Life & Career Archives | Page 35 of 88

Feb

2024

Women and Retirement: Insight Into the Gender Divide

By Pam O’Brien | invest, Life & Career | Comments Off

Retirement is supposed to be a time for enjoying life after decades of work. Yet many women are in a financially precarious situation when it comes to the so-called “golden years.” In a 2023 SoFi survey, 57% of women said they aren’t saving for retirement. Similarly, 50% have no personal retirement savings according to a 2022 Census Bureau Report.

Given that women now outlive men by approximately six years, according to a recent study in JAMA, they need to save for an even longer retirement than their male counterparts. That makes the fact that they have fewer funds earmarked for retirement even more troubling.

Why aren’t women saving for the future? And how can they start financially preparing for retirement? Read on to learn about the retirement gender divide, why it exists, and some possible solutions for overcoming it.

A Look at Retirement Trends for Women and Men

There has long been a disparity in retirement savings for men and women. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, as women get older, their chances of living in poverty increase, a trend that has persisted for at least 50 years, when such data collection started.

Consider the current retirement savings divide between women and men today, as reported by respondents to the SoFi 2023 Ambitions Survey:

Retirement Savings for Women and Men in US

According to the survey of Americans ages 18 to 75, men have a median retirement savings that’s about $40,000 to $60,000 higher than women’s savings. In addition, 11% more women than men aren’t saving for retirement, and likewise 11% more women don’t know how much is in their retirement savings. In fact, 33% of women have less than $5,000 in retirement savings, the survey found.

	Men	Women
Median Retirement Savings	$70,001-$80,000	$20,001-$30,000
% Not Saving for Retirement	46%	57%
% Who Don’t Know What Their Retirement Savings Is	45%	56%
*Source: SoFi Ambition Survey, 2023

This savings disparity typically begins early in adult life and accumulates over time. Employment, marriage, and motherhood all play a role.

💡 Quick Tip: Did you know that opening a brokerage account typically doesn’t come with any setup costs? Often, the only requirement to open a brokerage account — aside from providing personal details — is making an initial deposit.

How Marriage and Children Impact Retirement

Women aged 55 to 66 who have been married once tend to have more retirement savings than women who have never been married, or those who have been married two or more times. According to a recent income survey from the U.S. Census Bureau, close to 37% of women married once have no retirement savings, compared to 41% of women married two or more times and 55% who never married.

Women, Marriage and Retirement Savings*
Women Married Once	Women Married Two or More Times	Women Who Never Married
36.7% have no retirement savings	40.9% have no retirement savings	54.5% have no retirement savings
11.8% have $1 to $24,999	11.8% have $1 to $24,999	11.7% have $1 to $24,999
14.9% have $25,000 to $99,999	13.6% have $25,000 to $99,999	13.6% have $25,000 to $99,999
36.6% have $100,000 or more	33.7% have $100,000 or more	20.2% have $100,000 or more
*Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Survey of Income and Program Participation

In a divorce, some couples may be required to split their retirement savings or one may need to transfer some of their retirement funds to the other, which could be one of the reasons why the percentage of those without retirement savings is lower among women married two or more times than those who never married.

Motherhood and Money

When women have children, they often take time off from the workforce and/or may work part-time, which can have an impact on their earnings. According to an analysis by the Pew Research Center, among people 35 to 44, 94% of fathers are active in the workforce while 75% of mothers are.

Motherhood is also a time when the wage gap comes into play. In 2022, mothers 25 to 34 earned 85% of what fathers the same age did, while women without children at home earned 97% of what fathers earned, the Pew analysis found. The less money women make, the less they have to save for retirement.

Earnings for Mothers 25-34	85% of what fathers earned
Earnings for Women 25-34 Without Children at Home	97% of what fathers earned
*Source: Pew Research Center, 2023

Earning less also affects the Social Security benefits women get in retirement. While men got $1,838 a month on average in Social Security in 2022, women received on average $1,484, according to the Social Security Administration.

Retirement Is a Top Priority for Women and a Bigger Concern

While saving for retirement is the top goal for women, they are also focused on, and perhaps feeling stress about, paying off credit card and student loan debt, according to the SoFi Ambitions Survey.

Overall, women tend to perceive financial goals and success quite differently than men do. Two-thirds of female survey respondents said their marker of success is being able to feed their families. By comparison, one-third of men said their marker of success is being seen as successful, while another one-third say it’s reaching a certain income bracket.

That divergence may help explain why men are far more likely than women to consider investing a top financial goal, which could help them build retirement savings. For women, investing is at the bottom of the list of their financial priorities, perhaps out of necessity.

Women’s Financial Goals vs. Men’s Financial Goals
Women’s Financial Goals	Men’s Financial Goals
Saving for retirement: 45% Paying down credit card debt: 41% Paying down student loans: 39% Continue Investing: 33%	Continue Investing: 52% Saving for retirement: 49% Paying down credit card debt: 33% Paying down student loans: 27%
*Source: SoFi Ambition Survey, 2023

Retirement is women’s number-one goal and it’s also one of their greatest worries. One in five female respondents to SoFi’s survey said they may not be able to retire.

Those Who Worry They Won’t Be Able to Retire
Women	Men
20%	15%
*Source: SoFi Ambition Survey, 2023

That means women are 33% more likely than men to believe that retirement may not happen for them.

Even if they can retire, there is no guarantee women’s savings will cover their expenses. In fact, women are approximately 10% more likely than men to say they are concerned about outliving their assets and having enough savings, according to a report from McKinsey Insights.

Recommended: When Can I Retire?

