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Fantasy Draft Experience at the Chargers’ HQ Form

SOFI PLUS EXPERIENCE GIVEAWAY

Fantasy Draft Experience at the Chargers’ HQ

Act fast to win a once-in-a-lifetime fantasy football draft experience for you and your league.

Two SoFi Plus members will win a fantasy football draft experience at the 1960 Social Club in the Los Angeles Chargers’ state-of-the-art practice facility, The Bolt.

The details:
• Two winners will each get to bring up to 11 members of their fantasy football league.
• Draft day will be August 23, 2025, at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
• Meet and greet a Chargers legend before the draft.
• The winning leagues will also be able to watch the Chargers take on San Francisco in a preseason game.

Winners must provide their own travel and accommodations Hurry and enter now—this SoFi Plus Experience is first come, first served!

Fantasy Draft Experience at the Chargers' HQ

Name(Required)
Are you and your fantasy draft league available August 23?(Required)

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SoFi Essential Credit Card Terms & Conditions

SoFi Essential Credit Card Terms & Conditions

SOFI CREDIT CARD TERMS OF OFFER INTEREST RATES AND INTEREST CHARGES

Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for Purchases

The standard variable APR for purchases is 32.99%, based on your creditworthiness. Your APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate.

Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for Balance Transfers

32.99%, based on your creditworthiness. Your APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. SoFi is currently accepting Balance Transfers from recipients of promotional offers only. We will inform you when this feature is widely available.

Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for Cash Advances

30.74%. This APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate.

How to Avoid Paying Interest on Purchases

Your due date is at least 25 days after the close of each billing cycle. We will not charge you interest on purchases made during the most recent billing cycle if you pay your entire balance (adjusted for any financing plan, if applicable) in full on or before the due date each month. We will begin charging interest on cash advances and balance transfers on the transaction date.

Minimum Interest Charge

If you are charged interest, the charge will be no less than $1.00.

For Credit Card Tips from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

To learn more about factors to consider when applying for or using a credit card, visit the website of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau at https://www.consumerfinance.gov/learnmore

FEES
Annual Fee None
Transaction Fees

  • Balance Transfer Fee
  • Cash Advance Fee

  • The greater of $10 or 5% of the Balance Transfer
  • The greater of $10 or 5% of the Cash Advance
Penalty Fees

  • Late Payment Fee
  • Returned Payment Fee

  • Up to $41
  • None

How We Will Calculate Your Balance

We use the “daily balance” method, including new transactions, to calculate the daily balance on which we will charge interest.

Loss of Introductory APR

We may revoke any promotional APR if you fail to make a payment of at least the minimum payment due within 60 days of the due date. Your new APR will be the Standard Purchase APR.

Variable Rates

Your Daily Periodic Rate(s) and corresponding Annual Percentage Rate(s) will change if the Prime Rate changes. If the Daily Periodic Rate(s) and corresponding Annual Percentage Rate(s) increase, your interest charges will increase, and your minimum payment will be greater. Complete details regarding how the variable rate is determined are set forth in the Cardholder Agreement.

Payment Allocation

We decide how to apply your payment, up to the minimum payment, to the balances on your account. We may apply the minimum payment first to interest charges, then to the balances with the lowest APR, and then to the balances with higher APRs.

If you pay more than the Minimum Payment, we’ll apply the amount over the Minimum Payment, first to the Balance with the highest APR, then to the Balance with the next highest APR, and so on, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

SoFi Essential Credit Card Terms & Conditions

The SoFi Essential Credit Card is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi”, “we”, “us”, or “our”). By submitting this application, you request that we establish a card account (“SoFi Credit Card Account”) for you and any authorized users you have designated. You agree that all information provided in this application is verifiable and accurate. The SoFi Credit Card Account will be governed by the terms of the cardholder agreement (“Cardholder Agreement”), which will be provided when the SoFi Credit Card Account is issued.

Your eligibility for a SoFi Credit Card Account or a subsequently offered product or service is subject to the final determination by SoFi Bank, N.A., as issuer. Please allow thirty (30) days from the date of submission to process your application.

You must be at least 18 years of age (or of legal age in your state of residence). The card offer referenced in this communication is only available to individuals who reside in the United States. This communication is not and should not be construed as an offer to individuals outside of the United States.

Identity Verification

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT PROCEDURES FOR OPENING A NEW CARD ACCOUNT

To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens a SoFi Credit Card Account. This means that we will ask for your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow us to identify you when you open a SoFi Credit Card Account. We may also ask to see your driver’s license or other identifying documents and obtain identification information about you or any authorized user you add to your SoFi Credit Card Account.

