Financial Topics Archives | Page 187 of 822

Jan

2025

SIMPLE IRA Contribution Limits for Employers & Employees

By Austin Kilham | invest, Investing, Preparing for Retirement | Comments Off

A SIMPLE IRA, or Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees, is a way for self-employed individuals and small business employers to set up a retirement plan.

It’s one of a number of tax-advantaged retirement plans that may be available to those who are self-employed, along with solo 401(k)s, and traditional IRAs. These plans share a number of similarities. Like 401(k)s, SIMPLE IRAs are employer-sponsored (if you’re self-employed, you would be the employer in this case), and like other IRAs they give employees some flexibility in choosing their investments.

SIMPLE IRA contribution limits are one of the main differences between accounts: meaning, how much individuals can contribute themselves, and whether there’s an employer contribution component as well.

Here’s a look at the rules for SIMPLE IRAs.

SIMPLE IRA Basics

SIMPLE IRAs are a type of employer-sponsored retirement account. Employers who want to offer one cannot have another retirement plan in place already, and they must typically have 100 employees or less.

Employers are required to contribute to SIMPLE IRA plans, while employees can elect to do so, as a way to save for retirement.

Employees can usually participate in a SIMPLE IRA if they have made $5,000 in any two calendar years before the current year, or if they expect to receive $5,000 in compensation in the current year.

An employee’s income doesn’t affect SIMPLE IRA contribution limits.

💡 Quick Tip: Investment fees are assessed in different ways, including trading costs, account management fees, and possibly broker commissions. When you set up an investment account, be sure to get the exact breakdown of your “all-in costs” so you know what you’re paying.

SIMPLE IRA Contribution Limits, 2024 and 2025

Employee contributions to SIMPLE IRAs are made with pre-tax dollars. They are typically taken directly from an employee’s paycheck, and they can reduce taxable income in the year the contributions are made, often reducing the amount of taxes owed.

Once deposited in the SIMPLE IRA account, contributions can be invested, and those investments can grow tax deferred until it comes time to make withdrawals in retirement. Individuals can start making withdrawals penalty free at age 59 ½. But withdrawals made before then may be subject to a 10% or 25% early withdrawal penalty.

Employee contributions are capped. For 2024, contributions cannot exceed $16,000 for most people. For 2025, it’s $16,500. Employees who are aged 50 and over can make additional catch-up contributions of $3,500 for 2024 and 2025, bringing their total contribution limit to $19,500 in 2024 and $20,000 in 2025. Beginning in 2025, those aged 60 to 63 can make a catch-up contribution of up to $5,250, instead of $3,500, for a total of $21,750 in 2025.

See the chart below for SIMPLE IRA contribution limits for 2024 and 2025.

	2024	2025
Annual contribution limit	$16,000	$16,500
Catch-up contribution for age 50 and older	$3,500	$3,500 (ages 50-59, 64+) $5,250 (ages 60-63)

2024

2025

Annual contribution limit

$16,000

$16,500

Catch-up contribution for age 50 and older

$3,500

$3,500 (ages 50-59, 64+)

$5,250 (ages 60-63)

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

Employer vs Employee Contribution Limits

Employers are required to contribute to each one of their employees’ SIMPLE plans each year, and each plan must be treated the same, including an employer’s own.

There are two options available for contributions: Employers may either make matching contributions of up to 3% of employee compensation — or they may make a 2% nonelective contribution for each eligible employee.

If an employer chooses the first option, call it option A, they have to make a dollar-for-dollar match of each employee’s contribution, up to 3% of employee compensation. (If the employer chooses option B, the nonelective contribution, this requirement doesn’t apply.) An employer can offer smaller matches, but they must match at least 1% for no more than two out of every five years.

In option A, if an employee doesn’t make a contribution to their SIMPLE account, the employer does not have to contribute either.

In the second option, option B: Employers can choose to make nonelective contributions of 2% of each individual employee’s compensation. If an employer chooses this option, they must make a contribution whether or not an employee makes one as well.

Contributions are limited. Employers may make a 2% contribution up to $345,000 in employee compensation for 2024, and up to $350,000 in employee compensation for 2025.

(The 3% matching contribution rule for option A is not subject to this same annual compensation limit.)

Whatever contributions employers make to their employees’ plans are tax deductible. And if you’re a sole proprietor you can deduct the employer contributions you make for yourself.

See the chart below for employer contribution limits for 2024 and 2025.

	2024	2025
Matching contribution	Up to 3% of employee contribution	Up to 3% of employee contribution
Nonelective contribution	2% of employee compensation up to $345,000	2% of employee compensation up to $350,000

SIMPLE IRA vs 401(k) Contribution Limits

There are other options for employer-sponsored retirement plans, including the 401(k), which differs from an IRA in some significant ways.

Like SIMPLE IRAs, 401(k) contributions are made with pre-tax dollars, and money in the account grows tax deferred. Withdrawals are taxed at ordinary income tax rates, and individuals can begin making them penalty-free at age 59 ½.

For employees, contribution limits for 401(k)s are higher than those for SIMPLE IRAs. In 2024, individuals could contribute up to $23,000 to their 401(k) plans. Plan participants age 50 and older could make $7,500 in catch-up contributions for a total of $30,500 per year. In 2025, individuals can contribute $23,500 to their 401(k), and those 50 and older can make $7,500 in catch-up contributions for a total of $31,000. In addition, for 2025, those aged 60 to 63 may contribute an additional $11,250 instead of $7,500, thanks to SECURE 2.0, for a total of $34,750.

Employers may also choose to contribute to their employees’ 401(k) plans through matching contributions or non-elective contributions. Employees often use matching contributions to incentivize their employees to save, and individuals should try to save enough each year to meet their employer’s matching requirements.

Employers may also make nonelective contributions regardless of whether an employee has made contributions of their own. Total employee and employer contributions to a 401(k) could equal up to $69,000 in 2024, or 100% of an employee’s compensation, whichever is less. For those aged 50 and older, that figure jumps to $76,500. In 2025, total employee and employer contributions are $70,000, or $77,500 for those 50 and up, or $81,250 for those aged 60 to 63.

As a result of these higher contribution limits, 401(k)s can help individuals save quite a bit more than they could with a SIMPLE IRA. See chart below for a side-by-side comparison of 401(k) and SIMPLE IRA contribution limits.