¹Terms and conditions apply. Roll over a minimum of $20K to receive the 1% match offer. Matches on contributions are made up to the annual limits.

Why Are Women Facing a Retirement Gap?

In addition to the financial impact of marriage, motherhood, and lower earnings, women also experience some additional barriers to retirement saving.

For instance, a report from the Global Financial Literacy Excellence Center found that women tend to score lower in financial literacy than men do. And women with lower financial literacy are less likely to save and plan for retirement, according to the research.

Women also lack confidence when it comes to investing. Only 33% see themselves as investors, according to a 2022 SoFi Women and Investing Insights analysis, and 71% of their assets are in cash, rather than in investments or a retirement account, where their funds might have the potential to grow.

Minding and Mending the Gap

So how can women and society at large move forward and start closing the retirement gap?

The first step is for everyone, across all genders and ages, to build confidence in their financial skills by learning about money, saving, and investing. Knowledge helps create strength and belief in oneself, and it’s never too early or too late to start learning.

There are numerous good resources on retirement planning, to help individuals determine how much they may need to save for retirement and strategies that could help them get there. They can also sign up for financial classes and courses, and they might even want to consult a financial advisor.

At work, employees can participate in their employer’s 401(k) plan or any other retirement savings plan offered. Because money is automatically deducted from their paychecks and placed in their 401(k) account, saving may be easier to accomplish.

How to Start Saving for Retirement

No matter what your age, the time to kick off your retirement savings is now. Here’s how to begin.

Figure out your retirement budget.

To determine the amount you’ll need for retirement, think about what you want your life after work to look like. Do you want to move to a smaller, less expensive home? Do you hope to travel as much as possible? Having a clear picture of your goals can help you calculate how much you might need.

You can also consider the 4% rule, which suggests withdrawing 4% of your retirement savings each year of retirement so that you don’t outlive your savings. That could give you a ballpark to aim for.

Cut back on current expenses.

Take an honest look at what you’re spending right now on everything from rent or your mortgage to car payments, groceries, clothing, and entertainment. Find things to cut or trim — for example, do you really need three streaming services? — and put that money into your retirement savings instead.

Some savvy belt tightening now could help give you a more financially secure future.

Contribute as much as you can to your 401(k).

If you can max out your 401(k), go for it. You’re allowed (per IRS rules) to contribute up to $23,000 in 2024. If that much isn’t possible, contribute at least enough to get your employer’s matching contribution. That’s essentially “free money” that can help build your retirement savings.

Consider opening an IRA.

If you’ve contributed the max to your workplace retirement plan, opening an IRA online could help you save even more for retirement. You can contribute up to $7,000 in an IRA for 2024, or $8,000 if you’re 50 or older. IRAs offer certain tax advantages that may help you save money as well by lowering your taxable income the year you contribute (traditional IRA), or allowing you to withdraw your money tax-free in retirement (Roth IRA).

Diversify your portfolio.

Whatever type of retirement account you have, including a brokerage account, diversifying your portfolio — which means investing your money across a variety of different asset classes — may help mitigate (though not eliminate) risk, rather than concentrating your funds all in one area.

Just make sure that the way you allocate your assets matches your retirement goals and your risk tolerance.

The Takeaway

Women are far behind men when it comes to retirement savings, due to a number of factors, including earning lower wages, and motherhood, which can mean time away from work, costing them in lost earnings. There’s also an emotional component involved: Women are less confident about investing overall.

However, building financial strength, and educating themselves about retirement planning is a good way for women to start saving for their future. Cutting expenses and directing that money into savings instead, participating in their workplace retirement plan, and opening an IRA or investment account are some of the ways women can take charge of their finances and help position themselves for a happy and secure retirement.

Ready to invest in your goals? It’s easy to get started when you open an investment account with SoFi Invest. You can invest in stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), mutual funds, alternative funds, and more. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).

Invest with as little as $5 with a SoFi Active Investing account.

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.

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.

Investment Risk: Diversification can help reduce some investment risk. It cannot guarantee profit, or fully protect in a down market.

SoFi Invest®

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SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below: Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
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Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

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Feb

2024

Can You Write a Check From a Savings Account?

Can You Write Checks From a Savings Account?

By Ashley Kilroy | Family Finances, Life & Career, money | Comments Off

Table of Contents

Why You Can’t Write Checks from a Savings Account?
What Accounts Can You Write a Check From?
What You Can Do With a Savings Account
Tips for Using a Savings Account to Make Payments
FAQ

If you’re wondering, “Can you write a check from a savings account?” the short answer is no. You can’t write checks from a savings account; instead, you can do so from a checking account, which is designed to provide that specific financial service. Savings accounts are primarily for earning interest on your deposits and transferring money occasionally.

Checks might seem like an old-fashioned payment method, but they are vital in specific transactions. For instance, you might need to pay the deposit for an apartment rental by check. In addition, personal checks are more secure for mailing payments than cash.

While you may want to draw funds from a savings account, that’s really not its purpose. Here, you’ll learn the details on this situation and also a possible work-around or two.

Key Points

• Writing checks from a savings account is not possible; it can only be done from a checking account.

• Savings accounts are primarily for earning interest and occasional money transfers, not for check-writing.

• Checks are still important for certain transactions, such as apartment rental deposits and secure mailing of payments.

• Savings accounts are designed for saving money, earning interest, and providing security for future needs.

• While payments cannot be made directly from a savings account using checks, automatic transfers and mobile banking can be used for certain transactions.

Why You Can’t Write Checks from a Savings Account?

You can’t write checks from a savings account because these accounts are for earning interest on cash you leave alone. Federal law, in fact, prohibits check-writing from such accounts and may restrict how often you can transfer money out of a savings account, too.

