Financial Topics Archives

Nov

2025

A colorful rendering of the phrase, Rule of 72, with decorative images suggesting market returns.

The Rule of 72: Understanding Its Significance in Investing

By Rebecca Lake | Growing Wealth, invest, Investing, Terminology | Comments Off

Table of Contents

What Is the Rule of 72?
The Formula and Calculation of the Rule of 72
Applying the Rule of 72 in Investment Planning
Accuracy and Limitations of the Rule of 72
Comparisons and Variations on the Rule
FAQ

The Rule of 72 is a basic equation that investors can use to estimate how long it might take for a given amount of money to double, given a specific rate of return. The formula involves dividing 72 by the interest or return rate.

For example, a $50,000 investment that’s earning roughly 9% per year could double in about eight years (72 / 9 = 8).

The Rule of 72 can be used in cases that are based on compound returns, or compound interest. As such it can also be used to calculate how long it might take to pay down a certain amount of debt, and to gauge the impact of inflation over time.

The Rule of 72, like similar shortcuts, is meant to provide a ballpark estimate that investors can use when making their financial projections. The actual time it takes for your money to double can vary, depending on numerous factors.

Key Points

• The Rule of 72 is a simple equation that can help investors estimate how long it will take for their money to double.

• It’s calculated by dividing 72 by the annual return rate.

• This rule can also help people assess how long it might take to pay down debt or to gauge the impact of inflation on money’s value.

• While not perfectly accurate, the Rule of 72 provides a useful ballpark estimate, especially for interest rates between 6% and 10%.

• The accuracy of the Rule of 72 can be adjusted by adding or subtracting one from 72 for every three points the return rate deviates from 8%.

What Is the Rule of 72?

The Rule of 72 helps investors understand how different types of investments might figure into their investment plans. The basic formula for the rule is:

Number of years to double an investment = 72 / Expected rate of return

The expected rate of return on an investment will naturally vary over time, and will depend on the type of investment. The Rule of 72 is a way to plug in a hypothetical return rate or annual interest rate for an investment like a stock, bond, or mutual fund.

For example, consider someone who is investing online has $10,000 in an investment that may provide a possible 6% rate of return. That investment could theoretically double in about 12 years (72 / 6 = 12). So, approximately 12 years after making an initial investment, given a potential 6% annual return, the investor would have $20,000. Again, returns are effectively compounded with this formula.

Notice that when making this calculation, investors divide by 6, not 6% or 0.06. (Dividing by 0.06 would indicate 1,200 years to double the investment, an outlandishly long time.)

This shorthand allows investors to quickly compare investments and understand whether a potential rate of return will help them meet their financial goals within a desired time horizon. For example, a bond typically offers a fixed rate of return, which could be compared to the hypothetical return of an equity investment — which might be higher, but could be less reliable.

Who Came Up with the Rule of 72?

The Rule of 72 is not new. In fact, it dates back to the late 1400s, when it was referenced in a mathematics book by Luca Pacioli. The Rule itself, though, could date even further back. Albert Einstein is often credited with its invention, although it’s not his original concept.

The Formula and Calculation of the Rule of 72

The Rule of 72 is a shortened version of a logarithmic equation that involves complex functions you would need a scientific calculator to calculate. That formula looks like this:

T = ln(2) / ln(1 + r / 100)

In this equation, T equals time to double, ln is the natural log function, and r is the compounded interest rate.

This calculation is too complicated for the average investor to perform on the fly, and it turns out 72 divided by r is a close approximation that works especially well for lower rates of return. The higher the rate of return — as the rate nears 100% — the less accurate the Rule of 72 gets.

Example of the Rule of 72 Calculation

The Rule of 72 can help investors figure out helpful information. For one, it can help them compare different types of investments that offer different rates of returns.

For example, an investor has $25,000 to invest when they open an IRA, and they plan to retire in 20 years. In order to meet a certain retirement goal, that investor needs to at least double their money to $50,000 in that time period.

The same investor is considering two investment options: One offers a 3% return and one offers a 4% return. Using the Rule of 72 the investor can quickly see that at 3% the investment could double in 24 years (72 / 3 = 24), four years past their retirement date. The investment with a 4% return could double their money in 18 years (72 / 4 = 18), giving them two years of leeway before they retire.

The investor can see that when choosing between the two options, the 4% rate of return may help them reach their financial goals, while the 3% return might leave them short.

Applying the Rule of 72 in Investment Planning

There are numerous instances in which the Rule of 72 can be applied to investment planning. But it’s also important to understand a bit about how simple and compound growth occur, and how they can come into play when using the Rule of 72 to make projections.

Simple growth, like simple interest, is when the rate of return applies only to the principal amount. A $1,000 investment that earns a 5% simple rate of return would earn $50 per year.

Compound growth is more common for long-term investments; this is when the rate of return applies to the principal investment plus all earnings from previous periods. In other words, an investor earns a return on their returns.

Example of Compound Returns

To get an idea of the power of compound interest it might help to explore a compound interest calculator, which allows users to input principal, the rate or return or interest rate, and the compounding period.

For example, imagine that an individual invests that same $1,000 at a 5% rate for 10 years with the gains compounding monthly. At the end of the investment period, they will have made more than $674, without making any additional investments.

That fact is important to consider when conceptualizing the Rule of 72, because compound interest plays a big role in helping an investment double in value within a given time frame. Here, the Rule of 72 indicates that the investor’s initial $1,000 would double in about 14.4 years (72 / 5 = 14.4 ).

