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How to Pay for Emergency Home Repairs, So You Can Move on ASAP

If you’re a homeowner, you may know those “uh-oh” moments when the basement floods or the roof leaks. If you’re in that situation, you may well need a considerable amount of cash to pay for repairs ASAP.

In this guide, you’ll learn the ballpark prices for some of the most common home repairs so you are better prepared if an emergency strikes. You’ll also gain insight into some financing options so if you find yourself dealing with an unexpected and significant bill, you can decide which source of funding is best for your needs.

How Much Do Common Home Repairs Cost?

From the roof to foundation, there are a lot of things in and on a home that might need to be repaired. Among these features are things that might be emergency home repairs at some point, whether that means you’ve discovered black mold in the basement or a kitchen appliance has conked out. Here, learn about some of the most common home repair costs.


💡 Quick Tip: Some lenders can release funds as quickly as the same day your loan is approved. SoFi personal loans offer same-day funding for qualified borrowers.

Roof

A home’s roof has a certain life expectancy, generally based on the material used. A roof made of asphalt shingles might last from 15 to 30 years, while concrete- or clay-tiled roof could last for more than 50 years.

Regular roof inspections are a good way to identify any minor problems, which may typically cost about $220, but can vary with your specific home and the region you live in. Minor repairs might include:

•   Gutter cleaning.

•   Patching leaks.

•   Replacing shingles.

•   Repairing flashing.

Issues found during a roof inspection might average $1,100. Replacing a roof, a major expense, may be necessary at some point in the life of a home. For an average-sized home, a completely new roof can cost $9,217 on average.

Foundation

Foundation issues can show up as cracks in a home’s walls, floors that are not level, gaps around windows, or doors that don’t close properly. Fixing these symptoms of a foundation issue won’t solve the underlying problem, but repairing the foundation at the earliest sign of the symptoms may mean a less costly foundation repair.

Hiring a structural engineer can be a good first step if there appear to be major foundation problems, as they won’t be trying to sell a product to fix any potential problems, so will likely be unbiased. A structural inspection typically costs about $600.

•   Cracks in a foundation that don’t affect the structure are minor repairs but are best not ignored, lest they lead to major issues. Potential cost: between $250 and $800.

•   A leaking foundation might be the cause of those cracks. Waterproofing a foundation, which may involve excavating around the foundation, installing tile drains, filling cracks, and then coating the structure with a sealant, can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $7,000.

•   A house with a settling or sinking foundation may have flooring that is warped or sloping, doors and windows that don’t open and close properly, or even exterior cracks, or other apparent issues. The cost generally depends on the type of repair. Raising a house using piers can cost between $1,000 and $3,000, while jacking might be between $600 and $1,600.

Water Damage

Water damage in a basement might be due to flooding from a storm or broken water line, for example, and is best fixed quickly so mold doesn’t grow and become another issue to take care of. In addition to being an unpleasant sight, standing water can cause structural or electrical issues in a home. Extraction of the water is generally the first step in this type of repair, followed by any necessary structural repairs.

•   For simple fixes, such as cleaning up after an overflowing toilet, the cost might be around $150.

•   Water damage restoration, though, is a bigger ticket item, averaging between $1,300 and $5,600, though it could go higher. If your entire home’s wood flooring is warped by water damage or basement flooding wrecks your electrical panel, that could spiral into five figures.

Recommended: How Much Does It Cost to Finish a Basement?

Mold

If the above water issues are not fixed in a timely manner, mold can grow on the surfaces, requiring additional necessary repairs. In addition to damaging any surface mold grows on, it’s also a serious health hazard, potentially causing allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and skin irritation.

Mold remediation costs average between $5,000 and $30,000 for a 2,000 square foot home. If the mold issue is localized (say, just in the attic or basement), your costs could be anywhere from $500 to $7,500 on average, depending on the specifics of your situation.

Pests and Rodents

Pests and rodents in a home can be more than just annoying. Infestations might cause major damage to a home if left untreated. One-time pest control costs around $450 on average. Ongoing services may cost $50 or more a month.

Attics can be inviting spaces to rodents like mice, rats, or squirrels, or other animals such as raccoons or bats. Eliminating the problem can cost $200 to $600 typically.

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HVAC

A home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems control the regulation and movement of air throughout the building. Like other components in a home, it’s wise to have an HVAC system inspected regularly to catch any problems before they become serious (as in, needing to pull together the cost of replacing an HVAC system). A standard tune-up for an HVAC system might cost between $150 and $450, with any potential repairs added to that. Some companies might offer ongoing maintenance plans, which could be a cost saver over time.

