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Many parents want to save for their child’s future. One way to do this is by setting up a custodial account. This type of account specifically allows an adult to put money into a savings or investment account for a minor, which they can then access once they reach adulthood.

Custodial accounts can be a great way to give a child a financial gift. These funds can eventually be used for such expenses as their education, a car, wedding, renting an apartment, or even buying a home. If college is a particular goal, you can even open a custodial account designed for this very purpose.

If you’re considering opening up a custodial account for a young person, read on to learn what a custodial account is, the different types, and how they operate.

What is a Custodial Account?

A custodial account is savings or an investment account, established with a bank, brokerage firm, or mutual fund company, that’s managed by an adult on behalf of a minor, also known as the beneficiary.

Custodial accounts typically allow a parent, grandparent, family friend, or guardian to start saving for the child, until they reach adulthood, which depending on the state of residence, could be 18, 21, or even 25 years of age.

Even though the custodian manages and oversees the funds, the account is in the child’s name. Once the child reaches adulthood, the account legally transfers to their control.

Recommended: What is Retail Banking?

How Custodial Accounts Work

Opening a custodial account is simple. You can likely start one with almost any financial institution, brokerage firm, or mutual fund company. All a custodian probably needs to establish one is to provide basic personal information about themselves and the child. Once a custodial account is created, the adult can start contributing funds into the account.

The financial institution sets the terms of the account, which may include a minimum balance, maintenance fees, and initial investment requirements, among other stipulations. Individuals can usually contribute as much as they want to a custodial account, but there’s a federal cap on how much you can contribute that’s free of the gift tax imposed by the IRS. In 2023, this amount is up to $17,000 for individuals and $34,000 for married couples per child, per year.

Custodial bank accounts usually come with protections for the beneficiary. While the custodian can withdraw money from the account, legally the money must only be used to benefit the minor. This means the adult in charge of the account can’t use the funds for their own personal reasons. Additionally, any contribution made becomes the property of the child, so transactions can’t be changed or reversed.

A monthly contribution to a custodial account can make a big difference in a child’s life because the money can substantially accumulate over the years. According to Fidelity Investments, starting to contribute $50 a month to a custodial account when a child is 5 years old can result in $21,000 once that child reaches age 21. Put in $150 a month and that amount goes up to $63,000, while $250 a month clocks in at $104,900.

Recommended: Tax Credits vs. Tax Deductions: What’s the Difference?

Types of Custodial Accounts

There are two main types of custodial accounts: the Uniform Gift to Minors Act (UGMA) and the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA). While both have the same objective and eliminate the need to start a trust, they work in slightly different ways. Another option is the Coverdell ESA and 529 accounts that can help with saving for college.

Uniform Gift to Minors Act (UGMA)

The Uniform Gift to Minors Act (UGMA), established in 1956, is a custodial account that grants adults the opportunity to give or transfer many different kinds of financial assets to a child. Here’s what is important to know:

•   Besides cash, assets in an UGMA account can include individual stocks, index funds, bonds, mutual funds, and insurance policies.

•   UGMA accounts aren’t limited to educational expenses. In fact, the money can be used by the beneficiary for anything once they come of age. A UGMA doesn’t have restrictions or contribution and withdrawal limits, but, as previously noted, gift tax limits apply.

•   This kind of custodial account is available in all 50 states and is easy to set up at many financial institutions and brokerages nationwide. Keep in mind there may be a minimum deposit required to open an UGMA.

•   There aren’t any tax benefits for contributions, but up to $1,250 of any earnings from a custodial account may be exempt from the IRS, and a portion of up to $1,250 of any earnings greater than the exempt amount may be taxed. If so, it will be at the child’s tax rate, which is generally lower than their parent’s tax rate.

•   Since education costs are one main reason parents or loved ones open a custodial account, one thing to know is because the funds are considered an asset owned by the child, it can affect their ability to get financial aid and student loans.

Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA)

The Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA), is a newer, expanded version of an UGMA. There are some differences between them to be aware of:

•   The main difference is that an UTMA account can include physical assets, such as cars, art, jewelry, and real estate.

•   You are not able to open a UTMA in every state. Currently, South Carolina and Vermont are two that don’t allow you to open a UTMA custodial account. And many states have a higher age at which a beneficiary can take control of a UTMA compared to a UGMA account.

•   The zero contribution limits, tax benefits, and financial aid impact that come with UGMAs are the same for UTMAs.

Coverdell Education Savings Account (ESA) and 529 Plans

There are two educational savings plans that fall under the umbrella of custodial accounts and can help a parent save for college for their child. One is the Coverdell Education Savings Account (ESA).

•   This type of custodial account exists solely for saving for a child’s future educational needs. According to the IRS, ESA contributions made must be in cash and are not tax deductible.

