Jul
01
2024
Differences Between Time Deposits and Demand Deposits

Differences Between Time Deposits and Demand Deposits

By | Budgeting & Goals, Financial Independence, money | Comments Off on Differences Between Time Deposits and Demand Deposits

A demand deposit account is a type of bank account that allows you to withdraw money “on demand,” without having to provide advance notice beforehand. Time deposit accounts only allow you to withdraw funds once the account reaches maturity.

Banks and credit unions typically offer both kinds of accounts: demand deposit (checking and savings accounts, for instance) and time deposit (such as certificates of deposit, or CDs). These two types of accounts are designed to meet different financial goals. Understanding the difference between demand deposits vs. time deposits can help you decide where to put your money.

What Are Time Deposits?

Time deposit accounts are savings accounts that require you to keep your money in the account for a set time frame. They can also be called term deposit accounts or term deposits since the bank can specify the term that the money must stay in place.

If you’d like to withdraw money before the term ends, the bank may allow that. However, they will likely charge you a penalty fee. They may also require you to give them a certain amount of advance, either in writing, in-person, or over the phone. Once you open a time deposit account, you typically can’t add any additional funds at a later date.

How a Time Deposit Works

A time deposit works by effectively locking in your money for a set time period or term. During this term, your money can earn interest at a rate specified by the bank.

A certificate of deposit account is the most common type of a time deposit or term deposit account. Banks often offer CDs with varying maturity terms, which can range anywhere from one month to five years or more.

While your money is in the CD, it earns interest. Once the CD matures, you can do one of two things:

•   Roll the principal and interest earned into a new CD with different terms

•   Withdraw the principal and interest earned

If you take money out of the CD before it matures, the bank will likely impose an early withdrawal penalty. This penalty usually involves forfeiting some of the interest earned. The size of the penalty can vary depending on how early you withdraw the money and the length of the CD.

What Are Demand Deposits?

With a demand deposit account, you are allowed to put money into the account or take money out of the account when you want and without giving any advance notice. Demand deposit accounts include checking accounts, savings accounts, and money market accounts.

The money in a demand deposit account is generally considered to be liquid, or ready cash, and you can withdraw any amount (including the entire balance) at any time without paying a penalty. However, some banks may charge a fee if you exceed a certain number of withdrawals from a savings account within one month.

How a Demand Deposit Works

Demand deposit accounts work by allowing you convenient, flexible access to your money. The most common example of a demand deposit account is a checking account. With a checking account, you can deposit money, then access it by:

•   Using a debit card to make purchases online or in stores

•   Withdrawing cash at ATMs or through a teller

•   Scheduling online bill payments

•   Linking it to mobile payment apps

A trade off for this easy access to your money is that demand deposit accounts typically don’t pay high rates of interest, and checking accounts generally don’t pay any interest at all. While you can sometimes find an interest-bearing checking account, checking account interest rates tend to be on the lower side.

There are other types of interest-bearing accounts that fall under the demand deposit umbrella. They include: traditional savings accounts, high-yield savings accounts, money market accounts, and kids’ savings accounts.

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Federal Insurance for Demand and Time Deposits

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) provides insurance coverage for member banks, which is passed on to account holders. The FDIC insures both demand and time deposit accounts, including:

•   Checking accounts

•   Savings accounts

•   Money market accounts

•   CD accounts

The standard FDIC coverage limit is $250,000 per depositor, per account ownership category, per insured financial institution. The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) offers similar coverage for time and demand deposit accounts held at member credit unions.

Recommended: How Do Calculate Interest on a Savings Account?

Demand Deposit Pros

When comparing demand deposit vs. time deposit accounts, it helps to understand the pros and cons of each type of account.

Here are some of main benefits of demand deposit accounts:

•   They give you access to your money without being required to give the bank advance notice.

•   They offer multiple ways to manage and access money, including online and mobile banking, automated clearing house (ACH) transfers, direct deposit, ATM banking, and branch banking.

•   There is the potential to earn interest on balances and, in some cases, rewards on purchases.

Demand Deposit Cons

While demand deposit accounts can make managing money and growing savings convenient, there are some potential downsides to keep in mind. These include:

•   There may be monthly fees or other fees.

•   Since interest rates can vary, you may need to shop around to find the best rate.

•   Banks may limit the number of withdrawals you’re allowed each month.

Time Deposit Pros

Time deposit accounts can be a great place to keep your savings — if you understand how they work. Here are some of the advantages of opening a time deposit account:

•   They offer a guaranteed rate of interest, so there’s very little risk of losing money.

•   They typically offer a higher interest rate than you can get on a demand deposit account.

