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Multi-level marketing businesses— also called direct sales, direct marketing, or network marketing — are legitimate enterprises that involve selling products or services to a network of peers (i.e., friends and family) and recruiting more salespeople.

The problem? According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), many illegal pyramid schemes disguise themselves as legal multi-level marketing (MLM) companies. Even legal MLMs can be bad news; most people make little or no money with MLMs, and some even lose money.

Read on to learn:

•   What’s an MLM?

•   What are the differences between MLMs and pyramid schemes?

•   How can you avoid multi-level marketing companies?

What Is a Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) Company?

A multi-level marketing business, or MLM for short, is a legitimate business that sells products and services through independent distributors. These companies rely on such distributors to sell to networks of peers, typically friends and families. The distributors, often called “participants” and “contractors,” must also recruit new distributors for the program.

The companies are found in a variety of categories. They might be selling supplements, personal-care products, kitchen utensils, or any other number of items.

Recommended: Common Credit Card Scams

How Do Multi-Level Marketing Companies Work?

What is an MLM company, and how does it operate? In a multi-level marketing business, distributors must first buy the products wholesale from the company. They then make commissions off the products that they sell at retail prices.

Distributors also earn a commission from their recruits’ sales, which incentivizes distributors to recruit more people into the business. Those at the top of the company, with multiple levels of distributors beneath them, thus earn the most money without even needing to purchase more products to sell.

Multi-Level Marketing vs. Pyramid Schemes: What’s the Difference?

Though sometimes questionable, multi-level marketing programs are legal. Pyramid schemes, however, are illegal types of money scams. Unfortunately, many pyramid schemes disguise themselves as legitimate MLMs. Here are key differences:

•   Pyramid schemes are more focused on recruiting than actually selling the products. While MLMs do ask you to recruit more distributors, the focus is on sales.

•   Pyramid schemes may also require distributors to buy more products at regular intervals, even if they have not sold all the products they already have. Sometimes, in a pyramid scheme, you have to buy more products just to get paid or earn a bonus. This is a major red flag.

In the end, most people who are swindled into pyramid schemes run out of money, are stuck with products that they can’t sell, and quit — meaning they lose everything they invested in the business.

Recommended: Are You Bad With Money? Here’s How to Get Better

Real-Life Examples of Multi-Level Marketing Companies

Some products marketed and sold through network marketing companies are from legitimate MLM businesses — and you can feel comfortable purchasing them. In other cases, recognizable products can emerge from pyramid schemes.

Here are some real-life examples of legal, established MLMs. You may be surprised to learn that what is an MLM can be a familiar and trusted brand:

•   Amway

•   Avon

•   Herbalife

•   Vorwerk

•   Mary Kay

•   Infinitus

•   Perfect

•   Quanjian

•   Natura

•   Tupperware

•   Nu Skin

•   Primerica.

Recommended: 9 High-Paying Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree

Why Is Multi-Level Marketing Legal?

Multi-level marketing businesses must adhere to strict FTC guidelines to be considered legal. The FTC regularly goes after suspicious MLM companies that may actually be pyramid schemes.

Though sometimes seemingly predatory, MLM is just a form of direct sales. When adhering to FTC guidelines, these businesses aren’t breaking any laws.

Recommended: What’s a Pump-and-Dump Scheme?

What Is the 70% Rule?

Though not technically a law, the 70% rule is a common term in MLM discussions. It arose in a 1979 case against Amway.

In analyzing the business structure of Amway, the FTC determined that, because Amway required distributors to sell at least 70% of the products they bought in a given month to earn a bonus, Amway was attempting to operate as a legitimate MLM. Their business model involved profited from sales, not shady recruiting tactics.

Now, the 70% rule is a loose term that means an MLM is focused on sales, rather than requiring distributors to buy more products or recruit more people to earn bonuses. The trouble with this rule is that it is difficult to enforce: MLMs typically trust their distributors to tell the truth about how much product they’ve sold but cannot always verify the numbers.

Are the Products That MLMs Sell Legitimate?

The products and services that MLMs and even pyramid schemes sell can be completely legitimate. Just think of that trusty Tupperware in your kitchen cabinet or your favorite lipstick from Mary Kay.

But even if a product is good, the distributor requirements of a legitimate MLM or shady pyramid scheme can still cause the seller to lose money.

Recommended: A Guide to Credit Card Protection

Can You Create Financial Freedom by Joining an MLM?

Multi-level marketing companies require a lot of entrepreneurial hustle from distributors to make money. As contracted sellers, distributors don’t earn a salary but instead make commissions.

While someone with a true sales spirit may make some money in an MLM, most do not make enough money to achieve any kind of financial freedom without another source of income. In fact, the FTC says some people even lose money from legitimate MLMs.

Pyramid schemes are worse, having left some people in economic ruin.

Tips for Recognizing Predatory MLMs and Pyramid Schemes

While MLMs are legitimate, they may not be worth the effort and could also cause you to lose money. Illegal pyramid schemes, however, are usually designed to hurt the low-level distributor.

So how can you spot a predatory MLM or pyramid scheme? Here are a few warning signs:

•   Hyperbolic claims of excess income: If a brand promoter is promising outlandish amounts of income — even saying you can quit your day job and retire early — that’s typically a red flag.

•   “Act fast” pressure: You should be able to think about any financial decision and be given the time to talk it over with friends and family. Brand promoters of pyramid schemes and predatory MLMs may use high-pressure tactics, like telling you that you must act now or you’ll lose out on the opportunity.

•   An emphasis on recruiting: In a true MLM where you at least have the potential to earn money, the emphasis should be on sales. If during initial conversations with a promoter, the emphasis is on recruiting other members, this is likely an indicator of a pyramid scheme.

Recommended: How to Verify a Check

Tips for Avoiding Predatory MLMs and Pyramid Schemes

The first step to avoiding a shady MLM or full-on pyramid scheme and protecting your finances is recognizing them when you see them.

