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With the rising price of tuition, fees, and room and board at four-year public colleges and private nonprofit institutions, more students in all income brackets have been taking out student loans.

If you’re wondering where to get a student loan for college, you have two options. The first is getting a federal student loan through the government. Federal student loans account for more than 93% of all student loan debt. The second option is a private student loan, which is given by a bank, credit union, or online lender. Private student loans are not based on need, but rather your college’s cost of attendance, your credit profile, and your income (or your cosigner’s income).

Keep reading for more on where to get a student loan, including both federal student loans and private student loans.

Prioritizing a Plan

When creating a plan to fund college education, it’s wise to first explore any avenues for free money in the form of grants and scholarships.

By taking a look at the remaining balance after any free money has been found, exploring federal loans can be a smart next step. They come with income-based repayment options and the ability to request loan forgiveness under some circumstances. There are also work-study programs that can help students earn money while attending college.

If all needs are not covered, then there are private student loans to consider, along with Direct PLUS Loans that parents can apply for to get funds for their children.

After that, some people may seek out personal loans to cover living expenses while in school and/or emergency loans from the college.

Here are more specifics about these options.

Where to Get a Federal Student Loan

To obtain any kind of federal student loan, a student must first fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, commonly called the FAFSA®.

After filling out this form, a student will have insights into what federal funding is available for them, along with work-study options. More specifically, each school that a student applies to can send a financial aid offer letter, which includes information about how to apply for student loans that they qualify for.

Two broad types of federal loans are:

•   Direct subsidized loans: Direct Subsidized Loans are for undergraduates that demonstrate financial need. With this loan, the U.S. Department of Education pays the interest while the student is enrolled at least half-time, during the grace period after leaving school, and during any deferment periods.

•   Direct unsubsidized loans: Direct Unsubsidized Loans are available for undergraduate students, as well as graduate and professional ones, that do not demonstrate financial need. Interest begins accruing right away.

Where to Get a Private Student Loan

A variety of financial institutions offer private student loans and have their own criteria for qualification. Some allow students to apply online and can give quick responses, while others go a more traditional route with in-person applications.

Private lenders will typically review a student’s income, plus that of any cosigner, along with credit histories and more to make lending decisions. A lender might grant a private student loan to someone whose credit isn’t stellar, but charge a higher interest rate.

When applying for a private student loan, it’s important to understand the loan terms before signing the note. This includes the interest rate and whether the rate is fixed (staying the same over the life of the loan, with the principal and interest payments also staying the same) or variable.

Pros of Private Student Loans

Benefits of private student loans can include the following:

•   They can bridge the gap between what is owed after federal student loans are applied to the balance and what is needed to attend college.

•   Students can apply for them any time of the year, without the strict deadlines associated with federal loans.

•   Borrowers may have more choices in interest rates and terms.

•   The loans may not include origination fees or prepayment fees, although that isn’t universally true.

Cons of Private Student Loans

Potential cons can include these:

•   It isn’t unusual for a private lender to require a cosigner because college students often don’t have enough income to qualify or have established a good enough credit profile to get the loan on their own.

•   Students who are considered a higher credit risk may pay more in interest.

•   Private student loans don’t come with many of the benefits associated with federal loans, such as forgiveness programs and income-based repayment plans.

•   Students may borrow more than they can ultimately afford, and these loans are typically not dischargeable in bankruptcy proceedings.

Recommended: A Complete Guide to Private Student Loans

Other Types of Loans

In addition to federal and private student loans, students and their families may consider other borrowing options to cover educational expenses.

Parent PLUS Loans

Students and parents can consider the Parent PLUS Loan, in which parents can apply for federal funding to help their children attend college.

Eligibility for a Parent PLUS Loan isn’t based on financial need, but credit is checked. If applicants have a credit history that’s considered “adverse,” they “must meet additional requirements to qualify.”

According to the Federal Student Aid office, adverse credit can include:

•   Having accounts that, in total, have an outstanding balance of more than $2,085 and are at least 90 days delinquent.

•   A default or a bankruptcy discharge during the previous five years.

•   Involvement in a foreclosure, repossession, or tax lien situation in the previous five years.

•   Write-off of federal student loan debt or wage garnishment during the past five years.

Qualifying parents of a dependent undergraduate student can receive funding through this loan program to cover education-related costs that are not covered by other financial aid.

Personal Loans

It’s also possible to apply for personal loans from financial institutions to cover living expenses during college or to address an emergency. There are downsides to this, though, including:

•   Interest rates will likely be higher than student loans, along with shorter payoff periods (which means principal and interest payments can be higher).

