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What We Like About the Snowball Method of Paying Down Debt

Dealing with debt can be a very stressful experience and make you feel as if you’ll never be able to pay off what you owe. If you find yourself struggling to manage multiple debts, the snowball method can provide a practical and effective strategy to regain control of your financial situation. This method, popularized by personal finance expert Dave Ramsey, focuses on paying off debts in a specific order to build momentum and motivation.

Read on to learn how the snowball debt payoff method works, including its benefits, plus alternative payoff strategies you may want to consider.

Key Points

•   The snowball method lists debts from smallest to largest, focusing on the smallest first.

•   Quick wins and a sense of accomplishment are key psychological benefits.

•   The avalanche method targets high-interest debts to save on interest.

•   The snowball strategy builds momentum, though the avalanche technique can be more cost-effective.

•   The best approach for debt payoff depends on individual circumstances and goals, with personal loans being another popular option.

Building the Snowball

With the snowball method you list your debts from smallest to largest based on balance and regardless of interest rates. The goal is to pay off the smallest debt first while making minimum payments on other debts. Once the smallest debt is paid off, you roll the amount you were paying towards it into the next smallest debt, creating a “snowball effect” as you tackle larger debts.

Getting rid of the smallest debt first can give you a psychological boost. If, by contrast, you were to try to pay down the largest debt first, it might feel like throwing a pebble into an ocean, and you might simply give up before you got very far.

A Word About Paying Off High-interest Debt First

From a purely financial perspective, it might make more sense to first tackle the debt that comes with the highest interest rate first, since it means paying less interest over the life of the loans (more on this avalanche approach below).

However, the snowball method focuses on the psychological aspect of debt repayment. By starting with the smallest debt, you experience quick wins and a sense of accomplishment right away. This early success can then motivate you to continue the debt repayment journey. In addition, paying off smaller debts frees up cash flow, allowing you to put more money towards larger debts later.

Recommended: How to Get Out of $10,000 in Credit Card Debt

Making Minimum Payments Doesn’t Equal Minimum Payoff Time

While you may feel like you’re making progress by paying the minimum balance on your debts, this approach can lead to a prolonged payoff timeline. The snowball method encourages you to pay more than the minimum on your smallest debt, accelerating the repayment process. Over time, as you pay off each debt, the amount you can allocate towards the next debt grows, increasing your progress.

The Snowball Plan, Step By Step

Here’s a step-by-step guide to implementing the snowball method.

1. List all debts from smallest to largest. You want to list them by the total amount owed, not the interest rates. If two debts have similar totals, place the debt with the higher interest rate first.

2. Make minimum payments. Continue making at least minimum payments on all debts except the smallest one.

3. Attack the smallest debt. Put any extra money you can towards paying off the smallest debt while still making your payments on others.

4. Roll the snowball. Once the smallest debt is paid off, take the amount you were paying towards it and add it to the minimum payment of the next smallest debt.

5. Repeat and accelerate. Repeat this process, attacking one debt at a time, until all debts are paid off.

A Word About Principal Reduction

It’s a good idea to reach out to your creditors and lenders and find out how they apply extra payments to a debt (they don’t all do it the same way). You’ll want to make sure that any additional payments you make beyond the minimum are applied to the principal balance of the debt. This will help reduce the overall interest you pay and expedite the debt payoff process.

Recommended: Personal Loan Calculator

Perks of the Snowball Method

The snowball method offers several advantages:

•   Motivation and momentum The quick wins and sense of progress provide motivation to continue the debt repayment journey.

•   Simplification Focusing on one debt at a time simplifies the process, making it easier to track and manage.

•   Increased cash flow As each debt is paid off, the money previously allocated to it becomes available to put towards the next debt, accelerating the payoff timeline.

Alternatives to the Snowball Method

While the snowball method has proven effective for many, it’s not the only debt repayment strategy available. Here are three alternative methods you may want to consider.

The Avalanche Method

The avalanche method involves making a list of all your debts in order of interest rate. The first debt on your list should be the one with the highest interest rate. You then pay extra on that first debt, while continuing to pay at least the minimum on all the others. When you fully pay off that first debt, you apply your extra payment to the debt with the next highest interest rate, and so on.

This method can potentially save more on interest payments in the long run. However, it requires discipline and may take longer to see significant progress compared to the snowball method.

The Debt Snowflake Method

The debt snowflake method is a debt repayment method you can use on its own or in conjunction with other approaches (like the snowball or avalanche method). The snowflake approach involves finding extra income through a part-time job or side gig, selling items, and/or cutting expenses and then putting that extra money directly toward debt repayment. While each “snowflake” may not have a significant impact on your debt, they can accumulate over time and help you become free of high-interest debt.

Debt Consolidation

If the snowball, avalanche, or snowflake methods seem overwhelming, you might want to consider combining your debts into one simple monthly payment that doesn’t require any strategizing. Known as debt consolidation, you may be able to do this by taking out a personal loan and using it to pay off your debts. You then only have one balance and one payment and, ideally, a lower interest rate, which can help you save money.

Often called debt consolidation loans, these loans provide a lump sum of cash, usually at a fixed interest rate and are repayable in one to seven years.

