A bright canary yellow background with seven 100 USD bills fanned out in an overlapping spread on the right side.

What Are the Differences Between Gross and Net Income?

The amount of money you bring home with each paycheck plays an important role in your overall financial picture. While there are likely several dollar amounts that appear on your paycheck, two of the most important are your gross income and your net income.

Your gross income represents the total amount of money that your employer has paid you. If you are an hourly employee, it will be your hourly wages multiplied by the number of hours you worked. If you are salaried, then it is a proportional amount of your total annual salary.

Your net income is your take-home pay. In other words, it’s the value left after taxes, employee benefits, retirement plan contributions, and other deductions are taken from your gross income.

Key Points

•   Gross income reflects your total earnings before any deductions, while net income is the amount received after taxes and other deductions are taken out of your paycheck.

•   Different factors, such as marital status and retirement contributions, can affect the amount withheld from your gross income, leading to variations in net income.

•   Because tax situations and deductions can vary greatly from person to person, gross income serves as a standard reference for comparing salaries.

•   Understanding the relationship between gross and net income is crucial for effective budgeting, as net income directly impacts the funds you have available for expenses and savings.

•   Focusing on net income provides a clearer picture of financial health and aids in setting realistic budgets for living expenses and future goals.

What Is Gross Income?

Your gross income is the total amount you earn before any deductions or taxes are taken out of your paycheck. If you are a salaried employee, your gross income will be the portion of your salary that corresponds to the time period represented on your paycheck. For example, if your salary is $52,000 and you are paid every two weeks, your gross income may be $2,000 per paycheck. If you are paid monthly, your gross monthly income may be $4,333.33. (The numbers may vary slightly depending on how exact pay periods are handled.)

If you are an hourly employee, your gross income depends on the total number of hours you work and your hourly wage. If you work 80 hours during a pay period and have an hourly wage of $15/hour, your gross income will be $1,200.

In some cases, an employee might be eligible for overtime pay, which could also be reflected in their paycheck. Whether you are a salaried or an hourly employee, any tips, bonuses, or one-time additions must also be added to your total gross income.

Recommended: How Long Does a Direct Deposit Take to Go Through?

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What Is Net Income?

Here’s the difference between gross income vs. net income: While your gross income represents the total amount you earn in a given pay period, your net income is the amount you’ll actually receive after taxes and deductions. Common payroll deductions may include:

•   Federal, state, and local taxes

•   Health insurance premiums

•   Retirement contributions, such as 401(k) plans

•   Wage garnishments

•   Charitable giving via workplace programs

The result is your net income, which may be sent to your bank account via direct deposit or given to you as a paper check.

Gross vs Net Income: What’s the Difference?

When comparing net and gross income, know this: Your gross income will always be equal to or more than your net income. If you don’t have any tax withholding or other deductions, your gross income and net income may be the same. But if money is withheld for taxes, insurance, retirement savings, or other common deductions, it will be subtracted from your gross income. The result is your net income and is also often referred to as take-home pay.

Why Do We Go by Gross Income?

When people compare earnings and salaries, they often focus on the gross amount rather than what they actually take home. This is because net income can vary greatly depending on a person’s situation, while gross income reflects the pay associated with a job or position and provides a more consistent basis for comparison across roles.

Consider two people who make the same salary. Their take-home pay may differ if:

•   One is married with children and has less tax withheld compared to a single person with no children,

•   One chooses to contribute 10% of their pay to a company-sponsored retirement plan, while the other does not

•   One is the account holder for family health insurance, resulting in higher deductions

Another reason that gross income is often a better comparison than net income is that the money withheld from your paycheck usually represents actual value you still receive. Money deducted for retirement savings is transferred to your 401(k) account, insurance premiums pay for medical or dental insurance, and taxes are paid to the government. These deductions serve an important and valuable purpose.

How Do Gross and Net Income Relate to Taxes?

It’s important to understand your taxes and how they relate to your gross and net income. Taxes, along with deductions, are amounts subtracted from your gross income to determine your net income. The more money withheld for taxes from your paycheck, the lower your net income will be. However, higher withholding may reduce the likelihood that you owe additional money to the federal or local government come tax season.

How Gross and Net Income Affect Your Finances

While your gross income can be a useful point of comparison in terms of how much you make, it’s your net income that directly affects your day-to-day budget and finances. When managing your money and deciding what to focus on, net income is often the figure to look at to understand how much money you have available to spend or save.

After all, it’s your net income that represents the money you actually receive each pay period. That amount can be a good starting point as you learn to spend wisely by budgeting.

You can then allocate funds to pay your living expenses, make discretionary purchases, pay off debt, and save towards future goals. A line item budget can help you balance your finances and meet your short-term and longer-term goals.

