What Is Frontrunning?

Front-Running Explained

Front running is when a broker or other investor obtains information that will impact a stock, and places a trade in advance of the news.

In most cases front running is illegal because the broker is acting on information that’s not available to the public markets, and using it for their own gain.

Front running is somewhat different from insider trading, where an individual investor working at a company is able to place a trade based on proprietary information about that company. Insider trading is also illegal.

There is another definition of front running, however, which involves index funds. This type of front running is not illegal.

Key Points

•   Front running involves trading a financial asset based on non-public information in order to profit, which is illegal due to unfair market advantage.

•   This practice is different from insider trading, although both involve using non-public information for personal profit, and both are prohibited by regulatory agencies.

•   Front running can occur when investors or brokers use this news to anticipate significant trades, allowing them to act before the information is public.

•   Real-world cases of front running have led to significant penalties, including multi-million dollar fines and prison sentences for those involved in fraudulent trades.

•   While most forms of front running are illegal, index front running, which involves changes to market indexes, is considered legal and commonly practiced.

What Is Front Running?

Front running trading means that an investor buys or sells a security based on advance, non-public knowledge or information that they believe will affect its stock price. Because the information is not widely available, it gives the trader or investor an advantage over other traders and the market at large.

Based on this definition of front running, it’s easy to see how the practice — though illegal — earned its moniker. Investors trading stocks based on privately held information, are literally getting out in front of a price movement.

In addition to stocks, front running may also involve certain derivatives contracts, such as options or futures.

Again, although front running is technically different from insider trading, the two are quite similar in practice, and both are illegal. Front running is forbidden by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). It also runs afoul of the rules set forth by regulatory groups like the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).

If a trader has inside knowledge about a particular stock, and makes trades or changes their position based on that knowledge in order to profit based on their expectations derived from that knowledge, that’s generally considered a way of cheating the markets.

Recommended: Everything You Need to Know About Insider Trading

How Front Running Works

The definition of front running is pretty straightforward, and there are two main ways front running — also called tailgating — can occur.

•   A broker or trader investing online or through a traditional brokerage gets wind of a large upcoming trade from one of their institutional clients, and the size of the trade is sure to influence the price.

•   A broker or trader learns about a specific analyst report about a given security that’s likely going to impact the price.

In either case, the trader gains access to price-relevant information that’s not yet available to the public markets, and they are well aware that the upcoming trade will substantially impact the price of the asset. So before they place the trade, they might either buy, sell, or short the asset — depending on the nature of the information at hand — and make a profit as a result.

A Front Running Example

Say there’s a day trader working for a brokerage firm, and they manage a number of clients’ portfolios. One of the broker’s clients calls up and asks them to sell 200,000 shares of Company A. The broker knows that this is a big order — big enough to affect Company A’s stock price immediately.

With the knowledge that the upcoming trade will likely cause the stock price to fall, the broker decides to sell some of his own shares of Company A before he places his client’s trade.

The broker makes the sale, then executes the client’s order (blurring the lines of the traditional payment for order flow). Company A’s stock price falls — and the broker has essentially avoided taking a loss in his own portfolio.

He may use the profit to invest in other assets, or buy the newly discounted shares of Company A, potentially increasing his long-term profits essentially by averaging down stocks.

The trader would’ve broken the law in this scenario, breached his fiduciary duties to his client, and also acted unethically.

Recommended: Understanding the Risks of Day Trading

Front Running in the Real World

There are many real-world examples of front running that have led to securities fraud, wire fraud, or other charges.

In 2022, for example, the SEC charged an employee of a large financial institution and an outside associate, of executing a multi-year scheme worth some $47 million in fraudulent front-running profits.

In this case, the employee took advantage of proprietary information about upcoming company trades, which he conveyed to an accomplice outside the firm. Based on the ill-gotten information, this outside trader opened and closed positions ahead of the bigger company trades, and shared the profits.

The company employee was sentenced to 70 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and both traders had to forfeit some $38 million.

No. In almost all cases, front running is illegal. Front running is a type of fraud that involves using information that’s not available to the public solely for personal gain.

Are There Times When Front Running Is OK?

Yes, actually. Index front running is not illegal, and is actually fairly common among active investors.

As many investors are aware, index funds track market indexes like the S&P 500 or Dow Jones Industrial Average. These funds are designed to mirror the performance of a market index. And since equity market indexes are essentially large portfolio stocks, they change quite often. Companies are frequently swapped in and out of the S&P 500 index, for instance.

When that happens, the change in an index’s constituents is generally announced to the public, before the swap actually takes place. If a company is being added to the S&P 500, that’s probably considered good news, and can make investors feel more confident in that company’s potential.

Conversely, if a company is being dropped from an index, it may be a sign that things aren’t going so well.

That gives some traders an opening to take advantageous positions. Let’s say that an announcement is made that Firm X is being added to the Dow Jones Industrial Average, taking the place of another company. That’s big news for Firm X, and means that Firm X’s stock price could go up.

Traders, if they have the right tools, may be able to quickly buy up Firm X shares the next day, and potentially, make a profit if things shake out as expected (although there’s no guarantee they will).

How is this different from regular front running? Because the information was available to the public — there was no secret, insider knowledge that helped traders gain an edge.

The Takeaway

Front-running is the illegal practice of taking non-public information that is likely to impact the price of a certain asset, then placing a trade ahead of that information becoming public in order to profit. Front running is similar to insider trading, although the latter generally involves an individual investor who profits from internal company information.

Fortunately, there are plenty of investing opportunities that don’t involve resorting to fraudulent activity like front running.

Invest in what matters most to you with SoFi Active Invest. In a self-directed account provided by SoFi Securities, you can trade stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), mutual funds, alternative funds, options, and more — all while paying $0 commission on every trade. Other fees may apply. Whether you want to trade after-hours or manage your portfolio using real-time stock insights and analyst ratings, you can invest your way in SoFi's easy-to-use mobile app.

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FAQ

Why is front-running illegal?

Front running is illegal for a few reasons. First, it’s a form of cheating the market, by using non-public information for personal gain. Second, in the case of institutional front running, it’s a violation of a broker’s fiduciary duty to a client.

How can I identify if my trades have been affected by front running?

Unfortunately, owing to the non-public nature of the information that typically leads to front-running, it’s very difficult for individual investors to determine whether or not their own trades have been impacted by a front-running event. Financial institutions have more tools at their disposal to detect incidents of front running.