Part of the way a bank makes money is to lend out your funds on deposit in a savings account for other purposes. You earn an annual percentage yield, or APY, on your deposit for giving the bank the privilege of using your money that’s in a savings account. In other words, your financial institution is depending on some savings-account money staying put, not being regularly transferred out via checks.

Checking accounts, however, are designed to allow customers to write checks and make purchases. They may not make much or any interest, but you can move your money out of these accounts via checks and electronic transfers. You can even write a check to yourself to access your money.

What Accounts Can You Write a Check From?

One of the ways that checking accounts vs. savings accounts differ is that you can’t write checks from a savings account. However, both checking accounts and money market accounts can let you move funds out via checks. You can choose from the following types:

• Standard checking. This account typically provides a checkbook and debit card to make purchases. You might earn meager or no interest, but you can access your cash quickly. And, as with most kinds of checking accounts, you’ll be able to get cashier’s checks and certified checks if needed.

• Premium checking. This is a checking account on steroids, with better interest rates, rewards programs, and customer perks. In addition, these accounts might have monthly fees or steep minimum balance requirements in order to get those enhanced benefits, so check your customer agreement carefully.

• Rewards checking. Think of rewards checking as akin to a premium checking account but focuses on providing cash back for debit card usage. Again, it’s crucial to read the fine print for these accounts, as they usually require specific spending habits to be worthwhile.

• High-interest checking. This kind of account, also known as high-yield checking, blends saving and checking together by providing higher interest rates while allowing you to write checks and use your debit card.

While this account attempts to provide the best of both worlds, you’ll likely receive a lower interest rate than a savings account. You also might have to fulfill strict requirements (such as a monthly high account balance or transaction count).

• Student checking. High school and college students can access banking through these accounts. Student checking accounts typically provide leniency for overdrafts and promotional rewards for new customers. However, your account will change to a standard checking account when you lose student status, meaning you may lose the advantages of a student account.

• Second chance checking. Customers with less than perfect banking histories can struggle to find a bank that will provide them with an account. Unpaid bank fees and repeated overdrafts can cast a shadow over your banking record, making financial institutions hesitant to work with you. Fortunately, numerous institutions offer second chance checking to give customers another shot at banking. These accounts might restrict spending or charge monthly fees to cover their risk but can help you get back on your feet.

• Money market account. Many money market accounts also combine some of the features of savings and checking accounts. For example, money market accounts can earn higher interest than typical checking accounts (making them more like savings accounts) but allow you to write checks, as with a checking account.

What You Can Do With a Savings Account

While you can’t write checks with a savings account, the different types of savings accounts offer these functions and benefits:

• Security. You can safely save for the future, whether that means building an emergency fund or saving for a down payment on a house. If you bank at a Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)- or National Credit Union Administration (NCUA)-insured institution, you will have up to $250,000 per depositor or shareholder, per insured institution for each account category.

• Interest. As noted above, you’ll earn interest. The annual percentage yield (APY) will help your money grow.

• Convenience. You can also use mobile banking with a savings account. This feature allows you to access your account from your phone to deposit checks, transfer money, and view monthly statements.

• Perks. You may be able to snag some perks by opening a savings account, such as some banking fees being waived or a one-time cash bonus.

• Automated savings. You can set up automatic transfers from your checking account to savings to help increase your savings in an effortless way.

• Account linking. You can link your savings account as a backup to your checking to help avoid overdrafting.

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

Tips for Using a Savings Account to Make Payments

If your goal is to make payments from a savings account, you can’t use a check, as you’ve learned above. Plus, saving accounts may often have monthly transaction limits, meaning you can’t move money from the account for every monthly expense and random bill that may pop up. Generally, you can transfer money from a savings account six times a month.

You can, however, set up a small number of automatic transfers out of your savings account. Follow these tips:

• Have your account details handy. Double-check your account and routing numbers to make sure you are transferring funds out of the right account.

• Limit the bills you pay with your savings account. The less information is out there, the less likely it is to fall into a thief’s hands.

• Don’t attempt more than your account’s transaction limit. Usually, plan on paying no more than six monthly bills with your savings account. Check with your financial institution, however, to find out your exact transaction limits.

• Maintain an adequate balance. Transferring money from your checking account and depositing cash or paychecks into your savings account will help ensure you don’t overdraft the account.

Banking With SoFi

Savings accounts are excellent tools for earning interest and working towards your financial goals. However, they are less suitable for making payments because you can’t write checks from a savings account. Although you can make payments from savings accounts in a pinch, it’s better to use checking accounts for these transactions. After all, it’s what checking accounts are designed for.

If you’re looking for a banking partner who can provide the best of both checking and savings accounts, see what SoFi offers. When you open an online bank account, you’ll have the convenience of spending and saving in one place. Plus, with our Checking and Savings, you’ll earn a competitive APY and pay no account fees, two features that can help your money grow faster. Plus, you’ll receive both paper checks and a debit card to help you make payments.

Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 4.00% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

Why do checks come from checking accounts?

Checks come from checking accounts because banks intend payments to flow frequently from these accounts. In addition, checking accounts are the most convenient way to deposit and withdraw money from a bank because you can withdraw money an unlimited amount of times per month.

Why can I not write checks with a savings account?

You can’t write checks with a savings account because the account is for saving money and earning interest payments. Banks don’t provide checks for a savings account because the intention is for you to save money and leave at least a chunk of it untouched in the account. On the other hand, checking accounts allow you to write checks.

Can I write any check from a savings account?

