Feb

2025

23 Ways to Cut Back on Spending and Expenses

By Kelly Boyer Sagert | Budgeting & Goals | No Comments

If you are looking for some relatively painless ways to spend less, read on. There are all kinds of ways to slash expenses that don’t require much, or any, sacrifice. These can include trimming back some of your recurring bills to tweaking your typical shopping habits. You’ll even learn smart ways to avoid the temptations that can lead to overspending.

Ready to improve your cash flow? Here are 23 simple ideas for how to cut back on spending.

Key Points

• There are many relatively painless ways to spend less and keep more of your cash.

• Cancel unused subscriptions to save money.

• Reduce housing costs by downsizing or getting a roommate.

• Use the library for free books, magazines, and DVDs, and minimize streaming services.

• Consider unsubscribing from shopping apps, shopping emails, and following influencers who encourage you to spend money.

23 Ways to Cut Down Your Spending

Ready to start saving money? Pick and choose among these ideas to find the tips that suit you best.

1. Canceling Subscriptions

There’s a decent chance that you are leaking money on a subscription service that you are not getting much value from.

Scan your checking account and credit card statements for things you’re paying for on a recurring basis and consider canceling anything you don’t really need.

That might mean magazines or newspapers you rarely read, online software you aren’t using, and/or shopping services and other memberships that aren’t worth it anymore.

If you’re looking to save money faster, you might cut down on multiples. For instance, do you really need membership at two different yoga studios? Just one might be fine, and you’ll wind up with more money in your checking account.

2. Cutting the Cord

If you’re paying a high price for cable each month, you may want to think about switching to a streaming TV service. This budget-cutting move could save $40 to nearly $100 per month.

Just don’t let that get out of hand. You likely won’t save on streaming services if you sign up for Netflix, Max, Hulu, and a couple of others.

If you are not quite ready to cut the cord, you may still be able to shrink this monthly line item just by calling your cable service provider and asking for a better deal. Research better deals available elsewhere and cite those when talking to a customer service representative.

3. Revisiting Your Cell Phone Plan

Another way to significantly cut monthly spending is to take a closer look at what you’re paying for your cell phone service and exactly what you are getting.

You can then compare this with the competition and, if you see a better deal, call your provider and see if they will match it.

If you don’t see much wiggle room, you might consider going with one of the smaller MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) that lease coverage from the major carriers, such as Cricket Wireless, Metro, and Visible.

Or, if you just need a basic plan, you can look into Consumer Cellular or H2O Wireless, which often offer affordable cell phone plans for individuals.

Before switching carriers, however, it’s a good idea to make sure that the carrier has strong coverage in your area. Saving money is great, but may not be worth it if you don’t get quality service.

4. Getting Into the Meal-Planning Habit

An easy way to cut back on food spending is to make a meal plan and a firm shopping list before you go to the grocery store. To cut spending even more, you can check your store’s weekly ads and plan meals around what’s on sale that week.

This can be as simple as picking a few basic recipes that you want to make throughout the week. You may want to try a meal planning app, such as Mealime, among others.

Not only will this help you avoid impulse buys at the supermarket and ordering takeout, but you will likely be able to buy in bulk, cook once and enjoy the leftovers, and otherwise streamline your budget and your life.

5. Actively Paying Down Credit Cards

If you’re currently only paying the minimum on your credit cards, a big chunk of your payment is likely going toward interest and you may be doing little to chip away at the principal.

Doing this every month can increase the amount of time you’re in debt, and increase the total amount of interest you’ll end up paying. That in turn can make it harder for you to plump up your savings account.

If you can swing it, consider putting more than the minimum payment towards your bill each month. This can help you pay off credit cards faster, so you’re not spending so much money on interest.

6. Renewing Your Library Card

How else to cut back on spending? If you’re a reader and love books, a fun and easy way to cut your spending is to fish out that old library card, or if you don’t have one, stop into your local branch and apply for a card.

The library can be a great resource for more than books. For example, you can often access magazines, newspapers, DVDs, music, as well as free passes to local museums. There are also services on your computer and phone that let you stream digital media; check out Kanopy and Hoopla, for instance.

7. Carrying Cash

There’s something about using plastic that can make it feel like you are not really spending money.

That’s why an effective way to cut back on spending is to take out enough cash at the beginning of the week to cover your daily expenses for that week and then leaving your credit and debit cards at home.

Or, you might try the envelope system (a budgeting method), where you designate an envelope for each expense category, then put enough cash inside to get you through the week. When you run out, you can’t spend anymore.

Using cash can also help you become more aware of and intentional with your purchases. You see exactly what you are spending as you go through your day.

8. Eliminating Bank Fees

How to cut back on expenses can involve taking a look at just what fees your bank may be charging for your checking and savings accounts.

They might include service fees, maintenance fees, ATM fees (if you don’t use their in-network machines), minimum balance fees, overdraft or insufficient funds fees, and/or transaction fees. And all those charges can eat away at your funds.

You may be able to cut your monthly spending by switching to a less expensive bank, which could mean an online bank, which tends to offer low or no fees.

9. Clicking Unsubscribe

Do your favorite retailers fill your inbox with tempting sales alerts, whether that’s 75% off, buy-one-get-one offers, or free shipping? One effective way to cut back on spending is to get off their email lists.

Sales and great deals are happening all the time, but generally the best time to purchase something is when you really need it.

If the enticement to spend doesn’t constantly land in your inbox, you’ll be less likely to click through and buy.

Recommended: How to Deposit a Check

10. Consider a 30-Day Spending Freeze

One quick way to change your spending habits is to put yourself on a 30-day nonessential spending freeze.

Or, if that seems too tall an order, you might pick a category (such as clothing or wine) to stop spending on for a month.

A spending freeze can immediately pay off, by leaving more money in the bank (or fewer bills) at the end of the month. And, once you start seeing the payoff of not giving in to impulse buying, you may find yourself spending less even after the freeze is over.

11. Keeping Your Tires Properly Inflated

A simple way to cut weekly spending on gas is to stop into a local station that offers free air once a month, and do a quick air pressure check on your car tires. If they aren’t inflated to the optimal PSI, you’ll want to fill each one to the maximum recommended amount (as stated on the tire or in your manual).

Here’s why: You can improve your vehicle’s gas mileage by an average of 0.6% and up to 3% with proper tire pressure. Which means you’re saving money on gas.

12. Working Out at Home

Instead of paying for a monthly gym membership, consider free exercise options, such as going for a walk, run, or bike ride around your neighborhood.