Recommended: 50/30/20 Monthly Budget Calculator

The Takeaway

Gross income and net income are two different points of reference for how much money you make. Your gross income represents the total wage or salary you earn during a particular pay period. Your net income is what remains after taxes and deductions are removed from your gross earnings. In other words, your net income is the money you actually take home and can use as a starting point for budgeting.

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 can I increase my net income?

Your net income largely depends on your gross income, so increasing your gross income could increase your net income. You might do this by finding a higher-paying job or by starting a side hustle. Another way to raise your net income is to lower the amount of taxes and deductions that are taken out by adjusting your tax withholding or decreasing other deductions, such as how much you contribute to retirement savings.

What are some budgeting tips to help me with my income?

One budgeting tip is to make sure you start with your net income and list out all of your expenses. Make sure that your total expenses are less than your total income (this may involve making some cuts) and create a plan to save at least some of the difference. You might want to research budget guidelines, such as the 50/30/20 rule, for inspiration.

Is gross income more important than net income?

Gross income and net income are both useful in different circumstances. Gross income can be used to compare salaries for different jobs and roles, while net income is more useful when budgeting.


Photo credit: iStock/Vasyl Faievych

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.

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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.


1SoFi Bank is a member FDIC and does not provide more than $250,000 of FDIC insurance per depositor per legal category of account ownership, as described in the FDIC’s regulations. Any additional FDIC insurance is provided by the SoFi Insured Deposit Program. Deposits may be insured up to $3M through participation in the program. See full terms at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/sidpterms. See list of participating banks at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/participatingbanks.

^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.

*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.

SOBNK-Q126-041

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A cardboard house and its shadow appear against a multicolored background, suggesting real estate property.

Understanding the Basics of Real Estate Options


Editor's Note: Options are not suitable for all investors. 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. Please see the Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options.

Real estate options are contractual agreements that give buyers the exclusive right to purchase property at an agreed-upon price, and within a set timeframe. In order to secure this option, the buyer of the contract pays the seller a premium. The buyer, however, is under no obligation to buy the property.

Option agreements can give buyers time to evaluate a property or arrange financing during the span of the contract, while allowing sellers to receive compensation for keeping the property available during the contract period.

Key Points

•   A real estate option is a contract granting a buyer the right, but not the obligation, to purchase a property by a specified date.

•   The option requires an upfront premium paid to the property owner in exchange for the exclusive right to purchase the property during the option period.

•   Real estate options can allow time for due diligence, financing, or project planning without committing to a full property purchase.

•   Most real estate option agreements set a fixed purchase price, although some contracts include pricing adjustments based on future conditions.

•   Option terms, costs, and timelines vary by agreement, making careful review and clear documentation essential before entering a contract.

What Are Real Estate Options?

Real estate options are contracts between a potential buyer and seller. They grant the buyer the exclusive right to purchase a particular property within terms set in the contract. However, the buyer doesn’t have to purchase the property.

However, if the buyer decides to exercise the option and purchase the property, the seller is obligated to sell the property at the agreed-upon price. Once the agreement is entered into, the property owner can’t sell to anyone else within the time period set in the option.

Recommended: Call vs Put Options: Main Differences

How Do Options in Real Estate Work?

Generally, real estate options set a particular purchase price and are valid for anywhere from six months to one year.

The buyer pays what is known as a “premium” in options terminology to enter into the contract. If they decide not to buy the property, the property owner (the seller) keeps that premium.

Real estate options are most often used in commercial real estate, but they can be used by retail investors as well. They aren’t sold on exchanges, and each contract is specific to the property it represents. In many cases, a contract applies only to a single property, not multiple properties.

Real estate options are similar to stock options in that they set a specific price, premium, and period of time for a contract related to an underlying asset. Options may be exercised early or at the expiration date, if allowed by the contract. Some real estate option contracts may allow resale or assignment to another investor.

•   Real estate options may offer advantages to buyers, such as price control and limited upfront risk.

•   If the property value has gone up during the contract period, the buyer may choose to exercise the option or, if they decide not to exercise the contract, may sell it to another buyer at a potentially higher premium and pocket the difference (provided this isn’t prohibited by the agreement).

•   If the property value drops, the buyer can simply let the option expire — thus losing only the premium they paid, which can vary significantly depending on market norms, property type, and negotiated terms.

For the seller, there is the potential for them to make a profit if the buyer exercises their option to purchase the property. They may also profit if the buyer doesn’t exercise the option — at which point the seller can keep the option premium, and then sell the contract (or the property) to someone else.