You can’t write a check from a savings account because that is not how they operate according to federal guidelines. You can save money and earn interest with a savings account, while a checking account allows you to write checks.

Photo credit: iStock/AndreyPopov

SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2024 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
The SoFi Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.00% 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 4.00% 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 4.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

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

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

Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 12/3/24. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

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.

SOBK0123014

Feb

2024

All You Need to Know About a Foreign Currency Certificate of Deposit

The Basics of an ACH Hold

By Timothy Moore | Family Finances, Life & Career, money | Comments Off

Table of Contents

What Is an ACH Hold?
Understanding Automated Clearing House
How Does an ACH Hold Work?
How Long Does an ACH Hold Last?
Why Do Banks Perform an ACH Hold?
Unauthorized ACH Holds
FAQ

If you ever see the phrase “ACH hold” when checking on your bank account, it can be helpful to know that this means funds are on hold, anticipating a completed electronic transfer.

ACH, which is short for Automated Clearing House, is a popular kind of ETF (electronic fund transfer). Both businesses and individuals may use this method to move money between bank accounts. When you grant a business or government the right to conduct an ACH debit (which is the electronic removal of funds from your bank account), you may see those words “ACH hold” on funds in your account, telling you that verification is taking place.

This may cause you to wonder if your bank account and financial affairs are in good shape.

Key Points

• ACH holds refer to funds being placed on hold in anticipation of a completed electronic transfer.

• ACH stands for Automated Clearing House, a network used for electronic fund transfers.

• Banks put ACH holds on accounts to verify funds availability before approving transactions.

• ACH holds can last up to 24 to 48 hours and are typically processed in batches throughout the day.

• If an ACH hold doesn’t clear within a few days, contacting the bank is necessary to resolve the issue.

What Is an ACH Hold?

So what does ACH hold mean? When a company or institution that you have authorized to make a withdrawal from your account submits an ACH debit, your bank will receive and acknowledge the transaction. At that point, the bank might place an ACH hold on your account. Here’s what is happening:

• While there is a hold on your account for the amount of the ACH debit, you will not be able to use those funds for a purchase.

• During the ACH hold, the bank is verifying that you have the funds in your account to cover the requested debit.

• Once confirmed, your bank will deduct the money from your account.

• If there are not adequate funds for a transaction, it could be rejected.

In such an instance, the ACH hold simply makes the funds you will owe unavailable before they are actually debited from your account.

On the flip side, you may sometimes notice a pending ACH credit in your account. Here’s a bit of detail about what that may represent:

• If you open your mobile banking app a day before payday, you might see the pending direct deposit, but the funds are not yet available.

• This means your employer has sent the money through ACH, but your bank has simply placed a hold until it can verify the transaction and push the funds through to your account.

Understanding Automated Clearing House

ACH stands for Automated Clearing House, a U.S.-based network governed by Nacha (National Automated Clearing House Association). The system enables businesses and individuals to electronically debit (take money from) or credit (put money into) accounts.

ACH credit transfers are quite common today. For instance:

• Examples of a company or government agency putting funds into an individual’s or company’s account include direct deposit payments from an employer to an employee, social security benefits, and tax refunds.

• As an individual, you likely utilize ACH debit as well. If you have connected your online bank account to a peer-to-peer or P2P payment app like PayPal, Venmo, or Cash App and you utilize standard transfers, you are likely using ACH debit when you pay friends and family.

• You may also use ACH when you enable autopay for bills each month, such as your mortgage, rent, or utilities. When you sign up for this kind of payment, those companies are using ACH debit to withdraw the necessary funds to cover your monthly payment.

But money does not go directly from one account to another. Before your direct deposit paycheck reaches your bank account — or your automatic payment reaches your landlord or the electric company — it goes through the clearing house, which batches payments multiple times a day. That means ACH payments are not immediate, though they can be same-day.

How Does an ACH Hold Work?

When an ACH hold turns up in your account, here are the steps that are typically going on behind the scenes:

1. The ACH request is sent to your bank to debit funds from your account.

2. The bank receives the request and begins work.

3. The bank puts a hold on the funds.

4. The bank ensures the funds are available.

5. The transaction is completed.

How Long Does an ACH Hold Last?

There is not a set time that an ACH hold will last. ACH transfers are often processed in batches throughout the day, so if a transfer misses one batch, it likely waits for the next one. For this reason, ACH transfers typically occur in one or two business days.

For this reason, it’s unlikely a hold would last any longer than 24 to 48 hours.

Tracking Your ACH Hold

But what happens if the days are passing and an ACH hold doesn’t clear? This can be a major inconvenience, whether the transaction involved is an incoming paycheck or an outgoing bill payment.

Unfortunately, as the customer, you will not be able to resolve this on your own. You will need to to contact the bank and make an inquiry, giving them the pertinent details. This will likely include your account number, the amount of the ACH, and how long you have seen the hold in your account. If you are able to see any other specifics under a section such as “transaction details,” those can be helpful as well.

Tracking an ACH hold can be a wise move if a couple of days have passed (say, you are on day three) and the funds in question still have not cleared. Usually, by this point, the transfer would either have taken place or been rejected.

Why Do Banks Perform an ACH Hold?

ACH holds allow banks to verify that funds are in place before approving the transaction. For example, say your account has $100 in it, but a bill collector has initiated an ACH debit for $500. It will be in the bank’s best interest to place the hold on your account. Once the bank realizes that your account does not have the funds to complete the transaction, it will likely reject the ACH transfer.

This protects the bank’s assets, but it means you have an unpaid bill. In this example, you may also have to pay late fees in addition to the funds you owe. What’s more, the bank might charge you an ACH return fee. These fees can certainly add up.