	SIMPLE IRA 2024	SIMPLE IRA 2025	401(k) 2024	401(k) 2025
Annual contribution limit	$16,000	$16,500	$23,000	$23,500
Catch-up contribution	$3,500	$3,500 (ages 50-59, 64+) $5,250 (ages 60-63)	$7,500	$7,500 (ages 50-59, 64+) $11,250 (ages 60-63)
Employer Contribution	Up to 3% of employee contribution, or 2% of employee compensation up to $345,000	Up to 3% of employee contribution, or 2% of employee compensation up to $350,000	Matching and nonelective contributions up to $69,000	Matching and nonelective contributions up to $70,000.

SIMPLE IRA 2024

SIMPLE IRA 2025

401(k) 2024

401(k) 2025

Annual contribution limit

$16,000

$16,500

$23,000

$23,500

Catch-up contribution

$3,500

$3,500 (ages 50-59, 64+)

$5,250 (ages 60-63)

$7,500

$7,500 (ages 50-59, 64+)

$11,250 (ages 60-63)

Employer Contribution

Up to 3% of employee contribution, or 2% of employee compensation up to $345,000

Up to 3% of employee contribution, or 2% of employee compensation up to $350,000

Matching and nonelective contributions up to $69,000

Matching and nonelective contributions up to $70,000.

💡 Quick Tip: The advantage of opening a Roth IRA and a tax-deferred account like a 401(k) or traditional IRA is that by the time you retire, you’ll have tax-free income from your Roth, and taxable income from the tax-deferred account. This can help with tax planning.

SIMPLE IRA vs Traditional IRA Contribution Limits

Individuals who want to save more in tax-deferred retirement accounts than they’re able to in a SIMPLE IRA alone can consider opening an IRA account. Regular IRAs come in two flavors: traditional and Roth IRA.

Traditional IRAs

When considering SIMPLE vs. traditional IRAs, the two actually work similarly. However, contribution limits for traditional accounts are quite a bit lower. For 2024, individuals could contribute $7,000, or $8,000 for those 50 and older. In 2025, as well, individuals can contribute $7,000, or $8,000 for those 50 and older.

That said, when paired with a SIMPLE IRA, individuals under 50 could make $23,000 in total contributions in 2024, which is the same as a 401(K) for that year. In 2025, they could make $23,500 in total contributions, which is the same as a 401(k) for that year, as well.

Roth IRAs

Roth IRAs work a little bit differently.

Contributions to Roths are made with after-tax dollars. Money inside the account grows-tax free and individuals pay no income tax when they make withdrawals after age 59 ½. Early withdrawals may be subject to penalty. Because individuals pay no income tax on withdrawals in retirement, Roth IRAs may be a consideration for those who anticipate being in a higher tax bracket when they retire.

Roth contributions limits are the same as traditional IRAs. Individuals are allowed to have both Roth and traditional accounts at the same time. However, total contributions are cumulative across accounts.

See the chart for a look at SIMPLE IRA vs. traditional and Roth IRA contribution limits.

	SIMPLE IRA 2024	SIMPLE IRA 2025	Traditional and Roth IRA 2024	Traditional and Roth IRA 2025
Annual contribution limit	$16,000	$16,500	$7,000	$7,000
Catch-up contribution	$3,500	$3,500 (ages 50-59, 64+) $5,250 (ages 60-63)	$1,000	$1,000
Employer Contribution	Up to 3% of employee contribution, or 2% of employee compensation up to $345,000	Up to 3% of employee contribution, or 2% of employee compensation up to $350,000	None	None

SIMPLE IRA 2024

SIMPLE IRA 2025

Traditional and Roth IRA 2024

Traditional and Roth IRA 2025

Annual contribution limit

$16,000

$16,500

$7,000

Catch-up contribution

$3,500

$3,500 (ages 50-59, 64+)

$5,250 (ages 60-63)

$1,000

Employer Contribution

Up to 3% of employee contribution, or 2% of employee compensation up to $345,000

Up to 3% of employee contribution, or 2% of employee compensation up to $350,000

None

The Takeaway

SIMPLE IRAs are an easy way for employers and employees to save for retirement — especially those who are self-employed (or for companies with under 100 employees). In fact, a SIMPLE IRA gives employers two ways to help employees save for retirement — by a direct matching contribution of up to 3% (assuming the employee is also contributing to their SIMPLE IRA account), or by providing a basic 2% contribution for all employees, regardless of whether the employees themselves are contributing.

While SIMPLE IRAs don’t offer the same high contribution limits that 401(k)s do, individuals who want to save more can compensate by opening a traditional or Roth IRA on their own.

Ready to invest for your retirement? It’s easy to get started when you open a traditional or Roth IRA with SoFi. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).

Help grow your nest egg with a SoFi IRA.

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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.

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Jan

2025

What Is the Minimum Down Payment for an FHA Loan?

By Kevin Brouillard | Family Finances, Home Ownership, mortgage | Comments Off

Saving up for a down payment is a common challenge for many prospective homebuyers. FHA loans allow qualifying borrowers to put as little as 3.5% down on a property, helping lower the barriers to homeownership for many.

With an FHA loan, borrowers may also be eligible for down payment assistance. But there are other out-of-pocket expenses to keep in mind when considering an FHA loan. Let’s take a closer look at FHA loan down payment requirements and how much money you’ll need to get to the closing table.

What Is an FHA Loan?

An FHA loan is a type of mortgage that’s issued by a lender, such as a bank or credit union, but insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). The purpose of the FHA mortgage program is to make homeownership more affordable for low- to moderate-income buyers.

Since FHA loans are government-insured, they offer more flexible eligibility requirements for borrowers who might not qualify for a conventional home loan. FHA loans have lower minimum down payment and credit score requirements, making them popular with first-time homebuyers and applicants with limited savings or poor credit. Compared to conventional mortgages, FHA loan interest rates are typically lower, but will vary depending on the lender and on the borrower’s credit score and finances.

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FHA Loan Income Requirements

There aren’t any minimum or maximum income requirements to qualify for an FHA loan. However, there may be income limits for borrowers receiving down payment assistance through a state or local program.