Lease Options

In addition to real estate options for purchases, there are also lease options. These are rent-to-own agreements between a buyer and seller. They let someone lease a property with the option — but not the obligation — to buy it after a certain amount of time.

Generally with a lease option, some or all of the rental payment goes towards the purchase. Some lease options lock in a particular price, but others simply give the buyer the exclusive right to buy at whatever the market price is.

Although lease options may be useful for buyers, they are also more expensive than simply renting a property since they involve a premium. For this reason, it’s important for a buyer to carefully consider the contract and their future plans before entering into a lease option agreement.

2 Advantages of Real Estate Options for Buyers

Options are a common investing strategy for commercial real estate buyers. There are several reasons a buyer might enter into a real estate option contract with a seller.

It Can Allow Time for the Buyer to Amass Funds

One might choose a real estate option if they want to secure a piece of land or property at a certain price but need time to obtain the necessary financing.

A Real Estate Option Locks in a Price

If a buyer thinks the price of a property might go up, they can purchase an option to lock in the current market price. However, some real estate options may include pricing provisions that adjust based on future conditions. There may be clauses in the contract to determine what the final sale price may ultimately be.

2 Advantages of Real Estate Options for Investors

Investors interested in developing a property with other investors may also use options to their benefit.

It’s a Lower-Risk Way to Develop Property

For example, let’s say an investor finds a property they’re interested in developing into housing. The investor needs to create a plan for the property and get other investors involved before they can buy it, so they purchase a real estate option to give them the exclusive right to buy the land.

The investor might be able to realize a gain by bringing in investors willing to pay more than the agreed upon option price. They can then buy the land and sell it to the developers they brought in to make a profit.

If they aren’t able to get developers and investors involved before the contract expires then they can choose not to buy the land.

An Investor May Buy and Sell Real Estate Options

Investors may also make a profit solely from buying and selling real estate options contracts rather than the properties themselves. This is a much less capital-intensive way to get involved in real estate investing.

For instance, an investor might find a property they expect will appreciate in value in the coming months. They purchase a real estate option to buy the land at the current market rate within the next year, pay a premium, and wait.

At any point during the period of the agreement the investor may either act on the contract and buy the property, or they may sell the contract to someone else (if permitted to do so). Let’s say the value of the property increases three months into the contract. The investor may find another buyer who wants to purchase the contract from them for a higher price than the premium they originally paid.

Whether any investor buys the property or not, the seller of the property keeps the premium.

The Takeaway

Real estate options are a way for investors to get involved in real estate investing without necessarily directly purchasing properties. As with any other kind of options, the investor buys the right to purchase a property at a certain price, but is not obligated to do so. That said, there are also key differences between real estate options and equity options trading.

Real estate option agreements may offer flexibility for buyers while helping sellers generate revenue through the contract’s premium. Understanding how premiums, timelines, and contract terms work can help both parties weigh the potential benefits and limitations before moving forward.

SoFi’s options trading platform offers qualified investors the flexibility to pursue income generation, manage risk, and use advanced trading strategies. Investors may buy put and call options or sell covered calls and cash-secured puts to speculate on the price movements of stocks, all through a simple, intuitive interface.

With SoFi Invest® online options trading, there are no contract fees and no commissions. Plus, SoFi offers educational support — including in-app coaching resources, real-time pricing, and other tools to help you make informed decisions, based on your tolerance for risk.


Explore SoFi’s user-friendly options trading platform.

🛈 SoFi does not provide real estate options contracts at this time.

FAQ

What is the difference between a real estate option and a traditional purchase agreement?

Traditional purchase agreements obligate both buyer and seller to complete a transaction. A real estate option gives the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to buy the property.

Can a real estate option contract be extended?

Parties may renegotiate and extend the option period in some cases. However, extensions are not automatic and must be agreed upon in writing.

Do I need a real estate agent to use an option contract?

It’s not required to work with a real estate agent to purchase a real estate options contract. However, working with a real estate professional or attorney can help ensure that the contract terms are fair and enforceable.

Is the premium refundable if I don’t buy the property?

No, the premium paid to secure a real estate option is typically non-refundable, even if the buyer decides not to exercise the option. The premium is a fee paid to the seller in exchange for the exclusive right to purchase the property for a set price within a fixed time period.


Photo credit: iStock/Melpomenem

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.

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.

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.

This article is not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for advice.

SOIN-Q425-031

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A young man wearing headphones is typing on a laptop with a coffee cup, notebook, and credit card next to it.

What Is the Starting Credit Score?

Contrary to what you might think, a person’s starting credit score doesn’t begin at zero. In fact, no one’s credit score is zero. The lowest credit score is 300, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that’s a person’s starting score. If a person is just starting and doesn’t yet have any credit history, they’re more likely to have no score at all.