It is a good idea to monitor your account closely and set up low-balance alerts. As a best practice, you might want to keep track of scheduled automatic payments via calendar reminders so your account balance is always high enough to cover charges.

Unauthorized ACH Holds

ACH holds can benefit you as well as your bank. For example, if you monitor your checking account closely and notice a pending ACH transaction that you weren’t expecting, you can contact your bank to learn more about the transaction.

If a person or entity is attempting to debit your account without your authorization, this could mean that your banking details have been compromised. Your bank will be able to help you with next steps to protect you from fraud.

Another scenario to consider: The Consumer Finance Protection Bureau (CFPB) advises that you can stop electronic debits via ACH by payday lenders. These payday loans are a way to get an advance on your paycheck. To curtail unauthorized account deductions, you must revoke their payment authorization (or ACH authorization) by calling and writing to the loan company and your financial institution or by issuing a stop payment order. Visit the CFPB website for sample letters .

Note: Stopping payment via ACH debit does not cancel your contract with payday lenders. You must still pay off the full balance of your loan, but you can work with the lender to determine an alternate method.

An ACH hold is typically part of a financial institution’s processing protocol. The end user (you) likely isn’t able to intervene.

However, if you’d like to try to remove the hold or cancel the transaction, you may contact your bank’s customer service representative to see if anything can be done.

Also, you can follow the steps above to revoke ACH authorization if the hold reflects an unauthorized transaction. That step may or may not cancel the pending transaction but can help curtail future debits that you don’t want to take place.

Recommended: How to Open a Bank Account

The Takeaway

ACH (or Automated Clearing House) holds work to protect banks during transfer processing. While delays may seem annoying at times, there are pros and cons to them in this situation. When a company initiates an ACH debit from your account, the hold allows the bank to confirm that funds are available to complete the transaction, which can ensure good flow of finances. Such holds also give you an opportunity to identify any unauthorized ACH debits, which is definitely a plus.

Having a bank that looks out for your best interests is another thing that’s usually a big plus. Which is why SoFi makes sure you can manage all your automatic payments seamlessly so your finances can stay on-track and organized. But that’s not all. When you open an online bank account with direct deposit, you’ll earn a competitive annual percentage yield (APY) and pay no account fees, both of which can help your money grow faster.

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FAQ

How long can a bank hold an ACH transfer?

When an entity, such as your employer or the government, issues you a direct deposit via ACH transfer, your bank must generally make the funds available for withdrawal by the next business day. However, weekends and bank holidays do not count as business days, so it may take a few days to get your money even after an ACH transfer has gone through.

How long does it take an ACH check to clear?

Financial institutions may be able to process ACH transfers in one to two business days or on the same day. However, a bank or credit union might hold onto transferred funds once it receives them, generally until the next business day.

What is the ACH hold check order fee?

In your banking life, you might encounter the phrase “ACH hold check order fee.” It typically just means that your financial institution charges a fee for ordering checks, which may be automatically deducted from your account. The “ACH hold” is the pending fee that’s been debited and the “check order” tells you why the fee is being deducted.

Photo credit: iStock/max-kegfire

Feb

2024

What Are the Different Types of Income?

By Walecia Konrad | Financial Independence, Life & Career, money | Comments Off

Table of Contents

What Is Income?
1. Earned Income
2. Business Income
3. Interest Income
4. Dividend Income
5. Rental Income
6. Capital Gains
7. Royalty Income

You may think of your income as being your paycheck or your freelance earnings, but there are actually many different types of income. If you have stocks that are generating dividends, that’s income, as is interest you earn on any savings accounts. Do you own a rental property that has rent payments flowing your way? That’s income, too.

Here, you’ll learn about seven common types of income and how they may affect your financial life.

Key Points

• Income refers to money earned from labor, investments, or other sources, and can be categorized as earned, business, interest, dividend, rental, capital gains, or royalty income.

• Earned income includes wages, salaries, tips, and bonuses, while business income is generated from products or services provided by a business.

• Interest income is earned from interest-bearing financial vehicles like CDs or savings accounts, and dividend income comes from stock dividends.

• Rental income is earned from property rentals, and capital gains are realized when selling assets for more than their purchase price.

• Royalty income is earned from allowing others to use your property, such as patents or copyrighted work.

What Is Income?

Simply put, income is money that a person or business earns in return for labor, providing a product or service, or returns on investments. Individuals also often receive income from a pension, a government benefit, or a gift. Most income is taxable, but some is tax-exempt from federal or state taxes.

Another way to think about income types is whether it is active (or earned) or passive (or unearned).

• Active or earned income is just what it sounds like: money that you work for, whether you are providing goods or a service.

• Passive or unearned income is money you receive even though you are not actively doing anything to get it. For instance, if you have a certificate of deposit (CD) that earns you interest, that is passive income. Government benefits, capital gains, rental income, royalties, and more are also considered passive income. (We’ll go through these variations in more detail in a minute.)

People who are paid a salary may tend to think that their annual paycheck earnings are their income, but in truth, it’s common for many people to have multiple income streams. Granted, your salary may be by far the largest stream of income, but when considering your overall financial picture, don’t forget to think about the other ways that money comes to you.

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Different Types of Income

Now that you know the answer to “What is income?” question, here’s a look at the various kinds of Income. These are usually categorized as seven different types of income (though these may also be called income streams).

1. Earned Income

Earned income is the money you earn for work you do, either in a job or self-employed. Earned income includes wages, salaries, tips, and bonuses.