You can also find at-home cardio routines, resistance workouts, yoga classes and more for free online (YouTube is a great source). If you’re missing the social aspect of the gym, you always invite friends or neighbors over to work out with you.

There are also a number of free workout apps that can help keep you motivated, such as 7 Minute Workout, Freeletics, and Nike Training Club, among others.

13. Saving Before You Spend

One of the best ways to cut monthly spending is to siphon off some savings before you even have a chance to spend it. Many experts suggest 20% of your take-home pay, as is outlined in the 50/30/20 budget rule.

You can do this by automating your savings. This can mean you set up an automatic transfer from checking to put money in a high-yield savings account on the same day each month, possibly right after your paycheck gets deposited.

And it’s fine to start small. Whatever the amount, since it’s happening every month, it will build up before you know it.

Recommended: 50/30/20 Budget Calculator

14. Turning Clutter Into Cash

If you’re thinking of hiring a company to haul away stuff you no longer want or need, think twice. It can be easy to sell your unwanted items. There are dozens of places to sell your stuff, thanks to sites such as ThredUp, Poshmark, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace. Or you could host a yard or stoop sale (just make sure to check if you need a permit).

15. Reviewing Home and Auto Insurance

Here’s another way to cut back on spending: Review your insurance payments. You may be able to considerably cut your costs by taking some time to shop around and compare prices.

Many insurance companies also offer a discount if you bundle your homeowners and auto policies together. If you currently use two separate insurers, it can be worth asking what kind of discount each would offer if you bundled the policies together.

And you don’t have to wait until your current policy is up for renewal to change insurance providers. With most companies, you can leave at any time without having to pay for the remainder of the policy. If you find a better deal, you can also give your current insurer a chance to match their quote.

16. Drinking More Water

Getting plenty of water can not only help you stay healthy, but it can also help you cut back on spending.

When you’re food shopping, for instance, you can skip over sodas and even bottled water in exchange for free tap water at home. (If you don’t like the taste of your tap water, consider getting a pitcher with a water filter.) Dining out? You can save by ordering water instead of pricey beverages.

17. Using Apps to Earn Cash Back

You can cut your spending even after you’ve made your purchases by keeping track of your receipts and using a cash back app, such as Ibotta, Fetch Rewards, or Shopkick.

While each app works a little differently, you can generally use cash back apps to download digital coupons, purchase specific items, and then scan receipts to claim your cash back.

You may also be able to add your store loyalty card number and avoid the need to submit a receipt.

18. Shutting off the Lights

A super easy way to cut monthly spending is to simply turn off the lights whenever you leave a room or leave your home. You may not notice the impact immediately, but the savings on energy costs can add up over time.

It can also be helpful to unplug any unused electronics and chargers that aren’t in use.

19. Cutting Back on Bigger Expenses

If you’re looking to have more money after paying bills, you may want to address the biggest expenses in your overall budget. For instance, in terms of housing, you might consider downsizing, moving to a more affordable area, or getting a roommate. This could significantly reduce your monthly expenses.

Also take a look at car payments, if you have them. If they account for more than 10% of your take-home pay, consider trading in your car for one with a lower monthly payment. Or, you might want to think about buying a less expensive vehicle with cash.

20. Unfollowing Social Media Influencers Pushing Products

If you, like many people, shop from social media because you see new products being promoted, you may want to unfollow those accounts. That FOMO (fear of missing out) feeling can be powerful when you see an influencer pushing new kitchen gadgets, comfy socks, or other products. By eliminating that temptation, you can cut back on spending.

21. Uninstalling Shopping Apps on Your Phone

Shopping apps can be hugely convenient; maybe too convenient. If you find that apps encourage you to one-click your way to too many products and credit card charges, delete them. You can always reinstall them later if you have more wiggle room in your budget.

22. Buying Used and Second-Hand

A fun and frugal way to shop can be buying used and second-hand. You might hit a local thrift store for clothes, cookware, and other items. Check out a local library’s book sale for new reading material, and if you need a new kitchen appliance, see what major retailers have in their “open box” section (items that were returned with minimal or no use or perhaps floor models).

23. Do Some Bulk Buying

Check out the deals to be had by buying in bulk. That can mean joining a wholesale club, like Costco, or shopping at a local grocery store that has grains, nuts, and pasta sold from large containers to help you save at the cash register.

If you don’t have room to store, say, a pack of 12 cereal boxes or 24 rolls of paper towel, split purchases with a friend or two. You can all cut back on expenses that way.

The Takeaway

Cutting back on spending doesn’t have to involve a complete overhaul of your lifestyle. You can focus on lowering your recurring expenses (housing, insurance, utilities) and also cut back on unnecessary spending, especially impulse buys. If you pay with cash, delete shopping apps, and unsubscribe to marketing emails, you may find there’s a lot more breathing room in your budget. And you might be able to stash more cash and earn interest.

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 3.80% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

How do I cut back on unnecessary spending?

Often, a mix of two tactics can help you cut back on unnecessary spending. First, look at how to reduce recurring basic bills, such as dropping a streaming channel or two, lowering your car insurance, and avoiding excessive banking fees. Next, tackle daily spending. You might reduce your daily latte habit, and look for free concerts and museum nights in your area vs. pricey entertainment. Also: Don’t let yourself give in to marketing ploys, like “buy one, get one” and free shipping, which can encourage you to overspend.

How can I drastically cut my spending?

To drastically cut your spending, try creating and sticking to a budget and using cash instead of credit so you are less likely to ring up debt. Also consider deleting shopping apps, emails, and influencer accounts that encourage you to shop, and putting yourself on a one-month shopping freeze, meaning no purchases except true necessities.

How do I mentally stop spending money?

If you are overspending, think about your triggers. Do you shop when bored or as a weekend activity? Find other ways to fill your time, whether that means reading or taking up a sport. You might also try the 30-day rule, which means that if there’s something you feel you must have, you might make a note of it in your calendar for 30 days in the future. Don’t buy it unless 30 days later you still feel it’s vital. Such feelings often dissipate over time.

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Feb

2025

7 Different Types of Budgeting Methods

By Janet Siroto | Budgeting & Goals, money | No Comments

Budgets come in all shapes and sizes, from the old-fashioned, “write down everything you spend” approach to ones that use streamlined apps. There is likely at least one method out there that can help you gain insight and manage your finances effectively. Once a budget is up and running, it can help you wrangle your spending and reach your savings goals, too.