Are there any technological solutions or tools available to detect and prevent front running?

Yes. With so many traders using remote terminals to place trades since the pandemic, trade surveillance technology and trade reconstruction tools are more important than ever. Fortunately, financial institutions have the resources to employ these tools, and other types of algorithms, to monitor the timing of different trades in order to identify front runners and front running.


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

SoFi Invest is a trade name used by SoFi Wealth LLC and SoFi Securities LLC offering investment products and services. Robo investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Brokerage and self-directed investing products offered through SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

For disclosures on SoFi Invest platforms visit SoFi.com/legal. For a full listing of the fees associated with Sofi Invest please view our fee schedule.

Disclaimer: The projections or other information regarding the likelihood of various investment outcomes are hypothetical in nature, do not reflect actual investment results, and are not guarantees of future results.

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.

S&P 500 Index: The S&P 500 Index is a market-capitalization-weighted index of 500 leading publicly traded companies in the U.S. It is not an investment product, but a measure of U.S. equity performance. Historical performance of the S&P 500 Index does not guarantee similar results in the future. The historical return of the S&P 500 Index shown does not include the reinvestment of dividends or account for investment fees, expenses, or taxes, which would reduce actual returns.
Options involve risks, including substantial risk of loss and the possibility an investor may lose the entire amount invested in a short period of time. Before an investor begins trading options they should familiarize themselves with the Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options . Tax considerations with options transactions are unique, investors should consult with their tax advisor to understand the impact to their taxes.

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8 Great Flexible Part-time Jobs in 2022 for Gen Z and Millennials

8 Great Flexible Part-time Jobs for Gen Z and Millennials

Flexibility can be a real asset in a career. Maybe you’re young and figuring out your post-graduation path. Or you’re busy balancing the demands of running a home and caring for a family. Or you’re an athlete who needs plenty of time for training and recovery.

There are lots of flexible-schedule jobs out there, if you know where to look. Let’s check out some part-time jobs with flexible schedules.

Key Points

•   Part-time jobs with flexible schedules are ideal for Gen Z and Millennials, including roles like landscaper, fitness worker, and freelance positions.

•   Freelance software developers earn the highest average hourly wage at $63.204, while recreation and fitness workers earn the lowest at $17.013.

•   Job requirements vary, from specific licenses and background checks to programming knowledge and industry experience.

•   Freelance editors have the highest schedule flexibility, rated 5, while freelance web designers and business consultants have the lowest, rated 3.

•   Job seekers should prepare for rejection, be flexible, and prioritize remote work options, while facing challenges in finding jobs without set hours.

What It Means for a Job to Have a Flexible Schedule

Whether you’re in college or caring for children or pursuing an unpaid passion, there are many reasons why someone would want some flexibility in their career.

But what does a flexible schedule mean exactly? According to the U.S. Department of Labor, a flexible schedule is one that allows people to work outside traditional 9 to 5 office hours. Aside from that, situations vary depending on the role and employer.

Workers may be able to choose the time they arrive at and depart work, for instance. With certain flexible work policies, employees still have to work a set number of hours per pay period or be available during a daily “core time.” So while the employee may not have to show up at 9am on the dot and leave at exactly 5pm, they may need to at least show up by 11am and stay until after 3pm. However, this type of shortened schedule could work for many people, including parents who are self-employed.

Recommended: Online Budget Planner

Tips for Finding a Flexible Part-time Job in 2025

Flexible part-time jobs can be logistical, analytical, creative, or involve a skilled trade. When it comes time to search for flexible-schedule jobs, keep in mind these tips.

•   Stay focused. Job applicants who know what they’re looking for and what they can offer an employer can plan a more effective job search. If someone knows they have to have a flexible part-time schedule in order to accept a job, they can save a lot of time and energy by only applying for jobs that offer that. Trying to convince an employer to change their staffing plans is an uphill battle.

•   Prepare to hear No. Know that it will take a while to find the right fit, and that rejection is a normal part of any job search. Psychologically preparing yourself can help you persevere until the right job comes along.

•   Don’t be a square peg. If a flexible part-time schedule is what matters most, you may need to be flexible yourself in other areas. For example, accept that you may need to compromise on title, salary, or industry. Giving up the highest-paying job for one with a more relaxed schedule can be worth it.

•   Go remote. Work-from-home jobs with flexible schedules can often be easier to find than on-site jobs that have flexible schedules. When reviewing online job boards, look for flexible schedule remote jobs.

Recommended: Does Net Worth Include Home Equity?

Why It Can Be Difficult to Find Part-time Jobs With Flexible Schedules

It can be difficult to find flexible-schedule part-time jobs because many jobs require being in a certain location at a certain time. For example, a hairstylist has to show up for work when they have appointments scheduled. A restaurant has to know they have enough servers on hand during operating hours. Even a corporate job where some work can be done remotely and independently can require being online during set times so that it’s easy to communicate with coworkers.

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Great Part-Time Jobs With Flexible Schedules

Perhaps someone wants to take on a second job to help them pay down their debt or save for a dream vacation. Whatever the reason, it’s easy to see the appeal of a part-time job with a flexible schedule.

While there are countless part-time jobs on the market that can suit a variety of workers’ desired schedules, these are some of the best flexible schedule jobs for Gen Zers and Millennials. And if you’re in college, don’t miss our list of the best on-campus jobs.

1. Landscaper and Groundskeeper

Average hourly wage: $18.50

Job description: Landscapers and groundskeepers typically set their own schedules and plan which days they’ll tend to a client’s yard, but they don’t have to tell them exactly what hour they’ll show up to do their work.

Requirements: In some areas a license may be required to use pesticides and fertilizers.

Schedule flexibility: 4

Duties:

•   Mowing lawns

•   Removing weeds

•   Planting and maintaining flowers, bushes, and trees

2. Recreation and Fitness Worker

Average hourly wage: $17.01

Job description: Running a fitness or recreation class can be fun and rewarding work that is often performed on a part-time basis. Many instructors can choose when they host their classes (like when their young child is in school), but they do have to stick to those times.

Requirements: Licensing or background checks may be required.

Schedule flexibility: 4

Duties:

•   Plan programming

•   Run classes

•   Clean up post-class

3. Freelance Software Developer

Average hourly wage: $63.20

Job description: Many businesses hire freelance software developers to create computer programs and applications for business or consumer use. Some meetings during business hours may be required.

