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Becoming a surgeon requires committing to many years of school and putting in countless clinical hours. The good news is that all the time and hard work can lead to a fulfilling career that pays well. The average annual pay for a general surgeon in the U.S. as of January 2024 is $285,176, according to ZipRecruiter.

It’s important to remember that this is just the average salary. Where a surgeon lives, the type of surgery specialty they take on, and a host of other factors can influence how much they can earn. Keep reading for more insight into how much surgeons make.

What Are Surgeons?

A surgeon is a medical professional who operates on patients to treat injuries (such as broken bones), diseases (like cancerous tumors), and deformities (such as cleft palates). A surgeon can have an M.D. (Medical Doctor) and D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) degree.

A surgeon doesn’t only perform operations, however. These specialists are also responsible for the preoperative diagnosis of the patient and for providing the patient with postoperative surgical care and treatment. The surgeon is also looked upon as the leader of the surgical team.

Surgeons can typically expect to work long days, primarily in person, so this type of job is probably not a good fit for anyone looking for a work-from-home job. However, surgeons can work in a variety of different settings. These include:

•   Private practice

•   Academic medicine

•   Institutional practice

•   Hospitals

•   Ambulatory surgery settings

•   Government service programs

How Much Does a Surgeon Make Starting Out?

General surgeons can earn an impressive entry-level salary, often as much as $250,000. With experience, a surgeon can make upwards of $399,000 a year, per ZipRecruiter.

💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

What is the Average Salary for a Surgeon?

You can measure how much a surgeon makes by looking at both their average hourly rate and annual salary. The national average hourly salary for a surgeon is $137, while the average annual pay for a surgeon in the U.S. is $285,176.

The type of specialty a surgeon chooses to practice can impact how much they earn. What surgical specialty makes the most? Let’s take a quick glance at the average annual wages for surgeons with varying specialties:

•   Orthopedic surgeon: $375,000

•   Oral and maxillofacial surgeon: $368,879

•   International cardiothoracic surgeon:$367,474

•   Plastic surgeon: $356,489

•   Mohs surgeon: $345,926

What Is the Average Surgeon Salary by State for 2024?

How much money a surgeon makes can vary by location. What follows is a breakdown of how much general surgeons make a year, on average, by state (highest to lowest).

Surgeon Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

Surgeons typically work in clinical settings, such as physicians’ offices and hospitals, including academic hospitals associated with residency programs and medical schools.

The average annual salary for a surgeon is $285,176 but surgeons can actually earn a lot more when you look at their total compensation package including benefits.

Because surgeons often work full-time for a specific hospital, company, or organization, prospective surgeons can expect to find a job that offers them the standard suite of employee benefits, including healthcare, paid vacation, vision and dental insurance, and a retirement plan.

In addition to these benefits, some surgeons also receive life insurance policies, continuing medical education (CME), flexible scheduling, research and academic support, and development programs.

Pros and Cons of a Surgeon’s Salary

Becoming a surgeon takes a lot of hard work and discipline, but surgeons can also change the lives of their patients every single day and earn a substantial income at the same time. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of choosing a career as a surgeon.

Pros of Being a Surgeon

Being a surgeon offers potential benefits like:

•   Ability to help people A surgeon can help people experience less discomfort, pain, and stress, and even save their lives. Surgeons also train and mentor junior colleagues.

•   Opportunity to work as part of a team Surgeons typically collaborate with doctors, nurses, and other medical specialists to provide comprehensive care to patients. (Consequently, it may not be the ideal medical specialty for someone who is naturally more of an introvert.)

•   High compensation The national average salary of surgeons is $285,176 per year but can go as high as 375.000-plus, depending on location, years of experience, certifications, and other factors. Surgeons also typically get benefits like health insurance and 401(k) plans.

•   Consistent schedule Depending on their specialty and seniority, some surgeons are able to have a regular work schedule and perform surgeries during certain hours. This can help promote a healthy work-life balance.

•   Chance to work in different environments Surgeons can work in a variety of places, including hospitals, private practices, and other medical centers. Many surgeons also have offices where they consult with patients in addition to the centers where they do surgery.

Recommended: 27 Fulfilling Jobs for Extroverts That Pay Well

Cons of Being a Surgeon

However, surgeons also face the following challenges:

•   Long and rigorous educational requirements To become a surgeon, you typically need to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree program, a four-year degree program from medical school, and a three to seven-year internship or residency program. All told, it can take 11 to 15 years of studying in school to enter the field of surgery.

•   Long hours Depending on your specialty and where you work, you may need to work long hours. Indeed, general surgeons may work 50 to 60 hours per week. In addition, some surgeons need to be on call on evenings and weekends.