Here, you’ll learn about such budgeting options as the 50/30/20 rule, zero-sum plan, and envelope system. Everyone’s financial situation is different, and this list is in no way exhaustive, but it can be a solid start to taking control of your cash.

Key Points

• Budgets can help provide insight and financial management by tracking income, spending, and saving.

• Line-item budgets track detailed monthly expenses, aiding in precise financial control.

• The 50/30/20 budget rule splits income into needs, wants, and savings, promoting balanced financial management.

• The envelope system uses cash for categories, making it easier to manage and reduce spending, which the zero-sum budget assigns every dollar a purpose.

• Tech tools, including those provided by financial institutions, can also play a role in effective budget management.

1. Line-Item Budget

A line-item budget is what you may first imagine when you think of a “typical” type of budgeting. You know the kind: a spreadsheet that lists out each expense by category. The goal with a line-item budget is to keep track of monthly expenditures so they don’t exceed spending targets.

Often, you’ll hear the term “line-item budgeting” in terms of business accounting. Businesses use this technique to track cash inflows and outflows. In your own personal budget, it might help you to do the same, keeping track of the money coming into your checking account and going out.

You can set up a line-item budget using a spreadsheet, whether you like to use pencil and paper or any of the online programs available, like doing a budget in Excel. You list each expense, or category of expenses, over a given time period such as a month or a year. As you progress throughout the year, you can compare current expenses to past expenses to make sure you’re on track.

Because a line-item budget is mostly used to track spending and not to prioritize saving, don’t forget to build a savings line-item into your list of expenditures.

Pros:

• For new budgeters, this method is relatively easy to create and intuitive.

• Because a line-item budget is detailed, it can be a good starting place for tracking expenses and can be helpful for those who require more control over their spending.

Cons:

• Line-item budgets can be a bit rigid. They may not allow the flexibility to track irregular expenses. It will be up to the budgeter to make adjustments.

• Because line-item budgets are simply a tracking methodology, they do not necessarily help the budgeter to reach savings and other financial goals.

• Because a line-item budget is relatively detailed, it will be more time-intensive (and potentially frustrating) than some of the other methods.

2. Proportional Budgets

Proportional budgeting is a system where you divide up your monthly income into three categories, based on percentage. One pool of money is allocated towards “needs,” another towards “wants,” and lastly, and perhaps most importantly, towards savings and other money goals.

• “Needs” are classified as spending that is required to stay alive and employed, such as housing, food, transportation to work, and insurance.

• “Wants” are anything that you buy for personal enjoyment, such as eating out, traveling, and shopping for clothes (beyond basic needs). You may also hear these called discretionary expenses.

• The “savings” category encompasses financial goals like building an emergency fund in, say, a high-yield online bank account; retirement; or paying down debt.

It is generally easiest to do this calculation with after-tax figures — also known as your take-home pay. There’s an example of one popular proportional budget below, the 50/30/20 budget, but you can set the amounts per category as you see fit.

Pros:

• Proportional budgets can help the saver think about the big picture.

• This is a simple type of budgeting that doesn’t get bogged down with minutiae. Thanks to its simplicity, it may help some budgeters stick with it.

• Because proportional budgets focus on making room for saving, this budgeting method may work well for those who want to save money but don’t want to count every penny of spending.

Cons:

• Proportional budgeting provides an end goal, but not necessarily a path to arrive there.

• It might not work for someone who needs more help setting targets and identifying problem areas in their spending and/or saving.

3. Paying Yourself First

This no-nonsense budget revolves around one premise: Pay yourself first, and whatever happens with the rest isn’t as important. “Paying yourself first” simply means allocating money towards savings or other financial goals.

Say that you’ve decided that you want to save 25% of your take-home income. You set up an automatic contribution of 15% of your income to go towards retirement, 5% to a down payment fund, and 5% to a travel fund. For the remaining 75%, you’d spend as you wish.

Pros:

• This budgeting method prioritizes saving, which is the desired end-goal for many people. It can help ensure that you stay on track, and there’s money you have after paying bills that can go toward future goals.

• There’s no need to track all expenses, which can make this budget appealingly fast and easy for some people.

Cons:

• This strategy probably won’t work for folks who are not yet ready to prioritize saving (such as those with too much debt to stash cash away for the future).

• Some people may need a tracking technique with more insight into spending in order to save, such as a budgeting app.

• There is a risk of overdrafting if too much is allocated towards saving and not enough towards spending. This budgeting strategy should only be used by those who are not at risk of having a negative bank balance.

4. Envelope Budget

Here’s a different type of budgeting to consider: The envelope budget, a hands-on way to divvy up money and control spending. With the envelope budget, you have a set amount of cash to spend in each budget category per month. The pools of money are kept separate in different envelopes — hence the name.

The goal is to make the cash last all month. Once the envelope is empty, you’ll either be done for the month or will need to take cash out of a different envelope to pay for an expense.

How it works:

• The first step to building an envelope budget is to determine the amount of after-tax income you have each month.

• Next, you’d determine how much you’d like to allocate to each category of spending, such as “entertainment” and “groceries.”

• After that’s done, you’d take cash out from the bank to keep in each envelope. No need to take all your envelopes full of cash with you every day — you can just take what you need or adapt the system to use your debit card, keeping careful track of your spending.

Pros:

• Some studies show that people spend less when they use cash.

• This budgeting method is a tangible, tactile plan to spend only the money you have available.

Cons:

• The budget itself does not address saving.

• Going to the bank each month to get cash can require extra time and effort. (You could, however, adapt this method for debit card use.)

5. Zero-Sum Budgeting

The idea here is to spend every dollar that you have. No, this doesn’t mean spend every dollar on anything you want. Instead, you would assign a specific purpose to each dollar that you earn, whether it’s for savings or discretionary spending.

It’s called a zero-sum budget because after you’ve picked a job for each dollar, you’ll end with zero leftover dollars. The theory behind the budgeting strategy is that dollars without a job will be spent carelessly.

To create a zero-sum budget:

• Start with your monthly after-tax income.

• Assign dollars to each of your non-negotiable bills, such as rent, insurance, student loan payments, and groceries.

• Assess how much money you have left for discretionary spending and saving.

• Then assign where your remaining money is going to go. Specificity can help: For example, say “dining out” and “Netflix” instead of “entertainment.” Say “retirement savings” and “extra payments towards debt” instead of “saving.”

Pros:

• This budget requires you to think critically about every dollar you spend.

• Done right, zero-sum budgeting makes room for savings goals.