Requirements: Knowledge of select programming languages.

Schedule flexibility: 4

Duties:

•   Write code

•   Test code

•   Meet with project stakeholders

4. Virtual Assistant

Average hourly wage: $22.82

Job description: Plenty of professionals can’t afford or don’t need a full-time assistant. Instead, they hire virtual assistants who can tackle administrative work for a few hours a week. Virtual assistance can be a rewarding job for introverts who are conscientious and organized.

Requirements: Office skills

Schedule flexibility: 4

Duties:

•   Scheduling meetings

•   Managing clients’ inbox

•   Helping with administrative work

5. Freelance Copywriter

Average hourly wage: $30.64

Job description: A writer can work with many different brands as a freelance copywriter and can choose when they want to take on new projects and what hours of the week they work on them. Working as a freelance copywriter is also a great side hustle.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree and industry experience

Schedule flexibility: 5

Duties:

•   Research

•   Writing copy

•   Editing copy

6. Freelance Web Designer

Average hourly wage: $45.85

Job description: Freelance web designers work independently designing websites for a variety of clients, instead of a full-time job. Work-from-home web design can be a well-paying and fulfilling job for antisocial people.

Requirements: Knowledge of design programs, and HTML and CSS programing languages.

Schedule flexibility: 3

Duties:

•   Design web pages and sites

•   Code designs

•   Present to clients and incorporate feedback

7. Freelance Editor

Average hourly wage: $36.18

Job description: Similar to copywriters, editors can work freelance for multiple clients.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree and industry experience

Schedule flexibility: 4

Duties:

•   Nurturing writers

•   Editing copy

•   Publishing content

8. Business Consultant

Average hourly wage: $49.27

Job description: A business consultant can offer services to multiple businesses who need support as a whole or who are looking to improve a certain area of their business, such as their marketing efforts, operations, or HR.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, master’s degree (more advantageous), or a certification from a business consultant association.

Schedule flexibility: 3

Duties:

•   Assess potential areas of improvement

•   Create improvement plans

•   Find ways to cut costs

The Takeaway

There are plenty of great flexible-schedule jobs that millennials and Gen Zers can pursue to give them the time they need to attend school, start a business, or take care of young children. Some remote freelance roles can be entirely flexible — such as web designers, writers and editors — while other jobs require your presence during certain core hours.

Choose whether you prefer a more physically demanding job — such as landscaper or fitness worker — or an office job that requires a laptop (like virtual assistant). It may take time to find the right position, so be patient. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on how your money comes and goes to ensure you’re sticking to your savings goals.

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

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

FAQ

What part-time job has the most flexible hours?

There is no single part-time job that has the most flexible hours. That said, jobs where work can be done independently and remotely usually have the most flexibility. Jobs like working as a freelance writer or graphic designer are good examples of jobs someone can usually do during times that work well for them.

What job gives you the most free time?

Flexible-schedule work-from-home jobs can give workers the most free time because they don’t have to worry about a commute. It’s also usually easier to control your work schedule when you work from home. As a bonus, you can use your breaks to be productive — by tackling household chores or working out — or enjoy down time.

What jobs can I make my own hours?

Some jobs with flexible schedules allow workers to set their own hours. The key is to look for a job where the hours someone works doesn’t matter as much as the type of work they produce.


About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

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.



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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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Pros & Cons of a Weekly Budget

Guide to Weekly Budgets

A budget can be a great and necessary way to take control of your finances. It helps you track money coming in and going out, which could mean your spending on necessities, fun experiences, and saving for the future.

While many people prefer a monthly budget, a weekly budget can be a better option for others. It gives added control and flexibility in wrangling your finances. For instance, if you see that you’ve hit your restaurant spending limit by Thursday, you can commit to eating at home for the rest of the week to avoid overspending and coming up short by the end of the month.

Here’s a closer look at how a weekly budget works, the benefits of budgeting this way, along with some potential pitfalls to look out for.

Key Points

•   A weekly budget divides take-home pay and expenses into weekly amounts, offering close financial tracking.

•   Flexibility in weekly budgeting allows for quick adjustments to unexpected costs.

•   Aligning a weekly budget with paydays can simplify savings.

•   A potential downside of weekly budgeting includes the temptation to overspend.

•   Weekly check-ins for budgeting may feel overwhelming for some.

What Is a Weekly Budget

A weekly budget is a way to organize your finances and manage your money on a weekly cycle. It outlines your expected income and expenses for a one-week period and can help you stay on top of your finances and avoid overspending.

To make a weekly budget, you determine your weekly income, how much you need to spend on essentials/fixed expenses for the week, along with how much you will allot for nonessential spending and savings/goals.

For many people, a weekly guardrail like this helps them ensure their cash is tracking properly.

How Weekly Budgets Work

Here are the basis of how a weekly budget works:

•   Figure out your take-home pay per week. This likely requires a bit of basic division since many people are paid bi-weekly or at another cadence.

•   Next, look at your spending on necessities, such as housing, utilities, basic food (but not dining out or those vanilla lattes), minimum debt payments, healthcare, and insurance.

•   Subtract those expenses from your income. See how much is left.

•   From this remaining amount, allocate how much you can spend on “fun” items, such as dining out or takeout, clothing that isn’t vital, entertainment, travel, and the like.

•   Also remember to allocate funds for savings. Many experts recommend a figure of 20% but that may vary depending on your cost of living, debt, and other factors.

•   Now that you see how much money is coming in and how much remains for spending after the needs of life are paid for, you can track and manage your spending and saving weekly to make sure you are hitting your marks.

Benefits of a Weekly Budget

If you think tracking your money with a monthly household budget is a pain, the idea of putting even more effort into the process — and breaking it down by the week — may feel like overkill. But there could be some benefits to be had from the effort.

Here are a few pros and cons to consider:

Pro: More Flexibility

Life doesn’t always follow a schedule. A monthly budget can be a good fit for fixed expenses that are paid once a month (rent and car payments, student loan payments, etc.), or even quarterly or annual bills (insurance payments, subscriptions, and memberships). But other costs, such as dining out with friends, unexpected car repairs, clothing purchases, gifts, or an occasional massage or pedicure splurge, fluctuate from week to week.