So, for a person just beginning their credit journey, what is the starting credit score? Read on to learn the factors that impact this from the start and the habits that can help ensure a better credit score.

Key Points

•   Several factors are taken into consideration to calculate a person’s credit score.

•   The most important factor for any credit score is payment history.

•   Starting credit scores are never perfect, but they can be built up over time.

•   Establishing a few simple habits, such as paying bills on time and in full, can help build up your credit score.

•   Your credit score can sometimes be viewed by businesses and lenders to confirm your eligibility for applications.

How Your Credit Score Is Calculated

There’s no standardized starting credit score. That may be partly due to certain factors that influence how a score is calculated. A person’s young credit history will impact their starting FICO® score.

The FICO® Score is a numerical scoring system widely used in the U.S. to help determine a person’s creditworthiness. The FICO company calculates the score, which ranges between 300 and 850, using the following data:

New to SoFi? Sign up for free credit score monitoring,

and get $20 in rewards points on us.*


RL26-3729400-C

Payment History

Payment history is the most important factor for any credit score, including a starting credit score. Paying on time and avoiding missed payments account for 35% of a person’s credit score. That’s why it’s important to pay everything from credit card bills to rent on time — even one single late payment can harm a starting credit score.

Credit Utilization or Amount Owed

The second most important factor, making up 30% of a credit score, is credit utilization. Credit utilization is the percentage of available credit a person actually uses, and it should ideally be kept at 30% or under, as higher credit utilization can cause your score to decrease.

Length of Credit History

How long someone’s accounts have been open makes up around 15% of their credit score. The longer an account has been open, the higher the credit score.

While it’s out of their hands, consumers who are just beginning to establish credit will likely be negatively impacted by this factor, lowering their starting credit score.

Recommended: How to Get a Personal Loan With No Credit History

Credit Mix

Making up around 10% of a person’s credit score, credit mix refers to the different types of credit a person has. Generally, the two types of credit are:

•   Installment loans: Think car loans, student loans, and mortgages.

•   Revolving credit: Includes credit cards and home equity lines of credit.

If an individual can manage different types of credit without late or missed payments, it reflects well on their score.

New Credit

Opening multiple new accounts at a time? This factor accounts for 10% of a credit score. As well as the action of opening new accounts, this includes the application of hard inquiries to your accounts.

A person with a starting credit score may have all, none, or some of these factors on their credit history. The mix varies from person to person, making it hard to predict one starting credit score for everyone.

What Is a Good First Credit Score?

Unfortunately, a starting credit score won’t be the perfect 850. More likely, it’s somewhere within the fair-credit-score range (580-669).

That’s mostly due to limited payment history. If a person just opened a credit card or started paying off their student loans, the credit bureaus can’t see an established history of timely repayment. Even if the consumer has never missed a payment, payment history is limited.

Similarly, a credit history of just a few months doesn’t give lenders enough data to judge a consumer as low- or high-risk.

Ways to Establish Good Credit

While it can be discouraging that your starting credit score is penalized just for being new, by following these tips on establishing credit, it shouldn’t take you too long to build it up:

•   Paying bills on time will continue to be important, as payment history is a major factor in your credit score.

•   Keeping accounts open and in good standing, even if they’re no longer used, can help lengthen a person’s history.

•   Adding to the credit mix with a personal loan, credit-builder loan, or other types of credit can help boost your credit score.

•   Paying bills in full can help keep the credit utilization ratio balanced at 30% or below.

•   Not applying for too much at once will help you avoid the pitfall of too many hard inquiries and new accounts, which can have a negative impact.

While an individual can try to build their score proactively, a substantial portion of it will come from paying bills consistently over time.

Establishing and continuing these good habits will likely lead to a higher credit score.

Why Your Credit Score Is Important

It may be just a three-digit number, but a good credit score is a gateway to better financial opportunities. With a very good (740-799) or exceptional (800-850) credit score, borrowers have better odds of being approved for loans and may even have better repayment terms or more favorable interest rates.

Businesses and lenders may pull your credit history to confirm your qualification for any of the following:

•   Credit cards

•   Mortgages

•   Rental apartments

•   Job applications

•   Car loans

•   Personal loans

•   Student loans

With a low credit score or no credit score, getting favorable terms or qualifying for any of the above could be challenging.

How to Check Your Credit Score

Checking a credit score isn’t just a good way to track progress. It can also highlight any incorrect or fraudulent activity tied to a person’s name.

You can check your credit score for free through your card issuer, your bank, or a nonprofit credit counseling agency. Also, anyone can get their free credit report, which is not the same as a credit score, from three nationwide consumer credit reporting companies using AnnualCreditReport.com. The site allows visitors three free reports annually, one from each credit bureau.

