What Are Money Affirmations? Do They Actually Work?

Guide to Money Affirmations

Money affirmations are phrases you repeat aloud or write down to help promote positive thinking and good financial habits. Some people find these mantras to be a helpful tool in reducing money stress. That can be a good thing: In one 2024 survey, 88% of respondents said they were experiencing financial stress, with 65% noting that money was their single biggest source of worry.

Here, learn about what money affirmations are and how you might find them useful.

Key Points

•   Money affirmations are phrases repeated aloud or written down to promote positive thinking and good financial habits.

•   Money affirmations are based on the premise that by envisioning what you want, you can guide your thoughts and behaviors to achieve it.

•   Affirmations may help reduce money stress and encourage a positive attitude.

•   Repeating affirmations may help avoid impulsive or unwise money decisions.

•   The effectiveness of money affirmations is subjective and varies from person to person.

What Are Money Affirmations?

Affirmations about money are positive statements about personal finances, from the dollars that pass through your hands (or are growing in your savings account) daily to long-term goals. Some people value these as being a step towards visualizing and achieving financial success. Some points to know:

•   An affirmation can be as simple as “My finances will get better.” That can be a motivating and calming message if, say, you are a recent graduate who is struggling to find a job. Looking on the bright side in this way can encourage a positive attitude as you learn how to become financially independent.

•   Fans of finance affirmations say that repeating them can help you believe in and actualize (or manifest) them. By keeping such thoughts top of mind, you might avoid impulsive or unwise money decisions, such as splurging on a vacation when it isn’t in your budget. 

That said, others may not believe in money affirmations and question if there’s proof that this kind of positive thinking works. It’s a very personal decision whether to implement these affirmations or not.

Recommended: Personal Finance Basics for Beginners

What Is the Law of Attraction?

When exploring money affirmations (or any kind of affirmation, for that matter), you may hear the phrase “law of attraction” used. This principle says that by focusing on what you want to attract into your life, you can help yourself actually attain those goals. To put it another way, by envisioning what you want, you can guide your thoughts and behaviors to achieve that vs. dwelling on what you don’t have. 

For instance, if you want to retire by age 50, you would push away negative thoughts of “I’ll never have enough money to do that.” Instead, you might regularly conjure up the image of leaving your job to pursue your passions at age 50 and say, “I am on a path to save enough money to retire early.” That could perhaps help you pass up impulse buys and instead save money to help you realize your dream. That can be a valuable step on the path to financial freedom.

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25 Money Affirmations

If you want to give affirmations about money a try, here are 25 examples you can try out (whether you say them aloud, internally, or write them down) to hopefully build a more positive approach to your finances.

1.      I control money; money doesn’t control me.

2.      I can become financially free.

3.      I have the power to be financially successful.

4.      My income will exceed my expenses.

5.      My hard work will bring in more money.

6.      I am worthy of making more money.

7.      I am a magnet for prosperity, and it flows toward me effortlessly.

8.      I deserve the money coming to me.

9.      I have more than enough money.

10.      My finances will get better.

11.      I accept financial success.

12.      I will achieve my financial goals.

13.      I deserve financial success and happiness.

14.      I will use the money I earn for good.

15.      I am wise with my money.

16.      I can make smart financial decisions.

17.      I have the ability to overcome reckless spending.

18.      I can make my dreams a reality.

19.      My future self will thank me for being wise with money.

20.      Having wealth is integral for life.

21.      I can achieve my financial goals and more.

22.      Debt will not stop me from reaching my financial goals.

23.      Saving money is a challenge I can accomplish.

24.      My investments will pay off.

Do Money Affirmations Actually Work?

There’s no guarantee that if you repeat money affirmations, your financial well-being will improve. No matter what you see online, read in books, or watch on YouTube, no one knows 100% whether money affirmations, even if repeated 100 times, will truly improve finances and build wealth. 

That said, proponents believe in them, so whether to use money affirmations is your call. One note in favor of money affirmations: They might help you focus on the positive and alleviate some money stress, which can be a good thing. 

One recent survey found that almost half of respondents (47%) said money negatively impacted their mental health, and that included causing stress. Reinforcing positive self-talk with money mantras might relieve worry and result in a calmer, steadier, more productive financial mindset

Money Affirmations vs Money Mantras

The phrases “money affirmations” and “money mantras” are typically used interchangeably. They are also sometimes called “abundance affirmations” or “wealth affirmations.” Occasionally, a money affirmation may be distinguished as being a sentence vs. a money mantra being just a phrase (like “less spending, more success”). 