Recommended: Stock Market Basics

Practical Uses in Financial Projections

Higher returns are often correlated with higher risk. So the Rule of 72 can help investors gauge whether their risk tolerance — or their expected return on investment — is high enough to get them to their goal, without undue risk exposure. Depending on what their time horizon is, investors can evaluate whether they need to bump up their risk tolerance and choose investments that may offer higher returns.

By the same token, this rule can help investors understand if their time horizon is long enough at a certain rate of return. For example, the investor in the above example is already invested in the instrument that offers 3%.

The Rule of 72 can indicate that they may need to rethink their timeline for when they will retire, pushing it past 20 years. Alternatively, for those interested in self-directed investing, they could sell their current investments and buy a new investment that might offer a higher rate of return.

It’s also important to understand that the Rule of 72 does not take into account additional savings that may be made to the principal investment. So if it becomes clear that the goal won’t be met at the current savings rate, an investor will be able to consider how much extra money to set aside to help reach the goal.

Estimating Investment Doubling Times

Using the Rule of 72 to estimate investment doubling times can be a little tricky, and perhaps inaccurate, unless an investor has a clear idea of what the expected rate of return for an investment will be. For instance, it may be very difficult to get an idea of an expected return for a particularly volatile stock. As such, investors may want to proceed with caution when using it to calculate investment doubling times.

Application in Stock Market Investments

As mentioned, stock market returns can’t be predicted. But an investor could use the historic rate of return for the S&P 500 to try and get a sense of an expected return for the market at large – which can help when applying the Rule of 72 to index funds or other broad investments.

By contrast, bonds typically offer a fixed rate of return, making it easier to use the Rule of 72 effectively.

For example, if a traditional IRA, Roth IRA, or 401(k) plan includes investments that offer a potential 6% return, the investment will double in 12 years. Again, that’s an estimate, but it gives investors a ballpark figure to work with.

Use During Periods of Inflation

Money loses value during bouts of inflation, which means that the Rule of 72 can be used to determine how long it’ll take a dollar’s value to fall by half — the opposite of doubling in value. If inflation holds steady at 5%, the purchasing power of a dollar will be cut in half in about 14.4 years.

Accuracy and Limitations of the Rule of 72

The Rule of 72 has its place in the investing lexicon, but there are some things about its accuracy and overall limitations to take into consideration.

Is the Rule of 72 Accurate?

Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind about the Rule of 72’s accuracy is that it’s a derivation of a larger, more complex operation, and therefore, is something of an estimate. It’s not perfectly accurate, but will get you more of a ballpark figure that can help you make investing decisions.

Situations Where the Rule is Most Accurate

The Rule of 72 is only an approximation and depending on what you’re trying to understand there are a few variations of the rule that can make this estimate more accurate.

The rule of 72 is most accurate at 8%, and beyond that at a range between 6% and 10%. You can, however, adjust the rule to make it more accurate outside the 6% to 10% window.

The general rule to make the calculation more accurate is to adjust the rule by one for every three points the interest rate differs from 8% in either direction. So, for an interest rate of 11%, individuals should adjust from 72 to 73. In the other direction, if the interest rate is 5%, individuals should adjust 72 to 71.

Comparisons and Variations on the Rule

There are a few alternatives or variations of the Rule of 72, too, such as the Rule of 73, Rule of 69.3, and Rule of 69.

Rule of 72 vs. Rule of 73

The basic difference between the Rule of 72 and the Rule of 73 is that it’s used to estimate the time it takes for an investment’s value to double if the rate of return is above 10%. The Rule of 73 is only a slight tweak to the rule of 72, using different figures in the calculation.

Rules of 72, 69.3, and 69

Similarly to the Rule of 73, some people prefer to use the Rule of 69.3, especially when interest compounds daily, to get a more accurate result. That number is derived from the complete equation ln(2) / ln(1 + r / 100). When plugged into a calculator by itself, ln(2) results in a number that’s approximately 0.693147.

The Takeaway

The Rule of 72 is one of a few simple formulas investors can use to evaluate when a given investment might double in value. The advantage of these formulas is that they can be applied quickly, without using a calculator. And because the Rule of 72 generally can apply to any situation that involves the compounding of returns, interest, or inflation, investors can use it in various circumstances.

That said, it’s important to be aware that the Rule of 72 is just an estimate. It cannot control for real-world conditions that may impact risk and returns.

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FAQ

What are the flaws in the Rule of 72?

There are a few key drawbacks to using the Rule of 72, including the fact that it’s mostly accurate only for a certain subset of investments, it’s only an estimate, and unforeseen factors can cause the rate of return for an investment to change, rendering it useless.

Does the Rule of 72 apply to debt?

Yes, the Rule of 72 can be applied to debt, and it can be used to calculate an estimate of how long it would take a debt balance to double if it’s not paid down or off.

Who created the Rule of 72?

Albert Einstein often gets credit for creating this formula, but Italian mathematician Luca Pacioli most likely invented, or introduced, the Rule of 72 in the late 1400s.

INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE

SOIN-Q425-005

Nov

2025

A woman with glasses sits at an office desk, looking at her alternative investment choices on a laptop, a large plant and brick wall behind her.

Why Invest in Alternative Investments?

By Rebecca Lake | Growing Wealth, invest, Investing | Comments Off

Table of Contents

Why Consider Alternative Investments?
The Role of Alts in Your Portfolio
Important Considerations When Choosing Alternative Investments
Who Should Invest in Alts?

A growing number of investors are intrigued by alternative investments, due in part to factors like today’s lower-yield environment and volatility in the equity markets. Because alternative investments are not typically correlated with conventional stock and bond markets they can offer investors portfolio diversification and potential returns.