•   Unlike UTMAs and UGMAs, there’s a $2,000 limit per year to how much you can contribute to the ESA’s account beneficiary.

•   ESA custodial accounts also have income-based restrictions and are only available to families who fall under a certain income level. Coverdell ESA’s are created by each state so you’ll need to see if your state offers one.

A 529 College Savings Plan, also known as a “qualified tuition plan” is often considered a kind of custodial account because it’s created to pay for the beneficiary’s educational expenses, whether it’s for college, tuition costs for kids in grades K-12, certain apprenticeship programs, and even to pay student loans.

•   Unlike other custodial plans, a 529 College Savings account can remain in the holder’s name even when the beneficiary reaches the age of majority in their state.

•   There aren’t any income limits for a 529 Plan, which differentiates it from a Coverdell ESA.

•   The 529 Plans are state-sponsored and most states offer at least one. You must be a U.S. resident to open a 529 Plan.

•   You don’t have to be a resident of the state and can pick another state’s plan, but your state may offer a tax deduction if you live there and open one. The Federal Reserve features a list of state 529 Plans.

Custodial Accounts vs. Traditional Savings Account

Both a custodial account and a traditional kid’s savings account can be opened with the goal of putting money away for a child’s future. However, they are two separate types of accounts that operate in different ways.

•   A traditional savings account opened for a minor is a type of joint account that typically can be accessed and used by both the minor and their parent or guardian. Some states and financial institutions have age limits or restrictions on whether a child can be on a joint account. With a custodial account, as previously mentioned, a minor can’t make any transactions until they reach the age of maturity.

•   Traditional savings accounts typically have no limits on how much money you can keep in the account, but banks may have a base amount you need to open an account along with minimum balance requirements.

•   Custodial accounts may be better for long-term savings, while a traditional savings account can teach kids about banking and good finance habits.

Recommended: Understanding the Different Types of Bank Accounts

Pros and Cons of Custodial Accounts

Custodial accounts have their upsides and downsides. Here’s some pros and cons to consider, presented in chart form:

Pros of Custodial Accounts	Cons of Custodial Accounts
Easy to set up	Custodian loses monetary control when beneficiary comes of age
Can be inexpensive to establish	May have a cap on how much you can contribute due to gift-tax laws
May have tax benefits	Not as tax-exempt as other types of financial accounts
Money is the property of the child	Can impact the ability to get financial aid
Anyone can make a contribution to the account	Contributions are irrevocable

4 Steps to Opening a Custodial Account

Setting up a custodial account is simple and doesn’t take up a lot of time. Here’s how to open a custodial account in four steps.

1. Decide on the Type of Custodial Account

Research the various options to determine which kind of account would best suit your goals and those of the child. For example, is the goal strictly for educational expenses? Are there limits to contributions? Do you want contributions to include physical assets as well as monetary funds?

2. Figure out Where You Want to Open the Account

Banks, brokerage firms, and mutual fund companies all offer custodial accounts. Pick the one that best suits your comfort level, familiarity, and goals for the child.

3. Gather the Child’s Personal Information as Well as Your Own

When you open the account, you’ll want to have the necessary information ready, such as the custodian and child’s Social Security numbers, addresses, phone numbers, and dates of birth.

The person who will be controlling the account will most likely have to provide employment information and have the account number(s) ready for another bank or investment account they want linked so they can transfer the money between accounts.

4. Open the Account

Many financial institutions make it easy for you to start an account online through their websites, or you can go to the financial institution in person.

The Takeaway

Custodial accounts can be a solid way to sock money away for a child’s future, whether it be for their education, a financial gift, or to provide them with a leg up on savings once they become young adults. These accounts can be opened at financial institutions and banks around the country, and you don’t even need to leave home to set one up. Depending on which type of custodial account you choose, you may also enjoy some tax-advantages too.

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

Are custodial accounts a good idea?

They can be. Saving and investing money on behalf of a child can make their lives easier once they’ve become an adult. Having a built-in financial cushion they can use for their education, housing, a trip, or even towards retirement can be a valuable gift to someone as they start their adult life.

How does a custodial account work?

A parent, grandparent, guardian, or loved one can open a custodial account for a child, at a bank, brokerage, or mutual fund firm. The account is for the benefit of the child and managed by an adult or the custodian of the account, with contributions added over time, if desired. Once the child turns 18, 21, or 25 (depending on which state they live in), the money is turned over to them.

What are the pros and cons of custodial accounts?

The advantages of a custodial account are an automatic savings available to the child when they become of age, typically to spend on whatever they want; some potential tax breaks for the person who opens the account; and the ease of setting them up. Downsides of a custodial account include a possible cap on how much you can give because of gift-tax restrictions; the inability to reverse any transaction after its completed; and, since the account is considered an asset of the child, it could affect their ability to be eligible for financial aid when applying to schools.