•   There isn’t typically a grace period, which means repayment starts right away.

•   These loans don’t come with deferments or forbearance, as can be available through federal student loans.

Emergency Loans

In an emergency, a student might want to reach out to the college financial aid center to see if the school offers emergency loans for those in need. These loans would not typically be large, perhaps $1,000 to $1,500, but might be enough to address a dire situation.

Each college has its own guidelines, so check them out carefully. Some charge interest; others may not. Some may charge a service fee; others may not. As with personal loans, repayment may start immediately, so factor that into budget planning.

The Takeaway

When exploring options to finance a college education, it’s essential to understand the various student loan avenues available and where to get them. Federal student loans, accessible through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), often offer lower interest rates and flexible repayment plans. Private student loans, provided by banks, credit unions, or online lenders, can help bridge funding gaps but may come with higher interest rates and less lenient repayment terms.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

What are the main sources for obtaining a student loan?

The two primary sources for student loans are federal student loans provided by the government and private student loans offered by banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Federal loans account for over 93% of student loan debt and are typically based on financial need, while private loans depend on creditworthiness and income.

How do I apply for a federal student loan?

To apply for a federal student loan, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). After submission, you’ll receive information on the types and amounts of federal aid you qualify for, including work-study options. Each school you apply to will send a financial aid offer letter detailing your eligible loans.

When should I consider private student loans?

Private student loans can be considered after exhausting federal aid options. They can bridge the gap between the remaining cost of attendance and the amount covered by federal loans. Private loans are based on creditworthiness and may require a cosigner. They often lack the benefits of federal loans, such as income-driven repayment plans and loan forgiveness programs.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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

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Whether you’ve been turned down for a private student loan or you’re applying for the first time, it’s important to understand how a cosigner can impact your loan application.

Having a cosigner on a student loan is a bit like a letter of recommendation to get into college. A cosigner can reassure the bank or lender that you are capable of repaying the loan. A cosigner is not always required for student loans, such as with most federal student loans. Depending on a student’s financial history, employment, and what type of loans they’re applying for, the likelihood of requiring a cosigner will vary.

Read on to learn more about what a cosigner is and when it may make sense to add one to your student loan application. This article will also discuss some of the risks involved with being a cosigner, and some tips on how to ask someone to be a cosigner on a student loan.

What Is a Student Loan Cosigner?

A cosigner is a person who agrees to repay the loan if a borrower defaults or is otherwise unable to pay their debt. Adding a cosigner to a student loan application could help the primary borrower secure a lower interest rate, depending on the cosigner’s financial and credit history.

When a cosigner takes on a student loan with the borrower, they’re assuming equal responsibility to repay the loan. Any negative actions on the loan, such as a late payment or defaulting, could harm the cosigner’s credit.

How to Decide If You Need a Cosigner on a Private Student Loan

Before deciding whether you need a cosigner on a private student loan, you’ll want to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). This will determine how much aid you’ll receive, and help you and your family determine how much of a gap you’ll need to fill with other sources of funding.

Once all other options are exhausted, students could look into private student loans and consider a cosigner. When considering a cosigner, there are several factors to evaluate, including the type of loan you’ll be applying for, your credit history, credit score, income, and any history of missed payments. Continue reading for a more in-depth discussion of these factors.

1. What Type of Student Loans Are Being Considered?

The type of loans you’re applying for may affect your need for a cosigner.

Federal Student Loans

For the most part, federal loans do not require a credit check or a cosigner. The federal loan types that do not require a cosigner include:

•   Direct Subsidized Loans

•   Direct Unsubsidized Loans

•   Direct Consolidation Loans

The exception is a Direct PLUS Loan, which does require a credit check. Borrowers interested in a Direct PLUS Loan may need an “endorser” for the same reasons they may need a cosigner for a private student loan: if their credit history and other financial factors are lacking.

A Direct PLUS Loan can help graduate students and parents of undergraduate students pay for the entire cost of school attendance, minus any other financial aid. Direct PLUS Loans are the only federal student loans that look at an applicant’s credit history, thus the potential need for an endorser.

An endorser is the equivalent of a cosigner — they agree to repay the Direct PLUS Loan if the borrower defaults or is delinquent on payments.

Private Student Loans

IIf an applicant doesn’t meet the lending requirements on their own, they might need a cosigner to obtain any private student loan. To qualify for a private student loan, you typically have to check more boxes regarding financial history than you would for a federal student loan.

Having a cosigner on a private student loan is incredibly common. More than 90% of private student loans for undergraduates require a cosigner, and more than 75% of graduate and professional students need a cosigner for their student loans.