In any case, lenders will look at an applicant’s ability to manage monthly mortgage payments and ultimately repay the FHA loan. Besides savings and assets, lenders assess an applicant’s debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, which measures the percentage of monthly income that goes toward debt payments. A lower DTI ratio is typically viewed as favorable. Depending on the lender, borrowers can get an FHA loan with a DTI ratio of up to 50%. In comparison, conventional loans typically require a DTI ratio of 43% or less.

Recommended: How Much is a Down Payment?

What Is the Down Payment Required for an FHA Loan?

Down payments are calculated as a percentage of the home purchase price. Historically, lenders looked for buyers to put down one-fifth of a home’s purchase price upfront. But you no longer always need to put down 20% on a house. The minimum down payment percentage for FHA loans depends on a borrower’s credit score.

The average down payment on a house in the U.S. was 13% in 2022. But with an FHA loan, borrowers with a credit score of 580 or more may qualify for a down payment of 3.5% of the home purchase price. Those with credit scores between 500 and 579 will need to put 10% of the home price towards a down payment. For a $400,000 house, this translates to $14,000 for a 3.5% down payment and $40,000 for a 10% down payment.

💡 Quick Tip: Generally, the lower your debt-to-income ratio, the better loan terms you’ll be offered. One way to improve your ratio is to increase your income (hello, side hustle!). Another way is to consolidate your debt and lower your monthly debt payments.

What Other Cash Will I Need to Close?

Besides the down payment, the remaining amount you need to close on a house will depend mainly on the home’s purchase price. Taking out an FHA loan requires paying an upfront mortgage insurance premium (MIP) of 1.75% of the loan total. It may be possible to roll this cost into the loan, which would increase the loan principal and monthly payment amount.

Buyers will also be on the hook for FHA loan closing costs, which typically range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price. Borrowers can potentially avoid the upfront expense by rolling closing costs into an FHA loan. By financing closing costs, borrowers will pay a portion of the costs each month, plus interest. Note that financing closing costs can increase a borrower’s DTI ratio and potentially impact their ability to qualify for an FHA loan.

An alternative option to cover closing costs would be to ask for seller concessions. FHA loans allow the seller to contribute up to 6% of the home value for closing costs as a seller concession.

Recommended: What Do You Need to Buy a House?

How to Save for an FHA Loan Down Payment

Understanding how much house you can afford is a useful place to start to determine your housing budget and savings goal. Using an FHA loan mortgage calculator can help crunch the numbers to determine your down payment and monthly payment based on different loan terms. Not sure you will choose an FHA loan? Use a home affordability calculator to determine how much house you can afford.

With a savings goal in mind, calculate how much you can set aside each month after paying for debts and expenses. Consider cutting discretionary spending, such as dining out and travel, to increase monthly savings.

Buyers can also get the money they need for an FHA down payment in the form of a gift from family, friends, employer, charitable organization, or government program. Gifted funds need to be accompanied by a gift letter to show the lender that the money is going toward the down payment and doesn’t need to be repaid.

Is Down Payment Assistance Available for FHA Loans?

Borrowers who can’t afford a down payment on an FHA loan may be eligible for financial assistance. Down payment assistance can come in several forms, including grants and forgivable loans. These programs are available through local, state, and federal government programs, as well as nonprofit organizations.

Most down payment assistance programs are geared towards first-time buyers. They may include additional eligibility requirements, such as income limits and participation in homebuyer education courses. Consult a list of first-time homebuyer programs and loans to see what you might be eligible for. If it has been more than three years since you have owned a home, you may qualify for first-time homebuyer status.

Additional Cost Considerations for FHA Loans

In addition to the upfront costs of a down payment, closing costs, and MIP, there are other expenses to plan for.

The MIP includes an additional annual fee besides the 1.75% that’s required for closing. Annual payments range from 0.15% to 0.75% depending on the loan terms and loan-to-value ratio. The total annual cost is divided by 12 and spread out across the monthly payments in a given year. Note that MIP usually spans the life of the FHA loan unless a borrower refinances.

Depending on the property location, borrowers may also need to pay for flood insurance to get an FHA loan.

Pros and Cons of an FHA Loan

FHA loans are popular for their lower down payment mortgage requirements, but they’re not for everyone. Here are some advantages and drawbacks to consider when comparing home mortgage loan options.

Pros:

• Smaller down payments

• More lenient credit score requirements

• No income limits

• Can finance closing costs

Cons:

• Required to pass an inspection and appraisal

• Must be used for a primary residence.

• Loan limits of $472,030 to $1,089,300 for a single-family home, depending on the cost of living by state.

• Can require an inspection and stricter standards for the condition of the property.

The Takeaway

What is the minimum down payment for an FHA loan? Borrowers with credit scores of 580 or more can put just 3.5% down, while those with scores between 500 to 579 need to put 10% toward a down payment. The combination of lower minimum credit score and low down payment make FHA loans one attractive option for first-time homebuyers.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

FAQ

What is the lowest down payment for an FHA loan?

The lowest down payment for an FHA loan is 3.5% of the loan amount. Borrowers can explore down payment assistance programs to help cover the cost.

What is the down payment for an FHA loan 2023?

The down payment for an FHA loan in 2023 ranges from 3.5% to 10% depending on the borrower’s credit score.

What will disqualify you from an FHA loan?

Borrowers could be disqualified from an FHA loan based on a high debt-to-income ratio, poor credit, or insufficient funds to pay for the down payment, closing costs, and monthly mortgage payment.

Photo credit: iStock/Edwin Tan

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*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

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.

^¹FHA loans are subject to unique terms and conditions established by FHA and SoFi. Ask your SoFi loan officer for details about eligibility, documentation, and other requirements. FHA loans require an Upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium (UFMIP), which may be financed or paid at closing, in addition to monthly Mortgage Insurance Premiums (MIP). Maximum loan amounts vary by county. The minimum FHA mortgage down payment is 3.5% for those who qualify financially for a primary purchase. SoFi is not affiliated with any government agency.

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.

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Jan

2025

What Is Retirement? What Does It Really Mean?

By Rebecca Lake | invest, Investing, Preparing for Retirement | Comments Off

There once was a time was when retirement meant leaving your job permanently, either when you reached a certain age or you’d accumulated enough wealth to live without working. Today’s retirement definition is changing, and it can vary widely depending on your vision and your individual financial situation.