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Photo credit: iStock/Drazen Zigic

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.

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.

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

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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If you’re a salaried employee, the amount of money that you bring home with each paycheck plays an important role in your overall financial picture. While there are several dollar amounts that likely 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 that you worked. If you are salaried, then it is a proportional amount of your total annual salary.

But in terms of net income vs. gross income, the net amount is the sum that is on your paycheck or directly deposited to your bank account. This is the figure that results when you subtract withholding taxes, benefits, and other deductions from your gross salary.

Read on to learn more about these two important ways of expressing income, including:

•   What is gross income?

•   What is net income?

•   How do you compare gross vs. net income?

•   How does net income vs. gross income affect your finances?

What Is Gross Income?

Your gross income is your total salary or wages that 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 you have a salary of $52,000 and are paid every two weeks, you will earn a gross income of $2,000 with each bi-weekly paycheck. If you were paid only once a month, however, your gross monthly income would be $4,333.33.

In some cases, an employee might be eligible for overtime pay, which could be reflected in their paycheck as well.

If you are an hourly employee, then your gross income will depend 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 (80 times 15). In either case, any tips, bonuses, or one-time additions may also be added to your total gross income.

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

What Is Net Income?

Here’s the difference between gross income vs. net income: While your gross income represents the total amount of money that you earn in a given pay period, your net income is the amount of money that you’ll actually receive. From your gross income, taxes and common payroll deductions like health insurance and any 401(k) contributions will be subtracted. Other deductions could include wage garnishments or charitable giving via your workplace.

The result is your net income, which may then 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 should always be equal to or more than your net income. If you don’t have any of what are known as withholding taxes or other deductions, it is possible that your gross income and net income will be the same. But if you do have any money withheld for taxes, insurance, retirement savings, or other common deductions, they 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 salary, they often do so by comparing the gross income, and net income isn’t considered. One reason for this is that your gross income is the best indicator to compare the amount of money paid for a particular job or position. The amount of deductions or taxes withheld can vary greatly depending on a person’s situation.

Consider two people that make the same salary — one who is married with children will usually have less taxes withheld than a single person. Also, one person might contribute, say, 10% of their salary to a company-sponsored retirement plan while another chooses not to. Another example could be one person who has deductions that reflect their carrying their family’s health insurance costs while another individual could be married and on their spouse’s plan and therefore have no such deduction.

Another reason that gross income is often a better comparison than net income is because the money that is withheld from your paycheck usually represents actual value that you receive. Money deducted for retirement savings is transferred to your 401(k) account; insurance premiums are used to pay for medical or dental insurance and taxes are paid to the government. Those deductions are serving 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 one of the things that is subtracted from your gross income to make up your net income. The more money that you have withheld for taxes from your paycheck, the lower your net income will be. However, this may help minimize the possibility of your owing 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 most impacts your budget and finances. When managing your money and wondering whether to focus on your gross or net income, it’s likely that the latter is where you may want to focus.

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

You can work to best 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 near-term and longer-term goals.

The Takeaway

Gross income and net income are two different points of reference for how much money that you make. Your gross income represents the total wage or salary that you earned during a particular pay period. After any taxes or deductions are taken out, the result is your net income. Your net income is how much money that you actually take home and can be a starting point as you set up your budget.

Understanding how your gross income and net income affect your overall finances is a good first step on the path to a solid financial future. SoFi Checking and Savings can also help you manage your finances. It’s a single, convenient place to spend and save, pays a competitive Annual Percentage Yield (APY), and charges you zero account fees. What’s more, our tools like Vaults and Roundups can help you enhance your savings, and if you open a qualifying account with direct deposit, you can access your paycheck up to two days early.

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

FAQ

How can I increase my net income?

Because net income and gross income are correlated, one way to increase your net income is to increase your gross income. You might do this by finding a new, higher-paying job or by starting a side hustle. The other option to raise your net income would be to lower the amount of taxes and deductions that are taken out each pay period. This could involve, say, increasing your tax allowances to lower the amount that is withheld for taxes or decreasing your other deductions, such as how much you contribute to retirement savings.

What are some budgeting tips to help you with your 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 such budget guidelines at the 50/30/20 rule for inspiration.

Is gross income more important than net income?

Gross income and net income are both important and useful in different circumstances. For example, if you are wondering whether 40K a year is a good salary, it will depend on your situation. If you are single and/or live in an area with a low cost of living, it might be. But if you are the sole source of income for a family of four, live in a location with a high cost of living, and/or have considerable debt, that same gross income could be a challenge in terms of making ends meet.

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Photo credit: iStock/Vasyl Faievych

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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If your paycheck or another check is burning a hole in your wallet, you might be able to cash it at an ATM. Depositing a check into an ATM can be a convenient, painless way to get your cash fast.