Recommended: How Refinancing Credit Card Debt Works

The Takeaway

The snowball method offers a practical and motivational approach to paying down debt. By starting with small debts and building momentum, you can gain control of your finances and work towards becoming debt-free. It can be a good way to take action and commit to a debt repayment strategy. If it doesn’t suit you, you might consider the avalanche or snowflake method or a personal loan to consolidate debt.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.


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

FAQ

What is the snowball method of paying down debt?

With the snowball method of paying down debt, you prioritize paying off the smallest balance first, no matter what its interest rate is. Once that debt is paid off, you prioritize the next smallest debt.

What is the disadvantage of using the debt snowball method?

The disadvantage of the debt snowball method is that, by prioritizing the lowest amount of debt, you may not be paying off the debt with the highest interest rate first. This means your most expensive debt could continue to grow as you pay off smaller debts.

What is the advantage of the debt snowball method?

By tackling the smallest debt first, regardless of interest rate, you can get a psychological boost from successfully paying that off and then build momentum for getting rid of your other debt.



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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.

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

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Savings Goals by Age: Smart Financial Targets by Age Group

Mapping out your financial future can be daunting, especially if you only have a vague sense of what you want to accomplish.

It can be useful to consider financial milestones to help you chart your journey from college graduation through retirement. Here’s a look at some common savings goals by age to help you orient yourself and build a plan.

Key Points

•   In your 20s, consider prioritizing paying off high-interest debt, building an emergency fund with three to six months’ expenses, and starting to save for retirement.

•   In your 30s, you may prioritize saving for a home down payment, increasing retirement contributions, and setting up a 529 college plan for children.

•   In your 40s, think about growing your emergency fund, protecting assets with insurance, and continuing to save for retirement.

•   In your 50s, take advantage of catch-up contributions to increase retirement savings and consider paying off or refinancing your mortgage.

•   In your 60s, you may continue to fund retirement accounts, assess savings, and plan a retirement income strategy.

Savings Goals for Your 20s

In your 20s, people are often just out of school, starting a career, and getting their life in order. As if that weren’t enough, they may face challenges like student loan debt or credit debt. Now is the time to set financial goals, consider an investment strategy, and start building healthy financial habits.

Paying Off High Interest Debt

If you have any high-interest debt — typically debts close to 8% or more — you might focus on paying it off. High-interest payments can cost you a lot over the life of a loan.

Credit cards, which often allow minimum payments that are much less than the total balance due, can be particularly costly as interest on the balance accrues. The more money going toward high-interest debt, the less you can focus on your savings goals.

Building Emergency Savings

At this age, people are often just getting on their own feet and might not have a lot of extra cash to stock away. Establishing a rainy day fund can be a useful savings goal. Generally, emergency funds contain at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses.

This fund can help cover emergencies like unexpectedly needing to replace a car transmission, a trip to urgent care, or losing your income. Since you never know when you’ll need to access your emergency fund, consider saving it in an easily accessible vehicle, such as a high-yield savings account.

Putting your money into interest-bearing accounts can help your money grow exponentially over time through the power of compound interest. Compound interest allows you to earn interest on the interest you earn as well as the principal, so higher interest rates can translate into higher savings over time.

Recommended: Planning your emergency fund? Our emergency fund calculator can assist you in setting the right target.

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*Earn up to 4.30% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on SoFi Savings with a 0.70% APY Boost (added to the 3.60% APY as of 11/12/25) for up to 6 months. Open a new SoFi Checking & Savings account and enroll in SoFi Plus by 1/31/26. Rates variable, subject to change. Terms apply here. SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

Saving for Retirement

The earlier you start investing for retirement, the longer you can take advantage of the returns you may earn on your investments.

Compound returns refers to the gains investors may see on both their initial investments and any profits they may generate, assuming they’re reinvested. Unlike compound interest, the rate of return on investments can vary significantly depending on market performance, and investors may experience losses on their initial principal, as well. Over the long-term, however, a well-diversified portfolio has the potential to see substantial growth, and this is true of investments in retirement plans, as well.

Consider taking advantage of any retirement accounts your employers offer, such as a 401(k). If your employer doesn’t offer a retirement plan, there are other options, such as setting up an individual retirement account (IRA), where you can save for retirement in a tax-advantaged way on your own.

Savings Goals for Your 30s

In your 30s, people are often more settled into a career path and may be thinking about other goals, such as purchasing a house or having kids.

More Saving for Retirement

As your income grows and retirement gets a little bit closer, consider increasing the amount you’re setting aside for retirement. If your employer offers a match to your 401(k) contributions, taking advantage of the match can be a wise move, since this is essentially free money.

Buying a Home

If you’re thinking about buying a home, you’ll want to focus on saving for a down payment. The amount you will need to save will depend on housing prices in the area where you’re looking to buy. A larger down payment can make it easier to secure a mortgage, and can also mean that you pay less interest over the life of the loan.

Also, lenders may require borrowers to have mortgage insurance if they’re making a down payment smaller than 20%, which is an added expense to the home-buying process.

Setting up College Funds

If you have children, another consideration is saving for their college education. One way you can do this is to open a 529 college savings plan that helps you save for your child’s tuition and other education-related expenses. Just be sure not to neglect other long-term goals, such as retirement, while saving for your child’s college education.