Here’s what you can distinguish what are MLMs from pyramid schemes and avoid the latter:

•   Researching the company: Take the time to conduct research online. The FTC recommends googling the name of the company with terms like “scam” or “complaint” and then analyzing the results. The FTC even suggests reaching out to your state attorney general to inquire about complaints for a specific company. Uncovering evidence of lawsuits during your research is often a tell-tale sign.

•   Analyzing the products: Legitimate MLMs can sell good products. Pyramid schemes might even have products that you recognize. But if any company has poor-quality products that they expect you to sell, there’s a good chance it’s a pyramid scheme. Watch for products that are priced too high, claim to have “miracle” ingredients, or “guarantee” results.

•   Asking good questions: If the promoter is unwilling to answer very basic questions, like how refunds work or what happens if you can’t sell the product, they are likely hiding something.

•   Not making decisions in a vacuum: It’s a good idea to discuss all major financial and business decisions with a trusted friend or family member. If you have paperwork for an MLM that you’re unsure about, you can even have a personal accountant or lawyer review it before you sign.

Recommended: Jobs That Pay for Your College Degree

The Takeaway

Multi-level marketing companies are legitimate and legal direct-sales businesses, but they rarely enable a distributor to make good money; some distributors may even lose money. Pyramid schemes are typically disguised as MLMs and can lead to financial ruin. Such schemes are illegal. In general, it’s a good idea to avoid any kind of MLM company if you are unsure of their trustworthiness.

Looking for other ways to grow your finances? Open an online banking account with SoFi to take advantage of our super competitive APY and the fact that we don’t charge account fees, which can help your money grow faster.

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

Is it legal to join an MLM?

Yes, it is legal to join an MLM. However, very few people earn enough money from multi-level marketing companies to make them worth the effort. In fact, some people lose money in MLMs.

What makes an MLM illegal?

MLMs are legal, but pyramid schemes are not. Pyramid schemes often disguise themselves as legitimate MLMs. However, with pyramid schemes, the emphasis is on recruiting new members and forcing distributors to buy more products, rather than focusing on empowering distributors to successfully sell to customers.

Are MLMs the same as pyramid schemes?

No, MLMs are not the same as pyramid schemes, but pyramid schemes often disguise themselves as MLMs. Multi-level marketing companies are legitimate businesses that require distributors to buy products and earn commissions by selling them to a network of peers. Pyramid schemes are more focused on recruiting new distributors and forcing them to buy products than empowering distributors to sell the products.

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Photo credit: iStock/Makhbubakhon Ismatova

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

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

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.

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When your home energy usage peaks in the summer and winter, you could be surprised by a higher energy bill — and might have to scramble to cover the cost. Signing up for budget billing with your utility providers can eliminate these unexpected cost surges and make it easier for you to plan your monthly expenses.

But what exactly does budget billing mean, and is it right for everyone? Here, you’ll learn:

•   What is budget billing?

•   How does budget billing work on a monthly basis?

•   What are the pros and cons of budget billing?

•   Does budget billing save you money?

•   Can you start budget billing on your own, without the utility provider’s help?

What Is Budget Billing?

Budget billing is an alternative, optional payment program for utilities like gas and electric. By opting into budget billing, you will pay the same predictable amount each billing cycle, regardless of how much or how little energy you actually used.

With budget billing, you can avoid the roller coaster-like highs and lows of utility billing — where costs skyrocket during sweltering summers and frigid winters. For many, this makes building a monthly budget much easier.

To opt into budget billing, call your utility provider or check out the website for information about what is available.

Recommended: How to Organize Your Bills

How Does Budget Billing Work?

Energy prices and usage fluctuate throughout the year. This can make it difficult to anticipate what your gas and electric bills will be each month. Depending on where you live and how harsh the seasons are, you might be in for a surprise on a few bills each year.

Budget billing eliminates those bill fluctuations. Instead, your utility provider analyzes past energy usage for your residence (usually over the prior 12 or 24 months) to estimate an annual total. The company then divides that total into 12 identical payments for the upcoming year.

Of course, it’s unlikely that your energy consumption will be exactly the same as it was the previous year. And with increased inflation and unpredictable weather events, the price of electricity and natural gas could increase over time. To account for this, your utility provider will track your actual energy usage throughout the year and calculate what you would owe (sometimes called a “true-up amount”).

•   If you overpaid for the year, the provider will issue you a credit on an upcoming bill.

•   If you underpaid for the year, you’ll have to pay the outstanding balance.

Either way, the utility provider will use this year’s worth of data to calculate a new monthly payment for the year ahead.

Note: While annual plans are common for budget billing, some providers may also offer a quarterly (three-month) plan.

Recommended: Automating Your Finances

Does Budget Billing Save You Money?

Budget billing does not save money on utility bills. Instead, it just makes your monthly payments more predictable. Some months, you will likely pay less than what you actually owe. In others, you could be paying more than what you would owe.

Having a predictable line-item budget may make it easier for you to handle other monthly expenses or keep you from needing to dip into your emergency fund to cover an especially high energy bill.

Advantages of Budget Billing

So what are the pros of budget billing? For many families, budget billing can add some stability to their finances. Here’s how it may help you out:

Easier Budget Management

Not knowing how much you’ll owe your utility providers each month can make it tough to build a budget. With predictable bills, you’ll know how much money to set aside each month for utilities. You’ll also know how much is left for other expenses, as well as for savings and retirement contributions, debt repayments, and investments.

Less Financial Stress

If seeing an unusually high total on an email statement or paper bill can send you into a panic, you may appreciate the stability afforded by budget billing. Budget billing won’t save you money, but when you know what to expect each month, you might rest a little easier.

Reducing Late Payment Penalties

If you receive a high energy bill that you can’t afford to pay, you may have to take on unwanted credit card debt with a high interest rate, dip into emergency savings, or even just pay the bill late. The latter could result in late payment penalties.

With budget billing, you won’t have to worry about a spike in your monthly energy bills. This may help you avoid late payments altogether.