•   High-pressure job Surgery generally involves a certain level of risk and surgeons are under pressure to perform procedures with no errors in order to ensure a positive outcome for their patients. Surgeons need to be able to stay calm and focused under pressure.

•   Burnout potential Depending on their specialty, some surgeons may be required to perform the same procedures each day, sometimes more than once per day. This could potentially lead to job burnout over time.

•   High education costs Going to school for all the years required to become a surgeon can be expensive. As a result, surgeons may take on a lot of student loan debt, which they’ll need to repay once they enter the field. This can lessen the average surgeon’s salary.


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

The Takeaway

Becoming a surgeon requires years of study and practice, including medical school and residencies. Those who are up for the challenge can earn a high salary, especially if they go into one of the more lucrative specialties. Since surgeons earn such a high income, they need to find a way to manage their money and use it to reach their goals.

FAQ

What is the highest paying surgeon job?

Neurosurgeons, also called neurological surgeons, are the highest-paid surgeons. These doctors specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions of the brain, spine, and nervous system, and can make upwards of $780,000.

Do surgeons make 300k a year?

Many surgeons make $300,000 or more per year. The following specialties all earn an average salary well over $300,000: orthopedic surgery, oral and maxillofacial surgery, plastic surgery, and Mohs surgery.

How much do surgeons make starting out?

General surgeons can earn as much as $250,000 as a starting salary. With experience, a surgeon can make upwards of $399,000 a year.

Photo credit: iStock/stefanamer

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.

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As long as people rely on indoor plumbing, we will need experienced, skilled plumbers to install, repair, and maintain the systems we use every day. Being a plumber is not only an in-demand job but one that generally pays well. A plumber’s average annual salary in the U.S. is $74,253, according to ZipRecruiter.

A plumber’s expertise spans from diagnosing and repairing leaks in people’s homes to planning commercial piping and municipal sewer systems.

If you enjoy working with both your hands and machinery, have strong attention to detail, and are a good problem-solver, being a plumber might be the right job for you. Read on to learn more about how much plumbers make per hour, how salaries vary by region, and other factors to consider before you decide to pursue a career in plumbing.

What Are Plumbers?

Plumbers are skilled professionals who install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems that supply residential and commercial properties with water and gas and carry away waste. Plumbers play a crucial role in ensuring these systems function properly and efficiently. Their expertise applies both to municipal sewers and single-home septic systems.

Plumbers diagnose and fix various issues related to plumbing systems, such as leaks, clogs, and malfunctions in pipes or fixtures. They also perform routine maintenance to prevent problems and keep plumbing systems in good working order.

In some cases, plumbers are involved in the initial design and planning stages of construction or renovation projects, ensuring that plumbing systems are installed efficiently and meet local building codes and regulations. Some plumbers may specialize in specific areas, such as commercial plumbing, industrial plumbing, or specific types of systems like hydronic heating.

How Much Does a Plumber Make Per Year Starting Out?

A plumber can make a good entry-level salary that continues to increase over time. For example, plumbers with less than one year of experience earn, on average, $50,129, while the average salary for a plumber with more than 10 years of experience is $72,740 per year.

💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

What Is the Average Salary for a Plumber?

Plumbers can earn either an hourly rate or an annual salary, depending on the type of work they do. How much a plumber makes per hour can range anywhere from around $18 to $53. The average hourly pay for a licensed plumber in the U. S. as of January 2024 is $35.70 an hour, per ZipRecruiter. The current national average for how much a plumber makes a year is $74,253.

How much money a plumber makes can vary by location. What follows is a breakdown of how much plumbers make a year (on average) by state.

Recommended: 15 Entry-Level Jobs for Antisocial People

Plumber Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

Plumbing has become a popular trade because of the various perks and financial advantages that come along with the job. First, the average starting salary of $50,129 is higher than in many industries. Plus, some plumbers are union members, which means that their salaries are protected by a contract and they may receive attractive health insurance and retirement packages.

Learning to be a plumber is also less demanding than obtaining a four-year bachelor’s degree. You can study to be a plumber by attending trade school or technical college. Usually, it takes anywhere between four and 24 months to complete your schooling.

Furthermore, plumbers-in-training typically can become apprentices while they’re completing their education. Apprenticeships let you work and learn simultaneously, meaning you’ll earn competitive pay while you work toward certification. For these reasons, plumbers can often finish their education with little to no student loans.

Plumbing is also a steady profession that will likely always be in demand. Even during economic downturns, residential and commercial buildings won’t stop needing running water and working toilets.