Credit Reports

Upon completion of your Credit Card application and submission, you authorize us to request a copy of your credit report from one or more consumer agencies. Upon receiving your completed application, we will conduct a soft credit pull, which will not impact your credit score. You hereby authorize us to conduct a soft credit pull upon receipt of your application. You understand that after evaluating your completed application and soft pull credit report, we may determine not to offer credit to you. If we approve your application, we will conduct a hard credit pull, which might impact your credit score. You hereby authorize us to conduct a hard credit pull following the approval of your application.

You authorize us to request credit reports and other information about you from consumer reporting agencies and other sources for such purposes as: (a) determining whether to issue you a SoFi Credit Card Account, (b) administering, reviewing, and renewing the SoFi Card Account, (c) credit line increases or decreases, (d) collection and other servicing of the SoFi Credit Card Account, (e) offering other products, (f) services, and (g) for any other uses permitted by law. We may report negative information about your SoFi Credit Card Account payment history, like delinquencies, to consumer reporting agencies.

Cardholder Agreement

If you are approved for a SoFi Credit Card Account, you’ll receive the Cardholder Agreement. By activating your SoFi Credit Card Account, using the SoFi Essential Credit Card or making any payment to your Account, you are agreeing to be bound by the terms of the Cardholder Agreement. We have the right to make changes to the terms of your SoFi Credit Card Account (including rates and fees) in accordance with the Cardholder Agreement.

In New York, this Agreement begins on the first date that you sign a sales slip or memorandum evidencing the purchase of goods or services.

Credit Eligibility

To receive a SoFi Credit Card Account, you must meet certain applicable criteria bearing on creditworthiness. Your revolving credit limit may be determined based on the following:

  • Your annual salary and wages
  • Any other annual income
  • A review of your debt, including the debt listed on your credit report.
  • A review of your credit history and other factors deemed relevant by the issuer

We’ll inform you of your revolving credit limit when you’re approved for your SoFi Credit Card Account. Some credit limits may be as low as $500.

About Adding An Authorized User

Before adding an authorized user to your SoFi Credit Card Account you should know that:

  • You’re responsible for all charges made to your SoFi Credit Card Account by the authorized user
  • Authorized users have access to your SoFi Credit Card Account information
  • Before adding an authorized user, you must first let them know that we may report SoFi Credit Card Account performance to the credit reporting agencies in the authorized user’s name
  • A review of your credit history and other factors deemed relevant by the issuer

If we ask for information about the authorized user, you must obtain their permission to share their information with us and for us to share it as allowed by applicable law.

Additional Information

Any benefit, reward, service, or feature offered in connection with your Card Account may change or be discontinued at any time for any reason except as otherwise expressly indicated. SoFi Bank isn’t responsible for products and services offered by other companies.

SoFi Essential Credit Card Rewards Program

With the SoFi Essential Credit Card, you can earn rewards points for purchases made using your card, rewards offered through the SoFi Member Rewards Program, or other rewards offered from time to time, and you can redeem those rewards points for statement credits and other redemption methods offered through the SoFi Member Rewards Program. More details on SoFi Essential Credit Card Rewards can be foundhere.

SoFi Member Rewards Program

As a SoFi Member, you can earn points by using features across SoFi products that are designed to help you Get Your Money Right. When you elect to redeem Rewards Points toward active SoFi accounts, including but not limited to your SoFi Checking or Savings account, SoFi Money® account, SoFi Active Invest account, SoFi Automated Invest account, SoFi Credit Card account, SoFi Personal Loan, Private Student Loan, Student Loan Refinance, or toward SoFi Travel purchases, your Rewards Points will redeem at a rate of 1 cent per every point.

Mastercard World Benefits

You are also eligible for more rewards through the World Mastercard Benefits program when shopping with eligible merchants. More details on the World Mastercard Benefits program can be found here.

Fraud, Misuse, Abuse, or Suspicious Activity

If we see evidence of fraud, misuse, abuse, or suspicious activity, we’ll investigate and, if we determine that fraud, misuse or abuse has occurred, we may take action against you. This action may include, without limitation and without prior notice:

  • Taking away the rewards points you earned because of fraud, misuse, or abuse
  • Suspending or closing your SoFi Credit Card Account
  • Taking legal action to recover our monetary losses, including litigation costs and damages

Some examples of fraud, misuse, abuse and suspicious activity include:

  • Using your SoFi Credit Card Account in an abusive manner for the primary purpose of acquiring rewards points
  • Using your SoFi Credit Card Account other than primarily for personal, consumer, or household purposes

SoFi Bank reserves the right to take action, including but not limited to those actions enumerated above, based on your activity across any SoFi product, as well as external information received from SoFi third-party vendors, external bureaus, or industry referrals.