With a weekly budget, you can quickly adjust to any changes or overages. For example, if your car suddenly needs a repair, you can rejigger your spending in other categories for the rest of the month to make up for the added cost. Or, if you see you spent more than what you allotted for grocery spending for the week, you may decide to adjust your budget moving forward to reflect your actual spending.

Pro: Planning Around Paychecks

If, like many Americans, you’re paid every week or every other week — or your spouse is — a weekly or biweekly budget could offer more flexibility for saving and spending.

People who are paid weekly have some months with four paychecks and some months with five. Those who are paid every other week have some months with two paychecks and some months with three.

A weekly budget could help pinpoint those extra paydays so you can take advantage of the opportunity to work on a short- or long-term goal. You might stockpile a few grocery-store staples that could help tide you over during leaner months, for example. Or you may want to set aside the money to start an emergency fund. Or you could use it to save for a wedding, honeymoon, or vacation.

Pro: Simplifying Savings

Switching to a budget that aligns with weekly or biweekly paydays also could make saving more manageable.

If you’re enrolled in a 401(k) or similar investment savings plan at work, you may already be making contributions each payday. You could do the same thing with your savings account by setting up automatic transfers and moving money from your checking account to your savings account each week. Ideally, you’ll want this to happen on the same day you get paid.

Or, if your employer offers split direct deposit, you might opt to have some of each paycheck go directly into savings and the rest go into checking. This approach to saving, called “paying yourself first,” removes the temptation to spend money you had allocated for saving in your budget.

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Downsides of a Weekly Budget

As you might expect, there are also some cons of a weekly budget. Consider the following:

Con: Too Much Temptation

The added flexibility that can make a weekly budget appealing also could make it easier for some individuals and households to be tempted off course — especially when it comes to discretionary spending. Telling yourself that you’ll spend less “next week” to justify getting what you want right now could become a habit. An important part of successful budgeting is sticking to the budget.

With that in mind, you might want to tuck each week’s discretionary money into an envelope …and when it’s gone, it’s gone. Using a budgeting app to keep track of your expenses on your phone or tablet also could help.

Recommended: Envelope Budgeting Method

Con: Weekly Check-ins Could Become Overwhelming

Taking the time each week to review your purchases and update your budget may not be realistic for some people. If finding time to check in with your budget each week feels too overwhelming you may want to try a bi-weekly or monthly approach.

💡 Quick Tip: Want a simple way to save more each month? Grow your personal savings by opening an online savings account. SoFi offers high-interest savings accounts with no account fees. Open your savings account today!

4 Steps To Create a Weekly Budget

Making a budget — whether it’s set up to be weekly, biweekly, monthly, or a bit of a combo — can be a good way to get control of your finances. Here’s are more detailed steps to setting up a weekly budget template:

1. Pull Together Your Paperwork

If you want your budget to be useful, it should be as accurate as possible. So you’ll probably want to pull together some paperwork to help get it right, including your most recent pay stubs and bank statements, along with utility bills, insurance bills, credit card bills, loan statements, and any other recurring bills you can think of. You may also find it helps to have tracked your spending (on paper or with an app) for a while before you sit down to create your budget. Or you may want to collect recent grocery store, drug store, and restaurant receipts to help you estimate those costs.

2. Calculate Your Weekly Income

Write down all of the income you receive each month. (If you’re married, include your spouse’s income sources. If you’re a freelancer or your income is unpredictable, you may want to calculate the average over the past three or four months.) Find your monthly take-home amount (what you get after taxes and other payroll deductions) and divide it by four.

3. Make a Realistic List of Your Expenses

Using a budgeting program or app, a spreadsheet like Excel, or maybe just a notebook, write down all your expenses for the month. It can help to break down those costs by categories, such as:

•   Housing costs (e.g., rent or mortgage, utilities, and other expenses)

•   Transportation (like car payments, insurance, gas, and maintenance)

•   Food and groceries

•   Costs associated with your children (like child care, tuition, activities), if applicable

•   Financial expenses, such as bank fees or taxes

•   Savings and investing, such as contributions to a 401(k) or IRA or emergency fund

•   Health Care (e.g., prescriptions, dental care, co-pays)

•   Personal spending (like clothes, shoes, gym membership)

•   Entertainment (such as movies, special events, streaming services, books)

Keep in mind that the categories you include in your budget will be influenced by your wants, needs, and spending habits.

You may decide you want to use a monthly budget for some expenses (utility bills and other fixed expenses) and a weekly budget for others (such as discretionary expenses, debt payments, and savings). But if you want to go weekly with everything, the math isn’t all that complicated. To convert monthly amounts into weekly spend amounts, multiply the monthly figure by 12 and then divide by 52.

4. Deduct Expenses from Income

Add up your weekly expenses and subtract that number from your weekly income. If you come out ahead, you could add more to your savings and investments, pay down debt even faster, or add more of a cushion to another category on your list. If you come out even, you may want to adjust your discretionary spending a bit, so an unexpected cost doesn’t throw you off track.

If you come out with a negative number, you may have to make some decisions about what costs you can cut or even get rid of.

Especially when you’re starting out, it may help to use a budget framework similar to the 50/30/20 budget rule, which suggests keeping essential costs to 50% or less, discretionary costs to 30% or less, and setting at least 20% aside for savings if you can. If your percentages aren’t where you want them, you may need to make some adjustments in your spending.

Recommended: 50/30/20 Budget Rule Calculator.

Test the Budget and Adjust

Once you have a budget you feel comfortable with, it’s time to test your new spending and savings strategy. You might decide to use a tracking app to see how you’re doing, but you also may benefit from actually sitting down to go over the numbers once a week. (This could be particularly helpful for married couples who are sharing a couples budget.)

If you spot any problem areas or realize you forgot something, you can always make adjustments. If something happens to change your income or expenses (a raise, a new job, a job loss, a big purchase, or a baby), you can adjust again.

Don’t be discouraged if the budget you built doesn’t work out the first time you use it. You may have to develop new habits. Or you may need to get some help with ditching your debt or determining your financial goals.

The Takeaway

Setting up a weekly budget could make it easier to stay on top of your spending by streamlining the number of transactions you have to track and helping you spotlight any areas you may be overspending in. However, for some, checking in and tracking your spending and transactions each week could become overwhelming. An app, possibly provided by your bank, could help.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible 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 3.30% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings with eligible direct deposit.