It’s important for each person to develop their own retirement definition. That can help you establish a roadmap for getting from point A to point B, with the money you have, and in the time frame you’re expecting.

Key Points

• Retirement’s definition may vary based on individual financial situations and personal visions.

• Retirement has both financial and lifestyle aspects that need to be considered in its definition.

• Being retired means relying on savings, investments, and perhaps federal benefits for income instead of a regular paycheck.

• Retirement doesn’t necessarily mean individuals completely leave the labor force, as some retirees may have part-time jobs or pursue new careers.

• Retirement statistics show that a significant portion of retirees rely on Social Security, and savings levels vary among individuals.

Retirement Definition

Retirement’s meaning may shift from person to person, but the bottom line is that retirement has a financial side and a personal or lifestyle side. It’s important to consider both in your definition of retirement.

Retirement and Your Finances

Being retired or living in retirement generally means that you rely on your accumulated savings and investments to cover your expenses rather than counting on a paycheck or salary from employment. Depending upon your retirement age, your income may also include federal retirement benefits, such as Social Security and other options.

Retiring doesn’t necessarily mean you stop working completely. You might have a part-time job or side hustle. You may choose to start a small business once you retire from your career. But the majority of your income may still come from savings or federal benefits.

Retirement and Your Lifestyle

Some people embark on a new life or a new career in retirement, complete with new goals, a new focus, sometimes in a brand-new location. But retirement doesn’t have to be a period of reinvention. It depends on how you view the purpose and meaning of retirement. Many people enjoy this period as a time to slow down and enjoy hobbies or priorities that they couldn’t focus on before.

Consider the notion of moving in retirement. While strolling on sandy, sunlit beaches is depicted as a retirement ideal, many people don’t want to move to get there. In fact, 53% of retirees opt to remain in the house where they were already living, according to a 2022 study by the Center for Retirement Research.

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

Qualified Retirement Plan Definition

A qualified retirement plan provides you with money to pay for future expenses once you decide to retire from your job. The Employment Retirement Security Act (ERISA) recognizes two types of retirement plans:

Defined Contribution Plans

In a defined contribution plan, the amount of money you’re able to withdraw in retirement is determined by how much you contribute during your working years, and how much that money grows as it’s invested. A 401(k) plan is the most common type of defined contribution plan that employers can offer to employees.

There are other kinds of retirement plans that fall under the defined contribution umbrella. For example, if you run a small business, you might establish a Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) plan for yourself and your employees. Profit sharing plans, stock bonus plans, and employee stock ownership (ESOP) plans are also defined contribution plans.

A 457 plan is another defined contribution option. They work similar to 401(k) plans, in that you decide how much to contribute, and your employer can make matching contributions. The main difference between 457 and 401(k) retirement accounts is who they’re designed for. Private employers can offer 401(k) plans, while 457 plans are reserved for state and local government employees.

Defined Benefit Plans

A defined benefit plan (typically a pension) pays you a fixed amount in retirement that’s determined by your years of service, your retirement age, and your highest earning years. Cash balance plans are another type of defined benefit plan.

Generally speaking, defined benefit plans have been on the wane in the last couple of decades, with more of the responsibility for saving falling to workers, who must contribute to defined contribution plans.

Retirement Statistics

Retirement statistics can offer some insight into how Americans typically save for the future and when they retire. Here are some key retirement facts and figures to know, according to the Federal Reserve’s Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2021 – May 2022:

• 27% of adults considered themselves to be retired in 2021, though some were still working in some capacity.

• 49% of adults said they retired to do something else, while 45% said they’d reached their normal retirement age.

• 78% of retirees relied on Social Security for income, increasing to 92% among retirees age 65 or older.

• 55% of non-retired adults had savings in a defined contribution plan, while just 22% had a defined benefit plan.

• 40% of non-retirees felt that they were on track with their retirement savings efforts.

So, how much does the typical household have saved for retirement? According to the Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, the estimated median retirement savings among American workers is $54,000. Just 27% of adults who are traditionally employed and 24% of self-employed individuals have saved $250,000 or more for retirement.

Saving for Retirement

Saving for retirement is an important financial goal. While Social Security may provide you with some income, it’s not likely to be enough to cover all of your expenses in retirement — particularly if you end up needing extensive medical care or long-term care. In 2022, according to the Social Security Administration, the average monthly benefit amount was $1,542.22.

Financial experts often recommend saving 15% of your income for retirement but your personal savings target may be higher or lower, depending on your goals. The longer you have to save for retirement, the longer you have to take advantage of compounding interest. That’s the interest you earn on your interest and it’s one of the keys to building wealth.

Selecting a retirement plan is the first step to getting on track with your financial goals. When saving for retirement, you can start with a defined benefit or defined contribution plan if your employer offers either one. Defined contribution plans can be advantageous because your employer may match a percentage of what you save. That’s free money you can use for retirement.

If you don’t have a 401(k) or a similar plan at work, or you do but you want to supplement your retirement savings, you could open a retirement investment account, otherwise known as an individual retirement account (IRA).

Is your retirement piggy bank feeling light?

Start saving today with a Roth or Traditional IRA.

Retirement Investment Accounts

A retirement investment account is an account that enables you to save money for the future, but it isn’t considered a federally qualified retirement plan, like a 401(k). IRAs are tax-advantaged investment accounts that you can use to purchase mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and other securities.

There are two main types of IRAs you can open: traditional and Roth IRAs. A traditional IRA allows for tax-deductible contributions in the year that you make them. Once you retire and begin withdrawing money, those withdrawals are taxed at your ordinary income tax rate.

Roth IRAs don’t offer a deduction for contributions because you contribute after-tax dollars. You can, however, make 100% tax-free qualified withdrawals in retirement. This might be preferable if you think you’ll be in a higher tax bracket once you retire.

For tax year 2024, individuals can contribute up to $7,000 in a Roth and traditional IRA. Those aged 50 and up can contribute up to $8,000, which includes $1,000 of catch-up contributions. For tax year 2025, individuals can contribute up to $7,000 in a Roth IRA and traditional IRA, and those 50 and over can contribute up to $8,000.

You can open an IRA online, or at a brokerage, alongside a taxable investment account for a comprehensive retirement savings picture.

Pros of Retirement Investment Accounts

Opening an IRA could make sense if you’d like to save for retirement while enjoying certain tax benefits.