In addition, alternative assets — which fall outside conventional stock, bond, and cash options — used to be accessible only to high net-worth and accredited investors. Now “retail alts” have emerged as a category. These investments are available to a range of investors thanks to new vehicles that include different types of funds and alternative strategies.

That said, alternative assets and alternative strategies are generally less well regulated, and can be opaque and illiquid. In short, alts come with their own set of risk factors for investors to consider.

Key Points

• Alternative investments are generally not correlated with traditional stock and bond markets, so they can help diversify a portfolio and reduce risk.

• Alternative investments may deliver higher returns when compared with conventional assets, but are typically higher risk.

• Alternative investments are generally less liquid and less transparent than conventional securities, so there can be limits on redemption, a lack of data, and less regulatory oversight.

• Retail investors have more access to alternative strategies through certain types of funds and other vehicles.

• Alternative investments may be suitable for investors who have a higher risk tolerance, are looking for diversification, and understand the potential advantages and disadvantages of these investments.

Why Consider Alternative Investments?

Not only are alternative strategies more accessible to ordinary investors today, they offer several ways to add diversification to investors’ portfolios. Alternative investments come with risks of their own (see “Important Considerations” below), and investors need to weigh the potential upside of different alts with their disadvantages.

Unique Investment Options

For investors seeking diversification — or otherwise drawn to invest in a wider range of opportunities — the world of alts offers a number of options when investing online or through a traditional broker.

Alts can include tangible assets like commodities, farmland, renewable energy, and real estate. Alternatives also include art and antiques, as well as other collectibles (e.g. antiquarian books, vinyl LPs, toys, comics, and more).

In addition, alternative investments can refer to strategies like investing in private equity, private credit, hedge funds, derivatives, and venture capital. These vehicles may deliver higher returns when compared with conventional assets, but they are typically considered higher risk and generally more illiquid, owing to their use of leverage and short strategies and other factors. Some are available only to institutional investors or accredited investors.

Diversification

Investors wondering why to invest in alternatives often focus on diversification. Why does diversification matter? As many investors saw in recent years, volatility in the equity markets can take a bite out of your portfolio, as can inflation and interest rate risk.

In order to help mitigate those risks, adding alternatives to your asset allocation may provide a literal alternative to conventional markets, because for the most part these assets don’t move in tandem with the stock or bond markets.

In a general sense, diversification is like taking the age-old advice of not putting all your eggs in one basket. An investor can’t avoid risk entirely, even when self-directed investing, but diversifying their investments can help mitigate the risk that one asset class poses.

However, the challenge with alts is that there are no guarantees of how an alternative asset might perform. And because these assets are generally less liquid and not as highly regulated as most other securities, i.e. stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs), there can be limits on redemption — and a limited understanding of real-time pricing.

Alternative investments,
now for the rest of us.

Explore trading funds that include commodities, private credit, real estate, venture capital, and more.

The Role of Alts in Your Portfolio

Taking all that into account, what could be the role of alts in your portfolio? In other words, why invest in alts? Of course, alternatives should only be part of your asset allocation. How much to put into alts would depend on your risk tolerance and overall financial goals. Here are some factors to consider.

Low Correlation With Stocks

As noted above, most alternative strategies are uncorrelated with conventional stock and bond markets. During periods of volatility or uncertainty in these markets, some investors may find alternative investments more appealing.

That doesn’t mean that alternatives will always outperform bonds or equities. Low correlation means that a particular asset class moves in a different direction than conventional markets. So, if the stock market drops, uncorrelated asset classes like commodities or real estate are less likely to experience a downturn — which may help mitigate losses overall.

The challenge with alts is that some of these assets (e.g. commodities, renewables, private equity, venture capital) come with their own intrinsic forms of volatility, and investors need to keep these risk factors in mind as well.

Tax Treatment of Alts

Generally speaking, investment gains are taxed according to capital gains tax rules. This isn’t always the case with alternative investments.

It may be a good idea to consult with a tax professional because alts don’t necessarily lower your investment taxes, but they are taxed in different ways. For example, collectibles (e.g., art and antiques) held for longer than a year can be taxed at a special long-term capital gains rate of 28%. Gains from a Real Estate Investment Trust, or REIT, can be subject to more complex taxes.

Important Considerations When Choosing Alternative Investments

Investing in alts requires careful thought because these assets aren’t traded or regulated the same way as more conventional securities.

Liquidity

Generally speaking, most alts are far less liquid than conventional assets. This can make them hard to evaluate in terms of price, and harder to trade. In addition to which, there can be limits on redemption, depending on the asset. Some alts only allow redemptions quarterly or twice a year.

Lack of Data

Owing to the lack of regulation in some sectors, it can be difficult to obtain accurate price history and trading data for some alts. This also adds to the challenge of trading some of these assets.

Who Should Invest in Alts?

Although some alternatives can be highly risky and expensive, some retail investors may want to consider alts because of the advantages these assets offer in terms of diversification and helping to reduce risk.

The investors who decide to invest in alts today may be drawn to the number of options available via mutual funds and ETFs, many of them offered by well-established asset managers. And in some cases, including alts in a portfolio may capture some of the desired advantages.

That said, investors need to do their due diligence to understand the potential pros and cons of these instruments.

The Takeaway

Alternative investments are on the radar of many investors today because these assets may offer some portfolio diversification, help tamp down certain risks, and potentially improve risk-adjusted returns. In addition, the sheer scope and variety of these investments means investors can look for one (or more) that suits their investing style and financial goals.

That said, unlike more conventional investments, alts tend to be higher risk, less transparent, and subject to complex tax treatment. Thus, it’s important to do your due diligence on any investment option in order to make the best purchasing decisions and reduce risk.