And what if the entire HVAC system needs replacing? Your price tag could be between $5,000 and $12,000 or higher. This could be a good opportunity to investigate any rebates available. For instance, if you buy an eco-conscious heat pump, you might find rebates as part of the Inflation Reduction Act.


💡 Quick Tip: Unsecured home improvement loans don’t use your house as collateral — a relief for many homeowners.

Electrical

Electrical issues in a house can vary from minor repairs, such as replacing an outlet, to wiring overhauls that may require professional help.

•   Hiring an electrician to replace a home’s outlets, light fixtures, and switches can cost around $280 on average. For someone who is confident in their DIY skills, this relatively simple job can be done for about $5 per outlet.

•   Replacing a circuit breaker or the entire electrical panel is something homeowners might leave to a professional. Costs will depend on the number of breakers being replaced or, in the case of replacing the electrical panel, how many amps. Panel replacement or upgrade can be anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000.

•   Rewiring a home can be quite expensive and include other repairs, such as plaster or drywall repair. To rewire an entire home, a homeowner might expect to pay between $2,500 and $6,000 for a three-bedroom house.

Ways To Finance an Emergency Home Repair

Even with regular inspections and maintenance, sometimes emergency home repairs are necessary. Some roof tiles may blow away, allowing rain in, or mold can take root in a damp basement. How to pay for home repairs (especially major ones) might involve using a variety of sources, depending on what is available and a person’s individual financial circumstances.

Homeowners Insurance

Homeowners insurance may be the first source most homeowners look to when needing to pay for emergency home repairs. The policy will stipulate what is covered, how much the company will pay, and any amount the homeowner might be responsible for, such as a deductible.

Some things a typical homeowners insurance policy might cover are costs to repair or rebuild after a disaster, replacement of personal belongings that were destroyed because of a disaster, or the costs of alternative housing while repairs are being made or a house is being rebuilt.

Emergency Fund

If there is a sufficient amount in an emergency fund, paying for an unexpected home repair with cash on hand is an option that won’t incur interest. How much to save in a home repair emergency fund will depend on the home’s size, age, and value. Older or more expensive homes might mean higher repair costs.

A typical recommendation is to save between 1% and 3% of a home’s value in a home repair emergency fund. So for a home valued at $500,000, this means having between $5,000 and $15,000 saved for emergency home repairs. This is a goal to work toward, but even having $1,000 in savings can be helpful.

If you do dip into your fund to fix your house, it can be like an emergency home repair loan, without any interest charged or monthly repayment schedule.

Home Equity

Homeowners who have built up equity in their homes may choose to use that equity to get money for home repairs. Using this type of financing, however, does come with some risk because the home is used as collateral. If the borrower defaults, the lender may seize the home as a way to repay the debt.

There are two types of loans that are based on a home’s equity: home equity loans and home equity lines of credit (HELOCs).

•   A home equity loan is a fixed-rate, lump-sum loan. It has a set repayment term, and the borrower makes regular, fixed payments consisting of principal and interest.

•   A HELOC also uses the equity a homeowner has built up, but the borrower does not receive a lump sum. Instead, they access the loan funds as needed until the loan term ends. Funds can be borrowed, repaid, and borrowed again, up to the limits of the loan.

HELOCs are variable-rate loans and consist of two periods: a draw period and a repayment period. The draw period is the time during which money can be borrowed, and might be 10 years. The repayment period is the time during which the loan is repaid and might last for 20 years. The combination of the two would make this example a 30-year HELOC.

Recommended: The Different Types Of Home Equity Loans

Assistance Programs

If emergency home repairs are required but the homeowner can’t afford to pay for them, assistance programs might be an option to look into.

•   Government loan or grant assistance. The U.S. Departments of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) , Agriculture (USDA), and Veterans Affairs (VA) offer grants and loans to eligible homeowners for home repairs and improvements.

•   Disaster relief. HUD offers several programs for homeowners affected by federally declared disaster areas. HUD partners with other federal and state agencies to provide relief in the form of mortgage assistance, relocation, food distribution, and other types of disaster relief.

•   Community Assistance Programs. Funding assistance may be able to be found by looking at local sources, such as county or city governments or charities. A good place to start a search is through HUD’s state listings .

Credit Card

Using a credit card to finance unexpected and urgent work on your home may seem like an easy fix. It can certainly be a quick way to pay for such repairs and a viable option if you’re thinking of how to pay for home repairs with no money withdrawn from your bank account. There are pros and cons to using a credit card for this purpose.

•   On the positive side: If the credit card is a zero-percent-interest card — and the balance can be paid in full before the promotional period ends — this can be a way to pay for an emergency home repair without paying interest.