FAQ

What should a weekly budget include?

A weekly budget should include your income, your necessary expenses (housing, utilities, food, healthcare, and more), your discretionary expenses (eating out, travel, entertainment), and your savings.

How do you budget weekly money?

To budget money weekly, you will need to divide your take-home pay into weekly amounts and then do the same with your spending on needs and wants, as well as savings. You want to be sure your weekly income can cover those expenditures.

What does having a weekly budget mean?

Having a weekly budget means you are balancing your income, spending, and saving on a weekly basis. This can be a good way to stay in close touch with your money, though for some people it might feel like overkill vs. monthly budgeting.


Photo credit: iStock/Prostock-Studio

SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. 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.

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

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

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

We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Bank Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

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cash on yellow background

What Is Buying In Bulk?

Buying in bulk means purchasing large quantities of a single product at a lower cost than you’d usually pay for the item. For example, you might buy a six-pack of shampoo for less than the per-unit price you typically spend on a single bottle. Or you might save big by buying a 10-pound bag of grapes instead of the usual one- or two-pounder.

But, like many things in life, buying in bulk has its pros and cons. For instance, you probably have to shell out more upfront to purchase larger quantities, and you might have trouble storing the items or using them up before their expiration date.

But like many things in life, buying in bulk has its pros and cons. For instance, you probably have to shell out more up front to purchase larger quantities, and you might have trouble storing the items or using them up before their expiration date.

Below, we’ll explore the ins and outs of buying in bulk, including whether it can save you money and how to avoid some potential pitfalls of bulk buying.

Key Points

•   Buying in bulk reduces per-unit costs, allowing you to save money on frequently used items.

•   Effective bulk buying involves sticking to familiar products and considering expiration dates.

•   Potential pitfalls include high upfront costs, overuse, and storage challenges.

•   Warehouse clubs offer consistent bulk deals but require annual membership fees.

•   Buying in bulk reduces packaging waste and can minimize fuel consumption from fewer shopping trips.

How Much Is “Bulk”?

There is no specific quantity you need to purchase to have something qualify as “bulk buying.” Rather, the term means you are buying large quantities of a single item to reap a discount.

That might mean you are buying one jumbo box of cereal (the kind that could feed a cabin full of summer campers) or a 12-pack of regular-size boxes bundled together. Or you might be buying 36 eggs at a time vs. the usual dozen.

The point is, it’s a larger quantity than what you might find at your local supermarket and at a lower price per unit. This can be an effective way to save money on groceries.

The Pros of Buying in Bulk

Here’s a look at some of the main advantages of buying in bulk:

You Can Save Money

Who isn’t looking for ways to save money daily? When you buy an item in bulk, you typically save money on the per unit price of that product. It may be a small difference but if it’s an item you use regularly, those savings can add up. For example, if you save 20 cents per coffee pod by buying a large quantity and you drink coffee daily, that adds up to $73 in money saved per year.

It’s Environmentally Friendly

Bulk purchases usually have significantly less packaging per use than smaller purchases have. For example, using one giant tub of laundry detergent rather than going through three smaller containers leads to less plastic waste.

Ideally, buying in bulk also means you shop less, and that’s less time spent on the road and burning gas.

You May Avoid Impulse Buys

You might rack up additional savings just by being in the store less frequently and having fewer opportunities to pick up things that weren’t on your list. If you’re motivated to save money, avoiding those impulse purchases can be a big plus.

You May Plan and Budget Better

If you’re the organized type who is big on preparing meals in advance, buying in bulk can make that endeavor easier and cheaper. Access to larger sizes of ingredients, like marinara, ground beef, mozzarella, and pasta, can make it cost-effective to cook lots of food and freeze it. That, in turn, can help you take better control of your food budget.

For sure, it’s cost efficient to prepare your family’s favorite pasta dishes and soups and have enough for today and whenever you’re ready for round two or three.

Finding the Price Per Unit

If saving money is important to you, there’s a good chance you want to know exactly how much you are benefiting by buying in bulk. To figure out the real cost, you may need to do some math. The first step is to determine the cost per unit. Sometimes, this number will be listed on the price signage at the store; otherwise, you can use the calculator function on your mobile phone.

•   What is a unit? Depending on the product, a unit might be an ounce, gram, gallon, square foot, or a single item.

•   Figure out how many units you are buying. Take the total cost of your purchase and divide that by the number of units to get the price per unit.

•   Then compare the unit prices of a few packages of the same product to determine which is the better value.

Ideally, the cost per unit of a bulk buy should be at least 20% below what you would normally pay at the supermarket.

Although a supersized item usually has a lower cost per unit than its smaller brethren, crunch the numbers to see.

💡 Quick Tip: Want a simple way to save more everyday? When you turn on Roundups, all of your debit card purchases are automatically rounded up to the next dollar and deposited into your online savings account.

How Much Can You Save By Buying in Bulk?

No doubt, it can be hard to save money today, and you may wonder whether buying in bulk is worth it. The answer is: It depends. While the amount shoppers save depends on the item, it’s not unusual to save anywhere from 20% to 50% by purchasing items at the wholesale clubs vs. supermarkets.

You can also up your savings from buying in bulk by using coupons for those items.

Remember, what’s important isn’t an item’s price but the price per unit.

Increase your savings
with a limited-time APY boost.*


*Earn up to 4.00% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on SoFi Savings with a 0.70% APY Boost (added to the 3.30% APY as of 12/23/25) for up to 6 months. Open a new SoFi Checking and Savings account and pay the $10 SoFi Plus subscription every 30 days OR receive eligible direct deposits OR qualifying deposits of $5,000 every 31 days by 3/30/26. Rates variable, subject to change. Terms apply here. SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

3 Tips for Buying in Bulk

When you want to stop spending so much and begin buying in bulk, you need a game plan. Here are three strategies to keep in mind:

1. Stick With What You Know

This is not the time to experiment. If you’re loading your cart with goods, you don’t want to be guessing about whether you’ll love them or not. Go for the family’s beloved items.

Buying in bulk and getting a deal is worthless if nobody wants to eat or use what you buy. That’s money down the drain.

2. Search for Your Favorites on Sale

It’s generally not a good idea to buy what’s on sale solely because it’s on sale. When trying to cut your grocery bill, the goal is to get what you know and love on sale, not to be overly adventurous. The latter can leave you disappointed, with a few fewer dollars in your pocket to boot.

