kids checking accounts that include a debit card. Prepaid cards may be another option.


Photo credit: iStock/jacoblund

SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2025 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 3.80% 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 3.80% 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 3.80% 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.

Separately, SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days can also earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. For additional details, see the SoFi Plus Terms and Conditions at https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus.

*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

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.

We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Checking & Savings Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.
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.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, CFP® (with plaque design), and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements.

SOBNK-Q125-018

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