Savings Goals for Your 40s

As you enter your forties, you are likely entering your highest earning years. If you have your high-interest debts behind you, you can devote your attention to building your net worth.

Keeping an Eye on Your Emergency Fund

The amount of money you needed to cover six months’ worth of expenses in your 20s is likely far less than what you need now, especially if you have a mortgage to pay and children to support. You’ll want to make sure that your emergency fund grows with you.

Protecting Your Assets

Now that you may have a more substantial income and own some valuable things, such as a home and a car, you’ll want to make sure you protect those assets with adequate insurance. Home and auto insurance protect you in the event that something happens to your house or your car.

You may also want to consider getting life insurance if you haven’t already. This can provide a cash cushion to help your family replace your income or cover other expenses should you die. The younger you are when you purchase life insurance, generally the less expensive it will be.

Savings Goals for Your 50s

In your 50s, you’re likely still in your top earning years. You may still be paying off your mortgage, and your kids may now be preparing for college or out of the house.

Taking a Closer Look at Retirement Savings

As retirement age approaches, you’ll want to continue contributing as much as you can to your retirement account. When you turn 50, you are eligible to make catch-up contributions to your 401(k) and IRAs.

These contributions provide an opportunity to boost your retirement savings if you haven’t been able to save as much as you hoped up to this point. Even if you have been meeting your savings goals, the contributions allow you to throw some weight behind your savings and take full advantage of tax-advantaged accounts in the decade before you may retire.

Continuing to Pay Off a Mortgage

If you think your monthly mortgage payments may be too high to manage on a fixed income, you might consider paying off or refinancing your mortgage before you retire.

Goals for Your 60s

As you enter your 60s, you may be nearing your retirement. However, when it comes to saving, you don’t have to slow down. As long as you are earning income, you might want to keep funding your retirement accounts.

Thinking Long-Term

Now is a good time to assess how much you have saved for retirement and perhaps adjust what you are contributing (based on how much you’ve already put aside and how much you can afford). At the same time, you may want to plan out a retirement income strategy to determine when you’ll start withdrawing funds and how much you’ll take each month or year. You’ll also want to decide when to take Social Security retirement benefits. Delaying benefits until age 70 could increase the monthly payments you receive.

The Takeaway

Everyone’s personal timeline is different. The milestones you hit and when you hit them may vary depending on your personal situation. For example, someone graduating from college with $50,000 in student loan debt is at a very different starting point than someone who graduates with no debt. And while someone might be able to buy a house in their early 30s, others may live in a more expensive area and need more time to save.

No matter your starting point and situation, a simple way to manage your finances at any age is to open a checking and savings account where you can spend, save, and earn all in one product.

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 3.60% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

What primary savings goal should I focus on in my 20s?

The top priority in your 20s is building a solid financial foundation. This may mean creating a plan to pay off high-interest debt, establishing an emergency fund that can cover three to six months of living expenses if a financial emergency arises, and starting to save for retirement.

What are the benefits of starting to save for retirement early?

Starting to save for retirement early allows you to take full advantage of compound returns. While all investments are subject to the risk of loss, compound returns may lead to substantial growth over the long term. Even small contributions can grow significantly over decades, making it easier to meet your retirement goals.

Besides retirement, what other major savings goals should I consider?

Beyond retirement, important financial goals include building an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses, saving for a down payment on a home, and setting aside funds for children’s college education. It’s also wise to regularly review insurance coverage to help protect your assets.

What should I consider when planning my retirement income strategy?

The first step in planning your retirement income strategy is to assess how much you have saved. You may need to adjust your contributions to your retirement accounts or other investments to help you reach your goals. You should also decide when you want to start withdrawing money from your accounts, along with when you want to start taking Social Security benefits.



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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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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.

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

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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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*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.

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How to Pay Off Student Loans Fast: 6 Proven Strategies

If you’re dealing with student loans and making payments every month, you’d probably like to get them repaid sooner than later. Not only will paying off student loans quickly reduce your debt, it can also help you save money.

Fortunately, there are a number of strategies you can use to speed up repayment. Read on for tips that could help you pay off your student loans early so you can free up your budget and focus on other financial goals.

Key Points

•   Making extra payments toward student loan principal can reduce the amount of interest paid over the life of the loan and total payoff time.

•   Strategies for making additional student loan payments include starting a side hustle for extra income and using “found money” like bonuses, gifts, and tax refunds.

•   Employers may provide student loan repayment help for employees; there are also loan repayment assistance programs offered by some states and organizations.

•   The snowball debt repayment method can be used to pay off loans with smaller balances first and work up to larger balances.

•   Refinancing or consolidating loans may simplify payments and potentially lower payment amounts.

6 Effective Solutions to Student Loan Debt

There are different methods of paying off student loans fast — what works for you depends on your specific situation. You may want to try combining some of the following six approaches, for instance, or focus on just one.

1. Putting Extra Toward the Principal

One way to get ahead of student loan debt is to pay more than the monthly minimum owed. There are no prepayment penalties for federal or private student loans, so it can be an efficient method to shrink your debt.

As a bonus, when you put extra money toward the principal loan balance, you’re also reducing the total amount of interest you pay over the life of the loan.

If possible, put some additional funds toward your student loan payments each month. If that’s more than you can afford, you might consider increasing your payments every other month or quarterly.