Cons:

• Because you are breaking spending down into small categories and assigning a dollar value, this budget requires more effort than some of the other budgeting systems.

6. 50/30/20 Budget

The book, “All Your Worth” by Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Amelia Warren-Tyagi popularized this variation on proportional budgeting, which calls for a 50/30/20 budget. Here’s the breakdown:

• With your after-tax dollars, allocate 50% to “needs,” or expenses like housing, utilities, and food.

• Put 30% to “wants,” which would include things like dining out, travel, premium streaming services, or some new artwork for your home’s walls.

• The remaining 20% of monthly income has an important job: It goes toward savings goals.

Here’s how the benefits and drawbacks of this budgeting method stack up.

Pros:

• This budget gives clear but flexible spending guidelines.

• The 50/30/20 rule definitely emphasizes saving, which can be important to achieving short- and long-term goals.

Cons:

• This budgeting system may not be detailed enough for some people, since it allocates money in broad strokes.

• The 50/30/20 rule may not help identify areas of overspending, which can be an important aim for some budgeters.

Recommended: 50/30/20 Rule Calculator

7. 60 40 Budget

This is a different type of budgeting that also uses a proportional approach. The 60 40 budget is a very general way of managing your money. Here are this budgeting system’s principles:

• The 60 represents 60% of your after-tax income, which is allocated towards the “musts” in life: food, shelter, utilities, debt, and other basic needs.

• The 40 represents the rest of your income, to be allocated as you see fit. Some people like to subdivide this quantity into smaller buckets, such as 20% for non-essential spending (entertainment, dining out, etc.) and 20% for savings.

Here are the upsides and downsides of this plan:

Pros:

• This budget provides a good deal of freedom and flexibility.

• The simplicity of the plan can be a positive for people who don’t like complicated, time-consuming budgets.

Cons:

• This budget rule may not provide enough guidance for those who really need to take control of their finances. For instance, it doesn’t offer a detailed way to track and rein in overspending.

• The 60 40 plan leaves savings allocation up to the individual. That means some people could say they can’t afford to save and thereby sidestep this important path to achieving financial security.

Sticking to a Budget

You now have lots of ideas on different types of budgeting strategies that you can utilize. But next is the hard part — putting theory into practice. Here are some tips to consider as you embark on your budgeting journey:

Overcome Mental Barriers

Having financial discipline and sticking to a budget is difficult. If you are struggling with discipline, you might try these tactics:

• Start by acknowledging the issue. Out loud. You can only fix a problem if it’s been identified.

• Create space for yourself to succeed. For example, put a 20-minute block on your calendar to look over your budget every week.

• Try anchoring the task of budgeting to another activity that you either enjoy (making coffee on Sunday morning). This way, you’ll start to associate the two tasks and think about them in tandem.

Set Realistic Expectations

A common pitfall when setting a budget is to be too restrictive in your spending targets right out of the gate.

While it’s great to have big goals, it is unlikely that you’ll make sweeping changes in your spending just because you set lofty targets. And in fact, missing big targets could be disheartening.

• Instead, try to set yourself up for success by choosing realistic targets for the upcoming months. Increase or decrease those targets as you are able to amend your behavior.

• Celebrate victories as they come. Pat yourself on the back for meeting a goal, and know that success in budgeting comes from making everyday adjustments to behavior.

Consider Irregular Expenses

No matter what methodology of budgeting you choose, there will always be the issue of irregular expenses. Irregular expenses can be both expected, like annual memberships or holiday gifts, and unexpected, like car repairs. Some ideas:

• Find a place for the irregular expenses in your budget as you do for regular monthly expenses.

• Create a list of possible and expected annual expenses even before you build out your monthly budget. That way, you can spread out the cost of large and irregular budget items across months.

• It might also be helpful to build up an emergency fund to help cover for unexpected costs.

Stay Out of the Weeds

Don’t get overwhelmed by the details when budgeting. Some advice:

• Avoid strategies that feel complicated or require hours of effort. You need a budget you will stick with, and that is likely one that suits your style and feels simple.

• Test-drive a couple of budgets to see which suits you best.

• Recognize that a budget is never going to be perfect. And that’s okay! If you are tracking every last dollar and go over in a category or two, it may feel like a failure when it’s not.

Recommended: How to Make Money From Home

Leveraging Technology

For some folks, a pen and paper method of tracking spending and keeping a budget will work best. Others may find this challenging, given how much of our lives have been moved to the computer. If so, you might consider the ways that technology can aid you in creating and sticking to a budget.

There are plenty of apps that can help you with budgeting and make tracking spending and saving easier. There’s a good chance that your financial institution offers one.

The Takeaway

Budgeting is a system that can help you track and manage your money better, which in turn can optimize your spending and saving. There are many different budgeting methods, and some popular ones include the 50/30/20 budget rule, the zero-sum system, and the envelope technique. Take some time experimenting to find the system that works best for you. A good budget and the right banking partner can help you along the path to financial wellness.

Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 3.80% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

What’s the best budget plan?

The best budget plan is one that works for you. In order to choose the best fit, consider your goals and needs. Some people want to control their spending and like a really detailed budget, such as a line-item budget. Other people are more focused on making sure they allocate funds towards savings, in which case a 50/30/20 rule could be a good option.

What is the simplest way to budget?

A basic budget typically requires the following: knowing your take-home pay, evaluating your “musts” (spending on basics like housing, food, and debt), tracking your spending on “wants” (dining out, clothes, travel), and allocating for savings.

What is the 50/30/20 rule budget?

In this popular proportional budget strategy, you divide your take-home pay into three buckets: 50% for the “needs” in your life (housing, utilities, food, debt); 30% for the “wants” (dining out, shopping for clothes and other items, entertainment); and 20% for savings (for, say, your emergency fund or retirement).

SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2025 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
The SoFi Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 3.80% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. 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 (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with direct deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

As an alternative to direct deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant. SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

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

Separately, SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days can also earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. For additional details, see the SoFi Plus Terms and Conditions at https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus.

*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.

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

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

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

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.

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.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, CFP® (with plaque design), and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements.

SOBNK-Q125-028

Feb

2025

21 Facts About Debit Cards You May Not Know

By Jacqueline DeMarco | Budgeting & Goals, Family Finances, money | Comments Off

You may have a debit card in your wallet and swipe, tap, or wave it over a terminal multiple times a day. But did you ever take a moment to think about what an impressive invention that little rectangle of plastic actually is?