Lastly, plumbers can advance through the ranks to increase their pay and move into new roles. For example, attaining journeyman status often leads to a significant bump in salary. On average, journeyman plumbers earn $64,520, a $14,391 increase over the average starting salary.

Likewise, you could become a plumbing engineer or a superintendent to manage municipal jobs. Many plumbers also start their own businesses, which could lead to a job that pays $100,000 or more.


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

Pros and Cons of a Plumber Salary

As with any profession, there are both advantages and disadvantages to being a plumber. Carefully considering each can assist you in determining if this is the right career for you.

Pros of Being a Plumber

Becoming a plumber can offer several attractive advantages:

•   Job security Plumbing is an essential service that is always in demand. Even during an economic recession, people will always need plumbing services.

•   Good pay Plumbers are well-compensated for their expertise from the get-go. With experience and expertise, plumbers can earn a substantial income. Plus, less need for student loans means debt likely won’t erode your earnings.

•   Daily exercise Plumbing work often involves physical tasks such as lifting, bending, and carrying equipment. This aspect of the job provides plumbers with regular physical activity, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.

•   Promotion and business ownership opportunities As a plumber gains experience and expertise, they can ascend the ranks (such as moving from journeyman to master plumber) to increase their pay and access new projects. Additionally, some plumbers choose to start their own businesses, which can be highly profitable and offer independence.

•   Variety during work Plumbers typically encounter a wide range of challenges and tasks on the job. For example, you might replace piping one day and fix a host of leaky faucets the next. This variety can keep the work exciting and engaging.

Recommended: 30 Low-Stress Jobs for Introverts Without a Degree

Cons of Being a Plumber

However, plumbers also face the following challenges:

•   Physically taxing Plumbing work often requires physical strength and endurance. Plumbers may need to lift heavy equipment, crawl into tight spaces, and crouch for hours on end. These repeated tasks can lead to strain or fatigue.

•   Lack of routine Plumbing work can be less predictable than some office jobs that follow a set schedule. The unpredictability can be stressful for those who want the same pattern in their work every day or week.

•   Working at all hours Plumbing issues can arise at any time, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Plumbers may need to be on-call or work during off-hours to address urgent situations. These situations impact work-life balance and require a degree of flexibility in one’s schedule.

•   Risk of injury Working with plumbing systems and tools can pose certain risks. Plumbers may be exposed to sharp objects, hot surfaces, chemicals, and falling pipes. Additionally, working in confined spaces or at heights can increase the risk of accidents or injuries.

•   High pressure environment Addressing leaking sewage and malfunctioning water systems can be stressful and clients may be stressed and difficult to work with. Furthermore, plumbers must navigate unpredictable environments and situations, necessitating the ability to remain composed even in hazardous conditions.

Recommended: 11 Work-From-Home Jobs Great for Retirees

The Takeaway

Plumbers make a desirable starting salary with plenty of room to advance their careers. They can enjoy the satisfaction of helping others with an essential aspect of life and rest in the fact that the profession isn’t going anywhere.

However, plumbing can impose physical wear and tear, cause injuries, and require work in extreme conditions. The tradeoff for low or no student debt and consistent, lucrative work is the tough physical labor and the possibility of working late hours.

Even after weighing the potential cons, however, you may decide that a trade profession such as plumbing can help you further your professional and financial goals.

FAQ

What is the highest paying plumber job?

The highest paying plumber job is a plumbing engineer, which requires engineering knowledge and project management skills. This position can pay as much as $112,000 annually.

Do Plumbers make 100k a year?

Plumbers at the highest levels of the profession can make $100,000 per year. Specifically, plumbing engineers (who design plumbing systems for private, public, or commercial buildings) and plumbers who own their own companies can potentially earn six figures a year.

How much do plumbers make starting out?

Plumbers with less than one year of experience earn, on average, $50,129 per year.

Photo credit: iStock/Yaroslav Astakhov

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.

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Life insurance provides a safety net for beneficiaries after a loved one dies. Broad choices exist between term life and whole life policies. Here is more info.

Wondering how to buy life insurance—and what kind of life insurance you need in the first place? This step-by-step guide will set you straight.

Waiting for the IRS to process your federal tax return? You might be wondering how long it takes for your tax return to come back. If you file electronically, your tax return will usually be processed within 21 days. A paper return can take six weeks or longer. If you include direct deposit information, your refund will come back much faster.

If you’re concerned because your federal tax return is delayed, you can check its status online or speak to an IRS representative. Keep reading to learn what’s going on behind the scenes at the IRS with your tax return and what factors may affect when you’ll see your refund.