Just make sure that the extra payments are applied to the loan principal. Contact your loan server and tell them to allocate your payment that way.

2. Making a Lump Sum Payment to Pay Off Student Loans Faster

Another option to consider is making a lump sum payment with any “found money” you have. This could be a tax refund, a monetary gift you get for a birthday or other occasion, or a bonus at work. Use that windfall to double down on your debt.

It may also be a good time to review your spending habits and see where you might be able to find some extra cash. Even minor adjustments like eating out a little less frequently or giving up one of the streaming services you pay for but don’t often use could add up.

When you identify discretionary expenses to cut back, you can add the money you save to your student loan payments.

3. Finding a Side Hustle

Creating an additional source of income and putting those funds toward your debt could also help you pay off your student loans faster.

For example, if you’re crafty, you could try selling your creations on an online marketplace. If you’re a photographer, writer, or editor, you could look for a freelance gig. Or you could do tutoring or dogsitting on evenings and weekends. Once you get your side hustle going, the additional income can be regularly dedicated toward extra student loan payments.

Recommended: 15 Low-Cost Side Hustles

4. Getting Help Paying Off Your Loan

You may be able to speed up student loan repayment with a little help from your employer, your state, or by doing volunteer work.

Getting help from your employer. Some employers offer a benefit called loan repayment assistance, in which they help employees repay their student loans. The employer might contribute up to a certain amount, and the employee may have to work for the company for a specific period of time to be eligible.

Other employers have programs that incentivize student loan repayment. For example, when an employee makes their regular monthly student loan payment, an employer can send an additional contribution toward their loans. The employee’s student loan gets paid off faster, and they save money on interest.

Seeking out Loan Repayment Assistance Programs.. If you’re eligible, a Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP) can provide funds to help you lower your student loan payments. Some states, organizations, and companies may offer LRAPs, especially if you work in certain fields like health care or education. LRAPs often include a requirement that you work in your eligible job for a certain number of years, typically in public service.

Volunteering. Some volunteer opportunities might help ease your student loan debt. For example, skills-based volunteers and frontline workers for the Shared Harvest Fund, a mission-driven organization that’s dedicated to wellness and service, can get help paying for their student loans if they match up with a nonprofit organization that needs their talents.

5. Rolling Out the Debt Snowball Method

There are specific debt repayment methods you can consider as well, including the debt snowball method. Here’s how that works.

First, take a look at your loans and focus on the balances. While you should be making at least the minimum monthly payment on all your loans, the debt snowball method has you put any additional money toward the loan with the smallest balance first.

Once that loan is paid off, you use the money you were paying on the old loan payment amount and roll it over to the next smallest debt. The idea is to continue using this method until all of your loans are paid off. Each time you pay off a loan, it feels like a win that helps you see the progress you’re making.

6. Refinancing or Consolidating Loans

With a refinance student loans, you pay off your existing loans with a new loan from a private lender. Ideally, the new loan will have a lower interest rate, which could lower your monthly payments, or more favorable loan terms.

To see how much refinancing might save you, you can crunch the numbers with a student loan refinancing calculator.

It’s important to be aware that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal benefits like income-driven repayment plans and federal deferment.

If you have federal student loans, you could consolidate them into a Direct Consolidation Loan, with one monthly payment. The new, fixed interest rate will be the weighted average of your existing interest rates rounded up to the nearest one-eighth of a percentage point.

Consolidation can lower your monthly payment by giving you up to 30 years to repay your loans, but a longer term means more payments and more interest. That’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering student loan consolidation vs. refinancing.

The Takeaway

There are several methods you can use to pay off student loans quickly, including making extra payments toward the loan principal, earning extra income with a side hustle, and loan repayment assistance programs. One or more of these strategies could be the ticket to chipping away at your student debt faster.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.


With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

See if you prequalify with SoFi in just two minutes.

FAQ

What’s the fastest way to pay off student loans?

One of the fastest ways to pay off student loans is to put extra money toward the principal balance on your student loans whenever you can. Not only will this help you reduce the total principal you owe, it will also save you money on the total amount of interest you pay over the life of the loan.

Is it smart to pay off student loans early?

Paying off student loans early can be smart. Paying down your debt faster can help you save money overall and reduce the total amount of interest you’ll pay over the life of the loans. Paying off your loans quickly can also allow you to put more money toward your other financial goals, such as a downpayment on a house or saving for retirement.

How can I find extra money to pay down student loans?

You can find extra money to pay down student loans by using your tax refund or a bonus you get at work and applying those funds to your student loan debt. You could also consider taking on a side hustle to earn extra income to put toward your loan payments.

What are some solutions to student loan debt besides refinancing?

Other solutions to reducing student loan debt include paying more than a minimum balance on your student loans whenever you can and directing that money to the loan principal; making a lump sum payment with any “found money” you get, such as a tax refund or a bonus at work; and checking to see if your employer or state offers student loan repayment assistance.

Should I refinance or pay off student loans faster?

Whether you choose to refinance or pay off your student loans faster is up to you — each borrower should make a decision based on their own financial situation. That said, it is possible to do both. Refinancing may help you pay off your student loans faster if you qualify for a lower interest rate, which can lower your monthly payments, or if you shorten your loan term. Just be aware that a shorter term will likely make your monthly loan payments bigger.