Ready to expand your portfolio's growth potential? Alternative investments, traditionally available to high-net-worth individuals, are accessible to everyday investors on SoFi's easy-to-use platform. Investments in commodities, real estate, venture capital, and more are now within reach. Alternative investments can be high risk, so it's important to consider your portfolio goals and risk tolerance to determine if they're right for you.

Invest in alts to take your portfolio beyond stocks and bonds.

Photo credit: iStock/Ridofranz

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For disclosures on SoFi Invest platforms visit SoFi.com/legal. For a full listing of the fees associated with Sofi Invest please view our fee schedule.

An investor should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of the Fund carefully before investing. This and other important information are contained in the Fund’s prospectus. For a current prospectus, please click the Prospectus link on the Fund’s respective page. The prospectus should be read carefully prior to investing.
Alternative investments, including funds that invest in alternative investments, are risky and may not be suitable for all investors. Alternative investments often employ leveraging and other speculative practices that increase an investor's risk of loss to include complete loss of investment, often charge high fees, and can be highly illiquid and volatile. Alternative investments may lack diversification, involve complex tax structures and have delays in reporting important tax information. Registered and unregistered alternative investments are not subject to the same regulatory requirements as mutual funds.
Please note that Interval Funds are illiquid instruments, hence the ability to trade on your timeline may be restricted. Investors should review the fee schedule for Interval Funds via the prospectus.

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Mutual Funds (MFs): Investors should carefully consider the information contained in the prospectus, which contains the Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other relevant information. You may obtain a prospectus from the Fund company’s website or clicking the prospectus link on the fund's respective page at sofi.com. You may also contact customer service at: 1.855.456.7634. Please read the prospectus carefully prior to investing.Mutual Funds must be bought and sold at NAV (Net Asset Value); unless otherwise noted in the prospectus, trades are only done once per day after the markets close. Investment returns are subject to risk, include the risk of loss. Shares may be worth more or less their original value when redeemed. The diversification of a mutual fund will not protect against loss. A mutual fund may not achieve its stated investment objective. Rebalancing and other activities within the fund may be subject to tax consequences.

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

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.

SOIN-Q425-002

Nov

2025

Personal Loan Alternatives

By Jackie Lam | Credit, personal_loan, SMB | Comments Off

Table of Contents

Credit Card
Personal Line of Credit
Home Equity Loan
Retirement Loan
Peer-to-Peer Loan
Salary Advance
Mortgage Refinance
Buy Now, Pay Later Services
Family or Friend Loan
Debt Consolidation Loan as Alternative

If you’ve been denied a personal loan recently or don’t think a personal loan is right for you, you might feel at a loss as to how to cover a large expense or fund a major project.

The good news is, there’s no shortage of personal loan alternatives that suit a variety of situations. Here’s what you need to know.

Key Points

• If you need to access financing but a personal loan isn’t right for you, there are several options available.

• Credit cards can be used for various purchases but typically have a high interest rate.

• If you have built up home equity, a home equity loan or line of credit could provide cash, though these carry the risk of foreclosure if not paid.

• In some situations, you may be able to borrow against 401(k) savings, but doing so may hinder reaching retirement goals.

• Evaluate personal loan alternatives carefully, considering the pros and cons, to find the right fit for your needs.

Credit Card

A credit card offers you a line of credit that can be used for a variety of purchases and could be a loan alternative. You can borrow up to a set credit limit, and each month that you carry a balance, you’ll owe at least the minimum payment. Credit cards are generally seen as a better option for smaller, everyday purchases, while a personal loan may make more sense for larger, more expensive items, such as a house or car.

Using a credit card responsibly can be a good way to establish your credit history, so long as you make timely payments each month. And some cards may come with perks, such as rewards points or travel rewards.

On the downside, if you don’t pay off the full balance of your credit card each month when it’s due, then your balance will accrue interest. (And credit cards typically have higher interest rates than personal loans.) If you continue to make charges on the credit card while only making minimum monthly payments, then it will take you even longer to pay off the balance. To find out how much interest you’ll pay on any balance, you can use a credit card interest calculator.

Applying for one credit card can ding your credit score by just a few points. But applying for multiple cards at once could raise red flags for lenders and can drag down your credit score.

Here’s a summary of the pros and cons of this alternative:

Pros

• Can tap into funds as needed and repay as you go

• Can build credit as long as you make on-time payments

• Some cards come with perks such as rewards points and travel-related benefits

Cons

• Can have higher interest rates than personal loans

• May take you longer to pay off the balance if you only make the minimum payments

• Applying for too many cards at once may hurt your credit

Recommended: Personal Loan vs. Credit Card

Personal Line of Credit

A personal line of credit is a type of revolving credit line that can be used for many different things. Like credit cards, a personal line of credit has a maximum credit limit, and borrowers are required to make a minimum monthly payment. Once the debt is repaid, money can be withdrawn once again. Personal lines of credit may be secured, which require collateral, or unsecured, which do not require collateral.

When comparing a personal line of credit vs. a personal loan, you may discover that a personal line of credit allows you to access money over time instead of all at once. This level of flexibility may reduce interest charges, because you’re only taking out the money you plan on using right away. And generally speaking, the interest rates on a personal line of credit tend to be lower than those on a credit card.

However, it can be difficult to qualify for an unsecured line of credit with a good interest rate, as they’re more risky for the lender. Plus, the flexibility of a line of credit could make it easy for borrowers to take on more debt or take longer to pay off what they owe.