•   There are generally no fees if you leave the money in the account until maturity.

Time Deposit Cons

Opening a time deposit account could make sense if you want a place to park your money for several months to years and earn a higher rate of interest. But it’s important to keep these cons in mind:

•   You may pay an early withdrawal penalty if you need to take any or all of the money out prior to maturity.

•   There is often a minimum deposit required.

•   Most time deposit accounts do not allow you to make additional deposits once the account is open.

How to Choose Between a Demand and Time Deposit Account

Demand deposit vs. time deposit: which one should you pick? The answer will depend on your financial needs and goals.

You might choose a demand deposit account if you:

•   Want convenient access to your money via a debit or ATM card, online banking, mobile banking, or at a branch

•   Want to be able to earn some interest on your savings while still having easy access to the money

•   Don’t mind the possibility of paying checking or savings account fees

A time deposit account, on the other hand, may be more appropriate if you:

•   Want to earn a higher interest rate than you can get on a standard checking or savings account at a bank

•   Have a sum of money you don’t need to touch for the immediate future

One good solution is to have a mix of demand deposit accounts and time deposits. This might include a checking account (for paying bills and everyday spending), a savings account (to hold your emergency fund), and one or more CD accounts to fund your longer-term goals. Just be sure to pay attention to minimum balance requirements and fees for each account you open.

When choosing between different types of savings accounts and CDs, you’ll also want to consider the interest rate and the annual percentage yield (APY).

The difference between the interest rate vs. APY is that the APY tells you the total amount of interest you earn on the account over one year. While it’s based on the interest rate, the APY also takes into account the compounding interest (when interest accrues on previously accrued interest) to give you the most accurate idea of what you’ll earn in a year.

APY, however, is not to be confused with annual percentage yield, or APR, which refers to what you can owe in interest charges on a loan.

Recommended: What Is a CD Ladder?

The Takeaway

There are two key differences between demand deposit and time deposit accounts: how easily you can access the money in the account and how much interest the account earns.

Demand deposit accounts (which include checking accounts, savings accounts and money market accounts) allow you to withdraw money from the account at any time, whereas time deposit accounts (such as CDs) require you to deposit your money for a specific length of time. While demand deposit accounts offer more flexibility, they typically offer lower interest rates than time deposit accounts.

One option to consider for your day-to-day banking: See what SoFi offers.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.


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

FAQ

What is the difference between demand deposit and time deposit?

The key difference between demand deposit vs. time deposit is access. With demand deposit accounts, you generally access your money at any time without paying a penalty or giving the bank any advance notice. With time deposit accounts, you generally can’t withdraw money until the account reaches maturity.

Which type of deposits with the banks are called demand deposits?

Demand deposit accounts include checking accounts, savings accounts, and money market accounts. Checking accounts can allow you to use a debit card, pay bills online, and manage money through online and mobile banking. Savings accounts are used to hold money you don’t plan to spend right away and may offer interest. Money market accounts combine features of both checking and savings accounts.

Why are demand deposits considered money?

Demand deposit accounts hold money that you can withdraw whenever you want. You can use this account to get cash, pay bills, make purchases, or complete other financial transactions. The money in these accounts is a liquid (or easily accessible) asset.

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

SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.00% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with direct deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

As an alternative to direct deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant. SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

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

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

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

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

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

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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Jul
01
2024
Guide to a Commercial Letter of Credit

Guide to a Commercial Letter of Credit

By | Credit, Financial Independence, money | Comments Off on Guide to a Commercial Letter of Credit

If you’re doing business internationally, you may have come across a requirement for a commercial letter of credit. This financial document serves as a guarantee of payment for goods or services, thereby playing an important role in facilitating international trade and industry growth.

These letters can help businesses work successfully with new clients and can build trust. Learn more about how they work and their pros and cons here.

What Is a Commercial Letter of Credit?

A commercial letter of credit, also known as a documentary credit, is an aspect of business banking. It’s a document issued by a bank to guarantee payment for goods or services for a seller (also called the supplier or exporter). It is issued on behalf of the company acquiring the supplies (the importer). It ensures that suppliers are paid for the services and/or goods they provide and that buyers receive the goods or services promised. This can be an important tool when doing business internationally or working with a new supplier. Simply put, it supports the deal and inspires trust.

Most of us know that good credit is important, and with a bank’s assistance, a commercial letter of credit can vouch for a new and/or foreign business partner. Let’s say an American company has never done business with Thailand before but wants to. Or it’s found some goods it would like to buy from a company in France, but that business only started a few months ago. There can be an element of risk to this kind of deal. The commercial letter of credit can reduce that worry since a bank steps in as a third party.