Debit cards offer an extremely convenient payment method and are a relatively recent addition to banking services. To learn more about these handy payment cards, keep reading for 21 debit card facts.

Key Points

• Debit cards are owned by over 90% of Americans, with more than 1.2 billion in circulation.

• Visa and Mastercard dominate the market, with Visa handling over 60% of transactions.

• Debit cards evolved from store credit systems, with magnetic stripes introduced in the late 1960s.

• Metal and eco-friendly debit cards cater to premium and environmentally conscious users.

• Potential fees associated with debit cards include out-of-network ATM usage and overdraft charges.

21 Interesting Debit Card Facts

Want to learn some interesting facts about debit cards? These are debit card facts that may surprise you.

1. Over 90% of Americans Have a Debit Card

Recent surveys reveal that over 90% of Americans have a debit card that’s typically linked to their checking account. That’s a lot of plastic! Many people have multiple debit cards. One report noted that there were at least 1.2 billion debit cards in the U.S.

2. Most Debit Cards Have a Familiar Logo

Many debit cards feature the Mastercard or Visa logo, even if your bank sends you the card. This means those two familiar card issuers’ networks can help support the transaction.

Over 60% of debit card transactions are run on Visa-branded cards, making them the most popular of the players.

3. Debit Cards Followed Store Credit

Who came up with the ingenious idea for a debit card? Store cards likely sparked the idea. Before debit and credit cards launched, if someone didn’t want to make payments in cash (or couldn’t afford to), they often had the option to use store credit. U.S. banks actually got the idea for debit cards from the store credit system in the 1940s.

Recommended: How to Earn Passive Income

4. Magnetic Stripes Debuted in the Late 1960s

Magnetic stripes quickly became the preferred method for making plastic cards machine-readable in the late 1960s. In early 1971, the American Bankers Association (ABA) endorsed the magnetic stripe — also known as the magstripe — to make plastic debit cards readable on a machine. This helped usher in a new era of convenience, although debit cards were originally better suited for withdrawing cash from an ATM than shopping.

5. Magnetic Stripes Are on the Decline

Nowadays, magnetic stripes are becoming less popular as new technologies evolve. By 2033, Mastercard doesn’t plan to use magnetic stripes on their debit or credit cards at all anymore.

6. Kids Can Get Debit Cards

While 18 is usually the minimum age to open a bank account, some kids’ accounts come with debit cards. Chase offers a First Banking account with a debit card for those ages six to 17, and Greenlight and Acorn Early also offer debit cards for young customers.

7. Metal Debit Cards Exist

While many of us are accustomed to plastic debit cards, some issuers make them out of metal. For instance, N26, an online bank overseas, offers premium banking clients a card made of 18 grams of stainless steel, in three different metallic shades.

8. Some Debit Cards Are Going Green

Starting in 2023, Bank of America is beginning to use recycled plastic for all of its debit and credit cards. This move is aimed to help reduce the amount of single-use plastics by 235 tons. It’s a good example of green banking at work.

9. Most People Have Daily Debit-Card Spending Limits

There may be exceptions to the rule, but most debit cards come with limits about how much you can swipe per day. These limits are typically between $200 and $5,000 per day, or higher still. Check your agreement with your bank to find your financial ceiling.

10. The Public Resisted Debit Cards Initially

At first, people said a big “thanks, but no thanks” to debit cards. In 1972, a report commissioned by the Federal Reserve Bank in Atlanta found that the majority of the public didn’t support any kind of electronic payments system. Times have certainly changed.

11. You Can Customize the Photo on Your Debit Card

Do you like expressing yourself? Some financial institutions will let you put the photo of your choice on your debit card. For instance, Wells Fargo shows an example of putting an image of a furbaby on their debit card.

12. A West Coast Bank Released the First Debit Card

Debit cards made their debut in 1978, thanks to the First National Bank of Seattle. However, some say an early forerunner was introduced in the 1960s by the Bank of Delaware and should get credit as the true pioneer. Either way, it shows debit cards have been around for a while.

13. Debit Cards May Carry Fees

While you won’t rack up debt and charges the way you could with a credit card, not all debit card transactions are free. For instance, if you use your debit card to get cash at an out-of-network ATM, you might get hit with a charge. Or if you overdraw your account, you might get a fee similar to those incurred when you bounce a check. Check your account agreement or ask a bank rep for details. You may find that online banks charge no fees or lower fees than traditional ones.

14. UK Banned All Debit Card Surcharges

Originally, debit cards in the UK came with fees, such as processing charges. However, in 2018, the UK government banned any surcharges on debit cards which makes it possible to use them for a transaction of any size, even super small ones, without fees being added.

15. Chip Technology Leads to Contactless Payments

During the pandemic, contactless payments surged in popularity. This was made possible by chip technology. With chip technology, consumers can simply hold their debit card over a payment terminal to make a payment. There’s less risk of passing germs around via touch.

16. Chip Technology Doesn’t Require a PIN

Not only does chip technology make it possible to skip entering a debit card physically into the payment terminal, the use of a PIN may not be required.

17. You Can Be Liable for Charges on a Lost Debit Card

There’s a downside to the convenience of debit cards. If yours is lost or stolen, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) you’ll be liable for:

• $0 if reported immediately and before any unauthorized charges are made

• Up to $50 if you notify the bank within two days

• Up to $500 if you notify the bank within 60 days after your statement was issued showing unauthorized usage

• Unlimited if you don’t notify the bank within 60 days of the statement showing unauthorized usage being issued.

Recommended: Savings Account Calculator

18. Some Debit Cards Can Be Used Worldwide

Having a debit card from a well-known issuer like Mastercard or Visa has some benefits. For example, because these two card issuers are so popular, they are accepted as a form of payment in most countries. This can make payments much easier for global travelers. That said, be wary of possible international conversion fees (possibly 1% to 3% of the amount you swipe) plus foreign ATM usage charges.

19. There Were Three Major Players Until 2002

Until 2002, there were three main players in the debit card space. Alongside Mastercard and Visa, Europay was the other big player. In 2002, Europay merged with Mastercard.

20. Debit Cards Are More Popular than Credit Cards

Consumers have the option to use debit cards or credit cards if they don’t want to have cash on them when shopping or if they are shopping online. In one recent study, debit cards were found to be used almost twice as often as credit cards.

21. People Spend Less With Debit Than Credit Cards

While people may use debit cards more often than credit cards, they tend to spend more when using credit cards (almost 30% more), whether purchasing in person or shopping online.