Earnings are taxed at varying rates by the federal and state governments. Taxes may be withheld by your employer. Self-employed workers often pay quarterly and annual taxes directly to the government. Low-income workers may be eligible for the earned income tax credit.

2. Business Income

Next up: What is business income? This is a term often used in tax reporting; you may sometimes also hear it referred to as profit income. It basically means income received for any products or services your business provides. It is usually considered ordinary income for tax purposes.

Expenses and losses associated with the business can be used to offset business income. Business income can be taxed under different rules, depending on what type of business structure is used, such as sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, etc.

3. Interest Income

When you invest in various types of interest-bearing financial vehicles, the return is considered interest income. Retirees often rely on interest income to fund their retirement. You can earn interest from a variety of sources including:

• Certificates of deposit (CDs)

• Government bonds

• Treasury bonds and notes

• Treasury bills (T-bills)

• Corporate bonds

• Interest-bearing checking accounts

• Savings accounts.

In most cases, interest income is taxed as ordinary income. Some types of interest are fully taxable, while other forms (such as interest from Treasury bonds) are sometimes partially taxable.

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4. Dividend Income

Some companies pay stockholders dividends as a way of sharing profits. These are usually regular cash payments that investors can take as income or reinvest in the stock. Dividend income is one of the most common ways investors can make money from stocks. (Worth noting: Money-market funds distributions may seem like interest, but they are usually considered dividends.)

Dividends from stocks held in a taxable brokerage account are considered taxable income. These funds will be taxed at your regular income-tax rate or as a long-term capital gain. By contrast, dividends that are paid from a stock held inside a tax-advantaged savings account such as an IRA or 401(k) are not taxed.

5. Rental Income

Just as it sounds, rental income is income earned from rental payments on property you own. This could be as straightforward as renting a room in your house or as complicated as owning a multi-unit building with several tenants.

Rental income can provide a steady stream of passive vs. active income. It may enhance your livelihood or even be your main income. When your rental property increases in value, you may also gain from that appreciation and increase in equity. In addition, rental income qualifies for several tax advantages, including taking depreciation and some expense write-offs.

But there are downsides. Owning a rental property isn’t for the faint of heart. Unreliable tenants, decreasing property values, the cost of maintaining and repairing properties, as well as fees for rental property managers can all take a bite out of your rental income stream.

6. Capital Gains

Another important income stream can come from capital gains. You incur a capital gain when you sell an asset for more than what you originally paid for it. For the purposes of capital gains, an asset usually means an investment security such as a stock or bond. But it can also encompass possessions such as real estate, vehicles, or boats. You calculate a capital gain by subtracting the price you paid from the sale price.

There is another key point to know on this topic: Two types of capital gains are possible — short-term and long-term.

• Short-term capital gains are realized on assets you’ve held for one year or less.

• Long-term capital gains are earned on assets held for more than a year.

The tax consequences are different for each type of capital gain. Short-term gains are taxed as ordinary income, while long-term capital gains are taxed at a lower rate depending on income. Taxpayers could typically pay 0%, 15%, or 20% on long-term capital gains, depending on their income.

Keep in mind, however, that capital losses can happen too. That’s when a capital asset is sold for less than the purchase price. While it’s never pleasant to experience losses, there can be a small silver lining in this case. Many times capital losses can be taken as a tax deduction against current and/or future capital gains.

7. Royalty Income

Royalty income comes from an agreement allowing someone to use your property. These payments can come from the use of patents, copyrighted work, franchises, and more. An example or two:

Inventors who sell their creations to a third party may receive royalties on the revenue their inventions generate. Celebrities often allow their name to be used to promote a product for royalty payments. Oil and gas companies pay landowners royalties to extract natural resources from their property. The market for music royalties has been particularly lucrative in recent years with the proliferation of music streaming services.
Royalty payments are often a percentage of the revenues earned from the other party using the property. Many things impact how much royalty is paid, including exclusivity, the competition, and market demand. How royalty payments are taxed can also vary, depending on the type of agreement.

Now that you’ve reviewed the seven different types of income, you may be wondering, “What about residual income?” That’s a term that doesn’t actually describe money that’s heading your way. Instead, think of that as the amount of your income left over after you’ve paid your financial obligations. It’s similar to discretionary income. Unfortunately, it’s not another way to enrich your bank account.

Recommended: 10 Personal Finance Basics

The Takeaway

Understanding the seven general income streams (such as earned, dividend, and rental income) can help you make the most of your financial planning. Earning income from any of these sources can add stability and help achieve long-term goals, such as saving for retirement. Because some types of income have unique tax implications, it can be important to check with your tax advisor about any tax consequences that may exist.

Aside from earned income, it’s likely that interest is the kind of income most people receive. And seeking out the best possible interest rate can be a solid way to enhance your money; looking for a high-yield bank account may be a good place to start.

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Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 4.00% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

Photo credit: iStock/Selcuk1

SOBK0124026

Feb

2024

How Much Does a Firefighter Make a Year

By Ashley Kilroy | Life & Career, relay | Comments Off

Firefighters make an average of $56,310 per year nationwide. However, firefighter compensation varies by location and position, so salaries can climb up to well over six figures for more leadership positions. As a result, firefighting can provide competitive annual pay for those who want to do the rewarding work of rescuing others during emergencies.

Read on to learn more about the income, responsibilities, and pros and cons of pursuing a career as a firefighter.

What Are Firefighters

Firefighters are trained professionals who respond to fires, rescue situations, hazardous material spills, and medical emergencies. Their primary responsibility is to protect life, property, and the environment from the adverse effects of human-made and natural fires.