If you don’t have access to remote banking or just can’t make it to a bank during business hours, cashing a check at an ATM can be an excellent alternative. Here’s what you need to know in order to make the transaction happen, including answers to:

•   When can you cash checks at ATMs?

•   What are the steps to cash a check at an ATM?

•   What kinds of checks can be cashed at an ATM?

•   What are alternative ways to cash a paper check?

Steps to Cash a Check at an ATM

The first thing you’ll need in order to cash a check at an ATM is a checking account. A checking account traditionally comes with an account number and a debit card. You will need both of these.

Make sure you’ve activated your debit card, selected and memorized a PIN number, and know your account number. The debit card and PIN number are essential for performing the most basic of transactions, including making ATM deposits and withdrawals.

Once you have your account details, card, and PIN number, cashing your check at an ATM is pretty much the same as making a cash deposit at an ATM. Most banks will require you to have a minimum amount in your checking account in order to cash your check.

Here are the steps to cashing a check at an ATM:

•   Endorse the back of your check. With a pen (not pencil), sign your name on the back of your check and write your account number. Security tip: Wait until you get to the ATM location to sign the back of your check, even if you have to bring a pen with you. If an endorsed check gets lost or stolen, someone else could cash it.

However, do add your signature before your turn at the ATM itself to save time and as a courtesy to those waiting behind you.

•   Fill out a deposit slip. Some banks may still require you to fill out a deposit slip to insert into the ATM along with your check. The deposit slips are typically available in the bank branch or the ATM area. Some banks may require you to put a check and the slip into a deposit envelope.

•   Insert a compatible card. To begin the transaction, you’ll need a valid ATM card, debit card, or prepaid debit card issued from a bank or credit union.

•   Enter your PIN. After inserting your card, the ATM will prompt you to enter your personal PIN number. Do not share your PIN number with anyone.

•   Follow the prompts. Follow the ATM’s instructions that appear on the screen. This can involve selecting “Make a deposit” and “Get cash back” and entering a dollar amount.

•   Insert the check into the machine. The ATM will invite you to make your deposit. If no check envelope is used, it will scan your check and ask you to confirm the amount.

If you are a customer who qualifies for same-day deposits, you may be able to withdraw funds right away, essentially “cashing your check” while avoiding additional transaction fees. In other situations, you may only have, say, $225 available to withdraw.

One thing to keep in mind: Even an in-network machine may have ATM withdrawal limits — typically between $500 and $1000 per day.

With some bank’s ATMs and account types, the funds may not be available until the second business day after the deposit. And if you are using an out-of-network ATM, you may be charged additional ATM transaction fees, and it can take up to 5 business days before you see the money in your account.

Types of Checks That May Be Cashed at an ATM

There is more than one kind of check. Personal, cashier’s, and certified checks are all ways to distribute sums of money without the risk of handling cash. But what kind of checks will an ATM accept?

Here are some check types you can feed an ATM that won’t get spit back out:

•   Personal checks. If you find yourself wondering, “Can I cash a personal check at an ATM?”, the answer is “yes!” So, go on — deposit that birthday check from Aunt Trudy. You can even write a check to yourself from another account and deposit it.

•   Cashier’s check. A cashier’s check draws on a bank’s funds and is signed by a cashier to guarantee the money. To cash this kind of check, it is beneficial to use an ATM connected to the bank that issued the check. You can also deposit it in your own bank’s ATM if you want the money to go into your account.

•   Certified checks. Like cashier’s checks, certified checks are issued by the bank but signed by you vs. a cashier. As long as you have your debit card, you can go ahead and deposit it in the ATM.

•   Any pre-printed check. Basically, any pre-printed can be deposited and withdrawn against at an ATM if your bank allows it. Government checks (such as a tax refund check) are the easiest for a bank to verify, and you might get your money right away. Foreign-issued checks may take longer to process.

Do All ATMs Support Check Deposits?

Not all ATMs support check deposits. Some ATMs located in grocery and convenience stores, restaurants, and other businesses may only have the ability to dispense cash and check your bank balance.

If you’re looking to cash a check at an ATM, your best bet is to use the machine at your bank. Most major banks and credit unions support check cashing at their ATMs. Plus you’re likely to avoid ATM fees.

Alternative Ways to Cash a Check

You don’t have to use an ATM to turn your paycheck into paper money. There are other ways to cash a check for free because who wants to pay more in bank fees? These techniques include:

•   Go to a bank teller. If you have time during business hours, you can cash your check the old-fashioned way. Your bank branch or credit union will likely perform the service, as long as you have a deposit slip, debit card, a valid ID, and meet your account’s requirements.

•   Go to the check distributor’s bank. You may be able to cash the check by paying a visit to the bank where the check writer holds the account. This could be a valid option if you are unbanked (don’t have any bank accounts). The check writer’s bank will probably be able to verify that the issuing account is in good standing and extract the funds for you.