The Takeaway

There’s a whole array of interesting facts about debit cards, from how they were developed to how they are made to how they can be used. What may stand out most among these 21 debit card facts is just how far payment technology has come in recent years and how much more convenient purchasing has become. As a key part of a bank account’s features, debit cards have unlocked new ease when spending.

Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 3.80% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

Are debit cards more popular than credit cards?

Debit cards tend to be more popular than credit cards for in-person purchases, while credit cards are used more often for online spending.

What is the difference between debit and prepaid cards?

The main difference between debit and prepaid cards is where the funds for payment come from. A debit card is linked to a bank account, but a prepaid card is not. Consumers need to load money onto a prepaid card before they can use it. Once they do so, that amount acts as their spending limit.

What debit card is the most popular?

Most banks offer their own debit card, but the majority of these are backed by one of two issuers, Visa or Mastercard. Currently, Visa is the more popular issuer.

What debit card fact is the most useful?

The most useful debit card fact to know could be either that you have a daily spending limit or that you must report a lost or stolen debit card ASAP to avoid being liable for any unauthorized usage. The longer you wait, the more you might owe.

Photo credit: iStock/Daisy-Daisy

SOBNK-Q125-030

Feb

2025

A Complete Guide to Ordering Checks

By Anna Davies | Budgeting & Goals, Financial Independence, money | Comments Off

Checks may not be used as often as they were in the past, but they’re still a useful financial tool to have around. You may need to write a check when making a large payment, gifting money, making a charitable donation, or even paying rent. A voided check can also come in handy when setting up direct deposit at work.

Often, when you open a checking account, you receive a book of complimentary checks to get you started. Sooner or later, however, you are likely to run out and need some additional checks. When that happens, how do you order a new checkbook? Should you order through your bank? Or is there a faster, cheaper option elsewhere?

Key Points

• Checks remain a useful financial tool for various transactions, including making payments and setting up direct deposits, despite declining usage in the digital age.

• Different types of checks exist, including personal, business, cashier’s, and certified checks, each serving specific purposes in financial transactions.

• Ordering checks through banks can be costly, with prices typically around $30 for a box of 100, but numerous online vendors offer more affordable options.

• When ordering checks online, it is essential to ensure the vendor’s security measures are in place, and to provide the necessary personal and banking information.

• Having checks on hand is beneficial for those who may face situations requiring paper payments, despite the increasing prevalence of digital transactions.

What Are the Different Types of Checks?

There isn’t just one kind of check in the world. Get acquainted with these four common options that can play a role in managing your money.

Personal Checks

When people wonder about how to order checks, they are typically referring to personal checks. These are the rectangular documents you usually get when you open a checking account. They allow you to transfer funds from your account to a payee, whether that’s your cousin, your WiFi provider, or your dentist.

When you first open an account, you may get a small number of what are called counter checks, which may not be fully personalized with, say, your name and address.

Later, your fully printed checks are likely to arrive, complete with your name, address, account number, and bank routing number. These checks are not only useful for making payments, but also for setting up direct deposit. A voided check can be used by your employer to route your paycheck to the correct account.

Business Checks

What’s the difference between a business check vs. a personal check? Business checks are similar to personal checks, but are drawn from a business checking account instead of a personal one. If you run your own business, you might use these checks to, say, pay for your office rent or send funds to suppliers.

Cashier’s Checks

Sometimes also called a bank check or official check, this is a secure payment used to make significant purchases.

A cashier’s check requires a teller to withdraw funds from your personal account and then cut a check from the bank to pay the recipient on your behalf.

With these checks, the bank is guaranteeing payment, so there is no chance the check will bounce. There is typically a fee for getting a cashier’s check, often around $10 or $15.

Certified Check

A certified check is a type of personal check that the bank guarantees. When you write the check, the bank verifies you have enough money in your checking account to cover the amount and may place a hold on that money until the check clears.

The bank will typically then stamp or print “certified” on the check. Fees vary depending on which bank you use and the size of the check, but are often in the $15 to $20 range.

Recommended: What Is an Electronic Check (E-Check)?

Reasons Why Checks Are Used Today

In a tap and app world, checks may seem like a byproduct of a past era. Some transactions, however, still require a check. It’s not uncommon, for instance, for some landlords to require a check for a security deposit or for some smaller businesses to prefer cash or check payment.

Here are some of the reasons why checkbooks can still be useful and even a preferred payment form:

• Checks can protect your money. A transfer can be misdirected with a typo, and cash can get lost or stolen. A check made out to the recipient is challenging to cash if it gets into the wrong hands.

• If a check is lost, you can stop payment on the check and reissue a new one.

• A check provides a paper record of payments made.

• Checks can also be a way to verify identity. A voided check (a check you pull from your checkbook and write VOID so no one can cash it) can be necessary to set up autopay or direct deposit, or as a way to verify your address for certain services. (While you can use a check with an old address, it may cause confusion and can be wise to order a checkbook of new, updated ones.)

Of course, checks have their drawbacks too.

• There can be a significant delay between the day you write a check and the day it gets processed, which could cause you to accidentally overdraw your account if you don’t keep careful records.

• Checks can sometimes get lost in transit or stolen. Since a check is good for six months, it can be a smart idea to cancel any checks that don’t get to the intended recipient in a timely fashion.

• Checks can also come with fees (such as when cashing a check) and other costs (like having to buy checks).

Fortunately, there are ways to cash a check without a fee. And, if you look beyond your bank when it comes to re-ordering checks, you can often pay significantly less.

Where Can I Order Checks?

Many people will order checks through their bank simply because it’s convenient. Traditional banks will often charge $30 or more per box, though they may be less or even free if you are a premium account holder.

However, you don’t have to buy your checks at your bank. There are numerous online vendors, such as Checks In The Mail and Carousel Checks, as well as big box retailers (such as Costco and Walmart) that offer customized personal checks that include the same security features as bank checks.

Prices range from around 10 to 34 cents per check, and minimum orders might be anywhere from 80 to 200 checks.

But how do you order checks from the best vendor? Because you need to input sensitive information, such as your bank account number and the routing information for your bank, it can be a good idea to make sure you choose a vendor that takes security measures seriously and also that the checks you buy are secure.

Some actions that can help maximize security:

• Making sure the site where you buy checks is secure. A lock image in the address bar of your browser indicates a secure connection and that any information transmitted, such as your bank account info, will be done in a secure manner.

• Choosing a reputable seller. It can be a good idea to vet any company you are considering buying checks from by taking a look at their Better Business Bureau ratings and reviews.