How Long the IRS Takes to Process Your Taxes

The main factor affecting when you get your tax return back is how long the IRS takes to process your information. Processing time will vary depending on whether you file an electronic or paper return. On average, processing for e-file returns takes less than 21 days, whereas paper returns can take more than six weeks.

If you want to get your tax refund early, it’s best to file electronically, include direct deposit information, and file early in the tax season.

💡 Quick Tip: Online tools make tracking your spending a breeze: You can easily set up budgets, then get instant updates on your progress, spot upcoming bills, analyze your spending habits, and more.

How Long a Tax Refund Typically Takes

Once your return is submitted to the IRS, processing can be broken down into three stages: return accepted, refund approved, and refund sent.

For electronic returns, you will typically see an email from the IRS within 24 hours confirming that your return has been accepted. For paper returns, you can expect notification in about four weeks. The acceptance stage just means the IRS has verified your personal information and checked that your dependents haven’t been claimed by someone else.

Next, the IRS will take a closer look at the information you’ve provided and either approve it or send a letter by mail asking for a correction or more information. This is the part that takes less than 21 days if you’ve e-filed.

Paper returns take longer because they must be manually uploaded by a human. Once uploaded, the information you provide can then be compared to data in the IRS system. However, submitting a paper return isn’t the only factor that can slow down a refund.

Factors That Could Slow Down Your Refund

If your return was filed electronically more than 21 days ago and you haven’t seen your refund yet, there could be a number of reasons for the delay, including:

•   The return has incorrect or incomplete information

•   Your personal info has potentially been used in identity theft or fraud

•   The child tax credit or recovery rebate credit may need to be corrected

•   The return qualifies for an additional child tax credit, earned income tax credit, or injured spouse allocation (form 8379)

•   Your bank or credit union needs additional time to post the refund to your account

If the IRS needs more information or wants a corrected return, they will contact you via mail. Many issues can be quickly resolved, especially if your finances are organized, as in a budget planner app. In the event that you owe money, the IRS will work with you to develop a payment plan. A debt payoff planner can also help you determine how you can pay your outstanding taxes comfortably and quickly.

Recommended: What Is The Difference Between Transunion and Equifax?

How to Track the Progress of Your Refund

The IRS offers two ways you can check the status of your refund: online or with a representative. An online tool called “Where’s my refund? ” allows you to check the status of your federal return. You’ll need the following information on hand:

•   Social security number

•   Filing status (Single, married–filing joint, married–filing separate, head of household, qualifying widower)

•   Refund amount

After inputting this information, you should be able to see whether your return has been accepted, processed, or sent back to you.

The IRS also has representatives who can research the status of your refund, either by phone (1-800-829-4477) or in person at a taxpayer assistance center . Note that the IRS probably won’t be able to give you much information if you e-filed less than 21 days earlier or by paper less than six weeks earlier.

As with the online checker, you’ll need to provide the representative with your social security number, filing status, and the refund amount you expect.

What to Do if Your Refund Arrives and Has a Mistake

If you receive your refund and realize there’s a mistake, you can file an amended return to correct it. Keep in mind, you can’t electronically file an amended return; you must send it by mail.

Some mistakes are identified by the IRS. In that event, you’ll receive a letter in the mail explaining the issue and how to respond.

If you’re still unsure of what to do, the IRS offers a hotline where you can ask for guidance.

•   Individual taxpayers: 800-829-1040 (TTY/TDD 800-829-4059)

•   Business taxpayers: 800-829-4933

How Long the IRS Has to Audit Your Taxes

If the IRS needs to review your tax return in more depth, you may be audited. Generally, the IRS tries to initiate audits as soon as they identify an issue with your tax return, but they may go back as far as three years. In cases where the error is substantial, they can audit up to six years of prior tax returns.


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

The Takeaway

If you file electronically, your tax return will usually be processed within 21 days. A paper return can take six weeks or longer. If you include direct deposit information, your refund will come back much faster.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

FAQ

When can I expect my 2023 tax refund?

According to the IRS, nine out of 10 tax returns are processed within 21 days. To expedite the process, you can file your return electronically and include direct-deposit information. Paper returns are generally processed within 6 weeks.

How long does it take to get your tax refund direct deposit?

Most taxpayers who e-file and include direct-deposit info receive their refund in 21 days. If you submitted a paper return with direct-deposit info, you can expect your refund within 6 weeks.

How long does it take taxes to be returned?

Most taxpayers who e-file can expect refunds within 21 days. If you file via paper return, expect processing to take six weeks or more.

Photo credit: iStock/Baris-Ozer

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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