• If you’re in a higher income bracket during your working years, being able to deduct traditional IRA contributions could reduce your tax liability.

• And not having to pay tax on Roth IRA withdrawals in retirement can ease your tax burden as well if you have income from other sources.

• IRA accounts often give you more flexibility in terms of your investment choices.

Cons of Retirement Investment Accounts

While IRAs can be good savings vehicles for retirement, there are some downsides.

• Both types of accounts have much lower contribution limits compared to a 401(k) or 457 plan. Annual contribution limits for a 401(k) are $23,000 in 2024 and $23,500 in 2025 for those under age 50. Those aged 50 and over can make an additional catch-up contribution of $7,500, per year, to a 401(k) for 2024 and 2025. And in 2025, those aged 60 to 63 only may contribute an additional $11,250 instead of $7,500, thanks to SECURE 2.0.

• With traditional IRAs, you must begin taking required distributions (RMDs) based on your account balance and life expectancy starting at age 73 (401(k)s have a similar rule). If you fail to do so, you could incur a hefty tax penalty.

• Roth IRAs don’t have RMDs, but your ability to contribute to a Roth may be limited based on your income and tax filing status.

Investing for Retirement With SoFi

However you choose to define your retirement, making a financial roadmap will help you get the retirement you want.

SoFi Invest offers traditional and Roth investment accounts to help you build the future you envision. You can also open a SEP IRA if you’re self-employed and want to get a jump on retirement savings. Another way to keep track your retirement savings is to roll over your old accounts to a rollover IRA, so you can manage your money in one place.

SoFi makes the rollover process seamless and straightforward. There are no rollover fees, and you can complete your 401(k) rollover without a lot of time or hassle.

Help grow your nest egg with a SoFi IRA.

FAQ

What is the meaning of retirement?

Retirement generally means leaving your job or the workforce, and living off your savings and investments, but that definition is changing for some. Some people may choose to continue working in retirement, though it may not be their primary source of income. Others may shift their work to focus more on lifestyle changes.

How common is retirement?

According to the Federal Reserve, about 27% of adults considered themselves to be retired in 2021, though some were still working in some capacity. Of these, 49% said they had retired to do something else, while 45% said they’d reached their normal retirement age.

How does retirement work?

When someone retires, they stop working at their job. Or, in the case of a business owner, they hand the business over to someone else. At that point, it’s up to them to decide how they want to spend their retirement, which might include taking care of family, traveling, working part-time, or exploring new hobbies. Their sources of income might include savings, investments, a pension, and Social Security benefits.

About the author

Rebecca Lake

Rebecca Lake has been a finance writer for nearly a decade, specializing in personal finance, investing, and small business. She is a contributor at Forbes Advisor, SmartAsset, Investopedia, The Balance, MyBankTracker, MoneyRates and CreditCards.com. Read full bio.

Photo credit: iStock/Alessandro Biascioli

SoFi Invest®

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

SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below: Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.
For a full listing of the fees associated with Sofi Invest please view our fee schedule.

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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Jan

2025

Individual Retirement Account (IRA) vs Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)

By Dan Miller | invest, Investing, Preparing for Retirement | Comments Off

Although an IRA and a TSP are both types of retirement accounts, they are governed by different sets of rules, starting with the fact that anyone with earned income can open an IRA, but only employees of the U.S. government or the armed forces can fund a thrift savings plan.

A TSP effectively functions more like the government version of a 401(k) plan, with similar rules and contribution limits to these private company-sponsored plans.

When considering the advantages of an IRA vs. a TSP, remember that in many cases it’s possible to fund both types of accounts, as long as you understand the rules and restrictions that apply to each.

What Is an IRA?

You may already be familiar with what IRAs are: These are individual retirement accounts that are tax advantaged in different ways. Anyone with earned income can open an IRA, as long as they meet certain criteria.

Retirement savers can generally choose between traditional and Roth IRAs, with some exceptions owing to Roth eligibility rules (more on that below).

Traditional IRAs allow for pre-tax contributions, while Roth IRAs involve after-tax contributions and permit qualified tax-free withdrawals in retirement.

For tax years 2024 and 2025, the maximum annual amount you can contribute to either type of IRA is $7,000; $8,000 if you’re 50 or older. This is the total annual contribution amount allowed across all ordinary IRA accounts. So, if you contribute $3,000 to a Roth IRA in 2024 or 2025 and you’re under age 50, then you can only contribute up to $4,000 in another IRA for that year.

Calculate your IRA contributions.

Use SoFi’s IRA contribution calculator to determine how much you can contribute to an IRA in 2024.

What Is a TSP?

The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is an employer-sponsored plan that is open to members of the military and civilian employees of the federal government. TSPs are tax-advantaged plans that share many similarities to 401(k) plans offered by private employers.

Like 401(k) plans, you can contribute to a traditional TSP or a designated Roth TSP, both of which come with the types of tax advantages that are similar to traditional and Roth IRAs, as described above. In other words, many different types of retirement accounts may also offer a Roth-style option, for after-tax contributions. Be sure to check the rules and restrictions on contributing to both sides of a plan.

Perhaps the biggest difference with a TSP vs. an IRA is the annual contribution limit. You can contribute up to $23,000 for tax year 2024; for those 50 and older there is also an annual catch-up contribution of $7,500 per year, for a total of $30,500. For 2025, you can contribute up to $23,500, and there is a catch-up contribution of $7,500 for those age 50 and up for a total of $31,000. Also, in 2025, those aged 60 to 63 may contribute a catch-up of $11,250 (instead of $7,500) for a total of $34,750, thanks to SECURE 2.0.

But contribution limits for IRAs are $7,000 for tax years 2024 and 2025, and $8,000 for those 50 and up.

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

TSP vs. IRA

In addition, there are other similarities and differences between a TSP and an IRA.

Similarities

Both the TSP and IRAs provide tax-advantaged ways to save for retirement. With both TSPs and IRAs you can choose between a traditional (tax-deferred) account or a Roth (tax-free) account.

• With a traditional-style TSP or IRA, funds are deposited pre-tax, and you owe ordinary income tax on the withdrawals.

• With a Roth-style TSP or IRA, you deposit after-tax money, and qualified withdrawals are tax-free starting at age 59 ½, as long as you’ve held the account for at least five years.