• Considering security features. Some check printing companies offer enhanced security features, including watermarks, hard-to-copy microprint, hologram foil, and thermochromic ink (ink that disappears with heat). These features can add to the cost of your checks, but they can make your check payments even more secure.

What You Need for Ordering Checks Online

When you’re wondering “How do I order checks online?” it can be wise to have some key information ready to complete your transaction. This typically includes:

• Your personal information. This is your name (or the name of your company for business checks) and address.

• Bank information. This includes the name and address of your bank, which you can find on your existing checks.

• Your checking account number. You can find this at the bottom of your existing checks or on your bank statement. Of the three listed numbers along the bottom of your check, your account number will be the second number from the left.

• Your bank routing number. Also known as an ABA number, this number serves as an address so the banking system knows which bank will pay the check. You’ll want to look for the nine-digit number on the bottom left of your checks.

• Check number. To keep your finances organized, it’s a good idea to have your new checks start with the next number in your checkbook series. For instance, if the last check in your last checkbook is 199, consider starting the new set with check number 200.

When ordering checks, you may want to keep in mind that, depending on the company, production time may take a few weeks. That’s why it can be a good idea to order checks well before you may need them.

Recommended: What Is a Voucher Check?

The Takeaway

If you’re like many Americans, you probably don’t use checks often these days. But checks are still with us, and it can be a good idea to always have checks on hand for those times when you need or want to pay by check.

Buying checks from the bank can be pricey though. Fortunately, it’s fine to search the web for cheaper options, provided you take some security precautions. Another option is to open an account with a bank that doesn’t charge for paper checks.

Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 3.80% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

Can you print checks by yourself?

It is possible and legal to print checks at home. However, you will need the tools to do so. This includes: a printer, software to format the checks properly, special paper (known as check stock paper) with security features, a magnetic ink character-recognition font (for the numbers at the bottom of the checks in a way that can be read electronically), and magnetic ink.

How much does it cost to order checkbooks?

When you order additional checkbooks from a bank, a box of 100 may cost $30 or more. Some banks and premium accounts will lower or even eliminate that fee. When you order from check companies or mass merchants, the per-check price can range from ten cents to more than 30 cents per check, with minimum orders typically starting at 80 or 120 checks.

Do I have to order checks through my bank?

You do not have to order checks through your bank. If you want to, you may order from online check companies or merchants like Costco and Walmart.

SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2025 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
The SoFi Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 3.80% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. 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 (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with direct deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

As an alternative to direct deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant. SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

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

Separately, SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days can also earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. For additional details, see the SoFi Plus Terms and Conditions at https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus.

*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 Checking & Savings 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.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, CFP® (with plaque design), and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements.

SOBNK-Q125-010

Feb

2025

9 Tips for Buying a Used Car

By Diana Kelly Levey | Budgeting & Goals, Financial Independence, money | Comments Off

Opting to buy a used vehicle rather than the newest model on the lot can be a great way to save some money. Used cars often cost significantly less than new cars. In addition, older cars are generally cheaper to insure (since they are worth less than new cars).

The process of shopping for, and financing, a used car, however, can feel intimidating. To demystify the process, we’ve got nine simple strategies that can help you find a reliable used car that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Key Points

• It’s a good idea to establish a budget before you start the used car buying process.

• If you’ll need financing, consider getting preapproved for a car loan before you start shopping.

• Researching the car’s history is essential to avoid potential issues.

• Test driving the car and getting it inspected by a mechanic can also help you assess its condition.

• Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price of a used car, as it can often lead to a better deal.

1. Setting a Budget for a Used Car

Before you start researching used cars, you may want to first think about how much you can afford to spend on a car and how you will pay for it.

If you will be paying cash, you may want to consider how much of your savings you can realistically put towards a car. If you don’t have quite enough, or the purchase would completely gouge your savings, you may want to spend a few more months saving up for a car.

If you will be getting a loan for the car, you’ll want to think about what would be a comfortable monthly payment. One rule of thumb is to put at least 10% down and finance the car for three years. You may also want to try to keep your total monthly auto expenses no higher than 20% of your monthly take home pay.

You can use an online auto loan calculator to get a rough idea of how much you might need to spend each month on financing.

💡 Quick Tip: Want a simple way to save more each month? Grow your personal savings by opening an online savings account. SoFi offers high-interest savings accounts with no account fees. Open your savings account today!

2. Getting Financing Before You Start Shopping

If you plan to get a loan to buy the car, it can be a good idea to get preapproved for a car loan from a bank, credit union, or another lender before you start shopping.

While you may opt to go with financing offered by a car dealership, having a pre-approved car loan offer in your back pocket can give you a great negotiating tool. Dealers tend to mark up the interest rate to make a profit, but if you already have a deal in place, they will know they need to beat it in order to get your business.

Even if you’re going to buy a car through a private sale, having a pre-approved loan in place will allow you to jump on a great deal as soon as you find it.

Recommended: Buying a Car with a Personal Loan

3. Choosing Your Ideal Car

Now that you have a car buying budget in mind, you may want to look into what types of cars you can get for that money.

Do you need a truck, SUV, or sedan? You can save money outright by buying a smaller car and also down the line if it’s good on gas mileage. If safety is a top priority, you may want to check out the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Ratings to see which cars perform the best in crash tests. You can also narrow the field by making a list of must-have features, and then searching for cars that have them using a search tool like Edmunds Car Finder.

Once, you’ve narrowed your list to three target models that you can research in more detail. You may also want to read reviews about the cars you’re interested in on sites like Kelley Blue Book and J.D. Power.

Recommended: How to Save Up for a Car

4. Shopping for a Used Car

Once you know how much you can spend and what kind of car is going to be a good fit for you, you can actually begin shopping for a used car. There’s no need to start driving to car lots all over town — you can browse through tons of vehicles online.

Good places to look include: used car superstores like Carmax or Carvana, used car dealerships, as well as new car dealerships (which often also sell used cars, though not always at the lowest prices). You may also want to look at listings from local private party sellers, which you can find on Craigslist, eBay Motors, Facebook Marketplace, and Nextdoor.com.

💡 Quick Tip: Are you paying pointless bank fees? Open a checking account with no account fees and avoid monthly charges (and likely earn a higher rate, too).

5. Researching the Car

Once you’ve pinpointed a vehicle you might want to buy, it can be a good idea to find out as much as you can about the vehicle’s history.