3. Keep Expiration Dates in Mind

Do check expiration dates when buying in bulk. Items can expire before you get to use them, which is akin to throwing away your hard-earned money. Everything from sunscreen to olive oil can deteriorate when left to sit for long periods because you bought a mega-pack, so shop carefully.

What to Buy in Bulk and What to Avoid

Some products are perfect for stockpiling. While your list will depend on your family, think of items like:

•   Paper towels

•   Toilet paper

•   Tissues

•   Detergent

•   Dishwashing liquid

•   Sponges

•   Aluminum foil and plastic wrap

•   Toothpaste

•   Canned beans and fish

•   Frozen foods

•   Rice

•   Sugar

•   Flour

On the flip side, generally, you don’t want to load up on:

•   Fresh produce

•   Eggs

•   Meat or fish (unless you plan to freeze it)

•   Milk

•   Coffee beans

•   Snack foods/desserts (this could inspire you to overindulge)

The Cons of Buying in Bulk

Buying in bulk can work to your advantage, but it’s not without caveats. Here are some potential disadvantages to keep in mind:

Larger Quantities Can Mean Spending More

Bulk buying means spending more up front, which could put a strain on your finances. While paying $40 for $80 worth of lotion may be a good deal, it could backfire if you put that purchase on a credit card and can’t pay off the balance in full. You’ll then get hit with high interest fees, which can more than erase your savings.

You’ll Need Storage Space

Keep in mind, too, that you need space to store all that stuff and a car to pile it in to take home. If either of these are issues, buying in bulk may not be ideal for you.

You May Get Bored With Bulk Products

Know thyself…and your family. Maybe you are the person who gets bored quickly, or your kids will beg for some variety after you’ve bought 24 boxes of the same cereal. When you’ve got mega amounts of the same product, be prepared for the “same old, same old” for a long stretch. That’s all the more reason to purchase only what you love, as you may be using it for months.

You May Have to Pay Membership Fees

If you’re going deep into bulk buying, you likely won’t settle only for what you can get in bulk at the grocery store but will want to shop at the warehouse stores like Costco and BJ’s. Consider the annual membership fees that are required.

Costco’s “Gold Star” membership is $65 per year, and the “Executive” level is $130. BJ’s tiers are $60 and $120. Sam’s Club advertises membership fees of $50 and $110.

Will you frequent the store enough to make the fee worthwhile?

Bulk Quantities Can Lead to Overuse

If you have something in abundance, it’s all too easy to be less conscious of how much you’re using. Knowing you have 12 rolls of paper towel stashed away could lead you to use it up more quickly because you know you have backup waiting.

Bigger Quantities Means Spending More Cash

There’s also the issue that if you’re earning a lower income and/or have considerable debt, you may not be able to come up with enough money to purchase bulk products versus their smaller and less expensive single-use versions. One big purchase could blow your weekly budget. If you spend a chunk of money to buy a mega-pack of toilet paper, can you then afford other necessities?

Products May Expire

Buying in bulk can be a fun way to save money, but don’t get so giddy grabbing great buys that you forget important things like expiration dates. Products like bleach and sunscreen may expire in 12 months or less. And certain food products can expire as well. Getting a gallon of milk for the same price as a half gallon doesn’t yield any savings if it sits in your fridge for so long that it goes bad.

Buying in Bulk at Local Grocery Stores vs Wholesale Retailers

You may wonder if you should buy in bulk at your local grocery store vs. at a wholesale retailer (meaning places like Costco or Sam’s Club). It’s true that you may find good deals at your local supermarket (such as buy two cans of tuna and get two for half-price), and coupons can boost your savings.

However, it’s likely that these deals will be occasional. At a wholesale retailer or warehouse club, the business model is to have bulk quantities always available at good prices. That’s the company’s mission and what gives them bargaining power. In other words, their reason for being is to help customers buy in bulk and save.

While you may find great deals at your neighborhood grocery store that encourage you to stock up, you are likely to find smart deals in every aisle of a bulk retailer.

The Takeaway

Buying in bulk has its advantages. Getting a good deal can help you spend less and save more, but you’ll need to be savvy. Buy only what you need and what you can comfortably store and use in a timely fashion.

As with your local supermarket, temptation often lurks at bulk retailers. It’s best to prepare and follow a shopping list and know how to compare cost per unit to assess whether buying in bulk is worth it.

Armed with the right strategies, you can save real money by buying in bulk. As a next step, you’ll want to find a good place to stash that extra cash. If you’re in the market for a new bank, see what SoFi has to offer.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible 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 3.30% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings with eligible direct deposit.

FAQ

How much do you save if you buy in bulk?

While individual savings will vary, you may be able to save anywhere from 25% to 50% by buying in bulk.

Why is it cheaper to buy in bulk?

Buying in bulk is often cheaper per unit because it allows manufacturers to spread fixed costs over a larger quantity of goods, leading to lower production and distribution costs. This enables them to offer discounts for larger orders.

What are two downsides of buying in bulk?

One major downside of buying in bulk is the high upfront cost. The higher initial price tag may be difficult for some consumers to afford, even if the long-term cost per unit is lower. Another potential downside is the risk of waste. If you buy perishable items in bulk, you run the risk of them spoiling or expiring before you can use them.


SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. 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.

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

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

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

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

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37 Places to Sell Your Stuff

35 Places to Sell Stuff Online and In Person for Cash

Offloading your used items can do you good on a couple of fronts. You can declutter your home, help fight waste (since you’re not just throwing things out), and make some extra money all by selling your still-useful stuff.

Whether you are looking to sell unwanted items like clothing, shoes, bags, furniture, housewares, books, electronics, or anything else, you can probably find a platform to help you get the job done. Some ways to sell are online, others aren’t, but all can do their part to connect your items with buyers — and get some additional cash flowing your way.

Here’s a guide on where to sell stuff, with dozens of places that can help you turn your unwanted items into cash.

Key Points

  • Online platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist provide convenient ways to sell used items.
  • Specialized platforms like Poshmark for clothing or Decluttr for electronics offer targeted selling options.
  • Local consignment stores and thrift shops can be good options for selling used items in person.
  • Hosting a garage sale or participating in community flea markets can help sell multiple items at once.
  • Utilizing social media platforms and local buy/sell/trade groups can connect you with potential buyers in your area.