Whatever you call them, money affirmations for financial abundance may be a way to boost your positivity when it comes to managing your cash. The words are meant to help you stay the course in reaching your financial goals.

Recommended: Tips for Overcoming Bad Financial Decisions

How to Choose and Write Your Money Affirmations

To choose and write your money affirmations, first identify negative beliefs about money that may be holding you back. Perhaps you see yourself as an impulse shopper, incapable of resisting sales or making frugal decisions. Maybe you’ll decide that “I am wise with my money” would be a good affirmation to try because it could counteract negative money self-talk.

You can also write a money mantra based on your personal challenges to state your goals as if it is already true. For example:

•   If your checking account is often lower than you’d like and you’re tightening your budget, the negative statement, “I will not order food delivery ever this year” may be discouraging and hard to live up to. 

•   A better affirmation might be a positive phrase, like, “I will budget well and spend my grocery money mindfully.” That way, when you do order the occasional pizza, you will likely have planned for it and can feel good. 

Your money mantra can help you focus on the positive.

How Do You Use Money Affirmations?

Those who believe in affirmations suggest using them in whichever way feels comfortable and meaningful. 

•   You might say them aloud or to yourself. 

•   You could jot them on a sticky note to post on your computer, mirror, fridge, and/or car dashboard. 

•   Some people like to put the words on their phone lock screen.

•   Others may prefer to write their phases (whether that’s “I am working to increase my bank account” or “Abundance is flowing my way”) in a notebook or journal.

Saying or writing your money affirmation daily can be a good practice, but it’s up to you to set the cadence that works best for you. The goal is to repeat the affirmations often enough to impact your outlook, enabling you to visualize financial security and move towards it.

Recommended: 7 Tips for Improving Your Financial Health

The Takeaway

Money affirmations, aka money mantras or abundance affirmations, are sayings that people can repeat to replace a negative money mindset with a positive one. They can express a financial goal or good habit. Some believe that saying or writing these words can help banish negative self-talk and instead create an optimistic outlook that can encourage good money management and financial wellness.

Another aspect of financial health is choosing the right banking partner. 

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 4.30% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

How do I choose the best money affirmation for me?

Choosing the right money affirmation is a very personal decision. You may want to opt for (or write) a money affirmation that counteracts negative thoughts. So if you often tell yourself, “I will always be in debt,” a good money affirmation might be, “Every day, I am moving towards eliminating debt.” 

What is the affirmation number for money?

Each person can decide if they believe in affirmation numbers (or “lucky numbers”) for money and, if so, what it might be. Some think the number eight is associated with building wealth (say, in numerology), though it’s unlikely to find scientific proof of such a connection.

How often do I need to say my money affirmations?

Money (or wealth) affirmation fans say you should repeat the phrases as often as you need to so that you believe in them and they can help guide your financial habits. That could mean saying your money mantra daily perhaps. If you choose to write down your money mantras, the general advice is to post your affirmations where you will see and read them often. A couple of good spots might be on the refrigerator or mirror. 

When is a good time to repeat money affirmations?

An ideal time to repeat money affirmations can be when you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed about your finances. For instance, if your credit card payment is late, rather than sinking back into negative self-talk, you could repeat your money mantra. Doing so might help you accept your current burden and refocus on your goals. Other people may find they like to repeat money mantras in the morning, to encourage a positive money mindset all day.


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As an alternative to direct deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.30% 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 4.30% 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 10/8/2024. 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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How Much Does Paying Off a Car Loan Help Credit

Does Paying Off a Car Loan Help Your Credit?

Paying off a car loan can help your credit profile by reducing your debt-to-income ratio. But closing out a loan can also have several negative effects on your credit history. And paying off a loan early isn’t the best decision when there are better ways you can use that money — or save it for an emergency.

We’ll discuss how much paying off a car loan helps your credit and when paying it off early really does pay off.

How Credit Scores Are Calculated

The fact that you got a car loan means you know a little something about your credit score. But it’s always helpful to learn more about how those scores are calculated. According to FICO®, your credit rating is made up of five parts:

•   Payment history (timely payments): 35%

•   Amounts owed (credit utilization): 30%

•   Length of credit history: 15%

•   New credit requests: 10%

•   Credit mix (installment versus revolving): 10%

Whether you’re applying for a personal loan or a car loan, the same factors are used to determine your creditworthiness.

Recommended: What Credit Score Is Needed to Buy a Car?

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Does Paying Off a Credit Card Help Your Credit?