Drawbacks of Budget Billing

As helpful as budget billing can be for some families, there are also some cons to consider:

Potential Fees

Some utility providers charge a fee to enroll in budget billing. On top of the startup fee, the provider may charge ongoing fees for the service. If that’s the case, budget billing will actually cost you more money than a traditional billing program. It’s a good idea to ask about fees before signing up for any new program.

Recommended: Can You Change the Due Date of Your Bills?

Chance You Could Underpay

At the end of the program — usually a year after it kicks off — the gas or electric company will calculate what you actually owed for the year, based on your energy consumption. If you overpaid, you’ll get a credit on a future bill (nice!).

But if you didn’t pay enough each month, you’ll owe whatever remains. If it’s a sizable amount, you may have to rely on a credit card to cover other expenses or take money out of savings to pay off the bill. Many people enroll in budget billing to avoid such surprises to begin with, so this can be counter-productive.

Complacency

When you’re on a budget billing plan, you might get used to a low electric bill in the summer and be tempted to blast the AC. Similarly in the winter, it could be tempting to get all toasty by cranking up the heat. You won’t feel the financial repercussions of those decisions until much later, when your provider calculates your true-up amount and determines that you owe more money.

If you don’t think you can be responsible with energy consumption without the threat of a high bill looming over you each month, budget billing may not be the right fit for you.

Recommended: How to Pay Bills with a Credit Card

What Happens If You Are Billed Incorrectly?

Mistakes can happen. When you opt in to budget billing, it’s a good idea to read the agreement and understand how your monthly total is calculated. You want to be sure you understand how bill pay works. Even if you have your bill set to autopay, you may want to review your statement each month to ensure it’s what you expected. If it’s not, you can call your utility provider to discuss.

Recommended: Pros and Cons of Automatic Bill Payment

Can You Make Your Own Budget Billing System?

You don’t have to opt into a utility provider’s system to take advantage of budget billing. In fact, you can make your own budget billing system if you’re willing to do some math.

Just analyze what you spent on utilities over the previous 12 months to figure out an average monthly total. Use this amount when building your monthly budget.

If your first bill comes in and is less than your monthly budgeted amount, pay the bill and hang on to the leftover funds. Stash them somewhere safe, where you won’t spend them. When your bill is eventually higher than what you’ve budgeted, you can dip into that leftover money to cover the difference.

By handling budget billing yourself, you can avoid any potential fees the utility provider might have charged you. Plus, you can store leftover budgeted funds in a high-interest savings account. While this approach requires discipline, it can be well worth the effort.

Alternatives to Budget Billing

Budget billing may not be for everyone. Some alternatives include:

•   Traditional bill programs: You’ll pay what you owe each month, but that means some bills might be high in the summer and winter. In other months, you may enjoy lower-than-average bill totals.

•   DIY budget billing: If you don’t mind doing some math to figure out an average monthly payment, you may be able to do budget billing without the fees and hassle of going through a provider. You’ll still pay what you owe each month, but by planning ahead and setting money aside in savings, you can make a more predictable budget.

•   Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Depending on your income level, you may qualify for government assistance with your home energy bills. Qualifying for the program does not guarantee assistance; roughly 20% of households that qualify actually receive help through LIHEAP.

Recommended: What to Do If You’re Bad With Money

The Takeaway

Budget billing allows utility customers to pay a set amount each month for electricity and gas, based on past usage patterns. You won’t save any money with budget billing, but it can make monthly budgeting more predictable. Before enrolling in a budget billing program, it’s a good idea to review the pros and cons and understand how it can affect your finances each year.

3 Money Tips

1.    Typically, checking accounts don’t earn interest. However, some accounts will pay you a bit and help your money grow. Online banks are more likely than brick-and-mortar banks to offer you the best rates.

2.    An emergency fund or rainy day fund is an important financial safety net. Aim to have at least three to six months’ worth of basic living expenses saved in case you get a major unexpected bill or lose income.

3.    If you’re faced with debt and wondering which kind to pay off first, it can be smart to prioritize high-interest debt first. For many people, this means their credit card debt; rates have recently been climbing into the double-digit range, so try to eliminate that ASAP.

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 all utility companies offer budget billing?

Not every utility company offers budget billing. Your state may have a network of regulated electric and gas providers that are required to offer this program, but unregulated suppliers may not offer budget billing.

Am I better off budget billing or not?

Budget billing can be helpful if you like a predictable utility bill each month. Knowing what you’ll spend may make it easier to budget for other expenses. However, budget billing does have its drawbacks, especially if the utility provider charges a fee for the service.

Can I budget bill for other areas of my budget besides utilities?

Outside of utilities, most recurring monthly bills are predictable — rent or mortgage, internet, phone, student loan payments, etc. But if you like the predictability offered by budget billing for utilities, you might benefit from creating your own budget billing program for other unpredictable monthly totals, like groceries and fuel for your car. To do so, just calculate your expenses from the last year and divide by 12 to determine your average monthly total. You may want to account for inflation when estimating expenses like food and gas.

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Photo credit: iStock/Milan_Jovic

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.

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.

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.

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Making a budget can be the foundation of taking control of your money and reaching your financial goals. It can help you get in touch with the cash you have coming in, your spending, and your savings. Put simply, a budget can get your financial life in balance.

The math involved doesn’t have to be complicated, and a good budget can be easily revised to align with changes in your life, whether that’s a rent increase or a raise at work. Read on for the five simple steps to creating a budget that can boost your financial savvy and make your money work harder for you:

5 Steps to Creating a Budget

  1. Determine Your Financial Goals

  2. Calculate Your Income

  3. Review Your Expenses

  4. Choose Your Budgeting Method

  5. Make Adjustments

1. Determine Your Financial Goals

Setting financial goals is a crucial first step to being more intentional with your money management tactics. As in, having a purpose can give you more motivation to stick to your budget and get you on your way to creating smart financial goals that suit your life.