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Terms and conditions apply. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are private loans. When you refinance federal loans with a SoFi loan, YOU FORFEIT YOUR ELIGIBILITY FOR ALL FEDERAL LOAN BENEFITS, including all flexible federal repayment and forgiveness options that are or may become available to federal student loan borrowers including, but not limited to: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, extended repayment plans, PAYE or SAVE. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers.
Learn more at SoFi.com/eligibility. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


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

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

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

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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Comparing the Different Types of Deposit Accounts

There are many reasons why you might want to sock away some cash and perhaps earn interest while you’re at it. Perhaps you’re saving up for a down payment on a house or gathering funds for an epic cross-country road trip. Or maybe you’re just looking for a safe place with good rewards to store your paycheck and manage everyday spending.

Whatever the scenario, a deposit account can be the answer.

There are several different types of deposit products, including savings accounts, checking accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), and money market accounts. While they all accept and protect deposits, they differ in terms of how often you can access your funds and the amount of interest you’ll earn on your balance. Here’s a closer look at the different types of deposit accounts, their pros and cons, and how they compare.

Basic Checking and Savings Accounts

There are several different kinds of basic checking and savings accounts. You may find standard accounts, premium accounts, and other variations offered by financial institutions. Here are the pros and cons of these deposit accounts.

Key Points

•   Checking accounts facilitate daily transactions with easy access.

•   Savings accounts are designed for future financial goals and may offer modest interest and limited withdrawals.

•   High-yield savings accounts provide higher rates and may have low or no fees.

•   Money market accounts are savings accounts with some of the features of checking accounts, like checks and a debit card.

•   CDs offer higher interest rates than basic savings accounts but lock up your money for a set period of time.

Basic Checking and Savings Accounts

Basic checking and savings accounts are deposit accounts offered by banks and credit unions. Checking accounts are transactional accounts designed for everyday money management, while savings accounts are ideal for holding money for future use. Here’s a look at the pros and cons at each type of account.

Checking Account Pros and Cons

First, the pros:

•   A checking account typically allows access in multiple ways. You can write checks and get an ATM card or debit card. You typically also have access to online and mobile banking so that you can mobile deposit checks and easily pay your bills.

•   These accounts provide a hub for your financial life: You have a home for your paycheck to be direct-deposited, records of your transactions, and ways to track your money.

•   You’ll usually enjoy FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) or NCUA (National Credit Union Administration) insurance of $250,000 per account holder, per account ownership category, per insured institution. Some institutions offer enhanced coverage, too.

•   You may find an interest-bearing checking account, though the rate is usually not as much as a savings account.

Next, the cons:

•   Many checking accounts pay no interest or very low interest, so you’re not helping your money grow.

•   There can be minimum balance requirements on checking accounts, especially ones with enhanced levels of service.

•   You may be charged accounts fees as well, which can cut into your cash.

Savings Account Pros and Cons

First, the upsides:

•   Savings accounts are interest-bearing, meaning your money can grow, especially through compound interest. However, not all savings accounts are created equal: Some standard accounts pay a very low interest rate. Look to online banks for higher rates (more on this below).

•   Savings accounts allow quick access to your funds. You can also link your savings account to your checking account, which makes it easy to automate savings deposits and move money into checking when you’re ready to spend your savings.

•   These accounts are also typically insured by FDIC or NCUA.

As for the downsides:

•   Interest rates for basic savings accounts tend to be low and may not keep pace with the rate of inflation.

•   You probably can’t access your account via checks or a debit card. You may also be limited to a certain number of transfers and debit card transactions per month. While the Federal Reserve has lifted the six-transaction limitation on savings accounts that originated during the pandemic, many banks still impose some transfer and withdrawal limitations on savings accounts.

•   You may encounter minimum balance requirements and fees if you go below that amount.

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


*Earn up to 4.30% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on SoFi Savings with a 0.70% APY Boost (added to the 3.60% APY as of 11/12/25) for up to 6 months. Open a new SoFi Checking & Savings account and enroll in SoFi Plus by 1/31/26. Rates variable, subject to change. Terms apply here. SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

5 Other Deposit Account Options

Here’s a look at some other deposit account types you might consider beyond basic checking and savings.

1. High-Interest Savings Accounts

Some banks offer special, high-yield savings accounts that can offer signficantly higher rates than traditional savings accounts. Some institutions don’t charge monthly fees for these accounts while others do but will waive them if you meet a balance minimum.

As with all savings accounts, you may be limited in terms of the number of withdrawals or transfers you can make each month.

One good place to look for this type of account is at an online bank. Because these institutions typically have lower operating expenses than brick-and-mortar banks, they can often offer rates that can be considerably higher than traditional banks, and may also be less likely to charge monthly fees.

2. Money Market Accounts

A money market account is a type of savings account that earns interest and offers some of the conveniences of a checking account, such as check-writing and debit card access. MMAs typically offer a higher interest rate than a basic savings account, but generally require higher initial deposits. These accounts may also require a relatively high average monthly balance to earn the advertised rate and avoid account fees.

You may want to keep in mind the difference between a money market account vs. a money market fund. A money market account is a federally insured banking instrument, whereas a money market fund is an investment account. Typically, money market funds invest in cash and cash-equivalent securities. It is considered low risk but doesn’t have a guaranteed return.