Pros

• Typically has a lower interest rate than credit cards

• Funds can be used for a variety of purposes

• You can access funds as you need them

Cons

• May be difficult to qualify for an unsecured line of credit with a good interest rate

• Can be easy to take on more debt or take longer to pay off the balance

Recommended: Should You Pay Off Debt or Save First?

Home Equity Loan

If you’re a homeowner and meet certain requirements, you may have the option to take out a home equity loan, which is a different kind of debt than a personal loan. This means you’re essentially borrowing against the equity you’ve built in your home.

Like a personal loan, funds from a home equity loan are disbursed in one lump sum, and you owe monthly payments for the life of the loan. Your home secures the loan, and because of that, lenders tend to offer a lower interest rate than they would on most unsecured loans. Interest rates are usually fixed.

It’s worth noting that repayment begins right away, and if you fall behind on your payments, you risk losing your home. In addition, the loan amount is set, so if you need more money, you’ll need to apply for another loan.

Pros

• Low interest rate

• Can borrow large amounts of money

• Funds can be used for a wide variety of purposes

Cons

• Risk losing your home if you fall behind on payments

• Repayment begins immediately

• Loan amount is set

Like a home equity loan, a home equity line of credit (HELOC) is secured by the equity you’ve built in your home, and your home is used as collateral.

One of the main differences is that a HELOC offers a revolving line of credit, which means you can tap into funds as needed and only pay interest on what you borrow. There are usually low or no closing costs involved with a HELOC, and the interest rate is likely to be variable.

There are some potential drawbacks to keep in mind when comparing HELOCs vs. personal lines of credit. For starters, you may have to pay closing costs on the loan amount, though some HELOCs come with low or zero fees. Your interest rate will likely change with the federal funds rate, which means that over time, your monthly payment amount may fluctuate. Also, if you fail to make payments and the loan goes into default, you risk losing your home.

Pros

• Only borrow what you need

• Lower initial interest rates than unsecured loans

• Repayment terms can be flexible

Cons

• Can lose your home if the loan goes into default

• Variable interest rates

• Can be upside-down on your mortgage (i.e., you owe more on your home than what it’s worth)

Retirement Loan

Also known as a 401(k) loan, a retirement loan is a type of loan where you borrow from your retirement account and pay yourself back over time with interest. You can typically borrow against a 401(k), 403(b), or 457(b) retirement plan.

Per IRS guidelines, you can borrow up to $50,000 or 50% of your account balance, whichever is less. Unless you’re putting the money toward buying your primary residence vs. using it to, say, pay off debt, you have five years to repay your loan and need to make quarterly payments.

It’s worth noting that you cannot borrow against an IRA.

Pros

• Don’t have to go through a lengthy application process

• Doesn’t impact your credit

• Loan repayments are automatically taken out of your paycheck

Cons

• Can’t borrow more than $50,000

• Missing out on compound interest and growing your retirement funds

• If you file for bankruptcy, you’re still on the hook for paying off the loans

Peer-to-Peer Loan

Also known as social lending or crowd lending, a peer-to-peer loan (P2P loan) is a financing model where individuals borrow from others through an online platform. In turn, the financial institution is cut out of the picture, and individuals can borrow from individual investors or lenders.

The main draw for lenders is that they might earn more on the interest than if they put their money in a savings account. Borrowers might be eligible for lower interest rates or less-strict lending criteria. What’s more, the funding process is often quicker than going through a bank — an application may be approved within minutes and funds disbursed within a few business days.

Pros

• Flexibility in how funds can be used

• Speedy funding process

• May qualify with fair credit

Cons

• Often have origination fees (up to 10% of the loan)

• Might have a higher interest rate

• Might have late fees

Salary Advance

If you have an urgent financial need or emergency, you might be able to get part of your future paycheck now as a personal loan alternative. In essence, it’s a loan from your employer, with the expectation that you’ll pay it back.

Your company might charge a fee or interest rate to cover the extra paperwork and accounting. However, it could be a solid way to pay for an emergency, provided you know the terms, restrictions, and what a salary advance entails.

Pros

• Easy repayment methods (i.e., funds are automatically deducted from your paycheck)

• Can provide easy, quick access to funds

• Interest rates may be lower than other types of loans

Cons

• Not offered by all employers

• May need to meet eligibility requirements, such as a minimum number of years of employment and no previous paycheck advance requests

• Might get complicated if you leave your job and haven’t repaid the advance

• Smaller-than-usual paychecks could make it more difficult to make ends meet

Mortgage Refinance

A mortgage refinance is when you’re swapping your current mortgage for a new one and can be a personal loan alternative. There are different reasons why this route might be attractive for you, such as locking in a lower interest rate or a lower monthly payment. With a cash-out refinance, for example, you replace your existing mortgage with a new mortgage for more than the previous balance. You receive the difference in cash.

Pros

• You can receive a tax break if funds are used for home improvements

• Can have relatively lower interest rates than other types of financing

• Can stretch out your repayment period

Cons

• Can risk foreclosure if you aren’t able to keep up with payments

• Will need to pay closing costs

Buy Now, Pay Later Services

If you are thinking about making a major purchase, like a new washer/dryer, a buy now, pay later (BNPL) service could be an alternative to a personal loan. These services (like Klarna and Affirm) typically allow you to make a purchase and finance it via a few interest-free payments over a short period of time.

Pros

• Allows you to make a purchase, get the item, and pay it off over time

• Often offers interest-free payments

• Only requires a soft credit check or no credit check

• Application and approval is typically quick and easy

Cons

• Can lead to overspending

• Missing a payment can lead to late fees

• Late or missed payments can negatively impact your credit

Family or Friend Loan

If you are fortunate, you might have a relative or friend who’s potentially able to help lend you money when you need it. This kind of family or friend loan typically doesn’t require a credit check and can offer low-interest terms. Note that the IRS has guidelines for the interest rate to be charged for this kind of loan.