Commercial letters of credit are considered to be a very secure form of payment and are able to power many international trade transactions. The parties involved typically have every reason to believe the deal is solid, thanks to the bank’s participation.

💡 Quick Tip: Help your money earn more money! Opening a bank account online often gets you higher-than-average rates.

How Does a Commercial Letter of Credit Work?

A commercial letter of credit is more than a piece of paper promising payment. It acts a bit like an escrow agent between buyer and seller.

To explain it in more detail, a business (the buyer) can obtain a commercial letter of credit by applying for one at a bank or commercial lending institution. The seller may require this when the relationship is new (or perhaps the buyer is new and their credit history is not yet solid) or when exporting to another country.

After approval, the bank issues a letter of credit for the supplier (also called the beneficiary). This letter signals to the seller that the funds are guaranteed and will be paid by the bank, making it safe for the seller to produce goods or provide services for the buyer.

Once the seller shows evidence of having provided services or shipped the goods to the buyer (such as a bill of lading), the seller can draw on the letter of credit using their own bank. After payment has been made to the seller, the buyer must reimburse the bank before receiving the documents necessary to take delivery of the goods from the supplier.

By using a bank in this way, both the buyer and seller can feel confident in the business transaction.

Recommended: Is a Bad Credit Score a Big Deal?

Protections Offered by a Commercial Letter of Credit

A commercial letter of credit offers protections for both the buyer and seller. This is one of the reasons why it’s such an important tool.

•   For the seller (or supplier), the letter guarantees payment for goods or services.

•   For the buyer, the letter requires sellers to provide these goods or services before payment is issued.

These are particularly important in international trade where market conditions vary around the world and trust comes at a premium. For instance, a location might have intense climate conditions that threaten production or perhaps there’s political instability at a given moment. With a commercial letter of credit, participants in a deal can feel more secure about the deal going smoothly and successfully.

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What Parties Are Involved in a Commercial Letter of Credit?

There are always four parties involved with executing a commercial letter of credit. These are:

•   Buyer: The party who applies for a letter of credit from their bank.

•   Supplier: The seller of goods or services the buyer desires.

•   Issuing bank: The bank of the buyer who has approved a letter of credit.

•   Supplier’s bank: The financial institution from which the supplier can draw on the letter of credit. The supplier will then receive payment via the issuing bank.

Recommended: Can Personal Loans Hurt Your Credit?

Commercial Letter of Credit Process Example

Here’s an imaginary example of how a commercial letter of credit might be used during an international business deal: The Winter Company makes blankets in the U.S. and needs to order raw material from China. They want to order from a new supplier, Fine Fibers, and that new supplier wants to be sure this is a legitimate, reliable deal before beginning work. Therefore, Fine Fibers asks for a commercial letter of credit in order to start manufacturing the material for the blankets.

The Winter Company (the buyer/importer) applies for a commercial letter of credit from their bank and is approved. The letter is sent to the seller/supplier/exporter, Fine Fibers. It then begins manufacturing the material needed by the blanket-making company.

After finishing the order, Fine Fibers ships the order and provides the bank with the bill of lading. The fiber company can collect payment from the bank using their own bank.

The Winter Company, the buyer, can pay their bank back, and the bank will release information to receive the shipment. The buyer now has possession of the goods shipped. The deal is done without any hitches.

Difference Between a Commercial Letter of Credit & a Standby Letter of Credit?

There are many different types of letters of credit. One of the other commonly used letters of credit is a standby letter of credit. There are a few differences between a commercial letter of credit and a standby letter of credit, which are explored here.

Commercial Letter of Credit

 Standby Letter of Credit
Bank pays the beneficiary Bank pays the beneficiary only if the buyer cannot
Acts as payment Acts more like a default or back-up payment method
Buyer must apply and be approved for a commercial letter of credit Buyer goes through underwriting to examine their creditworthiness
Used as the primary financing instrument Used when a deal is threatening to fall through

Recommended: Are Credit Scores Supposed to Be Different?

Examples of Commercial Letters of Credit

For both domestic and international transactions, commercial letters of credit can fulfill payment according to the contract’s specifications and help identify the goods’ delivery so a final payment can be made.

For example, Wells Fargo offers these letters to business clients. The letters of credit have a renewable term and typically take two weeks to process once the Letter of Credit application has been completed. Many other banks (Citibank, for instance) also offer these letters of credit too, facilitating business deals.

Pros of a Commercial Letter of Credit

There are benefits for both the seller and the buyer for using a commercial letter of credit.