These dedicated professionals navigate unpredictable circumstances with selflessness. The job can be dangerous but also a very rewarding career. A few details to note:

• Firefighters are typically employed by city, county, state, and federal governments.

• Because fires and other emergencies are dangerous, these professionals put their lives on the line every day.

• The job is demanding because shifts can last 24 hours. Firefighters usually work full-time.

Additionally, firefighters typically have emergency medical technician (EMT) certifications because they respond to health crises. For instance, local fire departments provide critical assistance for people trapped under debris from a storm. Likewise, they often transport the injured to hospitals and health facilities. For this reason, most firefighters can drive and operate ambulances as well as fire trucks.

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Examples of Firefighter Job Responsibilities

Here are the essential duties of firefighters, most of which relate to helping individuals and communities during emergencies:

1. Fire suppression: As the name implies, a firefighter’s definitive job is extinguishing fires. This includes house fires and wildfires. Firefighters use various tools and equipment, such as water hoses, fire extinguishers, and specialized vehicles, to control and put out fires.

2. Rescue operations: Firefighters are trained in various rescue techniques to save people from dangerous situations, including trapped individuals in buildings, vehicles, or natural disasters.

3. Emergency medical response: Many firefighters are emergency medical technicians (EMTs) or paramedics. This training allows them to provide prehospital medical care, including administering first aid and stabilizing patients until they are transported to a hospital.

4. Hazardous materials response: Firefighters are usually the first on the scene of accidents involving hazardous chemicals and materials. For instance, if a tanker truck crashes, firefighters use specialized equipment to contain and mitigate the effects of the spill.

5. Public education and prevention: A part of firefighters’ public service is engaging in community outreach and educational efforts for fire safety and best practices for emergency response. They also provide tours of fire departments to residents.

6. Equipment maintenance: Firefighters rely on their gear and equipment to perform their jobs, and disasters can occur at any time. As a result, maintaining and cleaning their equipment, including fire engines, tools, and personal protective gear, is vital.

How Much Do Starting Firefighters Make a Year?

An entry-level firefighter’s salary varies depending on location, with the lowest 10% of positions starting at $29,150 on average. While the starting pay is lower than other jobs, firefighters can increase their salaries by getting promoted to leadership positions or specializing in a certain aspect of the job.

For instance, a firefighter officer leads teams of firefighters and can earn an annual salary of $161,372. Likewise, professionals who provide paramedical training for firefighters can earn $120,828 per year. So, yes, it is possible to earn a $100,000 salary or more as a firefighter.

Remember, changing locations can also help increase firefighters’ compensation. For instance, firefighters in North Carolina earn an average salary of $36,660, while positions in New Jersey have an average pay of $77,740. (Of course, the local cost of living may rise along with the pay.)

What is the Average Salary for a Firefighter?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics database shows that the average firefighter salary is $56,310 annually vs. hourly pay. Here’s a breakdown of the average firefighter salary by state, listed alphabetically:

State	Average Annual Pay
Alabama	$42,600
Alaska	$54,730
Arizona	$47,850
Arkansas	$36,470
California	$78,350
Colorado	$67,340
Connecticut	$67,560
Delaware	$45,680
Florida	$56,560
Georgia	$40,010
Hawaii	$72,880
Idaho	$39,820
Illinois	$68,030
Indiana	$55,420
Iowa	$45,360
Kansas	$40,560
Kentucky	$32,980
Louisiana	$32,320
Maine	$42,830
Maryland	$60,560
Massachusetts	$66,640
Michigan	$64,200
Minnesota	$49,880
Mississippi	$33,790
Missouri	$55,380
Montana	$51,730
Nebraska	$60,990
Nevada	$61,150
New Hampshire	$50,150
New Jersey	$77,740
New Mexico	$40,530
New York	$73,520
North Carolina	$36,660
North Dakota	$51,490
Ohio	$52,290
Oklahoma	$52,770
Oregon	$65,880
Pennsylvania	$61,290
Rhode Island	$60,360
South Carolina	$39,580
South Dakota	$49,750
Tennessee	$42,080
Texas	$53,630
Utah	$44,650
Vermont	$46,920
Virginia	$54,180
Washington	$76,930
West Virginia	$37,110
Wisconsin	$43,980
Wyoming	$44,420
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, ZipRecruiter

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Firefighter Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

As a firefighter, you can expect to make $56,310 on average, which is a few thousand dollars less than the average salary in the U.S., which is currently $59,540. Additionally, numerous benefits come with the job to enhance your financial well-being and quality of life.

For example:

• Full-time firefighters receive health and dental insurance, disability coverage, paid time off, tax-advantaged retirement plans, and pensions.

• Union firefighters can receive their pay and benefits through a contract, locking in their compensation package.

• Firefighters can qualify for exclusive financial aid and scholarships for higher education. For instance, The Maryland State Firemen’s Association gives scholarships to students getting degrees in fire science or medical emergency services. This could help students who might otherwise be entering a career without a college degree.

• Firefighters can enjoy the satisfaction of knowing they helped their neighbors at the end of the day. From pulling children out of burning buildings to assisting the injured, a firefighter’s duty centers on safeguarding life. As a result, the profession is personally meaningful and fulfilling. (It’s worth noting, though, that given the human interaction involved, it may not be the best career for an introvert.)

Pros and Cons of Firefighter Salary

Being a firefighter means enjoying the perks of the job while making the best of the drawbacks. Here’s a comparison of the two:

Pros

First, the upsides of pursuing this career:

• Helping others: Firefighters experience a deep sense of purpose by directly contributing to the safety and wellbeing of their communities. The opportunity to protect individuals and families is a significant motivator for individuals drawn to this profession. Additionally, their willingness to put themselves in harm’s way to save others can garner appreciation and gratitude.