Pros

• Family or friend loans can offer borrowers with no or low credit a way to access funds.

• Typically, the repayment terms of family or friend loans can be flexible.

• Interest rates can be low.

Pros

• Family or friend loans can lack clear legal guidelines

• Late or missed payments can negatively impact your relationship with the lender

• No- or extremely low interest rates can conflict with IRS guidelines

• Making timely payments to a friend or relative who’s loaned you money will not positively impact your credit score

Debt Consolidation Loan as Alternative

You may also find that a debt consolidation loan is an option. This is actually a specific type of personal loan, one that is tailored to help combine high-interest credit card debt into one loan that is easier to pay and may offer a lower interest rate.

Pros

• Combines multiple debts into one loan, for a single monthly payment

• May offer a lower interest rate vs. current debts

• May help you pay off debt more effectively

Cons

• May involve a longer repayment period and higher interest over the life of the loan

• Fees may be assessed that can be challenging to pay

• Must meet the lender’s qualifications to be approved for the loan

The Takeaway

There are pros and cons to personal loans, so if you decide to explore other funding options, rest assured there’s no shortage of personal loan alternatives. Examples run the gamut from home equity loans and HELOCs to personal lines of credit and credit cards.

By knowing what’s out there and weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each, you’ll stand a stronger chance of figuring out what is best suited for your needs.

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

SoFi’s Personal Loan was named a NerdWallet 2026 winner for Best Personal Loan for Large Loan Amounts.

FAQ

What alternatives to personal loans are the most popular?

Among the most popular options for personal loans are credit cards, retirement loans, home equity loans, home equity lines of credit (HELOCs), peer-to-peer loans (P2P), and a cash-out refinance. Each option has its pros and cons and different lending requirements, and each may be better suited for specific borrowers.

Why would you need to use an alternative to a personal loan?

You might need a personal loan alternative if you don’t qualify for a traditional personal loan, or, if, after doing your research, you’ve found that it isn’t the best option for your needs.

Can you use personal loan alternatives even if you have a personal loan?

Yes, you can use personal loan alternatives if you currently have a personal loan, provided the lender approves your application. However, if you have multiple loans, it’s important to ensure you can keep up with the payments.

What is a good alternative to a personal loan for bad credit?

If you have poor credit, you might look into a friend or family loan, or consider making a purchase with a buy now, pay later service.

Are personal loan alternatives safer or riskier than personal loans?

Whether an option is safer or riskier than a personal loan depends on the particular alternative you are exploring and your situation. For instance, a HELOC puts your house at risk of foreclosure if you default. If you have a loan from a relative and don’t repay it on time, you could do serious damage to that relationship.

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

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

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

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

SOPL-Q425-050

Nov

2025

Two smiling men of different generations are holding wine glasses outdoors, perhaps discussing their finances and the average debt by age.

What Is the Average Debt by Age?

By Janet Siroto | Budgeting & Goals, Debt Payoff, personal_loan | No Comments

Table of Contents

Breakdown Of Average Debt By Age
How Much Debt Is Too Much?
How to Take Control Of Your Debt
The Takeaway
FAQ

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York announced that U.S. citizens hit a new milestone: $1.23 trillion in credit card debt as of Q3 2025. And when you look at overall debt, the number soars to an eye-watering $18.59 trillion, with the typical American household having $105,056 in debt.

Taking a closer look at how debt is tracked by age can help as you examine your own situation and think carefully about how you will manage your own debt load. Keep reading to learn more.

Key Points

• The type of debt and its purpose shift with age: earlier life stages are more about education and vehicles; later stages are often about homes and long-term financing.

• Average debt per person is lowest for both the younger and older generations.

• People ages 40-49 tend to carry the highest average debt, largely because of home mortgages and other long-term loans.

• Not all debt is bad debt. Mortgages and student loans are considered better forms of debt than credit cards and auto loans.

• If you’re looking to reduce or pay off your debt, consider using the debt avalanche method, the debt snowball method, or a personal loan for debt consolidation.

Breakdown Of Average Debt By Age

Here, you’ll learn more about the latest data and what it reveals about how Americans are using credit. Overall, people in their high earning years (early middle age) carry the most debt, typically in the form of mortgages, while younger families carry more student loan debt. Let’s take a closer look.

Age 18-29

Total debt: $1.05 trillion

Average per person: $19,972

During this stage of life, debt typically comes from a mix of student loans, credit cards, and auto loans, not mortgages, because many in this age group haven’t yet bought homes. The relatively high levels of education-related and personal debt for these younger adults highlight the financial burden they face early in their careers.

Age 30-39

Total debt: $3.89 trillion

Average per person: $84,565

Adults aged 30-39 carry a significantly higher debt load than younger cohorts, with a per-capita average of around $84,565, according to Federal Reserve–based data. By this age, many people have transitioned into more long-term financial obligations: mortgages make up a large share of their debt, as they often purchase homes and take on large loans to finance them.

Credit card debt in this age bracket is climbing, too, with 80% having a credit card (ages 30-44) and 53% carrying a balance. These increases show that people in this age range are taking on more debt — likely because they’re earning more and doing more: they’re settling into their careers, buying houses, and starting families.

Age 40-49

Total debt: $4.76 trillion

Average per person: $111,148

People aged 40-49 carry the most debt burden of all age groups, with an average per-capita debt of $111,148. At this stage, much of their debt stems from long-term obligations like mortgages, as many in this age group have purchased homes and are building significant home equity, as well as from auto loans and credit card balances.