For the sake of comparison, let’s say you buy a car with a credit card. (In real life, this is usually a bad idea because credit card interest rates are considerably higher than for auto loans.) How would paying off the credit card balance affect your credit score?

No matter what you’ve heard, maintaining a credit card balance doesn’t help your score. That’s because the amount you owe, also called credit utilization, accounts for 30% of your score. To calculate your credit utilization, add up the credit limits on your cards. Then divide that figure by your outstanding balance(s).

Let’s say your credit limit is $20,000. If you buy a used car for $10,000, you’re utilizing 50% of your available credit. So paying down your balance — or paying off the whole $20K — will improve your credit utilization factor.

But there’s a key difference between paying off a credit card and paying off a car loan. After you pay off the credit card balance, the account remains open (unless you take action to close it). This is called revolving credit: You can repeatedly use the funds up to your credit limit, as long as you continue to make payments.

How Paying Off Your Car Loan Early May Affect Your Credit Score

A car loan is considered an installment loan, one with a starting balance that’s paid down each time you make a monthly payment. According to credit reporting agency Experian, paying off an installment loan can briefly cause your score to dip.

That’s because the loan is no longer “active,” so your timely payment history is no longer contributing to your overall credit score. Paying off an installment loan can also affect a person’s credit mix and the average age of their open accounts.

How To Decide Whether to Pay Off Your Car Loan Early

There’s no one answer that fits every borrower. See which pros and cons below apply to your situation.

When It’s a Good Idea to Pay Off Your Car Loan Early

If any of these statements resonate with you, paying off your car loan early is likely the right decision.

•   You have trouble juggling your monthly bills and would be glad to have one fewer to deal with.

•   You hate the idea of continuing to pay interest on the loan.

•   The money you free up can be used to pay down another debt, add to your savings, or spend on pursuits you’re passionate about.

•   You’re considering taking out another loan, and paying off this one could help you qualify.

But wait! Check out the drawbacks to paying off a loan below before you decide.

When It’s Better to Keep the Loan

Even if you’re eager to pay down some debt, sometimes you’re better off financially keeping a loan. See if any of these disadvantages affect your cost-benefit analysis.

•   Instead of paying off the loan, investing the lump sum might net you more profits than you’ll save in loan interest.

•   If you’re using savings to pay off the loan, you may find yourself short in an emergency.

•   Some loans come with prepayment penalties. Make sure you won’t be charged for paying off your loan ahead of schedule.

•   As noted above, paying off an installment loan can have a negative impact on your credit mix, payment history, and length of credit history.

Recommended: Does Net Worth Include Home Equity?

About to Make Your Last Scheduled Loan Payment?

Now is the perfect time to test how much paying off the loan will impact your credit score. You may be able to find your credit score for free through various channels, such as banks, credit card companies, and credit counselors. Check your score before you make your final payment and again a few months later.

Or you can sign up for a service that monitors your credit score for you. What qualifies as credit score monitoring varies from service to service. Look for one that will alert you whenever your score changes.

You’ll also want to decide how you’re going to use those funds going forward. You may decide to pay off other debts (especially credit cards), build your savings, or invest the funds. A money tracker app can give you a helpful overview of your finances.

Paying off a car loan can sometimes lower your auto insurance premium. Check with your insurance carrier, and shop around to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

The Takeaway

The reality is that paying off a car loan may cause your credit score to dip. But it can still be the right decision if you have plenty of savings to cover the balance due. After all, you’ll save money on interest, lower your debt-to-income ratio, and have one fewer monthly bill to juggle. Whether you should pay off a car loan early depends on your financial circumstances and if you have other, higher-interest debt that should be paid off first.

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

FAQ

How much will my credit score go up if I pay off my car?

Your credit score may actually dip after paying off a car, but it depends on your specific financial situation. That’s because paying off an installment loan can have a negative impact on your credit mix, payment history, and length of credit history.

Will paying off a car loan early improve credit?

Each situation is unique. Paying off a loan will improve your debt-to-income ratio, which lenders look at to determine your creditworthiness. However, it can also have a negative impact on your credit mix, payment history, and length of credit history.

Why did my credit score drop when I paid off my car early?

Credit score algorithms are complex, and every borrower’s situation is different. If your car loan was your only installment loan, closing it reduces your credit mix, which accounts for 10% of your score. Paying off a loan can also reduce the overall length of your open credit accounts, another factor used to calculate your score.


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SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

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 .

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.

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How Long Does It Take to Open a Bank Account?

How Long Does It Take to Open a Bank Account?