•   As for disadvantages, credit cards are more likely to have high-interest rates, which can add a significant amount to the account balance if not paid off quickly.

•   Credit cards also come with borrowing limits. A major emergency home repair might max out this limit or even exceed it.

•   In addition, using all available credit can potentially have a negative effect on a borrower’s credit score. It can raise a person’s credit-utilization ratio. And if they are applying for a loan, it could raise their debt-to-income ratio, which might make getting a favorable loan rate a challenge.

Should I Get a Home Repair Loan?

Another option to pay for emergency home repairs might be a home improvement loan, which is a type of personal loan.

•   An unsecured personal loan does not use collateral, like a home equity loan or HELOC, so the borrower is not risking losing their home if they can’t repay the loan. The potential loan value is also not limited by the amount of equity in the home.

•   An unsecured personal loan may be funded more quickly than a home equity loan or HELOC. Because there is no collateral to determine a value for, this cuts out a potentially time-consuming step included in secured loans.

•   How can you use a personal loan? They can be tapped for a variety of reasons, not just emergency home repairs. If there are expected repairs, planned repairs, or home renovations that might make a home more livable, an unsecured loan can be a good option.

The Takeaway

It’s probably safe to say that nobody likes to think about emergencies. But it’s wise to be prepared in the event that one arises. When pricey home repairs are required, a personal loan may be the option that works best for your financial situation.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.


SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.


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.


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

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

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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Where to Find Book Now, Pay Later Vacations

Where to Find Book Now, Pay Later Vacations

Book now, pay later vacations are on the rise.

As more people set off on adventures around the world, they’re realizing that travel can be expensive. However, there are a growing number of options to pay for those getaways, including travel payment plans.

Here’s what would-be travelers need to know about this travel hack and payment option and how to decide if it’s right for them before they take off in a plane, train, or automobile.

What a Payment Plan Vacation Really Means

Buy now, pay later vacation plans work in a similar way to traditional layaway options at stores. Travelers pay a little upfront and pay off the rest over an agreed-upon timeline. However, unlike traditional layaway, where a person can pick up their item only when payments are complete, travelers get their item — their trip — upfront.

There are several book now, pay later payment options on the market including Afterpay, Affirm, Klarna, and Uplift. When booking a vacation using a payment plan option, you’re actually paying the financing company rather than the travel company itself.

For example, if you book a Carnival cruise (one of the companies offering this as an option), you’ll pay via Uplift. Uplift will then pay Carnival directly for the vacation in full. When you make payments, you’ll be paying Uplift, not Carnival.

Payments can be made over weeks or months, depending on the trip you’re taking, how much it costs, and which payment option you choose. Before signing on the dotted line, you’ll be assigned an interest rate based on data including your credit score, much like you would when applying for a credit card or loan. The rate will always be displayed before you click “book,” but reading the fine print is important so you are aware of all the terms of the agreement, not just the interest rate.


💡 Quick Tip: Before choosing a personal loan, ask about the lender’s fees: origination, prepayment, late fees, etc. SoFi personal loans come with no-fee options, and no surprises.

Companies That Offer Buy Now, Pay Later Vacations

The love for vacation payment plans is growing across the travel industry. Here are a few of the major players that are in the game.

Expedia: Expedia offers book now, pay later vacations through Affirm. At checkout, travelers can choose whether to make four interest-free payments every two weeks or monthly installments.

Priceline: Like Expedia, Priceline also offers book now, pay later vacation payment plan options with Affirm, with similar payment options.

Hotels.com: Hotels.com is offering payment plan options with Zip. Customers can split their payments into four installments over six weeks.

VRBO: VRBO is also getting in on the book now, pay later vacation option with Affirm. Customers can pay the total cost of the trip in three, six, or 12 monthly installments. Fixed payments come with interest rates ranging from 10% to 30% APR based on your credit profile.

Airlines: Airlines are also offering a book now, pay later option for those looking to fly to their destination. American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest, Alaska Airlines, Air Canada, and Allegiant are some of the 16 airlines offering this option.

Cruise lines: Cruise lines are also getting into the act. Carnival, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean are all offering vacation payment plan options to cruise lovers looking to stretch their vacation budgets out over months.

Recommended: Tips For Finding The Top Travel Deals

The Pros and Cons of Book Now, Pay Later Vacations

There are benefits to the book now, pay later vacations. Most obviously, you can book a vacation now and pay for it later. That could allow you to lock in your plans — and maybe even take advantage of a good deal or favorable rate — instead of having to wait until you’ve saved enough cash.

But there are potential drawbacks, too.

For starters, travelers may run the risk of overextending themselves financially if they book a vacation but can’t make the payments on it. According to a 2023 report by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, book now, pay later travelers are more likely to be highly indebted or have a balance or delinquencies on their credit cards compared to non-book now, pay later travelers.