How to set financial goals? Start by taking time to come up with a clear idea of your short-term and longer-term aspirations. What kind of things could you dream about? Anything that’s ultimately important counts.

Examples of financial goals could include:

•  Having $1,000 in the bank

•  Hosting an amazing 30th birthday party for your partner

•  Buying a home

•  Saving enough to cover your kid’s college tuition

•  Getting some new wheels

•  Taking a dream vacation

•  Getting out of credit card debt

•  Starting your own business

•  Planning for retirement

•  Establishing and maintaining an emergency fund.

2. Calculate Your Income

Before allocating money for various spending categories and goals, you need to know how much money you have to work with each month. Calculate your income — you can look at your paystub and/or other earnings from your side businesses or second job. Or maybe you are the lucky holder of an investment account that generates dividends. Perhaps you regularly receive bonuses or tips at work. Add it all up.

💡 Quick Tip: Make money easy. Open a bank account online so you can manage bills, deposits, transfers — all from one convenient app.

3. Review Your Expenses

To make a solid, workable budget, you also need to know exactly how much money is typically going out. Pull together all your financial statements and look at how much you typically spend per month for different categories.

Budget categories can include:

•  Loans (such as student or car loan payments) and debt (including credit cards)

•  Insurance premiums

•  Housing

•  Utilities

•  Monthly food expenses

•  Childcare, child support, or related family obligations

•  Transportation-related expenses

•  Healthcare

•  Savings/investments (for instance, 401(k) or IRA automatic savings deductions).

In addition, think about some other spending categories that are more about discretionary purchases. This is about identifying wants vs. needs. For instance, in terms of wants, you can also track discretionary spending:

•  Dining out (even those lattes to go)

•  Entertainment, such as movies, books, concert tickets, and streaming services

•  Personal care (manicures, yoga classes, etc.)

•  Travel

•  Gifts or treating friends to birthday drinks or dinners

•  Non-essential clothing, electronics, home furnishings, and any other fun things you might go shopping for.

As you gather this information, you may want to look at a couple of months’ worth of records. For example, your credit card bill may vary considerably, so averaging a few months will give you a more realistic picture than checking a single month.

Once you have an idea of what you spend, it’s time to take a look at where you may be able to make adjustments.

•   Many people look at their spending as “needs” versus “wants.” A need is something required for basic existence, while a want is discretionary spending. Needs also include debt payment, so if you have a student loan or similar monthly expenses, include that in the need category.

•  Also consider looking at each spending category in terms of fixed and variable expenses. For instance, your mortgage is a fixed expense since it typically won’t change from month to month, whereas entertainment would be a variable expense since it can change. Don’t forget to look at occasional expenses — like semi-annual car insurance payments — so you can set aside money in your budget each month to account for this expense.

💡 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.

4. Choose Your Budgeting Method

Subtract your monthly expenses from your monthly income. How are you doing? If there’s money left over, it means you may be able to meet your financial goals. Otherwise, you may need to either cut your expenses a bit or earn more money (or try a combination of both).

Whichever direction your money is trending in, you can benefit from a budget to get your cash aligned with your goals and provide guardrails for your spending and saving.

While there are a bunch of budgeting methods, what’s most important is to find an organizing principle that works for your personal and financial style. Some options to consider:

The 50/30/20 Budget Rule

The 50/30/20 budget rule breaks up your budget using the following percentages:

•  50% on essential expenses. This category could include housing costs, utilities, car payments, debt payments (student loans, credit card minimums due, etc.), education costs, food, basic clothing, childcare, and medical expenses.

•  30% on discretionary expenses. Your discretionary expenses could include shopping, entertainment, personal care, travel, and other expenses that may not necessarily be considered essential.

•  20% toward your goals. This amount of money can go into savings and investments as you work toward things like an emergency fund, a new car, retirement, and/or covering your child’s college education expenses.

Recommended: Check out the 50/30/20 rule calculator to see a breakdown of your money.

The 70/20/10 Budget Rule

The 70/20/10 rule is another type of budgeting method. It’s similar to the 50/30/20 one, but you organize your money differently. In this case, you divide it up as follows:

•  70% toward spending on both needs and wants

•  20% toward saving

•  10% toward debt payoff and/or giving.

This budget can be a good variation for people who want to be sure they are covered for that debt payoff and/or giving category.

Zero-Based Budget

The zero-based budget system gives every single dollar a purpose so that every bit of your income is accounted for. You start with your monthly income then keep subtracting expenses (even savings or a sinking fund counts here) until you get to zero. This system can help you be more mindful since you know how your money is allocated.

The Envelope Budget System

With this technique, you write the name and cash amount you have for each spending category for a month. For example, you allocate $2,000 for housing for one envelope, and $600 for food in another. You can only spend the allocated amount in each category.

If there is no more cash in the envelope but the month isn’t over yet, you will need to wait until the next month to replenish it or borrow from another category and spend less there. For instance, if you need cash for an insurance premium that went up, you could save on streaming services by dropping a platform or two while you adjust your budget.

This method can be adapted to use debit card payments. You don’t have to literally only use cash.

5. Make Adjustments

A budget is a dynamic, living entity. Some months may be more expensive than others. For instance, you might have an emergency one month (your laptop dies) and wind up spending more (or even going into debt) to make ends meet. Life happens: use these situations to learn and readjust.

You can also look for trends in your money. If you find you are living paycheck to paycheck, you might find ways to economize (such as getting a roommate) or to earn more money.

After using your new budget plan, you should review and update it regularly. You may need to do it more often at the beginning of your budgeting journey when you’re getting used to looking at your finances in a new light. Still, it is typically useful to review your spending at the end of each month to see if your budget is still working for you. If not, then take the time to see what may be happening and tweak your spending as necessary.

Another reason you may want to make adjustments is if your life situation changes, such as you have a baby or get a divorce. Or your income may have gone up, so you will need to think strategically about how best to allocate those dollars to help you reach your financial goals.

Why Is Creating a Budget Important?

Creating a budget is important because it allows you to see where your finances stand: You see how much money is coming and how much is going out, plus what it is being spent on.