Special Notices

California Residents:
If married, you may apply for a separate account.

Delaware Residents:
Service charges not in excess of those permitted by law will be charged on the outstanding balances from month to month.

Ohio Residents:
The Ohio laws against discrimination require that all creditors make credit equally available to all credit worthy customers, and that credit reporting agencies maintain separate credit histories on each individual upon request. The Ohio civil rights commission administers compliance with this law.

Wisconsin Residents:
If you are applying for individual credit or joint credit with someone other than your spouse, and your spouse also lives in Wisconsin, combine your financial information with your spouse’s financial information. No provision of any marital property agreement, unilateral statement under Section 766.59 of the Wisconsin statutes or court order under section 766.70 adversely affects the interest of the lender, unless the lender, prior to the time credit is granted, is furnished a copy of the agreement, statement of decree or has actual knowledge of the adverse provision when the obligation to the lender is incurred. If married, you understand that your lender must inform your spouse if a credit account is opened for you.

Additional documents

As a reminder, the SoFi Essential Credit Card is a completely digital product. All written communications related to the card will be online or in electronic format. The following is a link to the SoFi Esign terms and conditions that you must agree to in connection with your application for the SoFi Essential Credit Card.

Read more

SoFi Everyday Cash Rewards Terms & Conditions

SoFi Everyday Cash Rewards Credit Card Terms & Conditions

SOFI CREDIT CARD TERMS OF OFFER INTEREST RATES AND INTEREST CHARGES

Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for Purchases

The standard variable APR for purchases is 32.99%, based on your creditworthiness. Your APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate.

Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for Balance Transfers

32.99%, based on your creditworthiness. Your APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. SoFi is currently accepting Balance Transfers from recipients of promotional offers only. We will inform you when this feature is widely available.

Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for Cash Advances

30.74%. This APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate.

How to Avoid Paying Interest on Purchases

Your due date is at least 25 days after the close of each billing cycle. We will not charge you interest on purchases made during the most recent billing cycle if you pay your entire balance (adjusted for any financing plan, if applicable) in full on or before the due date each month. We will begin charging interest on cash advances and balance transfers on the transaction date.

Minimum Interest Charge

If you are charged interest, the charge will be no less than $1.00.

For Credit Card Tips from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

To learn more about factors to consider when applying for or using a credit card, visit the website of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau at https://www.consumerfinance.gov/learnmore

FEES
Annual Fee None
Transaction Fees

  • Balance Transfer Fee
  • Cash Advance Fee

  • The greater of $10 or 5% of the Balance Transfer
  • The greater of $10 or 5% of the Cash Advance
Penalty Fees

  • Late Payment Fee
  • Returned Payment Fee

  • Up to $41
  • None

How We Will Calculate Your Balance

We use the “daily balance” method, including new transactions, to calculate the daily balance on which we will charge interest.

Loss of Introductory APR

We may revoke any promotional APR if you fail to make a payment of at least the minimum payment due within 60 days of the due date. Your new APR will be the Standard Purchase APR.

Variable Rates

Your Daily Periodic Rate(s) and corresponding Annual Percentage Rate(s) will change if the Prime Rate changes. If the Daily Periodic Rate(s) and corresponding Annual Percentage Rate(s) increase, your interest charges will increase, and your minimum payment will be greater. Complete details regarding how the variable rate is determined are set forth in the Cardholder Agreement.

Payment Allocation

We decide how to apply your payment, up to the minimum payment, to the balances on your account. We may apply the minimum payment first to interest charges, then to the balances with the lowest APR, and then to the balances with higher APRs.

If you pay more than the Minimum Payment, we’ll apply the amount over the Minimum Payment, first to the Balance with the highest APR, then to the Balance with the next highest APR, and so on, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

SoFi Everyday Cash Rewards Credit Card Terms & Conditions

The SoFi Everyday Cash Rewards Credit Card is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi”, “we”, “us”, or “our”). By submitting this application, you request that we establish a card account (“SoFi Credit Card Account”) for you and any authorized users you have designated. You agree that all information provided in this application is verifiable and accurate. The SoFi Credit Card Account will be governed by the terms of the cardholder agreement (“Cardholder Agreement”), which will be provided when the SoFi Credit Card Account is issued.