There’s also the potential impact on your credit score. Though not all companies run a credit check when you choose the book now, pay later option, some do. And this could affect your credit score. Likewise, the service may report late payments to the national credit bureaus, which could also negatively impact your score. To find out if a credit check will be run before booking, reach out to the service directly.

Recommended: Ways to Be a Frugal Traveler

Personal Loan as an Alternative to Buy Now, Pay Later

If you want to take a vacation without having to save the money to pay for it first, you may want to consider an unsecured personal loan.

Taking out a personal loan is still taking on debt. But an unsecured personal loan allows a borrower to take out the amount needed to pay for a vacation with fixed interest rates that are generally lower than credit card rates and possibly lower rates than those offered by buy now, pay later financing options. Shop around and compare rates and terms to see what makes the most sense for your financial situation.


💡 Quick Tip: Generally, the larger the personal loan, the bigger the risk for the lender — and the higher the interest rate. So one way to lower your interest rate is to try downsizing your loan amount.

The Takeaway

Many travel retailers, airlines, and cruise companies are now allowing travelers to book their vacations upfront and then pay them off over time. While this could allow travelers to lock in a good deal, there are possible drawbacks to consider, including potentially high interest rates upon repayment. Travelers should look at all their payment options when deciding how to finance a trip.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.


SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

Photo credit: iStock/hudiemm


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.


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

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.

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

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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What Is Maintenance Margin? How Margin Maintenance Requirements Work

What Is Maintenance Margin? How Its Requirements Work

Maintenance margin, as it relates to margin accounts and trading, refers to the necessary amount of funds an investor needs to maintain in their brokerage account in order to utilize margin. Margin accounts work differently than other trading accounts. Instead of allowing the trader to do regular trades, the margin account allows leveraged trades.

This means that the trader can buy securities including stocks, bonds, or options for more than the amount that they have in their account, paying only a deposit on the trade. They borrow the rest of the cash needed for the investment from the broker.

Maintenance Margin Definition

In margin trading, the maintenance margin is the minimum amount of funds that a trader must hold in their portfolio to avoid being issued a margin call, for as long as they are actively involved in a trade. If a trade they enter decreases in value, the trader may owe money, which is taken from their account.

Minimum margin requirements for leveraged accounts are regulated by the government. Currently the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) sets the maintenance margin at 25% of the total value of securities that a trader holds in their margin account.

Specific brokerage firms also maintain their own requirements. It is common for brokerage requirements to be higher than the government required amount to provide the firm with greater financial security.

Margin maintenance requirements shift based on various factors, including market liquidity and volatility. And different stocks have differing maintenance requirements: if they are more likely to be volatile, the requirements may be higher.

Does a Maintenance Margin Mitigate Risk?

Maintenance margin doesn’t mitigate risk for traders. Margin investing is risky because traders can lose more money than they have in their account, creating a debt with the broker, called margin debt.

When a trader opens a margin account, they must sign an agreement and deposit a certain amount into the account before they can start trading. To pay off any debt from assets that have lost value, the trader will need to deposit additional funds, deposit securities, or sell off holdings.

Therefore, margin trading isn’t recommended for beginner traders, and it’s important for traders to understand the risks and how it works before trying it out.


💡 Quick Tip: When you’re actively investing in stocks, it’s important to ask what types of fees you might have to pay. For example, brokers may charge a flat fee for trading stocks, or require some commission for every trade. Taking the time to manage investment costs can be beneficial over the long term.

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Borrow against your current investments at just 11%* and start margin trading.


*For full margin details, see terms.



Maintenance Margin Requirement Examples

Let’s look at an example of how maintenance margin requirements work.

Let’s say a trader wants to purchase 100 shares of Company XYZ at $40 per share. They don’t have sufficient funds to purchase the entire number of shares. The trader can use a margin account which allows them to purchase the entire amount of shares but only deposit a percentage of the total price into the trade and also pay a financing fee. This deposit amount is known as the initial margin requirement.

In this example, the initial maintenance margin requirement is 40% of the purchase price of the trade. For the trader to purchase the full 100 shares, they need to maintain a balance of 40% of the trade purchase amount in their margin account.

When Maintenance Margin Requirements Aren’t Met

If the amount in their account dips below the minimum requirement, their broker will issue a margin call notification. Generally, the trader will have between 2-5 days to either add more funds to their account or sell some of the assets they are invested in to move enough cash funds back into their account.

If the trader doesn’t sell holdings or add funds to their account to meet the margin maintenance requirement, the broker may sell the trader’s securities without notifying them, and they have the right to decide which ones they sell. They are also allowed to charge the trader commissions and even sue the trader for losses.