You can get a vehicle history report from a company like Carfax or Autocheck , which can tell you if the car has any red flags, such as reported accidents or flood damage, as well as information on the car’s maintenance and service history. To get a report, you’ll need to get the car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) or license plate number from the seller. There is typically a fee for running a report (around $25) but many dealers will provide the report for free.

You may also want to run the VIN number through the United States Department of Transportation Recalls site to check for any safety recalls. If there have been any recalls, it’s a good idea to make sure that the issue has been fixed.

6. Going for a Test Drive

It can often be helpful to try before you buy, especially when it comes to buying a car. A car dealership will typically let you take a few cars for a drive so you can get a sense of how they feel.

You may want to call ahead before visiting a dealership to make sure they have the car on the lot that you’re interested in so you can see it that day. A private seller will also likely allow you to take the car for a brief spin to see how you like it.

Some things to consider when going for a test drive:

•   How well the car accelerates and corners
•   If the breaks are responsive
•   If there are any unusual noises or vibrations that could indicate a mechanical issue
•   How well the car fits you — is there enough leg room? Can you comfortably reach all of the controls?

7. Inspecting a Used Car

Even if you’re far from a car expert, it can be a good idea to do a visual inspection of the car. Is the car’s body and paint in good shape? Are the lights all working? Are there signs of cracks or water inside the lights?

You may also want to turn on the air conditioning and heating, radio, and navigation system and make sure they are all working properly.

When examining the interior, you’ll want to make sure it is in decent condition and there aren’t any unpleasant smells — a moldy smell can indicate flood damage and cigarette smells can be hard to get rid of.

8. Getting a Mechanic to Inspect the Car

Unless you are buying a certified used car with factory warranty coverage from a dealership, you may want to consider getting a car you are close to buying inspected by an independent auto mechanic. While this does involve an investment of some cash (typically $100 to $200), it can potentially save you from dealing with a costly repair soon after you buy the car. The inspection report may also give you some bargaining power when haggling over the price of the car.

9. Negotiating the Price of a Used Car

It’s rare that you’re going to come across a used car price where the seller is unwilling to budge, even a little. Before you negotiate a car deal, however, you’ll want to have all your research ready, including how much the average make and model car for a particular year goes for, and any concerns or issues that came up during your personal and professional inspection.

If you’re negotiating with a dealer, it can be a good idea to keep the focus on total cost of the car, rather than bring a trade-in or financing into the mix. Dealers may want to merge all of the numbers into one deal, which can be confusing — and also make a not-so-good deal look better.

When discussing price at a dealership, you may also want to make sure you are talking about the out-the-door price, including all fees (so there aren’t any surprises).

Discover real-time vehicle values with Auto Tracker.¹

Now you can instantly monitor vehicle prices in this unprecedented market—to help you make smart money moves.

The Takeaway

Buying a used car can be a smart buying decision. To make sure you get a car that suits your needs and budget, however, you’ll want to research your options, come up with a target price range, and line up financing before you shop.

When shopping for used cars, it’s a good idea to learn a car’s history, test drive the car, and also have it professionally inspected.

Knowing the value of the car in the open marketplace can help you negotiate a good price. If you don’t like the deal, there’s nothing wrong with walking away.

Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 3.80% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2025 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
The SoFi Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 3.80% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. 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 (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with direct deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

As an alternative to direct deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant. SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

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

Separately, SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days can also earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. For additional details, see the SoFi Plus Terms and Conditions at https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus.

*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 Checking & Savings Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.
External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, CFP® (with plaque design), and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements.

SOBNK-Q125-012

23 Ways to Cut Back on Spending and Expenses

23 Ways to Cut Down Your Spending

1. Canceling Subscriptions

2. Cutting the Cord

3. Revisiting Your Cell Phone Plan

4. Getting Into the Meal-Planning Habit

5. Actively Paying Down Credit Cards

6. Renewing Your Library Card

7. Carrying Cash

8. Eliminating Bank Fees

9. Clicking Unsubscribe

10. Consider a 30-Day Spending Freeze

11. Keeping Your Tires Properly Inflated

12. Working Out at Home

13. Saving Before You Spend

14. Turning Clutter Into Cash

15. Reviewing Home and Auto Insurance

16. Drinking More Water

17. Using Apps to Earn Cash Back

18. Shutting off the Lights

19. Cutting Back on Bigger Expenses

20. Unfollowing Social Media Influencers Pushing Products

21. Uninstalling Shopping Apps on Your Phone

22. Buying Used and Second-Hand

23. Do Some Bulk Buying

The Takeaway

FAQ

How do I cut back on unnecessary spending?

How can I drastically cut my spending?

How do I mentally stop spending money?

7 Different Types of Budgeting Methods

1. Line-Item Budget

2. Proportional Budgets

3. Paying Yourself First

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

4. Envelope Budget

5. Zero-Sum Budgeting

6. 50/30/20 Budget

7. 60 40 Budget

Sticking to a Budget

Overcome Mental Barriers

Set Realistic Expectations

Consider Irregular Expenses

Stay Out of the Weeds

Leveraging Technology

The Takeaway

FAQ

What’s the best budget plan?

What is the simplest way to budget?

What is the 50/30/20 rule budget?

21 Facts About Debit Cards You May Not Know

21 Interesting Debit Card Facts

1. Over 90% of Americans Have a Debit Card

2. Most Debit Cards Have a Familiar Logo

3. Debit Cards Followed Store Credit

4. Magnetic Stripes Debuted in the Late 1960s

5. Magnetic Stripes Are on the Decline

6. Kids Can Get Debit Cards

7. Metal Debit Cards Exist

8. Some Debit Cards Are Going Green

9. Most People Have Daily Debit-Card Spending Limits

10. The Public Resisted Debit Cards Initially

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

11. You Can Customize the Photo on Your Debit Card

12. A West Coast Bank Released the First Debit Card

13. Debit Cards May Carry Fees

14. UK Banned All Debit Card Surcharges

15. Chip Technology Leads to Contactless Payments

16. Chip Technology Doesn’t Require a PIN

17. You Can Be Liable for Charges on a Lost Debit Card

18. Some Debit Cards Can Be Used Worldwide

19. There Were Three Major Players Until 2002

20. Debit Cards Are More Popular than Credit Cards

21. People Spend Less With Debit Than Credit Cards

The Takeaway

FAQ

Are debit cards more popular than credit cards?

What is the difference between debit and prepaid cards?

What debit card is the most popular?

What debit card fact is the most useful?

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