Despite this high level of indebtedness, the New York Fed’s reports show that serious delinquency (90+ days past due) rates for major debt categories like mortgages remain relatively stable among this cohort. However, the concentration of debt also reflects that 40- to 49-year-olds are in a peak earning and borrowing phase — balancing large housing loans, potential family expenses, and other financial priorities.

Consolidate your debt
and get back in control.

Age 50-59

Total debt: $4.02 trillion

Average per person: $97,336

This age bracket continues to see drops in overall debt. They owe less on their mortgages and even less on education loans. With fewer large expenses related to education, housing, and family rearing, households in this age bracket can focus on paying down debt and building savings as they prepare for retirement.

Age 60-69

Total debt: $2.73 trillion

Average per person: $67,574

Households in this age range are likely beginning to or have begun their retirement. At this point, they are probably tightening their budgets to live on retirement savings, pensions, and social security. As a result, they’re spending — and borrowing — less.

While average balances may still be substantial, most of these older borrowers continue to manage repayments. For many in their 60s, carrying this level of debt can be part of a long-term wealth management strategy — balancing ongoing liabilities while preserving or building on accumulated assets.

Age 70 and up

Total debt: $1.73 trillion

Average per person: $43,142

Seniors in this bracket are most likely retired and living on a fixed income. While there are fewer and lower levels of borrowing in this bracket compared to the others, one report says that more than 97% of those ages 66-71 do still carry some form of debt. While much of this is accounted for by small mortgages, some of it may be related to high cost of medical care, senior living facilities, and credit card debt.

💡 Quick Tip: Before choosing a personal loan, ask about the lender’s fees: origination, prepayment, late fees, etc. SoFi personal loans come with no-fee options, and no surprises.

How Much Debt Is Too Much?

Americans have clearly become accustomed to borrowing in order to move through their everyday lives. In fact, financing is often a necessary step in order to get the graduate level training needed for a professional career or to buy a home that will become a financial asset. But are we culturally becoming too comfortable with borrowing larger and larger sums of money? And how do you know when you’ve over-extended yourself?

One way to find out if you’re carrying too much debt is to calculate your debt-to-income ratio by dividing your monthly debt payments by your monthly income. For instance, if your total debt payments (student loan, credit card, mortgage, car loan, etc.) come to $2,500 per month and your after-tax monthly income is $8,000, your debt-to-income ratio would be 31.25%. That means that a little over 31% of your income goes straight to your debts.

As a rule of thumb, the lower your debt-to-income ratio, the better: a ratio of around 30% is considered very good, while a ratio of 40% or higher could threaten your financial security.

Recommended: Which Credit Bureau Is Used Most?

How to Take Control Of Your Debt

Carrying debt can be extremely stressful, especially if it keeps you from being able to save enough to feel financially secure. Here are some solutions if you’re looking for a strategy for paying down your debt.

Make a Debt Inventory

Start by listing out all of your outstanding debts and sorting them based on whether they are “good” debts (debts taken out to help build wealth or income potential like mortgages and student loans) or “bad” debts (high-interest loans, credit cards, and auto loans). The bad, or high-risk debts, will be the ones you’ll want to take on first.

Create a Debt Pay-Down Goal

Creating a debt pay-down goal gives you a clear roadmap for reducing what you owe. Two popular strategies that can help you get there are the debt avalanche and the debt snowball methods.

With the debt avalanche method, you focus on paying off the debts with the highest interest rates first, which minimizes the total interest you’ll pay over time. The debt snowball approach, on the other hand, prioritizes paying off your smallest balances first, giving you quick wins and motivation to keep going. Whichever method you choose, setting a specific, achievable goal helps you stay focused and build momentum toward becoming debt-free.

Consider Consolidating Your Debt

If you are carrying a high credit card balance or other high-interest debt, but have a steady income and good credit, you may be able to make your repayment simpler and cheaper by taking out a lower-interest personal loan to pay off those debts. You can’t use an unsecured personal loan to consolidate student loan debt, but it can be immensely helpful if you’re trying to get out from under credit card debt.

Recommended: Can You Refinance a Personal Loan?

The Takeaway

Many Americans have debt, with younger people having more student debt and those in midlife having more in the form of mortgages.

If you’re concerned about managing your debt (especially from credit cards), you might consolidate your high-interest debt into one monthly payment, which might offer a lower interest rate that could help you get out of debt sooner.

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

SoFi’s Personal Loan was named a NerdWallet 2026 winner for Best Personal Loan for Large Loan Amounts.

FAQ

How much does the average American have in debt?

As of 2024, average household debt sits at $105,056. This may include mortgage debt, credit card debt, auto loans, student loans, personal debt, and more.

How many people have $10,000 in credit card debt?

Roughly one in four Americans (25%) who carry credit card debt owe more than $10,000. Keep in mind that about 46% of Americans have credit card debt, in general.

What percent of Americans are debt-free?

According to data from the Federal Reserve, about 23% of Americans are debt-free. Keep in mind, though, that not all debt is considered bad. Having mortgage debt, for example, is much better than carrying credit card debt.

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

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

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

SOPL-Q425-065

Nov

2025

A surgeon wearing scrubs, gloves, and a mask reviews images on a computer in an operating room with a patient and other medical personnel in the background.

How Much Does a Surgeon Make a Year?

By Jacqueline DeMarco | Building Your Career, Life & Career, relay | Comments Off

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 mean annual pay for general surgeons (excluding specialties such as orthopedic, pediatric, oral, and maxillofacial surgeons) in the U.S. as of May 2024 is $371,280, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

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.