A margin call can also be sent out if the brokerage firm changes their requirements, which they can do at any time.

Calculating Maintenance Margin

Each brokerage firm has their own maintenance margin requirements. The formula to calculate the maintenance margin is:

Account value = (Margin Loan) / (1 – Maintenance Margin %)

This can be used to determine the stock price that will trigger a margin call.

For example, a trader opens a margin account and deposits $20,000 into it, then borrows $10,000 from the broker in a margin loan in order to purchase 200 shares of stock at a price of $100 each. The broker’s maintenance margin is 30%. Here is what the calculation would be to figure out what account balance would trigger the margin call:

($10,000 Margin Loan) / (1 – 0.30 Maintenance Margin %) = $14,285.71

That means that if the trader’s account dips below $14,285.71, or if the price of the stock falls below $71.43 ($14,285.71 / 200 shares) then the broker will issue a margin call.

Recommended: What Is Margin Interest and How to Calculate It

Maintenance Margin vs Initial Margin

When traders open a margin account, there is an initial margin amount they are required to deposit before they can start trading. This is set by FINRA, and brokers may also have their own additional requirements. The initial margin required by FINRA is currently $2,000 in cash or securities.

After a trader starts buying on margin, they must meet the maintenance margin on their account — at least 25% of the market value of the securities in their account.

The Takeaway

A maintenance margin is a monetary buffer for traders with margin accounts. The maintenance margin is a minimum balance required to execute leveraged trades. If a trader’s margin account dips below the minimum set by FINRA and the broker, the broker will issue a warning, or margin call, so that the trader can add cash to their account or sell holdings to cover the gap.

Maintenance margins do not mitigate risks for traders, and if an investor is utilizing margin as a part of their investment strategy, they should know what they’re getting into. Margin accounts have their pros and cons, but it’s important to keep the risks in mind.

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


For a limited time, opening and funding an Active Invest account gives you the opportunity to get up to $1,000 in the stock of your choice.

FAQ

What happens if you go below maintenance margin?

Generally, if a trader or investor’s account goes below the maintenance margin, their brokerage will send them a margin call, or otherwise warn them that they need to deposit funds or sell holdings.

What does current maintenance margin mean?

Current maintenance margin refers to the literal current maintenance margin set by financial regulators or by a specific brokerage. For example, it may be 25% of the value of an investor’s total holdings.

What is the difference between maintenance margin and minimum margin?

Minimum margin refers to the minimum amount of collateral needed in a margin account to execute leveraged trades, while maintenance margin is the total capital that needs to remain in the account as the investor continues to utilize a margin account.

Who sets the maintenance margin?

FINRA currently sets the maintenance margin, which is 25%. But specific brokerage firms can set their own beyond that, and often, at a higher threshold.

Why is my maintenance margin so high?

Maintenance margin requirements can be determined by a number of factors beyond regulatory minimums, such as market conditions and volatility, and the specific types of securities an investor is trading.

What does 25% maintenance margin mean?

Twenty-five percent maintenance margin means that an investor must hold 25% of the total value of their holdings in their account. It is the minimum amount of equity that must be maintained in their margin account.


Photo credit: iStock/StockRocket

SoFi Invest®
INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE
SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below: Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Claw Promotion: Customer must fund their Active Invest account with at least $25 within 30 days of opening the account. Probability of customer receiving $1,000 is 0.028%. See full terms and conditions.



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Guide to Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFI)

Non-bank financial institutions provide financial services, but they don’t hold the same license or charter as a bank. Also referred to as non-bank financial companies or NBFCs, these entities can extend credit, provide investment services, cash checks, and exchange currencies. However, they generally can’t accept deposits from customers.

There are different types of non-bank financial institutions, and the way they’re structured can determine what services they provide. An NBFC can serve as a complement to traditional banking services or act as a competitor to licensed banks.

Here, you’ll learn more about these businesses, how they compare to banks, and their pros and cons.

What Are Non-Bank Financial Institutions?

Nonbanking financial institutions (NBFI) are institutions that don’t have a banking license but are able to facilitate certain types of financial services. They’re different from depository institutions, which can offer deposit accounts such as checking accounts, savings accounts, or money market accounts. An NBFI or NBFC is not licensed or equipped to accept deposits.

Non-bank financial institutions can specialize in niche financial services, including:

•   Investments

•   Financial consulting

•   Brokeraging

•   Money transfers

•   Check cashing

•   Risk pooling.

They can target a broad or narrow range of customers, which can include consumers, business owners, and corporate entities. Because they’re not licensed the same way that banks are, NBFCs are not subject to the same degree of government regulation and oversight.