Depending on whether you are opening an account online or in person, this process can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour. Whether you are opening a checking account or a savings account can also make a difference in how much time you will need to spend. 

Read on to learn what to expect when you open a new bank account, plus tips to help you accomplish this important financial task as quickly as possible. 

What to Do Before Opening a Bank Account

To begin opening a new bank account, you’ll need to make two key decisions: where you’ll open the account and the type of account you want. Options about where to park your funds typically include the following:

•   Banks: When people use the term bank, they are usually referring to brick-and-mortar ones, including the large national chains as well as smaller, local banks. You can physically visit them, typically through a lobby or drive-through, and they offer a range of savings and lending services.

•   Credit unions, on the other hand, are a different kind of financial institution (usually brick and mortar as well). With this structure, account holders are members. Some credit unions are national; others are more regional in terms of their reach and their branches. Members usually need to meet certain guidelines to join, perhaps related to their job or geography, and they can often benefit from lower loan rates and higher interest when saving.

•   Online banks offer services that are likely to be similar to brick-and-mortar banks. However, account holders will bank through a website and/or mobile app. Because online banks don’t have the expense of physical locations to maintain, they can typically offer better interest rates and charge fewer fees than traditional banks.

Once you have made a decision about whether traditional or online banking or a credit union feels like the right fit for you, you’re ready to move ahead to the next step. The second key decision is what kind of account to open.

•   Checking account: The account holder opens a checking account by depositing money into this account, whether in person, online, or through direct deposit. They then have the ability to write checks, use a debit card, or use an online payment system (like PayPal) to make purchases, pay bills, and so forth. Sometimes, the money in the account may earn interest.

•   Savings account: With this kind of account, once the money is deposited, the goal is usually for it to grow, perhaps as an emergency savings account or one designed to save up for a larger purchase. Financial institutions will differ in the interest rates they’ll pay, so you may want to shop around and see where you can get the best deals, noting whether there are minimum balance requirements and other qualifications required.

•   Money market accounts: These are another fairly common option. These are typically used to hold money that the account holder doesn’t intend to spend right away. Many money market accounts also come with convenient check-writing/debit-card features if you do want to tap the funds you’ve deposited. This type of account earns interest. 

Note: Opening an investment account is another option to explore if you are seeking an account that will grow your money as you save toward a longer-term goal. However, unlike the other accounts we have mentioned, these will not be insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), so consider how much risk of loss you can tolerate.

How Long Does It Take to Open a Bank Account?

If time is of the essence — say, you’ve just moved to a new town and need to get your banking set up, or you are a recent grad who’s just starting on “adulting,” you may wonder how long it takes to make a bank account. 

Various kinds of financial institutions have different processes and timelines for creating a bank account. Completing the steps to open an account may be faster online than in person.

Online

Online applications typically have fields where you can quickly enter information or check a particular box. So, you may be able to complete the information in 15 minutes, especially if you have all of your personal data at hand.

Physically

It may take a bit longer to physically apply at a brick-and-mortar because you may need to wait in a line to see a teller and you may need to fill in the application by hand. Then, in general, figure that a bank may take a couple of days to verify your information and respond. Plus, if checks and/or a debit card are involved, those will usually be physically mailed to you, which can take a week to 10 days till receipt.

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How to Open a Bank Account

Here are the steps to follow to open a bank account:

•   Once you know the type of account you want to open and where, you can go to a physical location during banking hours or open the account yourself online, anytime and anywhere. Be prepared with government forms of ID, which can include a driver’s license, state ID, military ID, or passport. Also have your Social Security number handy.

•   Financial institutions will ask for personal information, including your name, address, telephone number, date of birth, and Social Security number to verify your identity. (Opening an account without IDs is possible, but will take some additional steps.)

•   The financial institution may check your credit before opening up the bank account. Usually, if they do, it is what’s known as a soft pull or soft credit inquiry that won’t appear on your credit report’s history. What’s more, the prospective account holder typically doesn’t need to have stellar credit to qualify; it’s just a checkpoint as the bank gets to know you and understand if you pose a risk in terms of keeping your account in good shape. If you’re concerned about this step for any reason, ask about the bank’s policy before proceeding.

•   Once an account is approved, you’ll need to agree to terms and conditions, perhaps by signing a physical document at a brick-and-mortar location or by checking an “I agree” button online. Then, you can make a deposit of funds that’s at least enough to meet the financial institution’s minimum requirement.

Recommended: What Do I Need to Open a Bank Account?