It can provide you with a snapshot of your financial life, and it can illuminate any issues you need to address. Think about it: If you don’t know where your money is going, you can easily spend more than your means, leading to more debt than you can handle. Not budgeting can also prevent you from reaching your goals, such as having enough in retirement savings or being able to afford that kitchen renovation you’re pining for.

Although some people think a budget will cramp their style, the truth is that a budget doesn’t have to hold you back, restrict you from fun, or sour your lifestyle. It can eventually set you free from the financial burdens that are keeping you from setting and reaching your ultimate life goals.

Monthly Budget Example

Here is an example of a family’s monthly budget:

Total monthly income: $4,650

Monthly breakdown of expenses:

Monthly income	$4,650
Monthly expenses
Rent	$2,000
Groceries	$400
Student loan payments	$337.50
Car payment	$150
Credit card payment	$300
Discretionary spending	$232.50
Utilities	$330
Auto & renters insurance	$150
Career enrichment class	$60
Savings	$400
TOTAL:	$4,360 ($290 surplus)

How to Handle Unexpected Expenses in Your Budget

You know how it goes: Life can be filled with unexpected expenses, such as a car repair or larger than expected medical bills. Instead of letting these derail you, work unexpected expenses into your budget.

There are several ways you can go about it, one of which is to have a bit of a buffer in your account. Meaning, you can allocate some extra cash each month just in case — any money that isn’t spent, you can roll it over onto the next month. It can act as a cash cushion in your checking account.

You can also consider building up an emergency fund, a separate set of savings in case you have unexpected expenses. The amount will vary, but a good rule of thumb for how much to have in an emergency fund is to save three to six months’ worth of basic living expenses.

💡 Quick Tip: An emergency fund or rainy day fund is an important financial safety net. Aim to have at least three to six months’ worth of basic living expenses saved in case you get a major unexpected bill or lose income.

How to Work With Your Family or Partner to Create a Budget

Creating a budget with others means being open to a conversation about what each one needs and how you can keep each other accountable. It can start by having a meeting about family spending. You can discuss and agree to budget goals and reasonable expenses and use a budget planner to help you solidify things.

Once a preliminary budget is created, find a way to ensure that everyone sticks to it. Some tactics include having one joint account to ensure everyone can track spending or having an app where your partner or family can see an overview of the finances. Whatever you choose, it’s important to meet regularly to review your budget to see whether adjustments need to be made.

The Takeaway

Creating a budget to set and reach your financial goals doesn’t have to be hard, and it can be a great way to guide your spending and saving. While there are many approaches and techniques to try, what matters most is finding one that is a good fit for you personally and helps you feel in control of your cash. By learning how to manage your money well, you can be on track to crush your personal and financial goals, whether short- or long-term.

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

Why is creating a monthly budget important?

Creating a budget is important because it allows you to see where your finances stand: You see how much money is coming and how much is going out, plus what it is being spent on. It can also help illuminate any issues you need to address.

What are some common budgeting mistakes to avoid?

Common budgeting mistakes include not tracking your spending, not saving enough (say, for an emergency fund or retirement), and forgetting to plan for occasional expenses, such as membership renewals, car maintenance, and holiday gift giving.

How often should I review and update my budget?

It’s wise to review and update your budget regularly. Some people may want to do so monthly; others, quarterly. You can find the right frequency to suit your needs. It’s also a good idea to tweak your budget after big life events, such as moving, getting married, or having a child.

How can I involve my family or partner in creating and sticking to a budget?

To involve others in creating and sticking to a budget, you might first meet and develop the plan together. Then, you could share accounts and both (or all) use an app so that all involved are watching where the money is going. This can help everyone stay on track.

How can I handle unexpected expenses in my budget?

You can allocate a bit of money in your budget to be “just in case” funds. This cash cushion or buffer can help if there’s an unexpected expense. If you have a major unplanned expense, you might have to dip into emergency savings; that’s why it’s crucial to have this kind of safety net.

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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.

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A freelancer is a self-employed worker who provides services for a client or multiple clients as an individual contractor. Freelancers typically have flexible hours, work remotely, and can be involved in as many or as few projects as they would like. Think about people you may know who provide social-media consulting for a few businesses, drive an Uber, or take catering gigs. All of them are freelancers.

Because freelancers are not employees, however, they do not receive typical work benefits like health insurance and paid time off. They are also subject to self-employment tax and are responsible for paying taxes entirely on their own.

Are you committed to being a freelancer or just curious about how it works? In this piece, you’ll get the answers you need to move ahead, including:

•  What is a freelancer?

•  How does freelancing work?

•  What are common types of freelancers?

•  What are the pros and cons of freelancing?

What Is Freelancing?

So what does freelancing mean? Freelancing is when a self-employed individual offers professional services to a company in exchange for payment. Unlike a traditional employee, the freelancer can set their own rates and hours. They can work for one or multiple companies.

In exchange for this flexibility, freelancers must be prepared to fund their own benefits like health insurance. They also typically pay their own taxes which are potentially higher.

Some people freelance as their sole source of income. If they work on a large or long-term project, you may hear the term “independent contractor” used (you’ll learn more about different terminology below).

However, it is possible to freelance on top of a regular salaried or hourly position. Such freelance work is commonly referred to as a side hustle or side gig and can help people bring in more cash.

Recommended: 15 Low-Cost Side Hustles

How Does Freelancing Work?

Now that you know the answer to “What is freelancing,” here’s more detail on how this kind of employment works. Freelancers make money by selling a service to another individual or company (i.e., a client). Typically, freelancers and their clients will enter into a contract with one another that specifies the nature of the work, the duration of the professional relationship, and the payment for services rendered.

After completing the work, a freelancer will usually submit an invoice to the client, who will then pay the freelancer by a predetermined method (direct deposit, paper check, peer-to-peer transfer, etc.). During tax season, a freelancer will receive an IRS 1099 composite form from each client instead of a W-2. This form will detail the total compensation the freelancer earned from the client.