Recommended: A Complete Guide to Private Student Loans

Both Federal and Private Student Loans

Once a student has a full understanding of the financial aid they qualify for after submitting their FAFSA, they can determine if federal student loans and other federal aid like scholarships and grants will cover the cost of their education or if they need to supplement the amount with a private student loan. While the borrower might not need a cosigner for federal loans, they might require one for private student loans they might take out.

2. Are You an Undergraduate or Graduate Student?

The necessity of a cosigner may vary depending on whether a person is applying for graduate or undergraduate private student loans.

Undergraduate Student

Undergraduates are generally more likely to need a cosigner on their private student loans because they typically haven’t established a lengthy credit history. Without an established credit history, there is no track record for lenders to evaluate. In addition, undergrads might not have a steady income, which can also affect whether they are approved for a loan without a cosigner.

Graduate Student

The type of schooling a person is pursuing won’t have an impact on the need for a cosigner. However, a person’s credit history and income will still factor into the decision.

3. How Does Your Credit Score Factor into the Decision?

Most private lenders will look at an applicant’s credit score (among other factors) to determine eligibility. Having a lower credit score may make it more challenging to get a loan without a cosigner.

FICO® Scores (the most common credit scores used by lenders and financial institutions) range between 300 and 850. If a person wants to check their score, many websites offer free credit scores or credit score monitoring (just be sure to read terms and conditions carefully).

Ultimately, it’s up to each individual lender to consider the credit score and other financial factors before approving a loan, and every lender has different criteria.

4. How Long Is Your Credit History?

A person’s credit history gives lenders a sense of their ability to pay on time, or ability to pay off debt in full. The length of a person’s credit history makes up about 15% of their FICO Score.

Length of credit history is determined by average age of accounts (AAoA). Lenders take the lifespan of a person’s accounts and divide by the number of accounts that person holds. A potential borrower can determine this number by figuring out how long they’ve had each account in their credit history, then dividing by the number of accounts.

The real sweet spot for credit history comes at the seven-year mark. From that point, early negative marks on accounts might have faded away. It shows lenders that a borrower can pay loans and maintain accounts over time.

There are a number of factors at play in lending decisions, but a short credit history could mean that adding a cosigner is beneficial.

5. What Is Your Employment Status?

Lenders want to be sure that you can repay your debts, so they’ll generally also evaluate an applicant’s income.

Employed Full-Time

Generally, if a person is employed full time at a salaried job, it shows lenders they have the capability to repay the loan they’re borrowing. Lending requirements vary based on the lender, but having an established income history may help an applicant avoid needing a cosigner.

Employed Part-Time

While part-time employment can still be beneficial for a loan application, it’s possible that a cosigner might help boost the application. The applicant’s debt-to-income ratio will come into play — that is, how much debt a person owes (credit cards, rent, other bills) divided by the income they earn before taxes and other deductions.

Of course, all lender requirements vary, but significant, consistent income can factor into whether the applicant will still need a cosigner.

Only a Student (Not Employed)

If an applicant is not employed, lenders may be more inclined to approve a loan if there’s a cosigner who is able to show stable income.

6. Have You Ever Declared Bankruptcy?

Lenders can and do consider all aspects of a person’s financial history before granting a loan, bankruptcy included. Declaring bankruptcy negatively affects a person’s credit score, which private lenders pay close attention to with a loan application. A bankruptcy filing can stay on a person’s credit history for a decade.

Bankruptcy filings can affect a credit score in a number of ways, and depending on how long ago it took place, the effects on a person’s score will vary.

7. Have You Defaulted on a Loan?

The terms of each loan are different, but after a period of nonpayment, the loan enters default. Defaulting on a loan stays with a person’s credit history for at least seven years and typically negatively affects their credit score.

If a person has defaulted on a previous loan, they’ll likely need a cosigner on their student loan to potentially improve their chances of approval.

Recommended: Defaulting on Student Loans: What You Should Know

8. Have You Ever Missed a Payment?

On-time payments each month can help show lenders that a person is a responsible borrower. Missing payments or consistently making late payments can have a negative impact on a person’s credit score. Payment history accounts for approximately 35% of an individual’s FICO Score.

Consistently missing payments that have affected a person’s FICO Score might cause a potential lender to require a cosigner. It could also cause concern for a potential cosigner, so students might want to keep that in mind.

A solid history of on-time payments shows a lender that a person is a responsible candidate for a loan and might not need a cosigner.

Choosing a Cosigner

As stated above, the majority of private student loan borrowers have a cosigner. But not all cosigners are built the same, and choosing the right person to cosign a loan could be as important as the terms of the loan itself.