What to Do If You Cannot Open a Bank Account

If you’re turned down for a bank account (yes, unfortunately; it does happen), the first step can be to check the rejection letter for a reason. If that isn’t clear, then ask the financial institution why the account couldn’t be opened right now. 

Also ask about the timeframe to remedy the situation and/or reapply. How long does it take to get a bank account approved after a rejection? It’s possible that the solution is simple, perhaps requiring more information or a clarification.

If banking history is an issue, you can work on fixing that. In the meantime, you could try other financial institutions with different guidelines. It may be easier to be approved by an online bank. Also, some banks have products, like what’s known as a second chance account, specifically designed for people who are trying to build or repair their credit. They may come with more restrictions but can serve as a bridge between now and when you can qualify for other bank accounts.

The Takeaway

If you’re ready to open a bank account, whether it’s a checking or a savings account, you’ll have choices of doing so at a brick-and-mortar bank, an online bank, or a credit union. Typically, working with an online bank will be your quickest option, with an account potentially being set up in just a few minutes. The same process at a physical bank can take an hour (not including travel time), and you will possibly then need to wait for approval of your application. 

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 4.30% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

What do I need to open a bank account?

Financial institutions will typically want to see government forms of ID, such as your driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID. You’ll need to share personal information, such as your name, address, phone, and email address, along with your date of birth and Social Security number. Also, you often need to make an initial deposit of funds, although specifics vary by bank.

How much money do you need to open a bank account?

It depends! Financial institutions vary in terms of how much they require as a minimum deposit amount, with some not having one at all. Sometimes, banks will charge a fee if you don’t maintain a certain balance in your account, so compare financial institution policies to find one that works well for you.

How fast can I open a bank account?

If you’re referring to the actual process of applying, it can be as fast as 15 minutes or so. Approvals, however, may take anywhere from an instant to a couple days, especially at brick-and-mortar banks. Also, it can take a week or more to get physical checks and/or a debit card by snail mail.


Photo credit: iStock/Vladimir Sukhachev

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 4.30% 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 4.30% 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 4.30% 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 10/8/2024. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

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

*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.

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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What Is the Pell Grant Lifetime Limit?

What Is the Pell Grant Lifetime Limit?

Undergraduate students who have financial need can apply for the federal Pell Grant each year to receive aid for their education. If you meet the Department of Education’s (DOE) requirement for the grant program, be aware that there is a Pell Grant lifetime limit. Eligible students can receive a Pell Grant for about six years, or 12 terms of school.

Once you’ve reached the maximum number of times you can get a Pell Grant, you’ll be ineligible for future awards.

Keep reading to learn more on what the Pell Grant is, how to qualify, how the lifetime Pell Grant limit works, and other ways to pay for college.

What Is a Pell Grant?

A Pell Grant is a government-sponsored program that offers aid to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need. The grant is not available to graduate and professional students. In general, students who have previously earned a bachelor’s degree or higher are not eligible for a Pell Grant.

Students applying for Pell Grant funds for the 2024-25 academic school year can receive up to $7,395.

How many Pell Grants you can get depends on factors including your financial need, your school’s confirmed cost of attendance, whether your enrollment status is part-time or full-time, and how long you plan to attend school each year.

Upon completing your degree program, Pell Grants generally do not need to be repaid.

FAFSA

To learn if you’re eligible for a Pell Grant, you need to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). The information on this application is used to determine your eligibility for the Pell Grant as well as other federal, state, and school-provided financial aid.

You can submit the FAFSA as early as October 1 before the academic year for which you’re applying for aid. The deadline to submit your FAFSA for the 2024-2025 school year is June 30, 2025. (Note that many students may not get access to the 2025-2026 FAFSA until December 1, 2024.) Some aid is awarded on a first-come-first-served basis, so it can behoove you to fill out your FAFSA earlier rather than later.

Recommended: Pell Grant vs FAFSA: What Are the Differences?

Eligibility

The government determines whether an undergraduate student meets the financial need requirement for a Pell Grant by evaluating the student’s Student Aid Index (formerly Expected Family Contribution). This is an estimation of how much a student and their family can be expected to pay toward college, and it is calculated using information provided on the FAFSA.

For the 2024-25 school year, the maximum SAI for Pell Grant eligibility is $4,730 or 35% of parents’ combined income from work, whichever is less. Students who are at or below this threshold might be able to receive Pell Grant aid.

How Many Pell Grants Can You Get?

You can apply for a Pell Grant for multiple academic years as long as you maintain your eligibility. As previously mentioned, students can receive the Pell Grant for up to 12 semesters or terms, or approximately six years.