3. Certificates of Deposits (CDs)

A certificate of deposit (CD) is a type of deposit account offered by banks and credit unions that provides a premium interest rate in exchange for leaving a lump-sum deposit untouched for a certain period of time.

The bank determines the terms of a CD, including the duration (or term) of the CD, how much higher the rate will be compared to the bank’s savings and money market products, and what penalties will be applied for early withdrawal.

CDs offer different term lengths that usually range from a few months to several years. Interest rates tend to be higher for longer terms, though that isn’t always the case. CDs often require a minimum deposit of $500 to $1,000 to open the account.

A CD can be a good option if you know you won’t be touching that money for the entire term length. If you suddenly need the money, then you will likely have to pay a penalty to withdraw money early from your CD. While you can get no-penalty CDs, they typically come with lower rates than regular CDs, and may require you to withdraw the entire amount all at once and close the CD.

If ease of access is a concern, it might make sense to invest in CDs that feature fewer restrictions around withdrawals. Or, you could set up a CD ladder strategy where you buy CDs that have different maturity dates, ensuring access to funds as your CDs mature at staggered intervals.

4. High-Yield Checking Accounts

Though interest is normally associated with savings, and not checking, accounts, many financial institutions offer high-yield checking accounts. These interest-bearing accounts, sometimes called “rewards checking,” work like regular checking accounts and come with checks and an ATM or debit card.

In return for getting a higher interest rate, high-yield checking accounts often come with rules and restrictions. You may, for example, only earn the higher rate on money up to a certain limit. Any money over that amount would then earn a significantly lower rate. You may also be required to make a certain number of debit card purchases per month and sign up for direct deposit in order to earn the higher (or rewards) rate and to avoid a monthly fee.

The benefit of an interest-bearing checking account is that you’ll always have access to your money and you may have fewer limitations on how you can use your account than you might with a savings account, all while still earning a bit of interest.

5. Cash Management Accounts

A cash management account is a cash account offered by a financial institution other than a bank or credit union, such as a brokerage firm. These accounts are designed for managing cash, making payments, and earning interest all in one place.

Cash management accounts often allow you to get checks, an ATM card, and online or mobile banking access in order to pay your bills. They also typically pay interest that is higher than standard savings accounts. In addition, cash management accounts generally don’t have as many fees or restrictions as traditional savings accounts, but it’s important to read the fine print.

Before opening a cash management account, you may want to ask about monthly account fees and minimum balance requirements. Some brokerage firms require a sizable opening deposit and/or charge monthly fees if your account falls below a certain minimum. Others will have no monthly fees and no minimums.

Time vs Demand Deposit Accounts

When you consider different kinds of deposit accounts, you may hear the terms time vs. demand accounts.
A time deposit, such as a CD, requires you to keep your money with a financial institution for a particular period of time. If you withdraw funds before the end of the term, you may face penalties.

With a demand deposit account, such as a checking account, you may access your cash whenever you like. While you won’t pay a penalty for withdrawing money, you may earn a lower interest rate than with a time deposit account.

Here’s a look at how these two types of deposit accounts compare:

Type of AccountAccessFeesInterest
Time DepositAt the end of a predetermined time periodPenalties for early withdrawalMay be higher than demand accounts
Demand depositYou can access your funds at any timeTypically no penalties for withdrawalsMay be lower than time deposit accounts

The Takeaway

There are several types of deposit accounts, each designed for different financial purposes.
Checking accounts are ideal for everyday spending, paying bills, and accessing funds easily and, in some cases, you may be able to earn some interest on your balance.

Savings accounts are designed for setting money aside for a future goal and earning interest. While basic savings accounts generally pay a low rate, you can earn more by opening a high-yield account at an online bank.

Money market accounts are a hybrid option, offering some of the perks of both savings and checking accounts, and generally pay higher rates than basic savings accounts. CDs also pay higher rates, but require you to lock up your funds for a set period of time.

The best deposit account for you will depend on your needs and goals. You can likely benefit from opening more than one.

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 3.60% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

What are the different types of deposit accounts?

There are four main types of deposit accounts: savings accounts, checking accounts, money market accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs). A savings account is ideal for storing money and earning modest interest. A checking account is used for daily transactions like paying bills or making purchases. Money market accounts combine features of savings and checking but usually require a higher balance. CDs offer higher interest rates in exchange for locking in funds for a set period.

What is the most common type of deposit account?

One of the most common types of deposit accounts is the checking account. It’s widely used for everyday financial activities like receiving paychecks, paying bills, making purchases, and transferring funds. Unlike many savings accounts, checking accounts allow unlimited transactions, including debit card use and writing checks. While they typically offer little to no interest, their flexibility makes them essential for managing daily finances. Many people open a checking account as their primary banking tool.

Is a CD considered a deposit account?

Yes, a certificate of deposit (CD) is considered a deposit account. It’s a savings vehicle offered by banks and credit unions where you deposit money for a set period (or term) and agree to leave it untouched until the maturity date. In exchange for this, the bank pays you a fixed interest rate. A CD is considered a time deposit account (vs. a demand deposit account) because the money is locked in for a set period of time, and early withdrawals usually incur a penalty.