Because freelancers are self-employed, they are solely responsible for paying federal, state, and local taxes on all earned income. In addition to paying what an employee would traditionally have withheld from their paycheck, a freelancer must also pay what an employer usually contributes toward taxes (typically Social Security and Medicare taxes). And because there is no steady paycheck from which funds are being withheld for taxes, freelancers are responsible for paying quarterly estimated taxes to avoid a penalty from the IRS.

If you decide to become a freelancer, it is a good idea to work with a certified accountant to ensure you are handling your taxes correctly. Not only can an accountant help you with quarterly taxes, but they can also point out important freelancer tax deductions you can be taking.

Recommended: Passive Income Options

Common Fields for Freelancing

Traditionally, freelancers have been thought of as roles like writers, photographers, consultants, and coaches. But today’s gig economy has broadened the definition of freelance work. Rideshare drivers, dog walkers, and online tutors — these just scratch the surface of jobs one can do as a freelancer.

In terms of what a freelancer is specifically, take a look at some common fields and roles:

•  Editorial

◦  Copywriters

◦  Journalists

◦  Bloggers

◦  Proofreaders

◦  Editors

•  Creative

◦  Graphic designers

◦  Photographers

◦  Podcasters

◦  Vloggers

◦  Animators

◦  Videographers

◦  Social media influencers

◦  Musicians

•  IT and Development

◦  Web developers

◦  Mobile developers

◦  Software developers

•  Admin

◦  Virtual assistants

◦  Transcribers

◦  Administrative assistants

•  Financial and Legal

◦  Accountants

◦  Bookkeepers

◦  Tax preparers

◦  Lawyers

•  Sales and Marketing

◦  Social media marketers

◦  Public relations specialists

◦  Digital advertisers

◦  SEO marketers

•  Consultants

◦  Business consultants

◦  Medical consultants

◦  Legal consultants

•  Gig Economy

◦  Delivery drivers

◦  Rideshare drivers

◦  Dog walkers

◦  Babysitters

◦  House cleaners

◦  Fitness instructors

The important thing to remember: Most of these jobs can be done as an actual employee, and many other jobs not listed here can now be done by freelancers. Many businesses rely on a healthy mix of freelancers and independent contractors to achieve success.

Recommended: How to Make Money Through Social Media

Types of Freelancers

You may hear different terms used and wonder what does freelancing mean exactly? Are independent contractors and freelancers the same thing? Here, the answer to that question as well as clarity on some other phrases you may encounter that describe this kind of work:

1.   Independent contractor: Most freelancers are independent contractors. They provide their services to multiple clients and companies, as specified by the contracts they agree to. An independent contractor may do a short, one-off project with a client, but it tends to be used (as noted above) when one is contracted to provide a service on an ongoing basis or does a larger scale project.

2.   Part-time freelancer: People who hold down a full-time job but make extra money on the side — like a weekend wedding photographer or a doctor who does some medical consulting with clients — are considered part-time freelancers.

3.   Small business owners: Some freelancers may earn enough work that they need to hire actual employees to keep up with it. For example, a freelance writer may attract enough clients to eventually form an agency.

4.   Temporary workers: Individuals who find temporary work, often through a temp agency, are considered freelancers. Sometimes, businesses need to fill a full-time role but only for a set number of months or years, like to cover for a full-time employee’s parental leave. The contracted worker who temporarily fills that role is also considered a freelancer but may enjoy some company benefits during their tenure, depending on contract specifics.

Recommended: 5 Ways to Achieve Financial Security

Tips on Becoming a Freelancer

Thinking about becoming a freelancer? The following tips may help you find success:

•  Finding clients: Before quitting a full-time job with steady income and benefits, it’s a good idea to have some clients as a freelancer. Many freelancers start out part-time and transition to full-time freelancers once they have enough steady work.

•  Understanding the financial implications: Knowing how you will pay taxes as a freelancer is an important requirement before transitioning into this career. It’s also wise to have a plan for health insurance, disability insurance, and other benefits that you may be losing by transitioning out of full-time work.

•  Staying organized: Having an organizational system to keep track of clients, projects, communication, and deadlines can be crucial. Successful freelancers often make their own work schedule with standard hours and stick to it, even if no one else is holding them accountable.

•  Networking: Word-of-mouth referrals are a great way to earn business as a freelancer; networking on sites like LinkedIn and in person with potential clients and others in your field is a great strategy. Depending on your line of work, having a website and portfolio advertising your services can make it easier to win new business.
Feeling unsure about the transition to independent contractor? Consider researching and following some financial planning tips for freelancers.

Recommended: Retirement Options for the Self-Employed

Pros of Freelancing

Freelancers enjoy plenty of perks, including:

•  Setting your own rates: As a freelancer, you can determine how much you’ll charge a client per project or hour. Just remember that if you set the price too high, companies may go with another contractor.

•  Setting your own hours: You can also work as much or as little as you’d like — and at the time of day you’d prefer. You don’t have to ask for permission to go to the grocery store, take a mental health day, or go to yoga class in the morning.

•  Diversifying your client list to keep work interesting: You can choose which clients you work with and have more freedom to define your job responsibilities.

•  Flexible time off: Freelancers may not get paid for their time off, but as long as you fulfill contractual obligations to clients, you can take vacation (or just lazy days) whenever you like.

•  Freedom from regular meetings and office politics: While freelancers may hop on a call or meet up with a client for lunch on occasion, there is typically more freedom to do the actual work instead of sitting through unnecessary meetings. This may not apply to some freelancers, like consultants.

•  Remote work: Most freelancers are able to work on the go or from a home office.

Cons of Freelancing

But there are also downsides to freelancing, like:

•  Lack of company-paid benefits: Freelancers are responsible for getting their own health insurance and can’t count on a company’s 401(k) match. (That’s where the solo 401(k) comes in!) Freelancers also won’t get paid while they’re on vacation.