How Lifetime Eligibility Works

Each award year is from July 1 of a calendar year to June 30 of the following year. In an award year, you can receive up to 100% of your eligible Pell Grant award; the Pell Grant lifetime limit that you can use is 600%.

In some situations, you might receive up to 150% of your Pell Grant aid (e.g., if you’re enrolled in fall, spring, and summer terms, full-time). Similarly, you might not always use 100% of your Pell Grant for an award year. This might come up if your enrollment dropped from full-time to part-time, for example.

Calculating Your Pell Grant Usage

To determine the Lifetime Eligibility Used (LEU) on your financial aid account, the DOE looks at how much Pell Grant funding you’ve received in a given award year compared to your total available award for that year to arrive at a use percentage.

It then adds your used Pell Grants for each award year to determine whether you’ve reached the lifetime limit for the grant program. If you’d like to track your own LEU percentage, log into your StudentAid.gov account and view the “My Aid” overview.

Alternatives to the Pell Grant

If you’ve reached your Pell Grant lifetime limit, or don’t qualify for the Pell Grant but still need financial assistance for school, there are other options to consider.

Other Grants

Pell Grants are just one of a handful of grants for college offered by the federal government. The DOE also provides:

•   Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants

•   Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants

•   Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grants

For the most part, grants don’t need to be repaid. Additionally, non-federal grants are provided to students based on need or merit. These grants are provided by some states and schools, as well as private organizations like nonprofits, businesses, community groups, and professional associations.

Recommended: FAFSA Grants & Other Types of Financial Aid

Scholarships

Another financial aid option that you won’t have to repay after graduating are scholarships. Scholarships are earned on merit or are provided to students who are in financial need. They are often one-time awards that are given by similar entities as grants.

In some cases, there may even be unclaimed scholarships that students may be able to apply for in order to bolster the money they have to pay for college.

Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

Work-Study

Participating in a federal work-study program allows students to earn income that can go toward college costs. Employers that participate in the program might be on campus or off campus, and jobs offer part-time hours.

Your school provides your payment directly unless you request otherwise. How much you can earn through the program depends on your financial need, your school’s available funding, and when you apply.

Eligibility for the program is determined by information provided on the student’s FAFSA.

Federal Student Loans

The FAFSA is also used to determine borrower eligibility for Federal Direct Loans. The DOE offers undergraduate students loans that are Direct Subsidized or Unsubsidized Loans. The government covers interest on subsidized loans while the borrower is enrolled in school and during qualifying periods of deferment. With an unsubsidized loan, borrowers are responsible for paying accrued interest.

Graduate students are able to borrow Direct Unsubsidized Loans and PLUS Loans. PLUS Loans are also available to parents of dependent students.

Federal loans must be paid back with interest, but they offer low, fixed rates. They also offer student borrowers invaluable benefits, like income-driven repayment plans and generous deferment and forbearance options.

Private Student Loans

Some students find that they still need additional funds for school despite receiving federal financial aid. If you’ve exhausted your federal aid options and already applied to private scholarships and grants, you may want to look into private student loans.

A private student loan must be repaid, plus interest charges, and is provided by nonfederal lenders, like banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Lenders require applicants to undergo a credit check, which determines your eligibility, interest rate, and loan terms.

Borrowing requirements and offers often vary between lenders, so always shop around to find competitive rates and terms for undergraduate private student loans.

The Takeaway

Generally, if you maintain Pell Grant eligibility throughout your college career, you have can receive a maximum Pell Grant lifetime limit of six years to receive aid. However, you might reach this limit in a shorter or longer time depending on your level of enrollment each award year.

Other options to pay for college include cash savings, scholarships, work-study, and federal and private student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.


Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

Can you hit your Pell Grant lifetime limit early?

Yes, it’s possible to reach your Pell Grant lifetime limit before the typical six-year timeline if you take on additional academic terms during an award year. For example, if you enrolled in summer courses and received Pell Grant aid for that period, you may hit your max sooner.

Is the Pell Grant disbursed every semester or every year?

Your school will typically disburse Pell Grant awards in a minimum of two disbursements at scheduled intervals throughout the award year.

Is there an age limit for filling out FAFSA?

No, there is no age limit to submit a FAFSA. Some financial aid programs, like the Pell Grant, have restrictions on the academic status of aid recipients, such as whether they’re enrolled as an undergraduate or post baccalaureate student.


SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.


SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


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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Home Equity Loan vs Personal Loan: Key Differences

A home equity loan is a secured loan, using your home as collateral, while a personal loan is unsecured, meaning you don’t put up any collateral. Beyond this key difference, these borrowing options are similar in that both are typically lump-sum, fixed-rate loans that you’ll repay over a specific length of time.

If you’re wondering which is the better choice for your current financial needs, it can be wise to take a closer look at how each one works and the pros and cons involved.

What Is a Home Equity Loan?

Sometimes referred to as a second mortgage, a home equity loan allows you to use your home as collateral when you need to borrow money. Here are a few key points to note:

•   With this type of loan, the amount you can borrow is based on the equity you have in your home. Your home equity is the difference between your home’s current value and what you currently owe on your mortgage. Lenders may require that you have a minimum amount of equity (typically, at least 15% to 20%) to qualify.

•   If you’re a new homeowner, you may not have built up enough equity to qualify for this type of loan. But if you made a substantial down payment, you’ve owned your home for a while, or your home’s value has increased substantially since you purchased it, a home equity loan could be an option worth considering.

•   Lenders typically offer more competitive terms for this type of secured loan because it’s a lower risk for them. To put it another way: If the borrower defaults, they can foreclose on the property and recover the amount they’re owed.

Recommended: Understanding Home Equity

How Does a Home Equity Loan Work?

Home equity loan funds are generally distributed in a lump sum with fixed-rate monthly payments, though variable-rate options are offered by some lenders. Repayment periods can vary from five to 30 years. Here’s a closer look at how they work:

•   When you apply, you can expect lenders to look at your personal creditworthiness, including your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) and credit score. In most cases, you will need a credit score of 680 or higher to unlock favorable terms. A higher three-digit score may help you get approved for a better rate.

•   Your lender will likely require a home appraisal to verify your home’s value. (This is one of the reasons why snagging a home equity loan can be a more time-consuming process than getting an unsecured loan.)

•   If you’re eligible, you may be able to borrow up to 80% or, in some cases, even 90% of your home’s equity. So, for example, if you have $150,000 in equity, you might qualify to borrow $120,000 to $135,000.

It’s important to note that a home equity loan is not the same thing as a home equity line of credit (HELOC). A HELOC is a type of revolving credit (you draw against your limit over time), while a home equity loan is an installment loan, paid out in a lump sum.

What Is a Personal Loan?

A personal loan is similar to a home equity loan in that it allows you to borrow a lump sum of money, and you’ll repay those funds — with interest — in regular installments over a set period of years.

To understand what defines a personal loan and distinguishes it from a home equity loan, consider these points:

•   Most personal loans are unsecured, which means you don’t have to use your home or any other asset as collateral to borrow the money.

•   Because the lender is taking more risk with this kind of loan than a home equity loan, interest rates may be higher.

•   Since you don’t need to have a home appraisal and other steps completed, you may find that securing a personal loan vs. a home equity loan is a significantly quicker process.

How Does a Personal Loan Work?

If you decide to go with a personal loan, you’ll likely have a number of options to choose from — they’re offered by many banks, credit unions, and other lenders. And because lenders’ terms can vary significantly, you may want to do some comparison shopping before you make a choice.

When applying, it’s wise to be aware of these points:

•   If you aren’t using an asset to secure your personal loan, you can expect lenders to put a high priority on your credit score, income, and DTI when you apply. The higher your credit score, the better in terms of getting approved and securing a favorable rate. Many lenders look for a FICO® score of at least 580, but applicants who have scores over 700 are likely offered the most favorable terms. (Personal loan rates are usually lower than credit card rates, however, even if the loan is unsecured.)

•   Pay attention to how the length of the loan affects your payments. Personal loans are typically repaid over a term of two to seven years. If you’re looking for smaller monthly payments, a longer term may suit your needs, but that may increase the overall cost of the loan. A personal loan calculator can help you compare your monthly payments and the total (principal plus interest and fees) to be repaid.

Comparing Home Equity Loans and Personal Loans

Both home equity loans and personal loans usually offer fixed-rate, lump-sum financing options with terms that can be tailored to fit the borrower’s needs. And both offer borrowers a certain amount of flexibility in how the money can be used.

But there are some questions you may want to consider when deciding between the two, including:

How Much Do You Plan to Borrow?

If you need to borrow a large amount and you’re looking for a lower interest rate, you may find a home equity loan is the right product for your needs. Your monthly payments may be smaller if you sign up for a longer repayment period.

If you need a smaller loan — a few thousand dollars, for example, or even just a few hundred — a personal loan may be the more practical choice. But even if you plan to borrow a large amount, you may choose a personal loan to avoid tying your home to your loan. Some lenders offer large personal loans — as much as $100,000 or more — to well-qualified borrowers.