• With both types of accounts, you may face tax consequences and/or a penalty if you withdraw your funds before age 59 ½.

Differences

There are far more differences between TSPs and IRAs, as you’ll see in the table below.

IRAs	TSP
Anyone with earned income can open an IRA	Only members of the military and government employees are eligible
Annual contribution limits for 2024 and 2025 are $7,000; $8,000 with the catch-up provision	Annual contribution limits for 2024 are $23,000; $30,500 with the catch-up provision; annual contribution limits for 2025 are $23,500; $31,000 with the catch-up provision and $34,750 for those aged 60 to 63.
A wide range of investment choices	Investment choices are limited to the funds the TSP provides
You have some control over the investment fees you pay, so be sure to check your all-in costs.	You have little control over the investment fees you pay, though TSP account and investment fees tend to be low.
You cannot take a loan from your IRA	TSP loans may be available
You are solely responsible for contributions	The government typically provides matching contributions of up to 5%
Traditional IRAs are subject to RMD rules; Roth IRAs are not	RMD rules apply to TSPs, but there are different distribution options: e.g. an installment plan or a lifetime annuity, among other choices

Pros and Cons of IRAs

As the name suggests, an IRA is an account that you manage individually. As such, it comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Pros

• You can open an IRA at most brokerage firms, and manage it yourself, as long as you have earned income.

• An IRA account typically offers access to a wide range of investment options.

• Traditional and Roth IRAs offer different tax treatments; you can choose whatever works best for your financial plan.

Cons

• Annual contribution limits are lower than many other types of retirement plans.

• Eligibility rules for Roth IRAs are complicated and can be limiting.

• Only you can fund an IRA; there is no employer match for a traditional IRA or Roth.

• You cannot take a loan from any type of IRA (but you may be able to take early withdrawals under some circumstances without owing a penalty; see IRS.gov).

Pros and Cons of TSPs

Remember that you can only participate in a TSP if you are an employee of the federal government or a member of the armed forces. Here are some other considerations.

Pros

• The annual contribution limits are higher than IRAs, and the same as 401(k) plans.

• TSPs include an employer match up to 5%.

• When setting up your income plan in retirement, TSPs offer a range of options for taking withdrawals, including fixed installments and a lifetime annuity option.

• You can take a loan from a TSP.

• TSP accounts have lower fees, generally, than IRA accounts

Cons

• Investment options within a TSP can be limited.

• If you leave your government job, you can no longer contribute to your TSP.

• TSP plan participants have less control, and cannot opt for lower-fee or investment options.

Can You Roll a TSP Into an IRA?

Yes, you can rollover your TSP funds into a qualified trust or eligible retirement plan. Eligible retirement plans include IRAs as well as qualified employer-sponsored plans.

Keep in mind that generally you generally need to rollover funds from a traditional TSP account into a traditional IRA and funds from a Roth TSP account into a Roth IRA in order to avoid taxes on the amount you rollover.

You may want to consult with a professional.

The Takeaway

The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is a government program intended to help government employees and members of the military save for retirement. It is an employer-sponsored plan similar to a 401(k). An individual retirement account (IRA) is also a way to save for retirement, but is an account you open and manage yourself.

While there are advantages and disadvantages to each, a TSP allows you to invest more of your savings over time; contribution limits are lower for traditional and Roth IRAs.

Ready to invest for your retirement? It’s easy to get started when you open a traditional or Roth IRA with SoFi. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).

Help grow your nest egg with a SoFi IRA.

FAQ

Is a TSP or IRA better?

A TSP and an IRA are two different ways to save for retirement, and may suit different people for different reasons. Contributing to an IRA may provide you with more investment options, while you can save more in a TSP and the government may match some of your contributions — but not everyone has access to a TSP.

Should you move your TSP to an IRA?

If you leave government service, you can’t contribute to your TSP anymore — but you may be able to open an IRA and rollover the TSP funds. Doing a TSP-to-IRA rollover within the standard 60-day window can help ensure that you don’t have to pay any taxes or penalties, and this may help your retirement plan.

Is a TSP the same as an IRA?

No, a TSP is not the same as an IRA. A TSP is for employees of the government or the armed forces, and it’s comparable to an employer-sponsored plan like a 401(k) or 403(b). By contrast, anyone can open an IRA, as long as they have earned income and qualify.

Photo credit: iStock/Dilok Klaisataporn

SoFi Invest®

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

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Jan

2025

How Much Will a 100K Mortgage Cost per Month?

By Alene Laney | Family Finances, Home Ownership, mortgage | Comments Off

When you’re considering applying for a mortgage, one of your top questions is probably “What is the monthly payment going to be?”

For a 100K mortgage, the payment on a 30-year loan at 7% interest would be $665.30. For a 15-year mortgage loan term, the payment increases to $898.83, which helps you pay off the loan sooner and pay less in interest costs over the entire loan.

Your own loan will depend on a number of factors, including but not limited to fluctuating interest rates. Here’s what goes into a 100K mortgage, what income is required to get one, and what your payments would look like over the life of the loan.

Table of Contents

Total Cost of a 100K Mortgage
Estimated Monthly Payments of a 100K Mortgage
How Much Interest Is Accrued on a 100K Mortgage?
100K Mortgage Amortization Breakdown
What Is Required to Get a 100K Mortgage?
How Much House Can You Afford Quiz
The Takeaway

Key Points

• The monthly cost of a $100,000 mortgage depends on factors such as interest rate, loan term, and property taxes.

• Using a mortgage calculator can help estimate the monthly cost of a $100,000 mortgage.

• Additional expenses like homeowners insurance and maintenance should be considered when budgeting for homeownership.

• Getting pre-approved by a lender can provide a clearer understanding of the monthly cost of a $100,000 mortgage.

• It’s important to review and compare mortgage options to find the best terms and rates for a $100,000 mortgage.

Total Cost of a 100K Mortgage

The total cost of a 100K mortgage goes beyond the monthly payment. There are upfront costs and ongoing, long-term costs to consider, all of which affect how much house can you afford.

Upfront Costs

Upfront home loan costs can include:

• Closing Costs: There are costs you need to pay to get a mortgage, but they are not a part of the original loan. These are known as closing costs and include things like the mortgage origination fee, the cost of an appraisal, attorney fees, title fees, taxes, prepaids, and other expenses. With the average closing cost on a new home adding between 3% and 6%, that works out to $3,000 to $6,000 on a 100K mortgage.