• Straightforward qualifications: Becoming a firefighter typically requires a high school diploma or GED, passing a physical fitness test, and being at least 18 years old. The position’s accessibility allows individuals from diverse educational backgrounds to pursue a career in firefighting without requiring extensive academic qualifications.

Furthermore, firefighters interested in more education can acquire extensive education (including EMT training) and scholarships for higher education to advance their positions.

• Competitive pay and benefits: While entry-level firefighting positions might offer low initial pay, more experienced firefighters earn a competitive salary vs. the national average. Considering the accessible entry-level requirements, the job has good pay and benefits without extensive education. Likewise, full-time firefighters receive comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks. While it’s likely not the highest paying job in your area, it reliably puts food on the table.

• Tight work bonds: Firefighters work closely as a team and forge strong bonds with their colleagues. The nature of emergency response requires cooperation and communication, creating a sense of camaraderie among team members. Additionally, firefighters often face challenging situations together, leading to shared experiences that strengthen their professional and personal relationships.

• Federal loan forgiveness: Firefighters may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness under specific criteria. The PSLF Program is designed to assist public service providers, including firefighters, in repaying their federal student loan debt.

Cons

Next, consider the potential downsides of becoming a firefighter:

• Safety risk: Firefighters face inherent risks associated with entering burning buildings, handling hazardous materials, and engaging in rescue operations. Long-term exposure to smoke and chemicals is also dangerous. These physical hazards can lead to injuries, health complications, or loss of life.

• Challenging work schedule: Firefighters often work in shifts, which can include 24-hour shifts and working overnight. For this reason, firefighters typically work over 50 hours per week instead of a typical 9-5 job. Combined with the challenging situations firefighters tackle, the job might not be a fit for those who want a low-stress job or folks that want to work from home sometimes.

• Few to no traditional weekends or holidays off: Firefighters frequently work on weekends and holidays because emergencies happen regardless of the time of year. This can impact personal and family life, as firefighters won’t have the same days off as those working in more traditional Monday-to-Friday roles.

The Takeaway

Across America, the median salary for how much a firefighter makes a year is $56,310, though the earning potential can rise into the six figures. Firefighters play a crucial role in safeguarding people, property, and the environment from the adverse effects of fires and emergencies. Responding to a wide range of incidents, from fire suppression to rescue operations and medical emergencies, firefighters are dedicated professionals who undergo extensive training to serve their communities effectively. However, the job is a challenging one, with inherent health and wellbeing risks, as well as possibly long hours and considerable stress.

FAQ

Can you make 100k a year as a firefighter?

While the national median salary for a firefighter is $56,310, making $100k a year in the profession is achievable. For instance, the positions of fire lieutenant, captain, and chief all have the potential to pay six figures.

Do people like being a firefighter?

Firefighting can be a fulfilling, meaningful career because the job is about helping others in emergencies and dire circumstances. However, it can be mentally and emotionally taxing because of the intensity of the work. Therefore, whether you like being a firefighter will depend on your job preferences and outlook.

Is it hard to get hired as a firefighter?

The path to becoming a firefighter involves getting your high school diploma or GED, passing a written exam, physical, and in-person interview. Therefore, while the educational barriers are low, getting hired as a firefighter can require discipline and commitment.

Photo credit: iStock/dear2627

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SORL0124025

Women and Retirement: Insight Into the Gender Divide

A Look at Retirement Trends for Women and Men

Retirement Savings for Women and Men in US

How Marriage and Children Impact Retirement

Women, Marriage and Retirement Savings*

Motherhood and Money

Retirement Is a Top Priority for Women and a Bigger Concern

Women’s Financial Goals vs. Men’s Financial Goals

Those Who Worry They Won’t Be Able to Retire

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Why Are Women Facing a Retirement Gap?

Minding and Mending the Gap

How to Start Saving for Retirement

Figure out your retirement budget.

Cut back on current expenses.

Contribute as much as you can to your 401(k).

Consider opening an IRA.

Diversify your portfolio.

The Takeaway

Can You Write Checks From a Savings Account?

Why You Can’t Write Checks from a Savings Account?

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What Accounts Can You Write a Check From?

What You Can Do With a Savings Account

Tips for Using a Savings Account to Make Payments

Banking With SoFi

FAQ

Why do checks come from checking accounts?

Why can I not write checks with a savings account?

Can I write any check from a savings account?

The Basics of an ACH Hold

What Is an ACH Hold?

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Understanding Automated Clearing House

How Does an ACH Hold Work?

How Long Does an ACH Hold Last?

Tracking Your ACH Hold

Why Do Banks Perform an ACH Hold?

Unauthorized ACH Holds

The Takeaway

FAQ

How long can a bank hold an ACH transfer?

How long does it take an ACH check to clear?

What is the ACH hold check order fee?

What Are the Different Types of Income?

What Is Income?

Different Types of Income

1. Earned Income

2. Business Income

3. Interest Income

Earn up to 4.00% APY with a high-yield savings account from SoFi.

4. Dividend Income

5. Rental Income

6. Capital Gains

7. Royalty Income

The Takeaway

How Much Does a Firefighter Make a Year

What Are Firefighters

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Examples of Firefighter Job Responsibilities

How Much Do Starting Firefighters Make a Year?

What is the Average Salary for a Firefighter?

Firefighter Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

Pros and Cons of Firefighter Salary

Pros

Cons

The Takeaway

FAQ

Can you make 100k a year as a firefighter?

Do people like being a firefighter?

Is it hard to get hired as a firefighter?

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