For the seller/exporter

•   Ensures supplier is paid when requirements are met, building trust

•   Payment can be remitted to a bank of their choice

•   Can access financing in many countries by having a letter of credit

•   Helps develop new trade relationships, especially internationally

For the buyer/importer

•   Reduces the amount of money tied up in a lengthy transaction

•   Allows the buyer to stipulate terms and conditions for fulfillment of the contract before payment is made by the issuing bank

•   Ensures goods or services are provided to the buyer, building trust

•   Helps develop new trade relationships, especially internationally

Recommended: How Often Does Your Credit Score Update?

Cons of a Commercial Letter of Credit

There are a few drawbacks to consider, however, when using commercial letters of credit. These include:

For the seller/exporter

•   Payment takes longer than with an all-cash transaction.

•   Compliance with conditions of the contract may delay payment.

For the buyer/importer

•   Application process can take two weeks or longer.

•   Can be pricey. The bank fee for a letter of credit is usually taken as a percentage of the amount of goods sold.

Recommended: Differences Between a Bank Guarantee and a Letter of Credit

The Takeaway

A commercial letter of credit can help you businesses conduct transactions by guaranteeing payment from the issuing bank once requirements are met. This way, you can work with new businesses to dependably complete deals domestically and internationally. Commercial letters of credit can be a valuable asset in building trade and trust.

If you’re looking for solutions for your day-to-day personal banking needs, take a look at what SoFi has to offer.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.


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

FAQ

Who is the beneficiary in a commercial letter of credit?

A commercial letter of credit facilitates trade by guaranteeing funds (payment) for a supplier. The beneficiary is the receiver of the funds, whether the seller or the bank named by the recipient.

What is a letter of credit in commercial banking?

A letter of credit in commercial banking is a document from a bank guaranteeing payment to a supplier once a deal’s conditions are met. Typically, it is used in international trade and/or between companies that have not done business previously.

Why do you need a letter of credit?

You may need a commercial letter of credit if your company is working with a new supplier that doesn’t offer trade credit, your supplier is outside the country or your normal trading area, or your company doesn’t have enough credit history for a supplier to trust your ability to pay.

Photo credit: iStock/fizkes

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

SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.00% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with direct deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

As an alternative to direct deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant. SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

SOBK-Q224-1939845-V1

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Jul
01
2024
Overdraft Fees vs Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF) Fees: What’s the Difference?

Overdraft Fees vs Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF) Fees: What’s the Difference?

By | Budgeting & Goals, Financial Independence, money | Comments Off on Overdraft Fees vs Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF) Fees: What’s the Difference?

Overdraft and non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees have a lot in common. Both fees are triggered when there’s not enough money in an account to cover a transaction, except with overdrafts, the transaction usually goes through and with NSF, it’s canceled.

Both of these bank fees can be avoided with a bit of focus and practice. Read on to learn the details.

What Are Overdraft Fees?

When a bank account balance is negative (meaning transactions exceed deposits), the account holder is often charged an overdraft fee. The transaction goes through, but the account holder owes the bank the cost of the transaction to bring the account back to zero, as well as the overdraft fee set by the bank.

Typically, overdraft fees will continue with each transaction until an account’s balance is out of the red. That means if an account holder is unaware of the overdraft and goes on using the card without making a deposit, they could be hit with a fee for each charge, no matter how small.

The average overdraft fee is currently $26, but it can be as high as $39, which can add up quickly when someone isn’t paying attention to their checking account balance. It’s worth noting that the government is considering capping these fees at a lower figure, which would benefit consumers.

How Do Overdraft Fees Work?

Overdraft policies vary from bank to bank, but typically they kick in when a debit card or checking account transaction exceeds the amount held in a bank account. There is usually a limit for how much overdraft is covered, say $50.

When the transaction goes through, the bank has a few choices:

•   If the account holder has opted for a tool like overdraft protection, they may be shielded from overdraft fees up to a certain amount

•   If the account is in good standing, or if the account holder has never over drafted before, the bank may choose to waive overdraft fees in this instance (or you might be able to request this and see if you can avoid overdraft fees).

•   If the account holder has a history of over drafting, or is relatively new, the bank may choose to charge the overdraft fee.

When You Could Get Hit With an Overdraft Fee

It’s not just debit card purchases that can set off an overdraft fee. If the account holder doesn’t have enough cash in their checking account, any of the following transactions could lead to an overdraft fee:

•   ATM withdrawals

•   Checks

•   Autopay bill payments or withdrawals

•   Transfers between bank accounts

As mentioned above, once an account holder overdraws, the bank may continue to charge subsequent overdraft fees on the account until the balance is restored through a deposit.

💡 Quick Tip: An online bank account with SoFi can help your money earn more — up to 4.00% APY, with no minimum balance required.