Your eligibility for a SoFi Credit Card Account or a subsequently offered product or service is subject to the final determination by SoFi Bank, N.A., as issuer. Please allow thirty (30) days from the date of submission to process your application.

You must be at least 18 years of age (or of legal age in your state of residence). The card offer referenced in this communication is only available to individuals who reside in the United States. This communication is not and should not be construed as an offer to individuals outside of the United States.

Identity Verification

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT PROCEDURES FOR OPENING A NEW CARD ACCOUNT

To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens a SoFi Credit Card Account. This means that we will ask for your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow us to identify you when you open a SoFi Credit Card Account. We may also ask to see your driver’s license or other identifying documents and obtain identification information about you or any authorized user you add to your SoFi Credit Card Account.

Credit Reports

Upon completion of your Credit Card application and submission, you authorize us to request a copy of your credit report from one or more consumer agencies. Upon receiving your completed application, we will conduct a soft credit pull, which will not impact your credit score. You hereby authorize us to conduct a soft credit pull upon receipt of your application. You understand that after evaluating your completed application and soft pull credit report, we may determine not to offer credit to you. If we approve your application, we will conduct a hard credit pull, which might impact your credit score. You hereby authorize us to conduct a hard credit pull following the approval of your application.

You authorize us to request credit reports and other information about you from consumer reporting agencies and other sources for such purposes as: (a) determining whether to issue you a SoFi Credit Card Account, (b) administering, reviewing, and renewing the SoFi Card Account, (c) credit line increases or decreases, (d) collection and other servicing of the SoFi Credit Card Account, (e) offering other products, (f) services, and (g) for any other uses permitted by law. We may report negative information about your SoFi Credit Card Account payment history, like delinquencies, to consumer reporting agencies.

Cardholder Agreement

If you are approved for a SoFi Credit Card Account, you’ll receive the Cardholder Agreement. By activating your SoFi Credit Card Account, using the SoFi Everyday Cash Rewards Credit Card or making any payment to your Account, you are agreeing to be bound by the terms of the Cardholder Agreement. We have the right to make changes to the terms of your SoFi Credit Card Account (including rates and fees) in accordance with the Cardholder Agreement.

In New York, this Agreement begins on the first date that you sign a sales slip or memorandum evidencing the purchase of goods or services.

Credit Eligibility

To receive a SoFi Credit Card Account, you must meet certain applicable criteria bearing on creditworthiness. Your revolving credit limit may be determined based on the following:

  • Your annual salary and wages
  • Any other annual income
  • A review of your debt, including the debt listed on your credit report.
  • A review of your credit history and other factors deemed relevant by the issuer

We’ll inform you of your revolving credit limit when you’re approved for your SoFi Credit Card Account. Some credit limits may be as low as $500.

About Adding An Authorized User

Before adding an authorized user to your SoFi Credit Card Account you should know that:

  • You’re responsible for all charges made to your SoFi Credit Card Account by the authorized user
  • Authorized users have access to your SoFi Credit Card Account information
  • Before adding an authorized user, you must first let them know that we may report SoFi Credit Card Account performance to the credit reporting agencies in the authorized user’s name
  • A review of your credit history and other factors deemed relevant by the issuer

If we ask for information about the authorized user, you must obtain their permission to share their information with us and for us to share it as allowed by applicable law.

Additional Information

Any benefit, reward, service, or feature offered in connection with your Card Account may change or be discontinued at any time for any reason except as otherwise expressly indicated. SoFi Bank isn’t responsible for products and services offered by other companies.

SoFi Everyday Cash Rewards Credit Card Rewards Program

With the SoFi Everyday Cash Rewards Credit Card, you can earn rewards points for purchases made using your card, rewards offered through the SoFi Member Rewards Program, or other rewards offered from time to time, and you can redeem those rewards points for statement credits and other redemption methods offered through the SoFi Member Rewards Program. More details on SoFi Everyday Cash Rewards Credit Card Rewards can be foundhere.

SoFi Member Rewards Program

As a SoFi Member, you can earn points by using features across SoFi products that are designed to help you Get Your Money Right. When you elect to redeem Rewards Points toward active SoFi accounts, including but not limited to your SoFi Checking or Savings account, SoFi Money® account, SoFi Active Invest account, SoFi Automated Invest account, SoFi Credit Card account, SoFi Personal Loan, Private Student Loan, Student Loan Refinance, or toward SoFi Travel purchases, your Rewards Points will redeem at a rate of 1 cent per every point.

