How Much Money Should You Save Before Moving Out?

Living on your own can be expensive, especially these days, thanks to inflation and a scarcity of housing. Add to that the fact that when we’re younger, we tend to have lower incomes, and it can be a major financial challenge to afford living on your own.

That said, it is certainly possible to afford moving out of your parents’ place. The key is to start planning and saving well in advance of your intended move. As a general rule, you want to have at least six months’ worth of living expenses saved up before setting off on your own. That may sound like a tall order, but these tips and strategies can help you get there.

Key Points

•   Before moving out, ideally save six months’ worth of living expenses, though some manage with less.

•   Calculate all potential upfront and ongoing costs to ensure affordability.

•   Consider sharing expenses with a roommate to make moving more feasible.

•   Research and compare housing options in different locations to maximize value.

•   Establish an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses after moving out.

How to Financially Prepare to Live on Your Own

One of the most important first steps in getting ready to move out is determining how much it’s going to cost. Once you come up with a ballpark figure, you can determine a realistic timeline, then start setting aside a portion of every paycheck into a savings account that pays a competitive rate (such as a high-yield savings account) earmarked for your move.

Upfront Costs and Regular Bills

Let’s say a friend clues you in on a great deal on an apartment rental and says to hurry and get an application in. Just a minute, please! Before you can move out, you need to make sure you can truly afford to do so.

Start your research by tallying up all upfront costs and regular bills you’ll need to pay such as rent, auto and renters insurance, utilities, cell phone service, health insurance, transportation, and groceries. After calculating all necessary expenses, see how much room is left in your budget for extras like dining out or traveling.

Also consider the one-time hits your finances will take when you head out on your own: There may be broker’s fees, moving expenses (more on that in a minute), and other charges, as well as the price of buying furniture and other items for your home.

By looking at your budget this way, you can get an idea of whether you can comfortably afford to move out or if you need to wait a little bit longer to make a move work financially. You want there to be some breathing room in your budget so you don’t wind up putting necessities on your credit card and racking up debt.

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12 Steps to Afford Moving Out

Now that you have an overview of costs and expenses, it’s time to take the next step and drill down on understanding what you can afford, when you’re ready to move out, and how to navigate a move more easily.

These steps can help you get your own place without going broke.

1. Assess How Much Rent You Can Afford

As you plan this big step in adulting, you are likely most focused on how much rent you can pay. You’ll want to come up with a range of how much rent you can take on while still managing your other necessary bills, such as student loans, health insurance, and car payments.

It’s a good idea to tally up all your expenses and subtract that from your monthly after-tax income to see how much room is left in your budget and if the amount you can afford to pay is doable in your area. If you’re feeling as if you can’t quite come up with the necessary rent, you may want to consider how to move to another state or a nearby city that’s more affordable.

2. Consider Getting a Roommate

If it’s too hard to afford rent all on your own, you can think about having a roommate to help share the expenses with. Having a roommate can also make moving out for the first time feel less lonely.

3. Research Homes and Locations

Speaking of rent: Whether you plan to rent or buy when you move out, you’ll want to do some research on different housing opportunities in different areas. That way, you can see where you can get the most bang for your buck while still meeting your personal goals.

For instance, if you really value having a short commute, you might search for a studio instead of a one-bedroom apartment in the neighborhood you are targeting, if one-bedroom units are pricey. Or, if you’re hoping to rent a house, see what kind of prices you find in a neighborhood that’s adjacent to the one you are targeting or choose to go farther afield. You might find better deals due to more housing supply.

Recommended: Tax Breaks for Young People

4. Research the Cost of Movers

If you have a fair amount of things to move, it’s important to budget for the cost of movers. Yes, a friend with a van may be able to help with some smaller items, but things like a queen-size bed typically require movers.

Depending on how much you have to move and how far the move is (25 miles? 250?), your costs could be a few hundred or thousands. Ideally, you’ll want to get a couple of estimates from companies that come and actually eyeball how much you have.

Also, be sure to find out whether moving materials are included as you create your moving checklist. You may well be charged for boxes, wardrobes, tape, and moving blankets. In addition, it’s a good idea to inquire about “drive time” to and from your locations, which you may be billed for.

5. Don’t Make Any Excuses

It’s easy to think, “I can’t afford to move out” or “Rentals are hopelessly expensive” and give up (or at least procrastinate for a good long time). But if there’s a will, there’s usually a way. Finding your motivation and patience can be crucial to taking this step and getting your own place.