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

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 11/12/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

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

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

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

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

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

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

We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Bank Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.
Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

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Smart Financial Strategies to Reach Your Goals

Almost everyone has financial goals — whether it’s eliminating student loan debt, saving for a home, building a million-dollar retirement fund, or all of the above.

No matter what your objectives are, achieving them generally takes more than just wishful thinking. With the right strategies, you can take control of your finances, boost your savings, pay down debt, and make steady progress toward your goals.

Here, we’ll explore some of the smartest personal finance tactics to help you move closer to the financial future you envision.

Key Points

•   Build and maintain an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses, ensuring financial security.

•   Prioritize paying off high-interest debts quickly using the “snowball” or “avalanche” methods.

•   Use credit cards responsibly for rewards and protection, while avoiding unnecessary debt.

•   Start saving for retirement early to benefit from compound interest and ensure long-term stability.

•   Create and adhere to a budget, allocating 50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings.

Strategies to Build Financial Wealth

No matter what your current income, these seven smart money moves can put you on the path to financial stability and long-term security.

Build and Maintain an Emergency Fund

If you get hit with a large unexpected expense (like a car repair or medical bill) or temporarily lose your income and don’t have any emergency savings, you might end up relying on credit cards to get by. This can lead to a cycle of debt that can take months, even years, to break out of, turning a small bump in the road into a major financial setback.

To build financial security, it’s important to have an emergency fund that can cover your basic living expenses for anywhere from three to six months, or more. So, if you normally spend $3,000 per month on bills and essentials, you would aim to set aside $9,000 to $18,000 in your emergency fund.

If that dollar amount sounds a little daunting, it’s fine to start small — you might gradually build your fund by setting aside $50 or $100 dollars per paycheck in a high-yield savings account earmarked for emergencies.

Consider setting up a recurring transfer from your checking account into this account each month. Over the course of a year, that bit-by-bit approach to saving money can add up to a much larger sum.

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


*Earn up to 4.30% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on SoFi Savings with a 0.70% APY Boost (added to the 3.60% APY as of 11/12/25) for up to 6 months. Open a new SoFi Checking & Savings account and enroll in SoFi Plus by 1/31/26. Rates variable, subject to change. Terms apply here. SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

Tackling Debt Strategically

Debt can be one of the biggest obstacles to reaching your financial goals. High interest rates and fees often mean you end up paying far more than the original balance — especially with credit card debt and student loans.

Take credit cards, for example. The average interest rate for credit cards as of May 2025 is 28.63%. If you’re only making the minimum payment, most of that payment is going toward those toward interest charges rather than reducing your balance. This means your debt continues to go up and you’ll end up paying significantly more (possibly hundreds or thousands more) than your original purchases were worth.

If you’re looking to build a solid financial foundation, one of the smartest moves you can make is to prioritize paying off high-interest debts quickly.

Two proven strategies to help with debt repayment are the snowball method and the avalanche method:

•   The Snowball Method: Focus on paying off your smallest debts first, regardless of the interest rate. Once the smallest balance is paid off, roll that payment into the next-smallest debt. This strategy builds momentum and motivation as you see debts disappear one by one.

•   The Avalanche Method: Prioritize paying off the debt with the highest interest rate first while making minimum payments on the others. Once the highest-interest debt is gone, apply that payment to the next-highest interest debt. This method typically results in paying less interest overall.

While the avalanche method is more cost-efficient in the long run, some people find the snowball method more encouraging because of the quicker psychological wins.

Make the Most of Credit Cards

Credit cards can either be a financial trap or a useful tool — it all depends on how you use them. When managed responsibly, they offer several advantages:

•   Cash back and rewards: Many cards offer 1% to 5% back on everyday purchases or points you can redeem for travel, dining, or other perks. These benefits allow you to save money without making any sacrifices.

•   Fraud protection: Credit cards often include strong fraud safeguards, meaning you’re not liable for unauthorized charges if your card is lost or stolen.

•   Purchase protection: Some credit cards offer automatic purchase protection. This benefit provides coverage for items purchased with the card if they are damaged, stolen, or lost within a specific timeframe.

•   Credit building: Using credit cards responsibly — by making on-time payments and keeping your balances low — can strengthen your credit profile. Keeping old accounts open also helps extend your credit history, which lenders like to see.

•   Balance transfers: If you’re carrying a balance on a high-interest card, a 0% APR balance transfer offer could help. These promotions give you a period — often 12 to 18 months — where you can pay off debt interest-free. Just be sure to pay off the balance before the promotional period ends to avoid steep interest charges.

To use credit cards to your best advantage, aim to pay off your balance in full and on time each month, and keep your credit utilization (how much of your available credit you’re using) below 30% to maintain healthy credit.

Build and Stick to a Budget

Budgeting is a cornerstone of smart money management. It helps you see what’s coming in, what’s going out, and where you can make adjustments.

There are many different types of budgets but one simple framework that can help you get started is the 50/30/20 rule. This divides your monthly after-tax income into three categories:

•   50% goes toward needs like housing, groceries, transportation, and minimum payments on debt.

•   30% is for wants — entertainment, dining out, and nonessential purchases.

•   20% is allocated to savings, investments, and paying more than the minimum on debt.

This approach helps you prioritize spending, manage debt, and build a financial safety net.