Mastercard World Benefits

You are also eligible for more rewards through the World Mastercard Benefits program when shopping with eligible merchants. More details on the World Mastercard Benefits program can be found here.

Fraud, Misuse, Abuse, or Suspicious Activity

If we see evidence of fraud, misuse, abuse, or suspicious activity, we’ll investigate and, if we determine that fraud, misuse or abuse has occurred, we may take action against you. This action may include, without limitation and without prior notice:

  • Taking away the rewards points you earned because of fraud, misuse, or abuse
  • Suspending or closing your SoFi Credit Card Account
  • Taking legal action to recover our monetary losses, including litigation costs and damages

Some examples of fraud, misuse, abuse and suspicious activity include:

  • Using your SoFi Credit Card Account in an abusive manner for the primary purpose of acquiring rewards points
  • Using your SoFi Credit Card Account other than primarily for personal, consumer, or household purposes

SoFi Bank reserves the right to take action, including but not limited to those actions enumerated above, based on your activity across any SoFi product, as well as external information received from SoFi third-party vendors, external bureaus, or industry referrals.

Special Notices

California Residents:
If married, you may apply for a separate account.

Delaware Residents:
Service charges not in excess of those permitted by law will be charged on the outstanding balances from month to month.

Ohio Residents:
The Ohio laws against discrimination require that all creditors make credit equally available to all credit worthy customers, and that credit reporting agencies maintain separate credit histories on each individual upon request. The Ohio civil rights commission administers compliance with this law.

Wisconsin Residents:
If you are applying for individual credit or joint credit with someone other than your spouse, and your spouse also lives in Wisconsin, combine your financial information with your spouse’s financial information. No provision of any marital property agreement, unilateral statement under Section 766.59 of the Wisconsin statutes or court order under section 766.70 adversely affects the interest of the lender, unless the lender, prior to the time credit is granted, is furnished a copy of the agreement, statement of decree or has actual knowledge of the adverse provision when the obligation to the lender is incurred. If married, you understand that your lender must inform your spouse if a credit account is opened for you.

Additional documents

As a reminder, the SoFi Everyday Cash Rewards Credit Card is a completely digital product. All written communications related to the card will be online or in electronic format. The following is a link to the SoFi Esign terms and conditions that you must agree to in connection with your application for the SoFi Everyday Cash Rewards Credit Card.

Read more

Side Hustles That Don’t Feel Like a Hustle

This article appeared in SoFi's On the Money newsletter. Not getting it? Sign up here.

Summer is a time to relax and vacation, but it can also be an ideal time to earn extra cash — especially since the cost of kicking back can add up.

In fact, while fewer people are taking on side gigs this year (27% of U.S. adults versus 36% last year,) a growing share of side hustlers are spending the income on fun, according to a June Bankrate survey. Forty-one percent said they’re spending the extra money on discretionary purchases, while 29% said they needed it to make ends meet.

So how can you have a side gig and enjoy your summer? There are lots of fun, fulfilling ways to bulk up your income. Here’s some inspiration for side hustles that don’t necessarily feel like a hustle.

Join the party. From weddings to barbecues, summer is a time for parties — and the business of parties. Joining a catering company can be a fun and flexible way to earn extra income. Many events are on weekends, and you can sign up for shifts that fit with your schedule. Being a cater-waiter typically involves less responsibility than being a server at a restaurant, since you don’t have to take orders and most of the service is done as a team. Whether you’re passing appetizers or buffing silverware, it’s a chance to be a fly on the wall at exclusive events (think: extravagant galas).

Tap into your creative side. If your day job doesn’t give you the chance to use your creative talents, a side gig can be the perfect way to tap into your inner artist. Online freelancing is one of the more popular side hustles, and common roles include writers, photographers, and graphic designers (look for opportunities on sites like Freelancer, Upwork, and Indeed). You can capitalize on your creativity in plenty of other ways, too. If you love to crochet or make crafts, list your creations for sale on sites like Etsy.

Capitalize on your car. You paid good money for your wheels, so try using them to make good money too. Whether it’s delivering for DoorDash or giving rides for Uber, driving-based gig work can give you the flexibility to set your own schedule. Working during peak-times, like weekend nights, can help maximize your earnings.