• Down Payment: Unless you are able to obtain a 0% down payment loan, you’ll need some money to afford the down payment on a 100K mortgage loan.

The average down payment on a home is 13%, as per the National Association of Realtors®. This works out to $13,000 on a $100,000 home.

If you don’t quite have this amount, there are other types of mortgage loans that offer low down payment options. 3% and 3.5% are common, which would come out to $3,000 and $3,500 for the down payment on a 100K home.

Long Term Costs

Here are the ongoing costs of a mortgage loan:

• Interest. The biggest expense you’ll have over the life of the loan is interest. Interest costs are huge, especially in an economy with higher annual percentage rates (APRs). You’ll pay more in interest than you do in principal if you keep the mortgage loan for the whole 30-year loan term.

For a $100K mortgage with a 30-year term and 7% APR, the interest costs total $139,508.90.That’s on top of the $100,000 original loan amount. Adding the two together, you’re looking at paying $239,508.90 for the original 100K mortgage. Take a look at our mortgage payment calculator or the amortization table further down if you’re more curious about this amount.

• Escrow. You may pay for taxes and insurance through your escrow account every month. This expense doesn’t go away, even when you pay off your mortgage. The amount of tax and insurance varies by state and policy.

Estimated Monthly Payments of a 100K Mortgage

Payments on a 100K home will ultimately be determined by your loan term and interest rate. And the interest rate is determined by a number of factors. Of course, the Fed’s rate matters, but so too do such aspects as:

• Credit score. A good credit score can afford you a lower interest rate on your mortgage.

• Down payment. Generally, putting down a larger down payment affords you a lower interest rate.

• Home location. There are certain areas where you may be offered a lower interest rate just because of where you live.

• Loan amount. If you need a larger loan, such as a jumbo loan, you’ll usually see a higher interest rate. The same can be true of much smaller homes, such as tiny homes.

• Interest rate type. If you choose a loan with an adjustable APR, you may initially have a lower interest rate.

• Loan type. You’ll see different interest rates based on what loan type you’re using. Examples include VA loans, FHA loans, and a USDA loan which may offer a lower (or no) down payment as well as lower interest rates.

• Loan term. Choosing a mortgage term that’s shorter can help you score a lower interest rate.

Recommended: First-Time Homebuyer Guide

Monthly Payment Breakdown by APR and Term

It’s helpful to see what potential mortgage loan payments on a 100K mortgage may be, adjusting for term length and APR variance. Keep in mind these costs do not include escrow items, such as taxes or insurance.

APR	Monthly Payment on a 30-Year Loan	Monthly Payment on a 15-Year Loan
3.5%	$449.04	$714.88
4%	$477.42	$739.69
4.5%	$506.69	$764.99
5%	$536.82	$790.79
5.5%	$567.79	$817.08
6%	$599.55	$843.86
6.5%	$632.07	$871.11
7%	$665.30	$898.83
7.5%	$699.21	$927.01
8%	$733.76	$955.65
8.5%	$768.91	$984.74
9%	$804.62	$1,014.27
9.5%	$840.85	$1,044.22
10%	$877.55	$1,074.61

How Much Interest Is Accrued on a 100K Mortgage?

Each month, your payment is split into principal and interest payments. Those interest payments go to the bank as payment for lending you money. Principal payments go toward the original loan amount and pay down the loan.

The longer the loan term, the more you’ll pay in overall interest. For a 100K mortgage on a 30-year term with a 7% APR, the interest costs total $139,508.90 on top of the original loan.

On a 15-year term with the same parameters, the interest costs are a more modest $61,789.09. Yes, your monthly payments are higher, but the difference between a 15 vs. 30 year mortgage with 7% APR is significant.

Recommended: Home Loan Help Center

100K Mortgage Amortization Breakdown

The amortization of a 100K mortgage shows how much of your monthly payment pays off the loan each month.

You can see in the early years of your mortgage, more of your monthly payment goes toward interest, and very little of your loan is paid off. In later years, more of the payment will go toward the principal.

Year	Monthly Payment	Beginning Balance	Total Amount Paid	Interest	Principal	Ending Balance
1	$665.30	$100,000.00	$7,983.60	$6,967.81	$1,015.79	$98,984.19
2	$665.30	$98,984.19	$7,983.60	$6,894.39	$1,089.21	$97,894.95
3	$665.30	$97,894.95	$7,983.60	$6,815.64	$1,167.96	$96,726.96
4	$665.30	$96,726.96	$7,983.60	$6,731.21	$1,252.39	$95,474.55
5	$665.30	$95,474.55	$7,983.60	$6,640.66	$1,342.94	$94,131.59
6	$665.30	$94,131.59	$7,983.60	$6,543.59	$1,440.01	$92,691.55
7	$665.30	$92,691.55	$7,983.60	$6,439.49	$1,544.11	$91,147.41
8	$665.30	$91,147.41	$7,983.60	$6,327.86	$1,655.74	$89,491.65
9	$665.30	$89,491.65	$7,983.60	$6,208.17	$1,775.43	$87,716.19
10	$665.30	$87,716.19	$7,983.60	$6,079.81	$1,903.79	$85,812.38
11	$665.30	$85,812.38	$7,983.60	$5,942.19	$2,041.41	$83,770.95
12	$665.30	$83,770.95	$7,983.60	$5,794.61	$2,188.99	$81,581.94
13	$665.30	$81,581.94	$7,983.60	$5,636.38	$2,347.22	$79,234.69
14	$665.30	$79,234.69	$7,983.60	$5,466.70	$2,516.90	$76,717.75
15	$665.30	$76,717.75	$7,983.60	$5,284.75	$2,698.85	$74,018.87
16	$665.30	$74,018.87	$7,983.60	$5,089.64	$2,893.96	$71,124.88
17	$665.30	$71,124.88	$7,983.60	$4,880.45	$3,103.15	$68,021.68
18	$665.30	$68,021.68	$7,983.60	$4,656.10	$3,327.50	$64,694.16
19	$665.30	$64,694.16	$7,983.60	$4,415.56	$3,568.04	$61,126.09
20	$665.30	$61,126.09	$7,983.60	$4,157.62	$3,825.98	$57,300.08
21	$665.30	$57,300.08	$7,983.60	$3,881.03	$4,102.57	$53,197.49
22	$665.30	$53,197.49	$7,983.60	$3,584.46	$4,399.14	$48,798.32
23	$665.30	$48,798.32	$7,983.60	$3,266.46	$4,717.14	$44,081.14
24	$665.30	$44,081.14	$7,983.60	$2,925.44	$5,058.16	$39,022.95
25	$665.30	$39,022.95	$7,983.60	$2,559.78	$5,423.82	$33,599.10
26	$665.30	$33,599.10	$7,983.60	$2,167.69	$5,815.91	$27,783.17
27	$665.30	$27,783.17	$7,983.60	$1,747.26	$6,236.34	$21,546.80
28	$665.30	$21,546.80	$7,983.60	$1,296.45	$6,687.15	$14,859.60
29	$665.30	$14,859.60	$7,983.60	$813.02	$7,170.58	$7,688.98
30	$665.30	$7,688.98	$7,983.60	$294.64	$7,688.96	$0.00