•   Mobile apps. Who uses cash anyway these days? If your bank offers a mobile banking feature, also called mobile deposit, and you have a smartphone, you can use their app to snap a photo of your check and deposit it from the comfort of your living room sofa. You can gain access to your money quickly (instantly with some accounts), and pay back your bestie through Venmo.

•   Visit a retail store. Some retail shops, such as Walmart, grocery stores, and even gas stations may cash your check. However, they could charge you a small fee.

•   Check-cashing stores. The name says it all. Check-cashing businesses will give you cash for your check, but typically charge a stiff transaction fee. You may want to pursue other options and save this as a last resort due to the steep charges.

The Takeaway

Using an ATM to cash a check can be a quick and secure way to get your money. As long as you have a bank that supports check cashing, have the minimal required funds in your account, and have your debit card and PIN number ready, you’ll likely be on your way with some green in your hand.

3 Money Tips

1.    Typically, checking accounts don’t earn interest. However, some accounts do, and online banks are more likely than brick-and-mortar banks to offer you the best rates.

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

Can you deposit a check at an ATM?

It depends on your bank or credit union, but most banking institutions allow you to deposit checks at an ATM.

How long does it take to cash a check at an ATM?

As long as you’ve endorsed your check, written the account number on the back, and have your debit card and PIN number ready, cashing a check at an ATM shouldn’t take more than a few minutes if the financial institution makes the funds available. Not all ATMs will be this fast; in some cases, it will take at least two days for the funds to clear.

Can any type of check be cashed at an ATM?

As long as the routing and account number are legible, you can insert most traditional check types into an ATM. Personal and government-issued checks will probably be validated and credited to your account faster.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SOBK1222013

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Flipping furniture, or taking one person’s junk and transforming it into a thing of beauty, offers many benefits. It’s a unique way to earn extra income, learn new skills, and even send less waste to landfills. But how profitable can flipping furniture be, what tools do you need, and how do you get started?

You’ll learn all that (and more) in this guide covering:

•   How to make money flipping furniture

•   How to source pieces

•   How to learn to restore and upgrade furniture

•   How to find customers.

What Is Furniture Flipping?

Though flipping furniture has recently become a popular trend on TikTok, it’s been a profitable side hustle for many people much longer. Flipping furniture means taking an old piece of furniture, restoring it, and selling it for a profit. Restoring furniture generally involves cleaning an old piece, sanding or stripping it, then painting or staining it — and maybe installing more chic hardware, like knobs and handles.

Recommended: 11 Benefits of Having a Side Hustle

How Do I Get Started Flipping Furniture for a Profit?

Wondering how to flip furniture for a profit? To get started, you’ll need to find old pieces of furniture, research methods for restoring it, buy the necessary tools and materials, and perform the actual work.

Your first few attempts at flipping furniture may not be good enough to sell, but the pieces could make great gifts for friends and family. As with any new skill, practice makes perfect.

Once you’ve gotten the hang of flipping furniture, you can begin to look for places to sell your pieces.

Recommended: Best Time to Purchase Furniture

Where Can I Find Furniture to Flip?

To make money flipping furniture, you need to source old furniture cheaply — or for free.

You can find free furniture by driving around neighborhoods on trash day. The saying “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” applies here: If a neighbor has put out an old dresser or end table for trash pickup, you can carry it or throw it in your truck and take it home to restore. Similarly, watch for neighbors who are moving; many dispose of furniture they don’t want to take to a new place.

If you’re willing to spend a little money, it may be easier to find the right pieces. Here’s a tip for buying furniture on a budget: Try sourcing pieces to flip for a profit here:

•   Thrift stores

•   Garage sales and yard sales

•   Estate sales

•   Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist.

It’s always wise to thoroughly clean used furniture before starting the restoration process — and ideally before bringing it into your home or workspace.

Recommended: Common Moving Cost to Know

What Types of Furniture Can I Flip?

Any furniture that you can get your hands on and improve could theoretically make for a good flip, but in general, some of the best furniture items to flip for a profit include:

•   Coffee tables

•   End tables

•   Dining tables

•   Dining chairs*

•   Nightstands

•   Dressers

•   China cabinets

•   Buffets

•   Baby furniture.

*Fabric chairs that require reupholstering may take more work than they’re worth and also present more risk (bed bugs and fleas, namely) than all wood furniture.

What Do I Need to Look For When Flipping Furniture?

Knowing how to flip furniture for a profit comes down to more than being able to strip paint and install handles. To maximize efficiency and profit, you’ve got to know how to spot the right kinds of furniture.

Here are some things to watch for:

•   Heavier items: If a piece of furniture is heavy, don’t let it scare you off. That’s a good sign that it uses real, solid wood. This kind of wood is more durable and thus attractive to buyers. Particleboard pieces, on the other hand, are cheap and fall apart easily; these are likely not worth your time.