A cosigner should not only have a strong financial history, but also a strong relationship with the applicant. A cosigner might be a parent or blood relation, but they don’t have to be. A cosigner ideally has a stable financial history and a relationship to the applicant where they feel comfortable discussing money.

Asking Someone to Be a Cosigner

There’s a common misconception that cosigning on a loan is as easy as signing a contract, but it actually means more than that. When a person asks someone to be their cosigner, they shouldn’t shy away from discussing the challenging topic.

It may make sense to talk about worst-case scenarios with a cosigner, and make it clear it would be their responsibility to take on the payments if you default. Discuss how you could repay the cosigner in the event that you can’t make payments.

Risks of Cosigning

Beyond the worst-case-scenario discussion, cosigners should know the additional risks they take on when cosigning a student loan:

•   Credit score. Cosigning a loan will affect a person’s credit score, since they’re taking on the debt as well. Even if the borrower makes on-time payments and doesn’t default, the cosigner will see a change in their credit score by taking on the additional debt. On the upside, though, it could potentially benefit their score.

•   Liability. If the borrower defaults on the loan, it becomes the cosigner’s responsibility to pay for it. A lender can come to collect from the cosigner, seizing assets and garnishing paychecks to cover missed payments.

However, the cosigner doesn’t need to stay tied to the loan forever. Private student loans may have a cosigner release policy in place. After a duration of on-time payments and additional paperwork, a lender may release the cosigner from the loan, leaving the borrower on their own.

It might sound easy, but a cosigner release isn’t a guarantee and not all private loans will offer this option. Read the terms of your loan carefully to understand the requirements for cosigner release.

The Takeaway

Like every college application, each loan application is a little different. Certain aspects of a person’s credit history or employment might make them more compelling to a lender. Other elements, like late payments or a limited credit history, might make a person less compelling to lend to.

Adding a cosigner to a private student loan is common and can improve your chance of approval, sometimes even with a lower interest rate than if you applied on your own.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

What is a student loan cosigner, and when might I need one?

A student loan cosigner is someone, typically a parent or close relative, who agrees to share legal responsibility for repaying your loan. You might need a cosigner if you’re applying for a private student loan and have limited credit history or income, as their strong financial background can improve your chances of approval and potentially secure a lower interest rate.

Do federal student loans require a cosigner?

Most federal student loans, such as Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, do not require a cosigner or a credit check. However, Direct PLUS Loans, available to graduate students and parents, do require a credit check and may necessitate an endorser (similar to a cosigner) if the applicant has adverse credit history.

What are the benefits and risks of having a cosigner on a private student loan?

Having a cosigner can increase your chances of loan approval and help you secure a more competitive interest rate. However, it’s important to note that the cosigner is equally responsible for repaying the loan. If you miss payments or default, it can negatively impact both your and your cosigner’s credit scores, and the cosigner may be required to repay the loan.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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

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Now that remote and hybrid work are standard in many industries, you may find yourself spending a fair amount of time in your home office. Is it up to snuff?

Ideally, you want your home office to both inspire your creativity and allow you to get down to business. Unfortunately, many of us are still working from cramped, messy, and makeshift at-home work spaces.

If your home office space could use some sprucing, read on. Here are 10 simple makeover ideas that can transform a drab at-home work area into a well-organized and stimulating work space.

1. Refreshing the Home Office

For those lucky enough to have a dedicated home office space, it may be time to give that area a little refresh. Even though corporate office spaces tend to be a little drab, a home office doesn’t have to be.

Painting a home office a cheery color and making the space feel homey with the addition of a couch, a rug, or pictures on the walls will make a home office a welcoming place to spend your working hours.

Of course, a home office needs to be practical, too. Finding an organization system to keep office supplies and files neatly stored will provide some much-needed peace of mind during busy work days.

When setting up a home office, it can be helpful to think about what systems were appealing in the workplace and which were more of a hindrance. Customizing the space to fit personal preferences and needs is one of the perks of working from home.

2. Taking Over the Guest Bedroom

For those who don’t have a separate room to dedicate to a home office, it can be tricky to strike a clear balance between work and play. Working in the bedroom or on the family room couch can make it difficult to mentally separate work time from personal time.

A guest bedroom can be an ideal spot in the home to add a desk. The space is likely unused most days of the year, and you can easily shut the door during the workday when you need privacy. You can also shut the door after a long day of work when you need to feel like you are at home and not at work. Out of sight, out of mind.

A guest bedroom may also be easy to keep tidy, as most members of the household probably don’t spend too much time in that room of the house.