What Are NSF Fees?

On the surface, it’s hard to tell the difference between overdraft and NSF fees. Both fees occur when an account doesn’t have enough cash to cover a transaction.

However, an NSF fee is charged when an account doesn’t have enough money to cover a transaction and the transaction is canceled or rejected.

The average NSF fee is currently $20, but some banks may charge considerably higher.

How Do NSF Fees Work?

An account holder might trigger an NSF fee instead of an overdraft fee if they:

•   Opt out of or never signed up for overdraft protection

•   Already exceeded the bank or credit union’s overdraft protection limit

•   Write a check that’s more than the balance of the account

When You Could Get Hit With an NSF Fee

NSF fee policies vary by banking institution, but an account holder is more likely to be charged in the following situations:

•   Check writing. When someone writes a check for more than the account’s balance, the check bounces, and the transaction won’t go through. The account holder will be charged an NSF fee by their bank, and they may be charged an additional fee by the bank or entity that tried to cash the check.

•   ACH payments. An ACH payment, or Automated Clearing House Network payment, can be an easy way to transfer money or pay someone, but if the transferring bank doesn’t cover ACH payments, the transaction could be canceled and the NSF fee charged.

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

No account or overdraft fees. No minimum balance.

Up to 4.00% APY on savings balances.

Up to 2-day-early paycheck.

Up to $2M of additional
FDIC insurance.


What Are the Differences Between Overdraft and NSF Fees?

NSF and overdraft fees are commonly lumped together as general bank fees, but they are not the same. Here’s the difference between overdraft and NSF fees:

NSF Fee vs. Overdraft Fee

NSF Fee

 Overdraft Fee
Average Fee $19 $26
Transaction goes through? No Yes
Charged repeatedly until corrected? No Yes
Can it be avoided through overdraft protection? No Yes

Tips for Avoiding Overdraft and NSF Fees

Overdraft and NSF fees are frustrating for many people because they fall into the category of bank fees you should avoid — and you can easily do so with a few simple practices.

1. Setting Up Email and Text Alerts

Many banks and credit unions offer email and text bank alerts that account holders can set up to notify them of low balances. For example, an account holder could set up an alert when their checking account balance falls below a certain amount.

With enough notice, account holders have time to transfer money into the account to cover upcoming charges or auto-debits.

2. Utilizing Direct Deposit

Setting up direct deposit with an employer means paychecks go directly to a bank account on payday. It’s a nearly immediate payment, opposed to waiting for a check by mail then depositing it at the bank. This could save someone from overdraft fees, especially if paychecks and major bills occur at regular intervals.

3. Having a Savings Cushion to Prevent Overdraft

Keeping a healthy cash cushion in a checking account can prevent it from dropping dangerously low. While it’s not best practice to keep tons of extra cash in a checking account (as these accounts often have low or no interest), keeping a few hundred extra in the account could keep someone from overdrafts when they need to make a transfer or forget about a check they wrote.

4. Checking Finances Regularly

While automation can help, nothing beats a regular check-in for managing your bank account. Consider reviewing account balances at least once a week. It can help you keep those numbers in mind when a large transaction or purchase comes up.

Recommended: Is Overdraft Protection Worth It?

5. Utilizing a Budgeting App

Keeping a budget is an important part of financial wellness. Not only does it involve knowing the balance of bank accounts, but it can also prevent people from over- or unnecessary spending that sends an account into overdraft. Some budgeting apps come with alerts to notify users when account balances are low. One good resource: Your financial institution. See what it offers.

The Takeaway

Both overdraft and non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees occur when your bank balance drops below zero into negative territory. The key difference is that with overdraft fees, the transaction is typically completed, while with NSF fees, the transaction is usually rejected.

You might look for a bank which doesn’t charge overdraft fees up to a limit to minimize the impact of these charges and take steps to always keep your account with a positive balance.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.


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

FAQ

What is the difference between overdraft and non-sufficient funds fees?

The difference between overdraft and NSF fees is the success or failure of the transactions. Overdrafting will allow the debit to clear. With an NSF, the transaction does not go through.

Is an overdraft fee or an NSF fee more expensive?

Currently, NSF fees average around $19, while overdraft charges are about $26.

How can you avoid overdraft and NSF fees?

You can avoid overdraft and NSF fees by keeping a close eye on bank account balances and choosing a bank that offers overdraft protection or forgiveness.