20 Places to Sell Stuff Online

If you have items you no longer want or need, and you’re looking to make some extra money, exploring online platforms to sell used items can be highly beneficial. Whether you’re decluttering regularly to keep your space tidy or need a financial boost, online resale apps and sites offer convenient ways to reach a wide audience. Many of these platforms are free to list but they may take a small percentage of your profits once you sell.

💡 Quick Tip: Tired of paying pointless bank fees? When you open a bank account online you often avoid excess charges.

1. Craigslist

One of the original online marketplaces, Craigslist is still around and remains a popular platform for local classifieds. You can list all sorts of things, from tools to toys to DVDs to antiques (and much more) for free.

2. Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace makes it easy to sell items in your local area. It’s free to create a listing that can be seen by anyone on and off Facebook. You can also choose to post your listings to any “Buy and Sell” Groups you’re a member of.

However, a word of caution: Facebook Marketplace and other similar platforms can be used for bank account scams. Read up on common ploys and proceed with caution when selling this way.

3. Amazon

While you may think that Amazon is where you can buy new things, there are also a lot of opportunities to list used items. The site typically charges $0.99 per sale. You can also sign up for a professional selling plan which costs $39.99 per month no matter how many items you sell. Amazon may also charge others fees, including referral fees.

💡 Quick Tip: Don’t think too hard about your money. Automate your budgeting, saving, and spending with SoFi’s seamless and secure mobile banking app.

4. eBay

The original selling platform, eBay can still be a good way to sell your stuff, especially if you want to reach buyers from around the world who are looking to save money. Or it can be a huge help if you’re looking to unload an unusual item (there is almost nothing you can’t potentially sell on eBay). But you may want to keep an eye out for selling fees, which may include a listing fee, a percentage of the sales prices, and possibly other fees.

5. OfferUp

Developed as a locally-driven platform, OfferUp can be another good bet for selling used things. It allows you to sell to someone local, or ship an item to a buyer who lives anywhere in the U.S. The platform doesn’t charge fees or take a commission from your in-person transactions, but fees may be charged for shipping, promoting your items, and listings that go beyond the free allotment for the month.

6. Poshmark

Primarily a site for selling used clothing, Poshmark also lets you list home decor, jewelry, and beauty products. For sales you make under $15, Poshmark takes a flat commission of $2.95. If you make a sale that’s worth $15 or more, it takes 20%.[3]

7. Etsy

Etsy may be best known as a platform for artists to sell their handmade goods and launch a low-cost side hustle. But the site also allows you to list some used goods. However, you can only resell in the “Vintage” and “Craft Supplies” categories. There is a listing fee of 20 cents per item, and, when you sell an item, there’s a transaction fee of 6.5% of the price. You may also need to pay a fee to open your Etsy shop.[4]

8. thredUP

An online consignment and thrift store, thredUP sells thousands of major brands. You can send your gently used clothing directly to the service. If they accept (and sell) your clothing, you can earn ThredUp credit, which you can convert into cash. If your item sells in its listing window, you’ll earn a percentage of the selling price. This can be anywhere from 3% to 80%, depending on the item’s sales price.

💡 Quick Tip: If you’re saving for a short-term goal — whether it’s a vacation, a wedding, or the down payment on a house — consider opening a high-yield savings account. The higher APY that you’ll earn will help your money grow faster, but the funds stay liquid, so they are easy to access when you reach your goal.

9. eBid

Like eBay, you can sell just about anything on eBid, either for auction or at a fixed price. eBid is organized into three tiers of selling, with different membership costs and selling fees. eBid may or may not wind up costing you less than other selling platforms, depending on how much you will sell and at what price.

10. Bookoo

Bookoo is an online platform that serves as a local community marketplace for buying and selling items. It essentially functions like an online yard sale, facilitating in-person transactions between neighbors, and does not charge any listing or transaction fees.

11. Vinted

If you have a lot of gently used clothes, shoes, and accessories to sell, you may want to check out Vinted, a peer-to-peer online marketplace that focuses on vintage and second-hand fashion. And, for sellers, it’s free. Buyers pay a “protection fee,” typically 5% of the purchase price plus 70 cents.

12. Vestiaire Collective

If you have luxury items you want to sell, you may want to try Vestiaire Collective, a resale website where you can buy and sell high-end clothing, handbags, and accessories. Listing your items is free; once you make a sale, a selling fee of 10% will be deducted from the final price of your sale.

Increase your savings
with a limited-time APY boost.*


*Earn up to 4.00% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on SoFi Savings with a 0.70% APY Boost (added to the 3.30% APY as of 12/23/25) for up to 6 months. Open a new SoFi Checking and Savings account and pay the $10 SoFi Plus subscription every 30 days OR receive eligible direct deposits OR qualifying deposits of $5,000 every 31 days by 3/30/26. Rates variable, subject to change. Terms apply here. SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

13. TheRealReal

TheRealReal is a luxury consignment site where you can drop off or ship designer clothing, accessories, and jewelry, as well as fine art and upscale home decor. They sell your items for you in exchange for a percentage of the profit.

Recommended: Ways to Make Money Online

14. Rebag

If you have a designer bag that you no longer want, you might consider selling it on Rebag, a site that’s focused on buying, selling, and trading luxury handbags and other accessories. The site offers three ways of selling — consign, trade, and buyout, giving you control over how you sell, what you earn, and how quickly you’re paid.

15. Bag Borrow or Steal

Another site for selling luxury handbags is Bag Borrow or Steal. You can sell directly to the site (and get paid right away), or you can consign and receive 70% of the sales price after it’s sold.

16. PreOwned Wedding Dresses

If you aren’t sentimental about keeping your wedding dress, bridal party gown, or accessories, then you might list it on Nearly Newlywed (PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com), with a $25 listing fee and an 80% payout of the sale price when someone buys it.

17. BookScouter

If you’re looking to sell textbooks, you may want to check out BookScouter. The platform simplifies the process by searching sites that buy used textbooks, then displaying the prices from those sites, so you can compare and decide where to sell your books.

18. GoTextbooks

GoTextbooks also allows you to sell your college textbooks and hopefully recoup some of the money you spent on them. When you let the site (sellback.gotextbooks.com/) know about what you have for sale, they will give you an instant quote. You can then ship your books for free and receive your money.