•  Higher and more complicated taxes: If you’re self-employed, you’ll need to cover some taxes beyond those you would pay as a traditional employee. Freelancers must also pay their taxes quarterly to avoid fines from the IRS.

•  Less job security: Because freelancers are not employees, it is easier for a company to sever ties. Freelance work is sometimes on a per-project basis, so as a freelancer, you may need to spend a significant portion of your time just trying to market your services to find more work.

•  Lack of steady income: As a freelancer, you might not be able to depend on the same amount of money every week; it can vary by the type and amount of projects you take on. This can make it more challenging to build a monthly budget.

•  Loneliness: Working from a home office as a freelancer can be isolating. If you feed off other people’s energy and really enjoy networking and socializing with coworkers, you may find that freelancing isn’t right for you.

•  The constant need for “hustling”: Workers who do an average job might be able to skate by as a traditional employee and still earn a paycheck. To turn a profit as a freelancer, you must constantly impress clients with high-quality work and no missed deadlines. Otherwise, they might look elsewhere.

Here’s a look at the pros and cons of freelancing in chart form:

Pros of Freelancing	Cons of Freelancing
•   Set your own rates •   Set your own hours •   Choose your clients •   Have flexibility with time off •   Avoid meetings and office politics •   Can work remotely	•   Don’t get benefits •   Must cover more taxes •   Lack job security •   Don’t receive steady paycheck •   May be lonely •   Must constantly be pitching new work

Banking With SoFi

Freelancers rely on many tools to turn a profit, including a bank account that puts their hard-earned money to work. If you sign up for an online bank account with SoFi, you’ll enjoy a suite of tools that makes organizing your earnings, spending, and saving super convenient. Plus you’ll earn a hyper competitive interest rate and pay no monthly fees, so your money can grow faster.

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

Is freelancing better suited for full-time or part-time?

Many freelancers are able to turn their work for a client or clients into a full-time career. If you are just starting out, it might be a good idea to freelance part-time and then transition to full-time if you feel confident that you can sustain a freelance career.

What skills are necessary for freelancing?

Beyond the actual job skills required by whatever field you’re freelancing in, being a successful freelancer requires several key skills, including:

•  Excellent communication

•  Strong organization

•  A commitment to deadlines

•  The ability to network

•  A solid understanding of finances.

Is freelancing difficult?

Freelancing can be difficult: You won’t enjoy employer-sponsored benefits, you’ll have to pay self-employment taxes, and you’ll need to “hustle” to win clients — and then deliver impressive work that convinces clients to keep you around. That said, freelancing offers freedom and flexibility and can be lucrative if your business is successful.

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Photo credit: iStock/AleksandarNakic

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

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

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.

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.

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Think you can save $5,000 in a year? Saving money is an important personal finance goal — but with high inflation and increasing housing costs, it can be difficult to set aside almost any money at the end of each month.

But depending on your income and monthly expenses, it may be possible to enact some changes in your lifestyle to build up your savings, whether it’s for an emergency fund, vacation, house down payment, or wedding.

Below, you’ll learn:

•   The benefits of saving $5,000 a year

•   How to save $5,000 in a year, from selling your unwanted items to cutting your energy bill.

If you’re living paycheck to paycheck or just want to be able to cover your next unexpected expense, remember that any savings goal is admirable. You can pick and choose among these tips to come up with the right figure for your budget.

Is Saving $5,000 a Year Possible?

Saving $5,000 a year may sound daunting, but it is possible for some people. To save $5,000 a year, you’ll need to set aside just under $420 a month. That’s after all your other necessary expenses, like food, transportation, housing, health care, and utilities.

If you earn a healthy salary and/or have low expenses, saving $5,000 in a year may only be a matter of reprioritizing your spending. In fact, you might even be able to save $10,000 in a year if you earn enough.

But if you’re living paycheck to paycheck, have a high cost of living, or considerable debt, you may want to set a lower goal for the first year and increase your goal over time.

Recommended: The Importance of Saving Money

Benefits of Saving $5,000 a Year

What are the advantages of saving $5,000 a year? Saving any amount of money can be beneficial, but $5,000 in your bank account can do a lot of good. Here are some of the benefits:

•   Cover emergencies. More than half of Americans cannot cover a $1,000 emergency using savings. This means they may need to rely on a high-interest credit card or personal loan for things like a car repair and unexpected vet bills. With $5,000 in savings, your family could be prepared to tackle five $1,000 emergencies every year.

•   Fund your passions. With $5,000, you may be more willing to spend money on something you really want: a family vacation, gifts for family and friends, a continuing-ed class, or even a charitable donation. By saving money for a year, paying for things you love is more attainable.

•   Save for big purchases — or even retirement. If you’re hoping to buy a car or a house down the road, saving $5,000 a year could help get you there. Even more importantly, setting aside $5K a year means you can make strategic retirement contributions outside of your normal 401(k).

•   Earn interest. If you store your $5,000 in a high-yield savings account, you’ll earn additional money just for keeping your cash safe in an FDIC-insured account. It’s a good idea to shop around for a savings account with a high APY.

Note: If you have high-interest debt, it might be a good idea to pay that down before aiming for lofty savings goals. Having a base emergency fund is wise, but beyond that, the debt could be costing you more than you’re saving.

Recommended: Easy Ways to Save Money

How to Save $5,000 in a Year: 12 Helpful Tips

Wondering how to save $5K in a year? Here are 12 tips that could help you on your savings journey:

1. Knowing Your ‘Why’

Knowing what you are saving for could give you the motivation to keep stashing away cash. Whether it’s creating an emergency fund for your family or saving for a big vacation, keeping that long-term goal in mind might make it easier to resist the temptation to spend some of your savings or give up altogether.

2. Setting Your Goals

Hitting $5,000 a year can be daunting, but if you break it up into smaller, more attainable goals, you might realize that it’s not so bad. To save $5K a year, you’d need to hit $416.66 a month.