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How Do NBFCs Work?

Now that you know NBFCs’ meaning, consider how these institutions work. In general, NBFCs work by providing financial services that are outside the scope of what traditional banking typically entails. There are different types of organizations that can bear the NBFC (or NBFI) label. The type of organization can determine how it works and what services it offers.

Here are some of the most common types of NBFCs:

•   Investment companies

•   Loan companies

•   Companies that offer asset-based financing

•   Micro-lending companies

•   Risk pooling institutions.

In terms of regulation, NBFCs generally operate within the framework of the 2010 Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. However, the scope of regulation that extends to NBFCs and NBFIs is limited. For that reason, they’re sometimes referred to as “shadow banks” since they operate within the shadows of traditional banking institutions.

Pros and Cons of NBFCs

Non-bank financial institutions have both advantages and disadvantages. On one hand, they can play an important role in providing financial services outside the confines of traditional banking.

However, questions have been raised about the lack of oversight for NBFCs and what implications that might have for the individuals and businesses that use them.

Here are some of the main pros and cons of NBFCs at a glance.

Pros of NBFCsCons of NBFCs
NBFCs can provide easier access to credit for individuals and businesses who need to borrow money. NBFCs cannot provide certain banking services, including offering deposit accounts.
Investors may be able to find higher-yield through an NBFC or NBFI that isn’t offered at a bank. Financial experts have argued that NBFCs and NBFIs can pose a systemic risk to the financial system as a whole.
NBFCs can offer alternative services to customers, such as check cashing, that may otherwise be inaccessible.Operations are largely unregulated and there may be less transparency around NBFCs vs. traditional banks.

Accountability is more of a question mark with non-bank financial companies since there’s less oversight overall. The increase in popularity of NBFCs has raised questions about the need for greater regulation of this section of the financial services industry.

Recommended: How to Switch Banks in 3 Easy Steps

NBFCs vs Banks vs Fintech

You may wonder how NBFCs and NBFIs compare to banks and fintech companies. Here are some points to consider:

•   Non-bank financial companies are not the same as banks, and they can also be differentiated from fintech. Again, a bank is a financial institution that holds a license or charter which allows it to accept deposits from its customers. Some banks may fall within the category of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), which help to promote access to capital and financial services in underserved areas.

•   Fintech or financial technology is a term that describes the use of innovation to improve financial services and products. Fintech generally encompasses tools, apps, and other tech that can make managing money or borrowing it easier. There can be some overlap between NBFCs and fintech or between fintech and banks.

Which is better, an NBFC vs. a bank vs. fintech? There is no single answer as each one can fulfill different needs. Comparing them side by side can make it easier to distinguish between them.

NBFCsBanksFintech
What It IsAn NBFC or non-bank financial company provides alternative financial services but does not hold a banking license.Banks are financial institutions that hold a federal or state license or charter which allows them to accept deposits.Fintech is a broad term that can refer to technological innovations that are applied within the financial services industry.
How It WorksNBFCs work by offering financial services (other than accepting deposits) to their customers, such as check cashing, investment services, or insurance. Banks work by accepting deposits, lending money, and facilitating financial transactions. Some of the benefits of local banking include being able to open a checking account, apply for a mortgage, or pay bills online. How fintech works can depend on its application. For example, budgeting apps can link to your checking account to track spending automatically. Robo-advisors make it easy to invest using an algorithm.
Whom It’s ForNBFCs may be right for individuals or businesses who are seeking services outside of traditional banking.Banks are suited to people who want to be able to deposit funds, withdraw them on demand, or borrow money. Fintech may appeal to people who want easier access to their finances online or via mobile apps.

Examples of NBFCs

As mentioned, there are different types of NBFCs and NBFIs. If you’re looking for a specific non-banking financial institution example, the list may include:

•   Life insurance companies

•   Insurance companies that underwrite disability insurance policies

•   Property insurance companies

•   Mutual funds

•   Pension funds

•   Hedge funds

•   Financial advisors and investment advisors

•   Securities traders

•   Broker-dealers

•   Mortgage companies

•   Peer-to-peer lending companies

•   Payday lenders

•   Leasing or financing companies

•   Companies that provide money transfer services

•   Check cashing companies.

If you invest money, send money to friends and family via an app, or own a home, then chances are you’ve encountered an NBFC somewhere along the way. Examples of companies that may be classified as NBFC include LendingClub, Prosper, and Quicken Loans.

At the same time, you may also use traditional banking services if you have a checking account or savings account at a brick-and-mortar bank or an online bank.