What’s the Timeline?

One of the major drawbacks to a home equity loan is that the approval process can take weeks (say, two to six weeks). Lenders typically will require an appraisal to determine your home’s current value, and there’s usually more paperwork involved with this type of loan.

A personal loan application, on the other hand, can take just minutes to complete online, and some lenders offer same-day approvals. If you’re approved, it may take only two or three days until the money lands in your checking account.

What’s the Risk?

Home equity loans come with more risk for the borrower than a personal loan. If you default on your payments and the lender decides to foreclose, you could potentially lose your home. Also, if you decide to sell your property, you’ll have to pay back the home equity loan.

Personal loans also carry some risk for borrowers. If you default on a secured personal loan, the lender could take whatever asset (a car or bank account, for instance) you used for collateral. And whether your loan is secured or unsecured, late or missed payments could lower your credit score (this can be true for home equity loans as well). If the account goes to collections, you could be sued for what you owe.

How Do You Plan to Use the Money?

You can use funds from both types of loans for just about any (legal) purpose. Borrowers often use them to:

•   Consolidate debt (say, to pay off high-interest credit card debt)

•   Pay for wedding or vacation costs

•   Make home improvements

•   Pay off medical or dental bills

•   Finance car repairs or the purchase of a vehicle

•   Fund moving expenses

There may be benefits to one or the other loan type that makes it a better fit for your specific plans. For instance, with a home equity loan, you can deduct the interest on funds you used to “buy, build, or substantially improve” the home you used to secure the loan, according to the IRS. So if you’re hoping to make home renovations, one of the different types of home equity loans may be the right choice.

You typically can’t deduct the interest on a personal loan. But the ease and speed of getting a personal loan may make it the better pick if an unexpected expense comes up — say, if your refrigerator or air conditioning system goes out, and you need money quickly for a replacement or major repair.

Pros and Cons of Home Equity Loans vs Personal Loans

Here’s a look at some of the advantages and downsides of a personal loan vs. home equity loan:

Personal Loan Pros

•   Flexible borrowing amounts and terms

•   Often unsecured, meaning there’s no risk of losing your home

•   Convenient and fast access to funds

Personal Loan Cons

•   Interest rate may be higher if loan is unsecured

•   Depending on borrower’s creditworthiness, may require collateral

•   Lenders may charge a loan origination fee, late payment fees, and/or a prepayment penalty

Home Equity Loan Pros

•   Flexible borrowing amounts and terms

•   Interest rate may be lower than unsecured loans

•   Interest may be tax-deductible if used for home improvements

Home Equity Cons

•   If you default on the loan, the lender could foreclose on your home

•   Approval process can take longer (two to six weeks) and may include additional costs

•   Some home equity loans have prepayment penalties and/or other fees

•   Must have enough equity in your home to qualify for the amount you want

•   If you sell your home, you’ll have to repay the loan

Carefully considering the upsides and downsides of a personal loan vs. a home equity loan is an important step in making the financial decision that suits you best.

The Takeaway

Home equity loans and personal loans both typically offer lump-sum payments at a fixed rate for a specified term. Home equity loans use your property as collateral, while personal loans are often unsecured.

It’s important to look at how each one might sync up with your particular financial situation and your reasons for borrowing the money. If you’re a homeowner, tapping into your home equity might get you a lower interest rate and a possible tax break. But the loan process is typically quicker and easier for a personal loan — and you won’t have to tie the loan to your home and put your residence at risk.

If you think a personal loan might be right for you, see what SoFi offers.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.


SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

FAQ

Can personal loans be used to consolidate debt?

Yes, debt consolidation is one of the top reasons borrowers choose to get a personal loan. You might use this kind of loan to pay off one or more high-interest loans or credit card accounts, potentially simplifying repayment and lowering your costs.

What credit score is needed for each loan type?

Here are how credit scores for home equity loans vs. personal loans typically stack up: Lenders typically like to see a credit score of 680 or higher for home equity loans and 580 or higher for personal loans. Borrowers with higher credit scores usually qualify for more favorable loan rates.

What is the downside of a home equity loan?

The biggest drawback to a home equity loan vs. a personal loan is that it’s tied to the home you use to secure the loan. This means that if you default on your payments, the lender could foreclose on your home. Also, if you decide to sell your home, you’ll have to pay back your home equity loan as well as your mortgage.


Photo credit: iStock/milorad kravic

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


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 .

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

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

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

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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