If you receive a paycheck every two weeks, that’s 26 paychecks a year. You’d need to set aside roughly $192.31 per paycheck, which sounds more manageable than $5,000.

If your pay is variable and you can predict when you might earn more (or if you have a dependable annual bonus that always hits at the same time), you can factor such irregularities into your money saving goals and plan accordingly.

3. Creating Your Budget

How to save $5,000 in a year can be helped along by a solid budget guiding your efforts. A monthly budget is a helpful tool for visualizing how much money you make (after taxes) and how you spend that money. If your goal is to save $420 a month when you weren’t before, you can use the budget to look for ways to cut back expenses and make the savings possible.

How you create your budget is up to you. Some people swear by the 50/30/20 budget while others prefer the envelope budgeting method. Personal finance gurus may want to handle budgeting all on their own with spreadsheets or pen and paper while others might benefit from an app. Whatever method you choose, building flexibility into your budget can be helpful.

4. Tracking Your Spending

Budgets aren’t a set-it-and-forget-it resource. To stay within your budget, it’s important to monitor your purchases and spot spending habits that may be working against your savings goals. It’s OK to slip up — but learning from those mistakes can be the difference between living paycheck to paycheck and saving $5,000 a year (or more).

5. Reducing Entertainment Costs

One of the easiest costs to cut is entertainment because it’s not crucial to survival in the way that food and shelter are. This doesn’t mean you have to give up all entertainment spending; life would be very boring without it!

What it does mean is you can look for ways to reduce your entertainment spending, like:

•   Inviting friends over for a board game night instead of going to a bar

•   Saving money on streaming services and other subscriptions by canceling those you don’t use often

•   Learning to cook new recipes at home instead of ordering takeout

•   Taking advantage of group discounts on fun events like concerts or sports games.

6. Becoming Energy-Conscious

You can save money on your utility bills by adjusting your thermostat: Keeping it a little warmer in the summer and a little cooler in the winter can reduce electricity and natural gas usage. Taking shorter showers and running the laundry only when you have a full load are easy ways to shrink your electric and water bills.

The less you’re spending on utilities, the more you can afford to save. Every little bit helps.

7. Shopping Around for Better Deals

Buying in bulk is a great way to save on groceries and household supplies, and using coupons at the grocery store can make those savings even better. Beyond the grocery store, you can find other great deals to cut costs. For instance, you might be able to lower your car insurance premium by raising your deductible or simply switching to a different insurance provider. Bundling your car and homeowners or renters insurance can also deliver savings.

8. Getting a Side Hustle

Cutting costs can only go so far toward your savings goal if your biweekly paycheck just doesn’t have any wiggle room. If you have the time and energy, you can earn extra income with a side hustle.

You might be able to use your existing skills for a side hustle. Musicians can teach lessons online, coders could build websites for clients on the weekend, or you could even start a wedding photography business if you’re good with a camera.

But you don’t need special skills to start a side hustle. You might be able to land a side gig walking dogs, delivering food, or fulfilling online grocery orders.

9. Telling Friends and Family

Speaking with friends and family about your savings goals is important. Doing so can set the right expectations with them. If they know you’re serious about saving, they may be more likely to suggest staying in for a game night or skipping Christmas and birthday gift exchanges.

10. Selling Items That You No Longer Use

Online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace make it easy to sell items you no longer want. Some items to consider offloading are clothing, jewelry, kitchenware, electronics and video games, and furniture.

Recommended: 37 Places to Sell Your Stuff

11. Opening a Separate Bank Account

Seeing the money you’ve saved in your online bank account every time you open your app may entice you to spend it. If you’re struggling with that temptation, it might be wise to open a separate savings account in which to store your savings each month.

Plus, if you find a bank account with a higher interest rate, you’ll grow your savings even faster. Typically, online banks offer better rates than traditional banks, since they don’t have the overhead of brick-and-mortar locations. They can then pass the savings on to their clients.

12. Rewarding Your Success and Milestones

Saving money can be hard work. If you’re sacrificing too much along the way, you might lose your motivation and give up altogether. It’s OK to celebrate your success and milestones with a special night out or a relatively big purchase on something you really want — every now and then. Everything in moderation, as the saying goes.

The Takeaway

With the right income and discipline, saving $5,000 in a year is possible. To be successful, it’s a good idea to define your goals, build a budget, cut unnecessary expenses, and even look for alternative sources of income. Having a high-interest bank account with automatic savings features can also be useful.

3 Money Tips

1.    Signing up for your paycheck to be directly deposited in an online bank account is a great way to help you pay your bills on time. After all, if your check is being deposited like clockwork, you can schedule bill payments ahead of time.

2.    When you overdraft your checking account, you’ll likely pay a non-sufficient fund fee of, say, $35. Look into linking a savings account to your checking account as a backup to avoid that, or shop around for a bank that doesn’t charge you for overdrafting.

3.    If you’re faced with debt and wondering which kind to pay off first, it can be smart to prioritize high-interest debt first. For many people, this means their credit card debt; rates have recently been climbing into the double-digit range, so try to eliminate that ASAP.

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

Is saving $5,000 a year good?

Saving $5,000 a year can be a good amount to have on reserve. With $5K in savings, you’ll be more prepared to tackle emergencies without needing to rely on a credit card or personal loan.

Is $5,000 a lot to save in a year?

Saving $5,000 can be a lot, depending on your income. When setting an annual savings goal, it’s important to consider how much money you make, your current debt, and your monthly expenses. Remember, any money saved is an admirable thing.

What happens if I don’t reach saving $5,000 in a year?

If you don’t reach your $5K savings goal, don’t sweat it. You can always try again next year, and you’ll still have saved some money which is definitely better than nothing in the bank.

Does the envelope method help for saving $5,000 a year?

Some savers like using the envelope method (dividing their income up into envelopes labeled with their purpose) for their savings goals. There are several budgeting methods and resources available; often, success is just a matter of finding the right method and resource for you.

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Photo credit: iStock/Dmitriy Sidor

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

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

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.

SOBK0822018

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