•   Transportation ease: If you spot a great piece of furniture that looks a little bulky, measure it before purchasing. You’ve got to be able to transport it to your workspace and to the end customer or your retail space. If you can’t transport the furniture without renting a vehicle, it may not be profitable to flip it.

•   Craftsmanship: Look for dovetail joints in antique furniture. These are a mark of skill by the original furniture maker — not only do dovetail joints last longer than dowel joints, but they’re also more attractive to look at. Visible nails and staples are a sign of lower quality.

•   Easy flip: Some furniture pieces require less work than others. Think about how much work each piece will need. If some just need a light cleaning (or power washing) and a few screws tightened before you can sell them, these pieces may be more profitable than those requiring hours or even days of labor.

Recommended: Common Misconceptions About Money

How Much Do I Need to Start Flipping Furniture?

You don’t need much money to start flipping furniture for profit. If you’re able to source your first few pieces for free, you’ll just need to purchase basic tools and some paint and stain. Many flippers start with as little as $100.

As you begin to profit off your first furniture flips, you can start to invest in higher-quality pieces, better tools, and maybe even booth space at an antique store or flea market.

What Do I Need to Flip Furniture?

To start flipping furniture, you’ll need a few things, including transportation, a workspace, tools and other materials, and a place to sell the furniture.

Good Transportation

When flipping furniture, you’ll need a reliable mode of transportation that can fit multiple pieces to bring back to your workspace. Trucks and SUVs are great options, but if you turn your side hustle into a full-time gig, you may even want a trailer to transport even more furniture to and from your workspace.

You’ll also need blankets to protect furniture in transit and possibly ways to keep it from moving around too much as it’s transported.

Recommended: Car Value vs. Truck Value

Space to Work on Furniture

If you’re flipping furniture as a hobby or an easy way to make extra money on weekends, you don’t need to rent out a dedicated workshop. Depending on the weather, you could work on furniture flipping in your yard. Basements and garages are also great places to start your flips — but remember that your space should have adequate ventilation.

If you become more serious about flipping furniture, it might make sense to lease a workspace.

Equipment to Restore Furniture

Each furniture flip may require a different set of tools. In general, the following tools and materials should be in your arsenal:

•   Paint

•   Paintbrushes

•   Painters tape

•   Stain

•   Sealer

•   Paint stripper

•   Sanding materials

•   Rags

•   Drop cloth

•   Sewing kit or sewing machine

•   Staple gun

•   Hammer and nails

•   Drill

•   Screwdrivers and screws

•   Wood glue

•   Steel wool

•   Soap

•   Sponges.

Recommended: Common Budgeting Mistakes that People Often Make

A Place to Sell the Finished Product

Knowing how to start flipping furniture for a profit requires more than just knowing where to buy furniture and how to restore it. You also need to know how and where to sell it.

When you’re just starting out, you may find success advertising to friends and family on social media or to neighbors on a neighborhood app like Nextdoor. You can also list the furniture on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp.

Pro Tip: If you’re selling online, take good photos. Nice staging can go a long way in making your finished product appear more upscale.

If furniture flipping becomes more lucrative for you, it might make sense to rent booth space at antique stores and flea markets to sell your flips.

Recommended: 39 Passive Income Ideas to Build Wealth

Pros and Cons of Furniture Flipping

Furniture flipping can be a great side gig, but it’s not for everybody. Here are the pros and cons of starting a furniture flipping business:

Pros of Furniture Flipping	Cons of Furniture Flipping
You can earn an extra source of income	It requires manual labor
You can learn new skills	Some projects can be time-consuming
There are typically low startup costs	Selling online to strangers requires some caution
It can be a fulfilling hobby	You need the right vehicle for transport
You’ll keep furniture from going to landfills	Some pieces may not sell

How Much Can I Resell Furniture For?

How much you can resell furniture for will depend on the type of piece and how much work you’ve done to it. Consider the time and money you put into the piece and the level of transformation it’s undergone.

Though it can vary by piece, you may be able to mark up an item 200% to 400%. For example, if you spent $100 on a table and materials to restore it, you may be able to charge between $200 and $400 for it.

Recommended: Creative Ways to Save Money

Is Furniture Flipping Profitable?

Furniture flipping can be profitable. Just remember to keep expenses low, choose pieces strategically, and mark up the end result enough to justify the time and money you put into the project. Flipping furniture may not generate enough revenue for you to quit your day job, but it can be a fun way to make additional income.

Skills to Learn to Improve Furniture Flipping

With each project, you can learn a new skill or try a new technique. Over time, you’ll have a roster of skills and techniques that allow you to transform furniture in new and exciting ways.