19. Gazelle

You may be able to turn your old cell phone into some quick cash at Gazelle. The site will give you an instant quote. If you like the numbers, you can ship the phone to them for free, and get paid via Amazon Gift Card, PayPal, or check.

20. Instagram

If you have a fair number of followers on Instagram, you might consider listing items you’re looking to sell there. As with Facebook groups, you simply need to snap a photo, write a brief description, and name your price. Or, you can go the more professional route and integrate Instagram’s shopping tools.

15 Places to Sell Stuff In Person

For those who prefer face-to-face transactions, selling items in person can be equally rewarding. If you have items cluttering your home and you need quick cash, local stores, markets, and community sales can provide great opportunities to sell your goods directly. Whether you choose to consign your items or sell them outright for cash, these in-person places can offer immediate results and personal interactions with buyers.

1. Garage Sales

If your goal is to unload a large amount of stuff all at once, hosting a garage sale can be a good way to go. You could even get some neighbors together and hold a community garage sale to attract more people.

Just be sure to double-check local laws first to see if a permit is required.

2. Flea Markets

Community flea markets can be a great way to sell unwanted things. The owner and operator of the flea market will likely charge you a fee for a booth. If you live in a big city, you may have to register early to get a spot.

3. Buffalo Exchange

Buffalo Exchange is a vintage and used clothing store with locations throughout the U.S. If one of their stores is convenient to you, you can make an appointment to meet with a buyer. If they like your stuff, they will pay 25% of their selling price in cash or 50% in store credit. (Using that store credit could prove to be a good way to save money on clothes.)

4. Crossroads Trading

Crossroads Trading is a second-hand clothing store with brick-and-mortar locations throughout the U.S. If you visit a store, you may be able to receive cash for your clothing on the spot. For higher-end pieces, you can opt to consign. Crossroads also offers mail-in service.

5. Plato’s Closet

You can bring your gently used brand-name clothing and accessories to a Plato’s Closet near you. They’ll review your items and, if accepted, you’ll get paid on the spot.

6. Style Encore

A women’s resale store, you can bring in stylish, gently used clothes, shoes, handbags, and accessories to one of Style Encore’s retail locations. If the store likes your items, you will get paid right away in cash.

💡 Quick Tip: Did you know online banking can help you get paid sooner? Feel the magic of payday up to two days earlier when you set up direct deposit with SoFi.^

7. Once Upon a Child

If you have gently used children’s clothing and shoes, toys, and/or baby gear lying around, you may want to cart it over to Once Upon a Child, which has locations throughout the U.S. An employee will check out your goods and, if they think they sell them, will give you cash in return.

Recommended: Weird Ways to Make Money

8. Play It Again Sports

If you live near Play it Again Sports, you may want to consider bringing in all the no-longer-used sports equipment in your garage. You’ll clear out the space, and may get a nice amount of cash in return.

9. Music Go Round

Live in a musical household? Music Go Round is a resale music shop where you can bring in used instruments and sound equipment (like amps, MIDI equipment, and mixers) and get paid cash in return.

10. Local Thrift Stores

Unlike Goodwill or Salvation Army which accept donations, thrift stores — specifically ones that sell high-end or vintage clothing — might be willing to buy your clothes and other items. Look up local stores, and ask them what they buy and how much they typically pay.

11. Used Book Stores

Your local used book stores may be looking to purchase your books from you. You can call ahead, let them know what you have, and see if they are interested. You might wind up freeing up shelf space while making some extra cash.

12. Pawn Shop

You may be able to make some quick money selling your old stuff to a local pawn shop. Typically, pawn shops are only interested in things of real value, such as jewelry, collectible coins, and electronics. It can be a good idea to bring in proof of purchase so that the owner knows you aren’t trying to sell stolen goods.

13. Facebook Groups

If you’re in any local or niche Facebook groups, you may want to post items that might appeal to members of the group. You simply need to snap a picture, describe your item, set your asking price, and see what offers you get.

14. Nextdoor

Nextdoor is a network of local community websites and can be a good place to post items. To sell items locally for free, you’ll need to make an account. You can then create a post from your feed by clicking the “Sell or give away” option at the bottom.

15. A “Raid My Closet” Event

Do you have friends who might be interested in checking out what you have for sale? You may want to consider inviting them over for a “raid my closet” event, or a “raid my garage” party. You can offer food and drinks, and make it a fun celebration to declutter your home.

What Are the Benefits of Selling Your Things?

Selling your things can have several benefits:

•   You can declutter or downsize by selling unwanted items.

•   You can help the environment by passing the item along versus throwing it in the garbage.

•   You can help someone who is looking for a gently used item that you have and wants to get a good deal on it.

•   You can bring in extra income.

However, there are also some potential downsides of selling your stuff. As mentioned, there is the possibility of being scammed in some direct sales. There may also be tax implications if you frequently sell things for profit (meaning you’re getting more than you paid for the items). In that scenario, it’s a good idea to consult a tax professional.

The Takeaway

If you’re holding on to clothes, furniture, books, or other items you no longer want or need, you could be sitting on a way to make some extra money while decluttering.

What to do with all the extra cash that starts rolling in? You might want to bank it and earn a competitive return on those funds.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible 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 3.30% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings with eligible direct deposit.

FAQ

What is a good website to sell stuff on?

The right website to sell stuff on will depend on the item you are selling. If you are selling a piece of furniture or large appliance, you might try Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. For clothing, you might consider a site like Poshmark, ThredUp or Vinted.

How do I sell my stuff online for free?

This will depend on the kind of item you are selling. Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Vinted are some examples of platforms that typically don’t charge the seller any fees.

What is the best app for selling used items?

Among the apps to consider when selling your used items are eBay, OfferUp, and Poshmark. These can reach a large number of potential buyers, though as a seller, you will likely pay some fees.


About the author

Kylie Ora Lobell

Kylie Ora Lobell

Kylie Ora Lobell is a personal finance writer who covers topics such as credit cards, loans, investing, and budgeting. She has worked for major brands such as Mastercard and Visa, and her work has been featured by MoneyGeek, Slickdeals, TaxAct, and LegalZoom. Read full bio.


Article Sources

Photo credit: iStock/Zinkevych

SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. 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.

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

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

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

We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Bank Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.
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^Early access to direct deposit funds is based on the timing in which we receive notice of impending payment from the Federal Reserve, which is typically up to two days before the scheduled payment date, but may vary.

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

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