Become more than a customer. Think of your favorite places to hang out. Is there a cafe that you love to sit in? What about a cozy bookstore, a museum, or a vibey brunch spot? Instead of just being a customer, ask if they have any part-time opportunities. You’ll love your job and maybe even get some discounts or freebies. Another way to become more than a customer: participate in paid marketing research studies, surveys, or focus groups.

Get a workout. You don’t have to be a personal trainer or a tennis coach to get exercise while you’re earning money. Maybe you help folks with moving, heavy lifting, or donation dropoffs. (Look for opportunities on sites like TaskRabbit).

Make a hobby a job. Do you have a passion for uncovering hidden gems in a city that you know like the back of your hand? Maybe you can list a tour on a site like Airbnb Experiences or Viator? Or, if you’ve been studying French for years, why not offer tutoring services? Your source of fun can potentially turn into a source of income too. Not to mention that practically anything you’re passionate about (food, fitness, fashion, etc.) could potentially become a money-maker if you’re able to grow a following on social media.

Use what you’re not using. Consider making passive income by renting out your garage, driveway, or sideyard for people to store things like boats and RVs. You can even rent out your pool on sites like Swimply and Peerspace.

Related Reading

Where to Earn the Most Money With Summer 2025 Side Hustles (Investopedia)

7 Simple Side Hustle Ideas for Summertime (Inc)

Americans Are Downsizing Their Summer Vacations (The Washington Post via MSN)


Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.

SoFi isn't recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.

OTM20250728SW

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5 Ways to Avoid a Financial Storm This Hurricane Season

This article appeared in SoFi's On the Money newsletter. Not getting it? Sign up here.

With peak hurricane season in the Atlantic beginning in mid-August, preparing yourself financially can be just as important as stocking supplies or boarding up windows.

In fact, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicting above-normal hurricane activity for the season, taking care of a few simple things now could help you avoid a financial storm later. (And it’s not just a coastal concern: Hurricanes can cause damage hundreds of miles inland too.)

Here are five things to do to batten the financial hatches:

1. Ensure you’re insured. Standard homeowners and renters insurance policies don’t cover flood damage, and experts say that many properties that should have flood coverage don’t. Depending on where you live, it could be worthwhile to purchase a separate flood policy, especially since damage from storm surge counts as flooding damage. (An online tool like this one can help you assess your risk.) Flood policies are available through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer, and may take 30 days to take effect.

In some areas of the country, a standard homeowner policy can exclude wind-related damage, too, so make sure you fully understand what’s covered in the event you have a hurricane. Contact your insurance agent or check your policy.

Also, documenting your belongings and valuables, including with photos or videos, can speed up the claims process if the time comes. Inventory your furniture and closet, write down any necessary make and model numbers, and if you have expensive rugs, jewelry, or artwork, consider getting them appraised.

2. Prep a financial survival kit. When natural disasters hit, bank branches and ATMs may be inaccessible. FEMA recommends keeping cash on hand and having an emergency-only credit card to cover essential expenses for at least a week. (Dedicating one card to emergency purchases can also make it easier to track reimbursable or tax-deductible disaster expenses.)

3. Plan to be away. Be prepared if a storm forces you to evacuate your home. Automate any checks you still get in the mail (like paper checks or government benefit checks) and photograph or scan items including:

•  Passports, driver’s licenses, and Social Security cards

•  Rental agreements, house deeds, car titles, and vehicle registration papers

•  Insurance cards and prescriptions

Store the copies on password-protected cloud storage services — you may need them for post-hurricane aid and claim reimbursements.

Check out FEMA’s Emergency Financial First Aid Kit for a full list of how to prepare.

4. Stock up now. If you’re getting a physical survival kit ready (think: food, water, meds), try spreading out your purchases to avoid a single budget-busting expense. (You could even go in on a bulk buy with neighbors, then divide the supplies.) Also, if you’ve got a generator, make sure there’s enough fuel in it to last several days and if there isn’t, order it now.

5. Make a cheat-sheet ahead of time. It’s easy to panic during emergencies. To stay grounded, create a to-do list now that you can reference in the heat of the moment. To determine what you would need, imagine a worst-case situation where you can’t use your phone and don’t have power or internet.

•  Compile essential phone numbers, addresses, maps, websites, and apps. Include your insurance agent’s direct line and nearby shelters.

•  Take a moment to read up on post-disaster scams. The last thing you need is to be taken advantage of during a stressful time.


Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.

SoFi isn't recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.

OTM2025072801

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