Here are some skills that are worth learning for flipping furniture:

•   Carpentry

•   Upholstering

•   Stripping paint, sanding, and priming

•   Painting and staining

•   Polishing

•   Tiling.

You’ll also need to learn basic finance skills to treat your furniture flipping like a real business:

•   Accounting (including what taxes you may have to collect on items you sell)

•   Sales

•   Customer service.

The Takeaway

Furniture flipping can be a lucrative side hustle if you’re willing to put in the effort to source good pieces, learn new skills, and do the actual hard work. While flipping furniture may not pay enough to be a full-time job, it can be a rewarding side hustle that allows you to be creative, try new things, and help the environment.

3 Money Tips

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

2.    If you’re creating a budget, try the 50/30/20 budget rule. Allocate 50% of your after-tax income to the “needs” of life, like living expenses and debt. Spend 30% on wants, and then save the remaining 20% towards saving for your long-term goals.

3.    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.

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

FAQ

How much should I pay for furniture I’m planning to flip?

How much you should pay for a piece of furniture to flip depends on how much you think a person might pay for it fully restored. In general, it’s smart to aim for 200% to 400% markup. If the cost of the furniture is too high for you to reasonably sell it for even more, it’s probably not a good piece to purchase.

Is flipping furniture always legal?

Flipping furniture is a legal way to make money. Remember that you must pay taxes on all income, so it’s important to track your expenses (save your receipts!) and earnings, then report it on your tax return each tax season.

Where can I sell furniture?

You can sell furniture online using sites and apps like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Nextdoor, and OfferUp. If you have enough furniture to sell, it may make sense to rent a booth at an antique store or flea market.

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Photo credit: iStock/ljubaphoto

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.

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.

SOBK1122004

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If you’re like many Americans, you swipe and tap your way through your day, using your credit card for everything from that morning latte to that late-night movie download. And, of course, for other purchases and services, from plane tickets to Pilates classes. That spending can add up, but using a rewards credit card can help make those expenditures pay off.

How rewards credit cards work: They pay the cardholder back with bonuses based on a small percentage of the amount spent. You’ll find different offers from credit card issuers in terms of how you can earn and redeem rewards, so you may want to review a variety of programs to see which ones best suit your style and needs.
In this guide, you can get a good grounding in how these programs work, including:

•   What are different types of credit card rewards?

•   How can you make the most of credit card rewards?

•   How do you redeem credit card rewards?

Types of Credit Card Rewards

What credit card rewards are, specifically, depends on the type of rewards your specific credit card pays out. The credits earned for making purchases can come in the form of cash back, points, or airline miles.

By reviewing the options below, you can better understand what kind of rewards might suit you best. This can help you get ready to apply for a new credit card.

Cash Back

For cash back rewards cards, reward earnings are based on a percentage of the amount charged to the card. The rate of earnings can typically range from 1% to 5%. In some cases, you’ll earn a higher rate for an introductory period or on a particular category of spending for a specific period of time.

Calculating what the rewards rate equals as money back can be simple for cash rewards: Just apply the cash-back percentage to total spending on the card.

•   Example: If you had a credit card that offered 2% cash back on all purchases, you’d earn $2 back for every $100 you spent using your card.

In some cases, cardholders will earn a flat rate across all purchases made with the card. But a rewards credit card may offer tiered earnings, as briefly noted above. This means the percentage back will vary depending on the category of purchases or the total amount spent during the year.

Recommended: What is a Charge Card

Travel Miles

As the name suggests, this type of rewards credit card allows you to earn airline miles in exchange for your spending responsibly with a credit card. You can either get a card affiliated with a specific airline or a more general travel rewards credit card.

It’s possible to earn a fixed rate of miles for every dollar spent, or you might earn more miles through spending in certain categories.

•   For instance, you might earn a mile per every dollar spent. Or you could get one mile per $1 in all purchase categories with the exception of travel costs, where you’d earn three miles per every dollar spent.

While they’re called miles, these rewards don’t necessarily translate to airline miles traveled. Rather, you typically redeem the miles you’ve earned to help cover the cost of flights or other travel-related expenses, such as hotel stays.

Unlike cash back rewards, where the value is pretty straightforward, the valuation of airline miles can vary by card. This is worth evaluating when deciding between credit card miles or cash-back rewards. The value of an airline mile can usually range from just under one cent per mile up to around two cents.

Points

Another way to earn credit card rewards is by getting a certain number of points for every dollar spent using the card. You can then redeem those points in a variety of ways, such as in the form of cash back, merchandise, travel purchases, gift cards, and even events.

Credit cards that reward cardholders through credit card points will pay out a certain number of points for every dollar spent on the card. Some considerations:

•   They might offer bonus categories, where cardholders can earn more points for every dollar spent in that particular category.