In addition, lenders often offer free credit score reporting on their portals.

Recommended: The Difference Between Transunion and Equifax

The Takeaway

Having a starting credit score doesn’t mean starting from zero or with a perfect 850. Establishing healthy credit habits, such as paying bills on time and in full, is important because it can help you build a solid credit score. The higher your credit score, the more financial opportunities you’ll have.

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

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

FAQ

What are the FICO credit score ranges?

FICO credit scores range from 300 to 850. Under 580 is considered a poor score, 580 to 669 is fair, 670 to 739 is good, 740 to 799 is very good, and 800 is considered exceptional.

Can you have a credit score without a credit card?

Yes. Credit scores aren’t based solely on credit cards. The score takes into account student loans, rent, utility payments, and more.

What are the differences between FICO, Experian, and Equifax?

Experian and Equifax are credit bureaus that collect and compile credit histories for lenders and financial institutions based on data from consumers’ borrowing habits. FICO then uses that data to create a numerical credit-scoring system that measures consumers’ creditworthiness.

Do you start with a specific credit score?

There’s no standardized starting credit score. You’ll likely start with no credit score until you have an active credit history, after which your habits will determine your credit score based on factors such as payment history, the length of that history, and how much you owe.

Do I have to pay to get my credit report?

You can get a free copy of your credit report online via the website AnnualCreditReport.com. This detail of your credit history is prepared by the three major credit bureaus — Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion — and you can request your report from one or all three of these agencies.


Photo credit: iStock/blackCAT

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

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

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

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

SORL-Q126-062

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A man with glasses and a beard, sitting on a couch and smiling as he checks his sinking fund balance on his phone.

What Are Sinking Fund Categories?

Sinking funds are tools that people or businesses can use to set aside money for a planned expense. For example, if you want to take a vacation next year, you may start putting cash in an envelope to save up for the trip.

Sinking fund categories can vary by person, depending on their relevant expenses. They can include auto repairs, health care costs, gifts, insurance payments, vacation funds, and more.

You can think of sinking funds as a way of “sinking” your money into an account for later use. It’s basically a savings strategy. Find out more below.

Key Points

•   Sinking funds allow you to save for large expenses over time so that paying those bills isn’t so stressful.

•   You might use sinking funds to save for purchasing holiday gifts, leasing or buying a new car, or funding your next vacation.

•   A sinking fund is part of your budget, and the contribution amounts can be calculated in many ways — whatever works best for you.

•   You can keep your sinking fund money in cash or put it in a designated bank account.

•   You might want to contribute more to your sinking fund when you have extra income, such as when you get your tax refund.

General Definition of Sinking Funds

The term sinking fund has its roots in the world of corporate finance, but it mainly refers to setting aside money for a future expense.

Sinking funds are smaller offshoots of an overall budget. Putting together a sinking fund entails stashing your money away to spend it on a predefined purpose later on.

For instance, some people like to pay their car insurance in six-month installments. They may set aside money each month in anticipation of the next six-month installment payment so that they’re not hit with a big expense all at once.

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Examples of Sinking Funds Categories

When it comes to sinking fund categories, there are no hard-and-fast rules. Different individuals have different financial needs and planned expenditures. Some common sinking fund categories are:

•   Vacations

•   Gifts and holiday-related expenses

•   A new car or regular maintenance and insurance costs

•   A home purchase or home maintenance expenses

•   Medical and dental costs

•   Child care costs

•   Tuition fees

•   Pet expenses, such as veterinarian visits

A sinking fund can help you save for just about anything.

Recommended: How to Set Your Financial Goals

Sinking Fund Category Calculations

Setting up a sinking fund is simple enough: You can set cash aside or choose a more formal option like a savings account. The difficulty for most people is regularly contributing to it. The trickiest part, though, may be figuring out how much to put away.

A budget planner app can come in handy, allowing you to assess how much money you have left to put toward your sinking fund categories once you’ve taken care of your monthly expenses.

Similarly, sticking to a certain budget type — such as the 50/30/20 rule — may help determine what you can contribute. You could also structure your sinking fund contributions as a biweekly savings challenge.

To calculate how much you can contribute to a sinking fund, you’ll need to decide which categories are the most important. Another consideration is which fund to use first — perhaps an auto insurance payment is due before a vacation. Your priorities will affect your sinking fund calculations.

In corporate finance, the sinking fund formula helps a company figure out how much it needs to put away to pay off a long-term debt in a lump sum. The formula takes the amount of money already accumulated, multiplies it by any applicable interest, and then divides it by the remaining number of payments.