It’s common to get complacent when moving forward feels hard. If you do have to remain living with your parents or another family member while you save up to move out, keep your eye on the prize. Set up alerts for new home listings, put the word out that you are hunting for a home of your own, and keep saving and making career progress so you can attain your goal of moving out.

You might chat with friends or friends of friends to get their best advice on making your independent living dreams come true. They may have valuable hacks for you, too.

6. Have an Emergency Fund Saved Up

One way to lessen the financial stress of moving out is to have an emergency fund ready and waiting. That way, when you do move out on your own and hit an unexpected (and major) expense, you will have a financial cushion available to help you out.

How much should you have in an emergency fund? Experts advise having three to six months’ worth of basic living expenses stashed away (a high-yield savings account can work well). Figure out what that amount would be with the housing costs you expect to pay, and begin saving. Even $25 or $100 a month is a good start to get that layer of protection going.

7. Track Your Spending

When you are considering moving out for the first time, it’s wise to track your spending for a month or two. This will give you an idea of how much you tend to pay out each month, which can help you get a better idea of how much rent you can afford. For instance, how much do you typically spend on gas? On your WiFi provider? On eating out? As you look at these costs, you may be better prepared to know your budget once you are also paying housing costs.

Looking at your outflow of cash can also help you cut back on nonessential spending. For instance, you might realize you are spending over $100 a month on those iced coffees to go.

8. Budget for Home Needs

Figuring out how to move out with low income can be tricky. One hidden expense that is easy to forget about when budgeting for a move is home needs. Cleaning supplies, furniture, and appliances are expenses mom or dad may have taken care of in the past. Soon, they will be your responsibility. Consider how much that will cost and budget for it.

Also, if you are planning to buy a home instead of rent, budget for property taxes, home maintenance, and repairs.

9. Look for Cheaper Options on Furniture

When you are first starting out, you don’t need to splurge on expensive furniture. Thrift stores, garage sales, and inexpensive retailers can all get the job done. Freecycle and other similar sites (or Facebook and Nextdoor groups) can yield free or low-cost furnishings, too.

Over time, it’s likely to become easier to swap those inexpensive finds out for higher-quality pieces of furniture.

10. Manage Your Finances

To make moving out possible financially, it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on the money coming in and out each month. You’ll want to take some time to get all finances in order and to create a budget for this new chapter. Learning to manage money is a big step towards independence. It will have you that much more prepared for on-your-own living.

Your bank may well have an app that can help you track your incoming funds and your spending, which can help with this endeavor.

11. Set a Moving Timeline

Once it’s clear that a move is affordable, create a final timeline for finding a place to rent or buy and then moving in. Block out weekends for home hunting, and note how long before your move you want to get quotes from moving companies.

If you still need to save a bit more money, you can extend this timeline to include saving for a few months.

12. Be Realistic

It can take time to build the life you dream of, so don’t sweat it if your first home isn’t all that glamorous. Part of the fun of life is figuring things out and evolving over time. Many people have had first apartments that they still fondly look back on, despite how tiny, dark, or inconveniently located they may have been.

The best things in life often take time to fall into place, so be patient as you pursue your financial and lifestyle goals.

Prioritizing Financial Independence Over Savings

Many young people feel stuck at their parents’ because the finances of this situation make it possible to save on rent. They worry about moving out and not being able to save as much as they used to.

While there’s some truth to that point of view, understand that, yes, money is likely to be tight at first, but that is part of this rite of passage. Granted, you may not be able to save as you were before, but you can likely sock away a bit of money in savings (through your employer and/or into an emergency fund, perhaps) and begin to build your credit history, too.

It’s a big leap, but remember that your income will probably rise over time and help you save. Plus, living away from your parents can help you build your budgeting skills and financial savvy.

Banking With SoFi

Saving up for a major expense like a move? SoFi can help. 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. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible 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 3.30% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings with eligible direct deposit.

FAQ

How much money should you have saved before moving out?

How much money you’ll need to move out varies from person to person. One rule of thumb is to save up at least six months’ worth of living expenses before moving out of a parent’s or family member’s home.

How do you move out when you can’t afford it?

It’s important for your financial health to not move out until you can afford to do so. To get to that point as quickly as possible, consider saving some of every paycheck and putting it in a savings account earmarked for your move. You might also want to look into sharing expenses with a roommate or perhaps taking on a temporary side hustle to earn extra income.