•   For some cards, earned rewards points may have a set redemption value — for example, every 10,000 points might be worth $100 in flight or merchandise redemptions. However, redemption rates can depend on the type of reward you choose. For instance, there might be different points requirements for flights as opposed to merchandise.

Given these scenarios, cardholders may have to be strategic. They may want to consider the type of reward they select and the actual cost of their selections to get the best bang for their buck.

How to Optimize Credit Card Rewards

It’s clear that the returns you can earn when using a rewards credit card can vary tremendously. But in addition to choosing a rewards card with the best earnings rate, there are other ways to take maximum advantage of credit card rewards.

Find the Best Card Based on Individual Spending Habits

Some rewards cards accrue points on a flat-rate basis. This means points or miles are awarded at the same rate regardless of what an individual charges to their credit card.

Others, however, offer higher levels of earning for different spending categories. For instance:

•   Some cards may offer more points per dollar spent on groceries or gas.

•   Other rewards credit cards may provide more miles back when an individual spends on flights or hotels.

For people who tend to concentrate spending on specific categories, some cards may offer added value back. Before signing up, it’s worth taking the time to assess the different types of credit cards you may qualify for and which will be most valuable given your spending habits and the kind of rewards that would be most beneficial.

Max Out Available Promotions

Some rewards credit cards offer higher introductory earning rates, as noted above. This means you can earn more points than usual for a set amount of time or up to a specific spending threshold.

Other promotions may be offered as well, such as greater earnings during a specified time period. Enjoying credit card bonuses like these is key to making the most of credit card rewards.

For instance, you may want to time big-ticket items and other purchases to take advantage of those greater returns.

One important caveat: While offers to earn more rewards certainly seem attractive, it’s wise to ensure that spending is within your budget. That’s because carrying a credit card balance may incur interest and/or penalties that can cancel out the value of any increased earnings. Avoiding interest on credit cards requires paying off your balance in full.

Be Strategic About Redemptions

Given the variability in the value of rewards points, it’s a good idea to crunch the numbers before redeeming. This is especially true because fluctuating prices and redemption promotions can help to stretch earned rewards further. And who doesn’t want to squeeze as much value as possible from their rewards?

•   Get the timing right for your needs. For example, using points to book a $200 short-haul flight may not optimize the value of your reward. But booking that same route at the last minute may be considerably more expensive. In such a case, if you have to travel ASAP, using those points may yield considerably more value.

•   You might also use points for a statement credit redemption. This means the points can be translated into cash that is applied to your credit card balance.

This can be especially helpful if there’s a month where money is tight and you are concerned about meeting your minimum payment. Applying your rewards could help you keep your account in good standing.

•   Be aware that rewards programs may have redemption minimums. This could mean that, say, you need to accrue a certain dollar amount or number of points so you can use your reward. For instance, maybe you have $20 in rewards that you want to use to help meet your credit card statement’s minimum payment. If your card only allows you to redeem rewards when you reach a threshold of $25 or 2,500 points available, you will be out of luck. You’ll need to earn more rewards before you can use them.

•   Also look for redemption promotions or opportunities to redeem for the highest-value choices. This can help you get the most out of a rewards credit card.

Redeeming Credit Card Rewards

Once you’ve racked up some credit card rewards, it’s time to redeem them. Here’s how:

1.    Log into your credit card app or portal. You can usually find your rewards listed somewhere on the main page, though the exact placement depends on your credit card issuer.

2.    Click on your rewards balance. You should be able to see your total available rewards, as well as your options for redemption.

3.    Choose how you want to redeem your rewards. Options for redemption may include a statement credit, a check, merchandise, gift cards, or travel, depending on your specific credit card.

4.    Move ahead with redeeming your rewards. Once you select the option to redeem your rewards, that amount will get deducted from your balance. How long it takes to receive your rewards will depend on how you chose to redeem them.

Do Credit Card Rewards Expire?

It is possible for credit card rewards to expire. However, whether your rewards will expire — and how soon their expiration date will arrive — depends on the type of credit card rewards and your credit card issuer.

•   Airline miles and hotel points often expire (though not always).

•   Points or cash back earned through your issuer’s program are less likely to expire.

•   In some cases, your rewards might even get automatically credited to your account if you forget to redeem them or haven’t used your account in a while.

Check your credit card’s terms and conditions to find out how your credit card works and what the rules are for your credit card rewards.

Once you know the details, you will likely want to stay aware of any expiration date, just as you probably pay attention to when your credit card payments are due.

The Takeaway

Getting rewards — whether in the form of cash back, points, or travel miles — when you spend money is an attractive proposition. However, when it comes to how to take advantage of credit card rewards, you’ll need to do more than just swipe your card. You’ll want to be strategic about earning and redeeming your points to get the most benefit. You’ll also likely want to make sure to max out any promotions that are available.

Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.

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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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