Photo credit: iStock/Ivan Pantic

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

SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.00% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with direct deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

As an alternative to direct deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant. SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

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

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

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

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

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

SOBK-Q224-1939911-V1

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Jul
01
2024
Guide to Transaction Deposits

Guide to Transaction Deposits

By | Budgeting & Goals, Financial Independence, money | Comments Off on Guide to Transaction Deposits

Bank transaction deposits are monetary deposits made into transaction accounts, also often known as checking accounts. Transaction deposits allow a person to have ready access to their money held at a depository financial institution, such as a bank or credit union, without delay or advance notice.

They differ from non-transaction deposits, which are deposits made into non-transaction accounts, such as certificates of deposit (CDs). Non-transaction accounts come with restrictions on when or how often you can access your money. Learn more about transaction deposits and their pros and cons here.

What Are Transaction Deposits?

A transaction deposit (sometimes also called a demand deposit) refers to a deposit made into a transaction account that is readily available for use — meaning you can use the money any time for other transactions.

The most common example of a transaction account is a checking account. This type of account allows account holders to make unlimited deposits, withdrawals, payments, and transfers. In other words, you can use the account as often as you want to get cash, make purchases, pay bills, and/or deposit cash at an ATM.

Savings accounts that allow account holders unlimited access are also considered transaction accounts. Typically, however, savings accounts may come with withdrawal and transfer limits (such as a certain number per month). As a result, they are generally considered non-transaction accounts.

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

No account or overdraft fees. No minimum balance.

Up to 4.00% APY on savings balances.

Up to 2-day-early paycheck.

Up to $2M of additional
FDIC insurance.


💡 Quick Tip: Don’t think too hard about your money. Automate your budgeting, saving, and spending with SoFi’s seamless and secure mobile banking app.

Understanding Transaction Deposits

Transaction deposits can be made at a branch of the bank, at an ATM, and by transferring funds from another account. If you set up direct deposit with your employer, these deposits also qualify as transaction deposits.

If you want to access a transaction deposit, you can so for in a number of different ways, including:

•   Withdrawing money at a branch or ATM

•   Transferring the money to another account

•   Writing a check

•   Using auto-pay

•   Making a wire payment

Transaction Deposits vs Non-Transaction Deposits

To better understand transaction deposits, it helps to know the difference between the two main types of deposit accounts: transaction accounts and non-transaction accounts.

Transaction accounts allow account holders easy access to their money. These accounts may earn interest, but typically they do not.

Non-transaction accounts, such as most savings accounts, money market accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs) typically earn interest, providing a return on the account holder’s investment. However, deposits made into a non-transaction account (called non-transaction deposits) are not as fully accessible as transaction deposits. Account holders may be limited or restricted from accessing all or some of the money, or they may need to make a request for a withdrawal.

For example, if you open a CD, your money is locked up for a certain period of time. If you want to access the money before the CD matures, you will typically pay a penalty. With many savings and money market accounts, the bank will impose limitations on the number of transactions you can make each month. If you exceed that limit, you may be charged withdrawal fees.

Here’s a look at transaction accounts vs non-transaction accounts:

Transaction Accounts

 Non-Transaction Accounts
Unlimited number of transfers or payments to third parties There may be a limit on the number of withdrawals and transfers of money that are allowed per statement period
Typically not interest-bearing Typically interest-bearing
Can make an unlimited number of transfers between your own accounts at the same institution May have penalties for withdrawing too much money or too many times
Payable on demand May require seven days notice to withdraw funds
No maturity period May be subject to a maturity period
Examples include checking accounts Examples include money market deposit accounts, certificates of deposit, and savings accounts

Real-Life Examples of Transaction Deposits

A checking account is an example of a transaction account where transaction deposits are made. The key feature of a transaction account, and the deposits made into it, is that the money is liquid, or readily available. There are no requirements for leaving the money for a set amount of time like there are with a time (or term) deposit account, such as a CD.

Here are some common examples of transaction deposits:

•   Direct deposits from your employer into your account

•   Check or cash deposits made at your bank

•   Mobile deposits

•   An electronic funds transfer (EFT) made into your account

•   Payments from third parties

•   Refunds from vendors

Restrictions of Transaction Deposits

There are some instances, however, where a bank may impose some restrictions or a waiting period on certain deposits made to transaction accounts. This could happen if you deposit a large check that requires verification, or if the account is new and the account holder doesn’t yet have an established history. Once the holding period ends, the funds are fully accessible.

Non-transaction deposits, however, come with far more restrictions. In the past,
The Federal Reserve’s Regulation D restricted withdrawals from money market accounts and savings accounts to six per month. If you went over this limit, the bank would charge you a fee. If you consistently went over this limit, they could convert the account to a regular (non-interest-bearing) account.