What Is Required to Get a 100K Mortgage?

When you’re applying to qualify for a mortgage, lenders look for a few key things to approve your application.

• How much debt you will be carrying. Lenders look for your monthly payment to be lower than 28% of your gross monthly income. A 100K mortgage payment at 7% interest on a 30-year term is $665.30. For this payment to be less than 28% of your monthly income, your monthly income needs to be over $2,376, assuming you have no debt. This turns into a $28,512 yearly salary requirement to afford a 100K mortgage payment.

If you have debt, the calculation changes a little bit. Your lender will add your monthly debts to your projected monthly mortgage payment. These two numbers added together need to be less than 36% of your monthly income. This calculation a lender does is known as the debt-to-income ratio, or back-end ratio.

“If you have multiple debts, you want to make your minimum payments so you don’t hurt your credit score,” Kendall Meade, a Certified Financial Planner at SoFi said. “If you have cash left over after that, you should develop a strategy for which debts to pay off first,” she suggested.

• Credit score. It’s advisable to have a credit score of 620 or higher when applying for a mortgage loan.

• Consistent work history. If you are unemployed, self-employed, or have recently changed jobs, lenders may be less likely to approve your loan. They may worry about your having a steady enough income to make your payments.

How Much House Can You Afford Quiz

The Takeaway

A 100K mortgage will have a monthly cost that varies depending on such factors as the loan’s interest rate, the term of the loan, and whether it’s a fixed- or variable-rate loan. By understanding more about how the cost of a mortgage is calculated, plus the related costs, you can be better prepared for the milestone of being a homeowner.

When you’re ready to apply for a mortgage, SoFi will be there for you. Our rates are competitive, and we offer flexible loan terms and down payment options (as little as 3% for first-time homebuyers) to suit your needs. The online application simplifies the process, and our dedicated Mortgage Loan Officers can help you every step of the way.

See how smart and simple a SoFi Mortgage Loan can be.

Photo credit: iStock/AndreyPopov

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.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

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SIMPLE IRA Contribution Limits for Employers & Employees

SIMPLE IRA Basics

SIMPLE IRA Contribution Limits, 2024 and 2025

Get a 1% IRA match on rollovers and contributions.

Double down on your retirement goals with a 1% match on every dollar you roll over and contribute to a SoFi IRA.1

Employer vs Employee Contribution Limits

SIMPLE IRA vs 401(k) Contribution Limits

SIMPLE IRA vs Traditional IRA Contribution Limits

Traditional IRAs

Roth IRAs

The Takeaway

What Is the Minimum Down Payment for an FHA Loan?

What Is an FHA Loan?

First-time homebuyers can prequalify for a SoFi mortgage loan, with as little as 3% down.

FHA Loan Income Requirements

What Is the Down Payment Required for an FHA Loan?

What Other Cash Will I Need to Close?

How to Save for an FHA Loan Down Payment

Is Down Payment Assistance Available for FHA Loans?

Additional Cost Considerations for FHA Loans

Pros and Cons of an FHA Loan

The Takeaway

FAQ

What is the lowest down payment for an FHA loan?

What is the down payment for an FHA loan 2023?

What will disqualify you from an FHA loan?

What Is Retirement? What Does It Really Mean?

Retirement Definition

Retirement and Your Finances

Retirement and Your Lifestyle

Get a 1% IRA match on rollovers and contributions.

Double down on your retirement goals with a 1% match on every dollar you roll over and contribute to a SoFi IRA.1

Qualified Retirement Plan Definition

Defined Contribution Plans

Defined Benefit Plans

Retirement Statistics

Saving for Retirement

Is your retirement piggy bank feeling light?

Start saving today with a Roth or Traditional IRA.

Retirement Investment Accounts

Pros of Retirement Investment Accounts

Cons of Retirement Investment Accounts

Investing for Retirement With SoFi

FAQ

What is the meaning of retirement?

How common is retirement?

How does retirement work?

Individual Retirement Account (IRA) vs Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)

What Is an IRA?

What Is a TSP?

Get a 1% IRA match on rollovers and contributions.

Double down on your retirement goals with a 1% match on every dollar you roll over and contribute to a SoFi IRA.1

TSP vs. IRA

Similarities

Differences

Pros and Cons of IRAs

Pros

Cons

Pros and Cons of TSPs

Pros

Cons

Can You Roll a TSP Into an IRA?

The Takeaway

FAQ

Is a TSP or IRA better?

Should you move your TSP to an IRA?

Is a TSP the same as an IRA?

How Much Will a 100K Mortgage Cost per Month?

Total Cost of a 100K Mortgage

Upfront Costs

Long Term Costs

Estimated Monthly Payments of a 100K Mortgage

Monthly Payment Breakdown by APR and Term

How Much Interest Is Accrued on a 100K Mortgage?

100K Mortgage Amortization Breakdown

What Is Required to Get a 100K Mortgage?

How Much House Can You Afford Quiz

The Takeaway

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Student Loan Refinancing

Double down on your retirement goals with a 1% match on every dollar you roll over and contribute to a SoFi IRA.¹

First-time homebuyers can
prequalify for a SoFi mortgage loan,
with as little as 3% down.

Double down on your retirement goals with a 1% match on every dollar you roll over and contribute to a SoFi IRA.¹

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