For individuals, however, the calculation can be as simple as looking at your monthly income and putting extra cash into each of your sinking fund categories.

Types of Sinking Funds

What type of vehicle can you use to save up for a sinking fund? There are a few to choose from.

The most obvious, and probably the simplest, is to keep the sinking fund in cash and store it somewhere safe. Of course, that money won’t earn any interest and will likely lose value due to inflation.

Perhaps the ideal option is to open up individual savings accounts at your financial institution for each of your sinking fund categories. This beats cash because your sinking fund is protected (and insured up to $250,000 by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or the National Credit Union Administration), and you might also earn some interest on it.

Recommended: Money Market Account vs Savings Account

Best Time to Take Advantage of Sinking Funds Categories

Sinking funds are all about taking advantage of saving up for a planned or known expense well in advance. As such, the ideal time to use your saved money is when it’s time to make the payment, be it a fancy vacation, a new car, or paying your child’s college tuition fees.

There may be times during the year when it’s more advantageous to save than others. For instance, most people experience a financial crunch during the holiday season — with gifts to buy, parties to attend, and other demands on income. That may not be the best time to sink money into a fund.

Instead, think about when you may have some extra money to put into your sinking funds, such as when you get your tax refund or receive a cash gift for your birthday.

The Takeaway

Sinking funds are designated cash reserves for future expenses. Corporations and businesses also use sinking funds. Having this type of fund means that you’re stashing money away for an upcoming, known expense and relieving some of the financial pressure ahead of time. Sinking fund categories can vary depending on your individual situation.

Sinking funds are a way to get ahead of your planned expenses and give yourself some financial wiggle room. A money tracker app can help you do the same.

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.

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FAQ

What to put in sinking funds?

You put cash into a sinking fund to use later for an upcoming expense. What that expense is (i.e., the sinking fund’s category) depends on your specific financial needs.

What is a sinking fund leasehold?

In property management, a sinking fund leasehold contains funds for repairs or renovations to a rental property. The leaseholder or landlord sets aside a small percentage of the monthly rental money to continue adding to the fund.

What is the difference between a reserve fund and a sinking fund?

The two are similar, but a sinking fund’s contents are designated for a specific purpose or expense, while a reserve fund contains funds used for general future expenses.

What is the difference between an emergency fund and a sinking fund?

An emergency fund is a general fund set aside for sudden, unexpected expenses, such as job loss and medical bills. In contrast, sinking funds are meant to finance expenses that you plan for.

What is a common sinking fund mistake?

People may sometimes split their sinking funds into too many categories and find it overwhelming to put money into each. The right number of sinking funds for you will depend on your finances and your individual needs.


Photo credit: iStock/Delmaine Donson

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A woman holding jumper cables beside a red car with the hood open in a parking lot.

How to Jump-Start a Car by Yourself and How Long Does It Take

Have you ever watched somebody pull out a set of jumper cables and thought, “I really should learn how to jump-start a car someday”?

It isn’t a difficult process. But to avoid damaging your car or hurting yourself, you should perform each step carefully, in the correct order, and with the right equipment.

By learning how to properly jump-start a car battery by yourself, you can save time, money, and hassle. In this guide, we’ll cover how to jump-start a car, how long it can take, and what you’ll need to get the job done.

Key Points

•   Learning to jump-start helps you avoid hassle and cost by safely reviving a dead or drained battery on your own.

•   Restarting a car is commonly done by using jumper cables and another vehicle, using a portable jump-starter, or push-starting a manual transmission.

•   Using the proper step-by-step procedure and maintaining safety are critical, including correct cable order, avoiding sparks, and letting the engine run so the battery can recharge.

•   Jump-starting can often be done in a matter of minutes once you know the steps, though it may take longer the first time.

•   Calling roadside assistance or a professional service is recommended if you can’t or don’t want to jump-start.

How to Jump-Start a Vehicle

Whether your battery is temporarily drained of power or truly dead, there are a few ways to get your car back on the road. The most important step is learning how before you’re stuck on the side of the road.

The most common method is to use a set of jumper cables and another car’s battery to give your car the charge it needs to get started. If you keep a portable jump-starter in your car, you may be able to give your battery a needed boost without anyone else’s help. And if you drive a car with a manual transmission, it might be possible to pop the clutch or push-start the car.

By the way, it helps if you have a good battery without a lot of corrosion on the posts. A 12-volt battery typically lasts around three to five years. Batteries can deteriorate faster if you don’t drive often. You may want to make checking the battery part of your routine to help save money on car maintenance.

Recommended: How Much Does Insurance Go Up After an Accident?