NBFCs and the 2008 Financial Crash

The 2008 financial crash was fueled by a number of factors, including risky lending and investment practices. The resulting fallout included bank failures, banking bailouts, and a housing market crisis. Many of the companies that were engaging in these risky behaviors were NBFCs.

In 2010, the Dodd-Frank Act was passed to address some of the conditions that led to the crisis, including the lack of regulation and oversight as it pertained to NBFCs. The legislation made it possible for non-banking financial institutions to flourish, rather than whither away in the wake of the crisis.

Why? Simply because NBFCs continued to lend money at a time when traditional banks were placing greater restrictions on lending. While questions linger about the degree of regulation needed for NBFCs, their popularity has only increased since the financial crisis.

Recommended: Alternatives to Traditional Banking

The Takeaway

Non-bank financial institutions can play a part in how you manage your money. For some people, they may provide financial services that make their lives easier. However, they are not regulated in the same way that licensed or chartered banks are. Also, if you want to be able to deposit money into your checking or savings account, then you can do that through a bank.

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


Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall. Enjoy up to 4.60% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

How are NBFCs different banks?

NBFCs are different from banks because they do not hold a banking license or charter. While they can provide some of the same financial services as banks, they’re not equipped to accept deposits from customers.

What is the difference between fintech and NBFCs?

Fintech refers to the use of innovation and technology to improve financial products and expand access to financial services. An NBFC can use fintech in order to offer its products and services to its customers. For example, an investment company may offer robo-advisor services that operate on a fintech platform.

What are the disadvantages of NBFCs?

The main disadvantages of NBFCs include lack of government regulation and oversight, as well as their inability to offer deposit accounts. However, NBFCs can offer numerous advantages, including convenient access to credit and the potential to earn higher returns on investments.


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


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

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

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

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

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

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


Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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 Are Wire Transfer Fees & How Much Are They?

All You Need to Know About Wire Transfer Fees

Wire transfers are a way to quickly and conveniently send and receive money, both domestically and internationally. Maybe you want to securely send some cash as a security deposit to a landlord across town ASAP. Or perhaps you need to pay for a painting you bought at an auction overseas. Either way, a wire transfer may be a good option.

However, there are often wire transfer fees in exchange for their speed and convenience. The cost to send and receive money via wire transfer varies, but international wires are usually costlier than domestic wires.

However, with the right steps, you can reduce or even eliminate the fees you’ll pay using wire transfers.

Here, you’ll learn important details about this technique for transferring funds, including:

•   What are wire transfer fees?

•   How much do wire transfer fees cost?

•   How do international wire transfer fees vs. domestic compare?

•   How can you avoid wire transfer fees?

•   What are other ways to send and receive money?

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

Open a SoFi Checking and Savings Account with direct deposit and get up to a $300 cash bonus. Plus, get up to 4.60% APY on your cash!


What Are Wire Transfer Fees?

A wire transfer is an electronic funds transfer between financial institutions. Wire transfers can be faster than bank transfers, with same-day processing possible for most domestic wires. Wire transfers can occur domestically or internationally, but most banks charge fees both for sending and receiving funds in this way.

In addition to speed, another reason to use wire transfers is when sending money internationally, as a regular bank transfer isn’t possible in this situation. But international wire transfers can have higher wire transfer fees than domestic wires, and there might be more steps involved. For instance, the transaction might have been processed by the foreign country’s system and also possibly involve a currency conversion.

Recommended: ACH vs. Check: What Are the Differences?

How Much Do Wire Transfer Fees Cost?

As mentioned earlier, how much wire transfer fees cost can vary. Some financial firms waive wire transfer fees in certain situations, and others waive them entirely. When sending and receiving international wires, there can be a fee of $50 or more for each transaction

Typically, you might expect the following fees:

•   For domestic wire transfers, outgoing fees usually range from $0 to $35; incoming fees can range from $0 to $15.

•   For international wire transfers, outgoing fees can often range from $35 to $50; incoming fees are likely to be between $0 and $16.

Wire Fees by Financial Institution

Below is a list of wire transfer fees for large banks in the United States. However, third parties may be involved that charge additional fees, especially for international wires.

BankIncoming domesticOutgoing DomesticIncoming internationalOutgoing international
Bank of America$15$30$16$45 or $0 when sent in foreign currency
Capital OneUp to $15Up to $30Up to $15$40-$50
Chase$0-$15$25-$35$0-$15$0-$50
CitiUp to $15Up to $25Up to $15Up to $35
Fidelity$0$0$0$0
PNC$15$25-$30$15$40-$45
TD Bank$15$30$15$50/td>
USAA$0$20$0$45
U.S. Bank$20$30$25$50
Wells Fargo$15$30$16$45

Do International Fees Cost More Than Domestic?