Recommended: 13 Work From Home Jobs With Flexible Hours for Moms

3. Renovating the Garage

If a guest bedroom isn’t an option, a garage may be an ideal space to build a home office. A garage conversion may require renovations, but this space feels very separate from the rest of the home, which can be appealing.

Adding flooring, installing heating and cooling systems, and adding lighting — task and ambient — may go a long way towards making this space both comfortable and functional. A coat of paint in a color that promotes productivity might help, too.

Keep in mind that transforming garage into a home office can be an investment — you can expect to spend around $5,000. To help finance the project, you may want to explore options such as a home improvement loan.

This is essentially an unsecured personal loan that is used for home repairs or upgrades. You receive a lump sum up front which you can use to fix up or refurbish your home office; you then repay the loan over a set term (often five to seven years) with regular monthly payments. Interest rates are typically fixed.

4. Rethinking Your Desk

For homeowners with a big family or apartment renters who are embracing the studio lifestyle, it might be hard to squeeze in another large piece of furniture. A kitchen table or dining room table can serve double duty and provide plenty of space to spread out.

If multiple members of the household are working from home, this large space can even act as a coworking space of sorts. After all, bumping into a loved one in the break room (aka the kitchen) might be a nice surprise during a stressful workday.

The key to making this work is to make this “office” portable. Having a tote bag or storage box to stash any work supplies at the end of the day will be ideal when it’s time to eat dinner. Finding ways to remove those work vibes from a personal space is important for fostering good work-life balance.

Recommended: 32 Inexpensive Ways to Refresh Your Home Room by Room

5. The Right Support

No matter what place in the home you decide to make your workspace, it’s important to have supportive seating. Having the right chair can make all the difference, and in many cases function is much more important than aesthetics.

Having a chair that was specifically designed to provide proper back and neck support during long work days is key.

An ergonomic chair that includes features such as adjustable height, tilt control, lumbar support, and solid padding can all make the workday a bit more comfortable.

6. Setting the Scene

While having the right tools — desk, chair, computer, etc. — is important to building a successful home office, working in the right atmosphere is important, too. Spending the first 10 minutes of the workday setting the scene can be a major game changer.

For those working from home while other members of the household are working or simply existing loudly (hello, adorable but noisy babies), creating an appropriate workplace atmosphere may lead to better focus and productivity.

Start by giving the workspace a little spruce and clear out any unnecessary clutter. Put on some light background music that isn’t distracting (think classical or nature sounds) to block out any unwanted noise. Write a to-do list that prioritizes tasks for the day.

7. Being Zoom Ready

Having a space that is appropriate for video calls is essential for looking professional at home. Zoom, Skype, or Microsoft Teams calls don’t have to take place at a desk if the background isn’t ideal. Present your best self in a quiet spot in the home with good lighting and a clean background.

8. Getting Inspired

In an ideal world, all workspaces would inspire workers, allowing them to feel creative. One of the advantages of working from home is the ability to have more control over the surroundings, making it an inspiring, creative workspace.

Decorating the space in your favorite colors; adding photos of loved ones, favorite vacations, or hobbies; incorporating a vision board; or keeping a brainstorming journal at the ready are some ways to make the environment one where there is room for creativity and inspiration.

9. Adding a Standing Desk

In your home office, you make the rules. If you don’t want to sit for eight hours a day — who can blame you? — using a standing desk or adding a standing desk converter is a good way to incorporate some movement into the workday.

10. A Room with a View

Last but not least, setting up a home office to take advantage of any pleasant views might bring some peace, calm, and inspiration into the space. Facing a desk towards a window, French doors, or any other space in the home that has a view of the outdoors or even just greenery in another part of the home can help reduce stress.

The Takeaway

While some employers might offer stipends or reimbursements for setting up a home office properly, many employees may have to foot the bill themselves. This expense can be worthwhile, but may not be one that many workers planned for.

For those who need help financing that new home office space or purchasing furniture, there are a few options that may be worth considering, including a home improvement loan.

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

FAQ

What to buy for a home office?

The items you place in your home office will depend largely on the type of work you do. But according to Indeed, some common essentials include a workspace or desk; a comfortable, supportive chair; good lighting; a filing cabinet or storage space for paperwork; paper and pens/pencils; and a USB power strip with a surge protector.

Should my desk face a window?

Where you place your desk is a matter of personal preference and logistics. Facing a window can give you a chance to enjoy natural light and a view of the outdoors, which can boost your mood. However, a window can also expose you to glare.

Do companies pay for a home office setup?

Some companies give stipends or reimbursements to help employees cover the cost of setting up a home office. Others may only provide essential equipment, like a laptop or headphones. Ask your manager or human resources department about what benefits your company offers.

About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.

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

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