However, the Federal Reserve suspended Regulation D in 2020. Banks can now set their own restrictions on savings account transactions, and they can vary from one bank to another. In other words, some financial institutions still limit savings accounts to those six transactions; check with your bank or read the fine print on your account agreement.

Recommended: How Long Does the Direct Deposit Transaction Take?

Advantages of Transaction Deposits

There are a number of advantages that come with transaction deposits. These include:

•   Money is readily available

•   No maturity period

•   No eligibility restrictions

•   No limit on the number of deposits, withdrawals, or transfers the account holder can make

•   No early withdrawal penalties

•   Sometimes interest-bearing

Disadvantages of Transaction Deposits

The main disadvantage of transaction deposits is that the money being deposited will generally earn no, or only a small amount of, interest.

The Takeaway

A transaction deposit is a deposit made to a transaction account, such as a checking account. This type of account is ideal for everyday banking, since you can generally put money in and take money out whenever you like.

Non-transaction deposits are the opposite — they are funds put into non-transaction accounts, which include savings accounts, money market accounts, and CDs. With a non-transaction account, you will face some restrictions in when and how often you can access your money. However, the advantage of non-transaction deposits is that this money will typically earn more interest than a transaction deposit will.

If you’re interested in getting the benefits of both types of accounts in one, consider what SoFi offers.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.


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

FAQ

What is a bank deposit transaction?

A bank deposit transaction is a deposit into a transactional bank account, such as a checking account. It includes direct deposits, transfers, and deposits made at a bank or ATM.

Is a deposit considered a transaction?

Yes, a deposit is considered a transaction. Any money moving into and out of your account is considered a transaction.

What banks offer transaction deposits?

Any bank that offers a checking account is a bank that offers transaction deposits.

Photo credit: iStock/Prostock-Studio

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

SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.00% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with direct deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

As an alternative to direct deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant. SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

SOBK-Q224-1939779-V1

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Jul
01
2024
11 Benefits of Having a Side Hustle

11 Benefits of Having a Side Hustle

By | Budgeting & Goals, Financial Independence, money | Comments Off on 11 Benefits of Having a Side Hustle

Having a side hustle has become increasingly popular. According to one recent study, 54% of Americans said they have taken on a side hustle as a way to supplement their income.

And why not? Everyone likes a little extra cash in their pocket, especially if it’s from an activity they enjoy. Whether a side hustle involves using your tech skills to help people set up their computers or selling photos you take, it can be a great way to build an additional revenue stream.

But beyond the cash, there are other, potentially surprising benefits to having this kind of money-making venture.

What Is a Side Hustle?

A side hustle is a job or work, in addition to full-time employment, that helps boost an individual’s monthly income. It can involve ways to make money from home (say, as an online tutor or writer) as well as a part-time job outside the home.

For instance, maybe you do some pet-sitting when people in your town go on vacation. Or perhaps you have a Sunday gig as a barista. Or maybe you hunt for treasures at local yard sales and resell them on eBay or Etsy. These are just a few examples of side hustles, which can help you earn extra cash that you could use to pay bills or put into a bank account.

The amount Americans earn via a side hustle varies tremendously, as you might expect. Another recent survey of individuals with side hustles found that the average side hustle brings in about $688 a month. However, approximately 46% of people say they earn less than $250 a month from their side. About 19% say they make more than $1,000 a month.

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

No account or monthly fees. No minimum balance.

9x the national average savings account rate.

Up to $2M of additional FDIC insurance.

Sort savings into Vaults, auto save with Roundups.


Having a Side Hustle: 11 Benefits

An obvious benefit of a side hustle is the potential to generate extra cash each month. But on top of earning money, there are additional advantages to taking on extra work outside the typical 9-to-5.

If you’re wondering, “Should I start a side hustle?” read on and explore the unexpected benefits below.

1. Improving Ability to Budget

Having a solid budget is one of the important ways to improve your financial health. But getting that budget in place can be a challenge when money is tight, and it’s a struggle to make ends meet each month.

A side hustle has the potential to bring extra income, creating a little wiggle room in your budget. Creating a realistic budget may be easier with some more padding each month.

2. Developing Skills That Translate to Other Areas

Learning new skills is one of the more unexpected benefits of a side hustle. If a side hustler is starting to drive a ride-share, for instance, they may get a crash course in accounting as they learn to manage this income stream. Or if a side hustler’s gig is working weekends at a local café, they could develop important customer service skills they normally wouldn’t cultivate at their day job.

In other words, taking on an additional work endeavor can help you develop a more robust toolkit for future endeavors.

3. Improving Income and Financial Stability

Most people start side hustles to earn extra cash, and that benefit can’t be overstated. Additional monthly income can help give side hustlers a sense of financial stability. It could translate into less stress when the bills are due or even create a little breathing room to start saving and planning for the future.