How to Jump-Start a Vehicle With Jumper Cables

Before you try to jump-start a vehicle for the first time, it’s a good idea to read the owner’s manual, just in case there is anything you should know about that specific model. But the steps are basically the same no matter what you’re driving.

Get Out Your Jumper Cables

Jumper cables come in sets of two: The positive cable has a red clamp at each end, and the negative cable has black clamps. You’ll need both cables to jump-start a car.

Jumper cables aren’t standard equipment with most vehicles, so you’ll have to purchase a set to keep in your trunk. You can generally purchase a new set for about $20-$80. You may want to keep a pair of gloves and safety glasses with the cables.

Get Another Car to Cozy Up Next to Yours

If you’re at home and have a second car, you might even be able to do this by yourself. Otherwise, you’ll have to call a friend or flag down a good Samaritan. The two cars should be parked close enough that you can connect the cables without pulling them too tight, but leave enough room so you can move comfortably between the cars. Both cars should have their engine turned off and the emergency brake on.

Open the Hood on Each Car

Open the hood and locate the battery in each car. Then look for the negative and positive terminals on each battery. The positive terminal should have a plus sign (+) and/or a red cover. The negative terminal should have a minus sign (-) and/or a black cover.

Connect the Jumper Cables

Start with the dead-battery car. Attach one red clamp from the positive cable to the dead battery’s positive terminal. The clamp should “bite” through any corrosion and onto the metal terminal. If you have the black clamp of the other cable near the dead-battery car, be sure it isn’t touching any metal surfaces before you move over to attach both clamps to the booster (working) car.

Move over to the booster car. Attach the other red clamp from the positive cable to the positive terminal on the booster car’s battery. Then attach a black clamp from the negative cable to the booster battery’s negative terminal.

Go back to the dead-battery car. Attach the other black clamp from the negative cable to an unpainted metal surface on the engine. Look for an unpainted bolt or bracket that is several inches away from the battery.

Check the cables to make sure they aren’t dangling or exposed to any moving parts in either vehicle.

Turn Off All Accessories

Before starting the booster car, check that all electronics are turned off in the dead-battery car. This includes hazard lights, the air conditioner or heater, radio, cell phone charger, etc.

Start the Booster Car

Put the booster car in park, start the engine, and let it idle for a few minutes. Don’t race the engine, but gently rev it a bit above idle for 30 seconds or so to help the charge get to the dead battery. An older battery may take more time to charge.

Start the Dead-Battery Car

Try starting the car with the dead battery, and if it works, let it idle for several minutes. Ask the driver of the other car to please wait while you do this.

If the disabled car doesn’t start, disconnect the black clamp from the dead battery, check to make sure all your other connections are good, and then replace the black clamp on the dead battery. Start the booster car again, and let it idle for five minutes. Then try to start the nonworking car again. If you repeat this process a couple of times and the car still won’t start, you may have to call for a tow truck.

Disconnect the Jumper Cables

Once the dead-battery car is running, you can disconnect the four clamps, working in reverse order. Be careful to remove the black clamp from the dead-battery car first and keep it away from any metal and the other cable clamps while you work your way through the rest of the clamps. Then, remove the black clamp from the working car, the red clamp from the good battery, and the red clamp from the dead battery.

Replace the plastic post protectors if either car has them. Keep fingers, clothing, and equipment away from any moving parts.

Keep the Dead-Battery Car’s Engine Running

Let the engine in the car you jump-started run for about 20 minutes so the alternator can recharge the battery. Drive somewhere safe (home or to a friend’s house, for example) before you shut off the car and try to start it up again.

If the car won’t start up again, you may have to get another jump-start or buy a new battery. You may even want to take the car straight to a mechanic to have the battery tested and, if necessary, replaced.

How to Jump-Start a Car With a Portable Jump-Starter Device

If you like the idea of being completely self-sufficient, you may want to purchase a portable jump starter to keep in your car. The portable unit can take the place of a second vehicle when you need to charge your battery. Here’s how it works:

Confirm That the Unit’s Battery Is Charged

Before you stash the battery pack in your car, check that it has enough juice. Units typically plug into a common household outlet and take an hour or longer to charge. Read the directions before you use the charger for the first time.

Attach the Cables

The unit will have two cables coming out of it: one with a red clamp and one with a black clamp. The unit and your car should be turned off. Then, with your car in park, attach the cable with the red clamp to the positive post on your car battery, and the cable with the black clamp to a bare metal area on the car. (Check your device’s directions for specifics.) Ensure that the unit won’t fall over or into the engine when you start the car.

Turn On the Power

When you’re ready, hit the power switch on the jump-starter device.

Start Your Car

Try to start your engine. If the problem is a dead battery, the engine should turn over.