You can set up a budget using pen and paper, a simple spreadsheet ,or a dedicated app. Many banks also offer budgeting tools that track spending and categorize purchases automatically.

Cut Monthly Costs Without Sacrificing Comfort

Once you’ve assessed your spending, the next step is identifying areas to trim back. Here are some common expenses you may want to reassess:

Housing: If rent is taking a big chunk out of your income, you might look into getting a roommate, moving to a less expensive area, or downsizing.

Transportation: Consider carpooling with friends and coworkers, taking public transit, and swapping a costly car lease for a more affordable vehicle. You might also save by comparing car insurance providers.

Cable and subscriptions: Consider replacing a pricey cable package with more affordable streaming services. If you already subscribe to multiple streaming services, you might get rid of the ones you rarely watch. Another way to save on streaming is to rotate your subscriptions (i.e., canceling one service and then subscribing to another when you want to watch something specific).

Dining out: Cooking at home can significantly reduce weekly food costs. Consider doing some meal prepping or batch cooking on the weekends and using a slow cooker on work days to make it easier to resist going out or ordering in.

Online shopping: Consider deleting saved payment methods on your favorite shopping sites to add more friction to impulse purchases. It’s also a good idea to unsubscribe from promotional emails that tempt you to spend.

Also keep in mind that you may be able to cut some of your so-called “fixed” monthly costs, like your cell, internet, and insurance bills. Call around to see if you can get a better deal from a competitor, or simply reach out to your current providers and ask for a better price. Many companies will offer promotions to retain existing customers.

If you’re carrying a balance on your credit card, you might contact the card issuer and ask for a lower interest rate — especially if you have a good payment history or competing offers from other cards.

Start Saving for Retirement Now

The earlier you begin saving for retirement, the easier it will be to reach your goal. Thanks to compound returns (when the returns you earn get reinvested and earn returns of their own), small contributions now can grow significantly over time.

Popular retirement accounts include:

•   401(k): This is a retirement savings plan offered by many employers, often with contribution matching (which is essentially free money). You don’t pay taxes on contributions or earnings until you withdraw the money in retirement.

•   Traditional IRA: A traditional individual retirement account (IRA) is an account you open on your own, not through an employer. Contributions may be tax-deductible, and withdrawals are taxed in retirement.

•   Roth IRA: A Roth IRA is also an individual account, but you fund it with after-tax dollars. This means you pay taxes on the money now but the account grows tax-free and qualified withdrawals in retirement are tax-free.

Financial advisors often recommend putting at least 15% of your pre-tax income each year for retirement (this includes any employer match).

Keep in mind that all retirement accounts come with annual contribution limits set by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). These limits are influenced by factors such as age, income, and whether or not you (or your spouse) have access to a workplace retirement plan.

Be Smart About Loans

Large expenses, such as purchasing a house, car, or starting a business, typically require more cash than most individuals have sitting in their bank accounts. Loans provide a way to finance these expenses by borrowing money, which is then repaid over time with interest. When considering a loan, keep these smart borrowing tips in mind:

•   Shop around: Compare different lenders and loan types to find the best interest rate, terms, and fees. You can often rate shop online without any impact to your credit.

•   Understand the loan: Familiarize yourself with the loan terms, repayment schedule, and any associated fees or penalties.

•   Only borrow what you need: It’s important that you only borrow the amount necessary for your specific needs, as borrowing more can lead to higher overall debt and interest payments.

•   Assess your ability to repay: Determine if you can comfortably afford the monthly payments based on your income and monthly expenses.

•   Set up automated payments: Automate your loan payments to ensure you never miss a payment — this helps you avoid late fees and potential dinks to your credit.

•   Make extra payments when possible: Pay more than the minimum amount whenever possible to reduce the principal balance and save on interest.

•   Consider refinancing: If at some point you can lock in a better interest rate, consider refinancing your loan. Just keep in mind that extending the loan term can lead to increased overall costs.

The Takeaway

Smart financial strategies aren’t just about cutting back — they’re about making intentional choices with your money. Whether you’re paying down debt, investing for the future, or fine-tuning your budget, every step you take brings you closer to your financial goals. With the right tools and mindset, long-term financial success is within reach.

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 3.60% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

What are the top 3 financial habits?

Top financial habits include: 1) Budgeting: Tracking income and expenses to manage money effectively. 2) Saving: Setting aside a portion of income for emergencies and future goals. 3) Investing: Growing wealth over time by putting money into stocks, bonds, or other assets. These habits help ensure financial stability and long-term security.

What is the SMART concept in finance?

The SMART concept in finance stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. It helps in setting clear and actionable financial goals. For example, instead of a vague goal like “save more,” a SMART goal would be “save $5,000 for a vacation you want to take in one year by setting aside $417 each month.” This framework ensures goals are well-defined and easier to achieve.

What is the 70/20/10 rule in personal finance?

The 70/20/10 rule in personal finance suggests dividing your income into three parts: 70% for monthly bills and everyday spending, 20% for savings and investments, and 10% for additional debt payments or charitable giving. This rule helps maintain a balanced budget, ensuring you cover essentials, build wealth, and manage debts or contribute to causes you care about. It’s a simple and effective way to manage your finances.


About the author

Kylie Ora Lobell

Kylie Ora Lobell

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




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

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 11/12/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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