With surplus cash in the budget, it may be time to set up a financial plan if you haven’t already. While it may be tempting to have fun spending the extra money, those funds could be put to work to help you build wealth.

4. Building a Stronger Work Ethic

Side hustles can be fun, but they are still a job. Spending more hours working can enhance your work ethic. After all, you are devoting what others might consider leisure time to a pursuit that will uplift your financial health. You should recognize your dedication and bask in the self-confidence boost you get along with the additional cash.

5. Improving Time Management Skills

It may be obvious, but taking on a side hustle means taking on more work hours. That translates into fewer free hours in the day, which means a side hustle can be a crash course in time management skills as well as cash management know-how.

With more responsibilities on your plate, you will likely get much more adept at being on time, meeting deadlines, and knowing how to pack in leisure activities in the time available. These are skills that will serve you well outside your side hustle.

6. Allowing You to Put More Into a Savings Account

Some start side hustles to help pay off outstanding debt or save for an upcoming trip, but earnings can be used to build up savings.

Once immediate financial needs are met, including bills and debt, surplus cash from a side hustle can go into a savings account. Not sure where to park your cash? Consider a high-yield bank account to help build your savings.

7. Allowing You to Better Prepare for an Emergency

One of the benefits of a side hustle is the ability to contribute to an emergency fund. As noted above, once immediate needs are met in a budget, extra cash from a side hustle could go into a savings account or help you grow your emergency cash supply.

A general recommendation is to have at least three to six months’ worth of basic living expenses set aside in an easily accessed account. This gives you a cushion if an unexpected medical or household expense crops us or if you were to lose your job.

8. Allowing You to Pay Debt Quicker

If high-interest debt is eating away at paychecks, money from a side hustle can be a help. Interest from high-interest credit cards can compound, for example, making it harder to pay off as the balance grows. The current average credit card interest rate (as of mid 2024) is 24.62%, which can mean that those carrying a balance may have a challenging time paying debt down. With limited income, it may feel impossible to get on top of that monthly bill.

Using income from a side hustle to pay off debt could lead to paying it off faster or at least relieving some of the pressure.

9. Improving Ability to Reach Financial Goals

Even an extra $100 a month can help side-hustlers as they work to reach financial goals.

For example, if you’re planning a vacation in the next year but don’t have enough in your budget to save for it, you could take on seasonal gig work and put those paychecks towards the vacation. Without it, you might not be able to take the vacation.

Beyond small savings goals, a side hustle can help you work towards bigger financial goals like saving for a downpayment or putting more money into a retirement fund.

10. Allowing You to Expand Your Network

One of the less-discussed benefits of a side hustle is the ability to meet new people and expand your network. Whether a side hustle is related to your day job or is something completely different, you’re bound to meet new people and create new connections.

These connections may lead to many benefits, including more work, new friends, or a new career opportunity.

11. The Opportunity to Do Something You Love

In addition to bringing in more money, a side hustle can also reignite someone’s passion for a hobby or activity.

Because it’s not your primary source of income, you can experiment with turning a personal interest into an income source. If you don’t enjoy your side hustle, it can feel exhausting. But working on something you love might not even feel like work.

For example, a nurse might love quilting in their off time and decide to open an Etsy shop. If they were already using their spare time to quilt for family and friends, now they can keep doing what they love, earn money from home, and make a profit off the sale of their quilts. It’s a win-win! Who knows? Some side hustles even become a person’s main job over time as their network and their skills grow.

The Takeaway

While the biggest benefit of a side hustle is bound to be the extra cash it brings, there are plenty of secondary benefits. From plumping up an emergency fund to meeting new people, a side hustle can be both a key to financial freedom and an avenue for exploration and personal growth.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

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

FAQ

Why is a side hustle important?

Having a side hustle can generate more income and help people pursue something they’re passionate about on the side. It also can build skills and open up new networks and opportunities.

Is it worth having a side hustle?

If someone has a side hustle they enjoy and it generates extra income without taking up every last minute of their day, it may be well worth it. However, deciding if a side hustle is worth it is ultimately up to the individual.

How much does the average side hustle make?

The average side hustle brings in about $688 a month, according to one recent survey, though 46% of those with a side hustle report they earn less than $250 monthly. Even so, a couple hundred dollars is a nice sum to help pay off student loans or credit card debt faster, or to put towards a vacation fund.

Photo credit: iStock/visualspace

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

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

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

4.00% APY
SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.00% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with direct deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

As an alternative to direct deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant. SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

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

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

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

*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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