Disconnect the Clamps

Just as you would when using jumper cables, let the car run above idle for a few minutes to help the battery charge. Then, with the car still running, turn off the power to the device and carefully disconnect the black and red clamps. Drive the car to a safe place, or take it to a mechanic to have the battery tested.

To charge a motorcycle, the steps are pretty much the same if you’re using the portable jump-starter. It may be better for your bike than using a car battery and easier than using another motorcycle. You can also try push-starting your motorcycle.

Recommended: How to Get Car Insurance

How to Push Start a Manual Transmission

This method is sometimes called bump starting, clutch starting, or popping the clutch. The idea is to get the car moving fast enough (by going downhill, getting some helpers to push it, or pushing it bumper-to-bumper with another car) so that you can put it in gear, quickly let out the clutch, and get the engine to turn over.

When you get a push, warn your helpers that the car may jerk a bit when you pop the clutch.

Get Into Gear

Depress the clutch pedal, and put the car into second gear.

Turn the Key Partway

Turn the key one step to turn the car on but not far enough to start the engine.

Get the Car Moving

If you’re at the top of a hill, you may be able to do this on your own by taking your foot off the brake and letting it roll. But you’ll likely need other people or another car to push your car. Keep the clutch pedal down.

Pop the Clutch

When the car is moving at about 5 mph, quickly release your foot from the clutch pedal. The car may jerk a bit and the engine should turn over and start. If it doesn’t, you can try depressing and popping the clutch again while the car is still rolling.

Words of Caution Before Jump-Starting Your Car

Once you learn how to do it, jump-starting your car can be fairly simple. But because there may be sparks, and batteries can explode, it’s always important to go through each step cautiously:

•   Keep your face as far from the battery as you can while you’re attaching the cables.

•   Don’t let the clamps dangle near any metal while you’re attaching them.

•   Don’t cross the cables when you’re attaching them to the batteries.

•   Keep the cables clear of the engine when you’re ready to start the car.

•   Avoid connecting all four clamps to the battery posts. It’s safer to attach the black clamp to bare metal on the disabled car.

How Long Will It Take to Jump-Start Your Car?

Once you know the basics of jump-starting a battery, you can expect it to take 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the type of vehicle. Of course, waiting until you find another motorist to help you could add to the overall time.

If you’re a first-timer, it may take longer than 20 minutes. But you can cut down that time just by knowing where your jumper cables are and where your car battery and battery terminals are located. New drivers may benefit from these car insurance tips for first-time drivers.

Calling for Help

If you don’t feel comfortable jump-starting a car yourself or don’t feel safe where you are, you can always call a professional for help when your battery dies. The jump-start or tow might even be free if you have a roadside assistance plan through your car insurance policy. Most roadside assistance plans include jump-starts as a basic service, but you should verify in advance what your coverage offers. It’s helpful to be familiar with car insurance terms as you study your auto policy.

Recommended: How to Lower Car Insurance & Save Money

The Takeaway

Jump-starting a car isn’t that complicated, and it doesn’t take long if you have the right equipment and know the proper steps. Still, it’s important to use caution as you go through the process to avoid hurting yourself or damaging your vehicle. The hardest part might be finding someone who will let you use their car for the jump (or give you a push if you’re trying that method). And you’ll have to be in a spot where you can park two cars close enough together so that you can use your jumper cables.

If you don’t want to — or can’t — jump-start your car, you may decide it’s easier and safer to call roadside assistance. You can purchase roadside assistance through an auto club, and many car insurance companies offer inexpensive plan options as part of their coverage. If you haven’t had a personal insurance planning session lately, this might be a good time to review your options.

And if you’re looking for the best car insurance for your needs, it can help to compare your current auto insurance policy with what other top insurers are offering.

When you’re ready to shop for auto insurance, SoFi can help. Our online auto insurance comparison tool lets you see quotes from a network of top insurance providers within minutes, saving you time and hassle.

SoFi brings you real rates, with no bait and switch.

FAQ

How long does it take to jump-start a car?

The process — attaching the cables, starting the cars, and running both for a few minutes, then detaching the cables — should take just a few minutes. It’s a good idea, though, to keep the booster car around for a few minutes after that just to be sure the boosted car keeps running and can get back on the road.

How long should you let a car run after you jump-start it?

You should let a car idle for several minutes after you jump-start it to be sure you have a sufficient charge. After that, it’s important to let it keep running or drive it for at least 30 minutes so the battery can fully charge.

Can you jump-start a car alone?

Yes, it’s possible to jump-start a car alone if you have a portable jump-starting device with you. If you’re at home and have a second car handy, you can use it as a booster car.


Photo credit: iStock/evrim ertik

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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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