On average, international wire transfer fees are higher than domestic ones. But as is often the case, averages don’t tell the whole story. Some financial institutions don’t impose wire transfer fees, even for international transactions.

Still, it’s important to remember that there may be extra fees when dealing with international wire transfers. For instance, there may be a currency conversion fee when sending money between two countries that use different currencies. When sending or receiving money internationally, you’ll need information like an international bank account number (IBAN) or a SWIFT code to move the funds to the right account. Overall, it’s a somewhat more complex transaction than a domestic one.

Why Do Banks Charge Wire Transfer Fees?

Banks charge wire transfer fees because of the work that goes into processing wire transfers. For instance, wire transfers are processed individually as they are received. This differs from automated clearinghouse (ACH) transfers, which are processed in batches.

You also pay a premium for the faster processing speed. Domestic wire transfers can sometimes be completed within a few hours and are usually processed the same day. International wire transfers can be completed within one to two business days.

Another reason banks charge wire transfer fees is their higher transaction limits. Wire transfer limits are usually much higher than bank transfer limits, so they can be worth using if you must send a large amount in a single transaction.

Lastly, the international reach of wire transfers can lead to higher fees. For instance, when large amounts of foreign currency are exchanged, banks charge what is known as a midmarket, or interbank, exchange rate. The bank will often charge a higher markup if that currency must be converted. This results in higher wire transfer fees.

Recommended: How to Earn More Interest on Your Money

Tips to Avoid Wire Transaction Fees

While wire transfer fees are common, they aren’t always a given. Here are some ideas about how to avoid wire transfer fees in some situations:

•   Send money in foreign currency. For outbound international wires, it can be smart to send money in the currency used by the foreign company, if possible. In this scenario, some banks waive wire transaction fees since no currency conversion is necessary.

•   Do it yourself digitally. Some financial institutions allow you to initiate a wire transfer using their website or app, and doing so may reduce the fees or even eliminate them.

•   Look for firms that don’t charge wire transfer fees. Some banks and nonbank providers waive wire transfer fees in some cases, or they don’t charge them at all.

•   Open an account with no wire transaction fees. Shop around: Some of the most popular banks offer accounts that let you wire money with no transaction fees.

Alternative Ways to Send and Receive Money

Some methods of sending money may allow you to reduce or eliminate transaction fees. You can do so by using one of the following methods to conduct the transfer:

•   Use a payment app. Payment apps like Venmo, Zelle, and PayPal generally let you send money electronically to friends and relatives without paying a fee. However, sending money to those who are not “friends and family” may incur fees.

•   Send money with a bank transfer. A bank transfer, or ACH transfer, might be preferable if you send money domestically. In 2022, the same-day transfer limit was increased to $1 million, enabling large funds transfers in a single day.

However, note that limits on single transactions might be lower, and there might be ACH fees.

•   Use a cashier’s check. A cashier’s check is an alternative to wire transfers because it can be suitable for large transactions. This type of check draws the funds from the bank’s reserves rather than your account. However, the check must be delivered to you, so this method can take longer than a wire transfer. In addition, there might still be fees involved.

The Takeaway

Wire transfers can be a quick, secure way to send money domestically or internationally. These transfers have several benefits, such as shorter processing times and larger transaction limits than ACH transfers. But wire transfers can also have significant transaction fees, especially when dealing with international transfers.

If you prefer to avoid costly wire transfer fees, look for firms that don’t charge them or offer accounts that don’t charge for wire transfers. You can also consider alternative methods of sending money, like using a payment app or sending a cashier’s check.

If you’re looking for other ways to save on your banking costs, consider opening an online bank account. With SoFi Checking and Savings, for instance, you won’t pay any account fees, and your money will earn a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), both of which can help your cash grow faster. You’ll also spend and save in one convenient place, have a suite of tools (like Vaults and Roundups) that can amp up your savings, and, for qualifying accounts with direct deposit, you can get paycheck access up to two days early.

Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall. Enjoy up to 4.60% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

Do you pay a fee to receive a wire transfer?

It depends, but most banks do charge a fee for income wire transfers. However, the fee for incoming wires is usually considerably less (maybe 50% lower) than the fee for outgoing wires.

Why are wire transfers so expensive?

Wiring money can be expensive for several reasons, such as their shorter processing times and higher transaction limits than bank transfers. Also, international wire transfers have more processing steps, which can increase their cost.

Do all banks charge wire transfer fees?

The majority of banks charge wire transfer fees in at least some situations. Some waive them in certain situations, while nonbank providers are more likely to waive them entirely.


Photo credit: iStock/Ridofranz

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

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

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

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

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

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


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


Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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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