Key Points

• The mean annual pay for general surgeons in the U.S. is $371,280, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• General surgeons can earn an entry-level salary averaging $339,174, with most earning between $303,000 and $400,000.

• Surgeons’ salaries vary by specialty, with pediatric surgeons earning $450,810 and orthopedic surgeons earning $365,060 annually on average.

• Surgeons typically receive comprehensive benefits, including healthcare, paid vacation, vision and dental insurance, and retirement plans.

• Becoming a surgeon can require 11 to 15 years of education and training, leading to high education costs.

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) or 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

Check your score with SoFi

Track your credit score for free. Sign up and get $10.*

How Much Does a Surgeon Make Starting Out?

General surgeons can earn an impressive entry-level salary, averaging $339,174, according to ZipRecruiter. Most earn between $303,000 and $400,000.

💡 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 $178.50, while the average annual pay for a surgeon in the U.S. is $371,280.

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: $365,060

• Oral and maxillofacial surgeon: $360,240

• Pediatric surgeon: $450,810

• Cardiothoracic surgeon:$367,474

• Plastic surgeon: $356,489

• Mohs surgeon: $345,926

What Is the Average Surgeon Salary by State?

How much money a surgeon makes can vary by location. What follows is a breakdown of how much general surgeons make per year, on average, by state, according to the Bureau for Labor Statistics, as of 2024 (the most recent data available). These statistics exclude specialties such as orthopedic, pediatric, oral, and maxillofacial surgeons. Please note that data is not available for all states.

State	Annual Salary
Arizona	$432,580
California	$308,430
Colorado	$311,400
Georgia	$449,500
Illinois	$352,040
Indiana	$443,860
Iowa	$394,050
Louisiana	$544,450
Maine	$424,260
Maryland	$349,250
Massachusetts	$362,300
Michigan	$498,340
Minnesota	$373,920
New Hampshire	$381,510
New Mexico	$400,000
New York	$262,640
North Carolina	$398,550
North Dakota	$556,400
Ohio	$505,370
South Carolina	$358,310
Tennessee	$366,430
Texas	$298,900
Vermont	$403,630
Virginia	$321,470
Washington	$354,640
West Virginia	$371,230
Wisconsin	$478,880
Wyoming	$371,800

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Surgeon Job Considerations for Pay and 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 $371,280, 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 $371,280 per year but can go as high as $450,000 or more, 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.

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 at a 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 start practicing. 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.

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.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

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 upward 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, pediatric surgery, plastic surgery, and Mohs surgery.

How much do surgeons make starting out?

General surgeons just starting out average $339,174 annually, according to ZipRecruiter.

About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.

Photo credit: iStock/stefanamer

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

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

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

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

SORL-Q425-031

The Rule of 72: Understanding Its Significance in Investing

What Is the Rule of 72?

Who Came Up with the Rule of 72?

The Formula and Calculation of the Rule of 72

Example of the Rule of 72 Calculation

Applying the Rule of 72 in Investment Planning

Example of Compound Returns

Practical Uses in Financial Projections

Estimating Investment Doubling Times

Application in Stock Market Investments

Use During Periods of Inflation

Accuracy and Limitations of the Rule of 72

Is the Rule of 72 Accurate?

Situations Where the Rule is Most Accurate

Comparisons and Variations on the Rule

Rule of 72 vs. Rule of 73

Rules of 72, 69.3, and 69

The Takeaway

FAQ

What are the flaws in the Rule of 72?

Does the Rule of 72 apply to debt?

Who created the Rule of 72?

Why Invest in Alternative Investments?

Why Consider Alternative Investments?

Unique Investment Options

Diversification

Alternative investments, now for the rest of us.

Explore trading funds that include commodities, private credit, real estate, venture capital, and more.

The Role of Alts in Your Portfolio

Low Correlation With Stocks

Tax Treatment of Alts

Important Considerations When Choosing Alternative Investments

Liquidity

Lack of Data

Who Should Invest in Alts?

The Takeaway

Personal Loan Alternatives

Credit Card

Personal Line of Credit

Home Equity Loan

Retirement Loan

Peer-to-Peer Loan

Salary Advance

Mortgage Refinance

Buy Now, Pay Later Services

Family or Friend Loan

Debt Consolidation Loan as Alternative

The Takeaway

FAQ

What alternatives to personal loans are the most popular?

Why would you need to use an alternative to a personal loan?

Can you use personal loan alternatives even if you have a personal loan?

What is a good alternative to a personal loan for bad credit?

Are personal loan alternatives safer or riskier than personal loans?

What Is the Average Debt by Age?

Breakdown Of Average Debt By Age

Age 18-29

Age 30-39

Age 40-49

Consolidate your debt and get back in control.

Age 50-59

Age 60-69

Age 70 and up

How Much Debt Is Too Much?

How to Take Control Of Your Debt

Make a Debt Inventory

Create a Debt Pay-Down Goal

Consider Consolidating Your Debt

The Takeaway

FAQ

How much does the average American have in debt?

How many people have $10,000 in credit card debt?

What percent of Americans are debt-free?

How Much Does a Surgeon Make a Year?

What Are Surgeons?

Check your score with SoFi

Track your credit score for free. Sign up and get $10.*

How Much Does a Surgeon Make Starting Out?

What is the Average Salary for a Surgeon?

What Is the Average Surgeon Salary by State?

Alternative investments,
now for the rest of us.

Consolidate your debt
and get back in control.

Student Loan
Refinancing

Personal
Loans

Online
Investments