How do I know if I’m ready to move out?

You can get an idea of whether or not you’re ready to leave your parents’ place by calculating how much it will cost to live on your own. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of having a sufficient amount of income and savings. If you can afford to pay for rent and other necessities, plus have some fun (such as the occasional movie or dinner out), and you’ve built up some emergency savings, then you may be ready.


About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco

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



Photo credit: iStock/Hache

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Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

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Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

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We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Bank Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.
^Early access to direct deposit funds is based on the timing in which we receive notice of impending payment from the Federal Reserve, which is typically up to two days before the scheduled payment date, but may vary.

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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Trade School vs Community College: Pros and Cons

Community College vs Trade School: How They Compare

There is no one right path to take in life and that includes how someone decides to pursue an education after high school. Attending a four year university isn’t necessarily the best option for some and they may want to consider other options that can help them prepare for a fruitful career.

Let’s examine how trade school vs community college works for prospective students considering those options.

Key Points

•   Community colleges offer both academic and technical programs, often at lower costs, and can serve as a pathway to a four-year degree or career training.

•   Trade schools provide focused, hands-on training for specific skilled careers (like HVAC, welding, or auto mechanics), typically completed in about a year.

•   Community colleges offer broader flexibility, including transferable credits and diverse course options, but not all credits may transfer to universities.

•   Trade schools prepare students for immediate employment in one field but offer less flexibility to pivot to other career paths.

•   Cost and time commitment differ — community colleges tend to be more affordable and offer part-time options, while trade schools may be more expensive but faster to complete.

What Is Community College?

Community colleges serve their local community by offering affordable higher education options that can either lead to transferring to a four year university, obtaining an Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree, learning a trade, or finding personal fulfillment by taking a class or two for fun.

Students may also choose to attend community college before transferring to a university to pursue a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree because doing so can save them a lot of money on tuition by transferring course credits from their community college to a university.

How It Works

Students who attend community college can choose from a wide variety of classes to take. Some may focus on academic courses so they can earn lower division credits that can transfer to a four year university. Others may decide to pursue technical certificates that prepare them for specific career paths. Or a student can take a mix of both styles of classes. One major benefit of community college is that the classes are affordable, so students can test out different areas of interest.

What You Learn and How You Learn It

What a student learns and how they learn it at a community college depends on the types of classes they choose to take. For example, a student pursuing lower division credits that transfer to a university may take a math or English class in a traditional classroom setting that involves lectures, homework, and exams. A student pursuing a career as an auto mechanic would instead take classes that combine lectures and homework with hands-on learning opportunities in an auto mechanic workshop setting.

What Is Trade School?

Trade schools are a type of school that students can attend if they are interested in focused training programs that can prepare them for a specific skilled trade or industry. Students work towards developing technical abilities such as operating, building, fixing, and maintaining mechanical systems.

Some examples of careers that can follow trade school include:

•   Welder

•   Construction worker

•   Auto mechanic

•   HVAC technician

•   Blacksmith

•   Electrician

It’s worth noting that some community colleges offer training in similar subjects to trade schools.

How It Works

Some trade schools focus on a specific training program, such as plumbing, whereas other trade schools may offer multiple training programs like HVAC and welding training. Even if a trade school offers multiple areas of study, they generally don’t overlap and each program has its own curriculum and teachers.

What You Learn and How You Learn It

At trade schools, students learn specialized trade skills that prepare them for mechanical careers, such as working as a construction worker or blacksmith. This type of education requires attending lectures and studying course materials, but also more hands-on demonstrations and training.

Trade School vs Community College

To better understand how a trade school vs. community college works, it helps to understand the similarities and differences of these two options.

Similarities

When it comes to trade schools vs. community colleges, these are some of the similarities these two types of schools can have.

•   Learning environment. Because community colleges offer similar courses to trade schools, both take a hybrid approach when it comes to trade subjects like HVAC repair. Students tend to learn these skills in both a classroom and workshop setting.

•   Timeframe. While some community college degrees can take as long as two years to earn (such as with an AA), the technical training programs at a community college are still more in line with how long it takes to graduate from a trade or technical school (usually a year) whereas a university takes four years to complete.

Differences

Of course, there are also some community college vs. trade school differences worth being aware of.

•   Course options. Even though community colleges do offer trade courses, they also offer academic courses — with instruction taking place entirely in a classroom — with the aim of helping students transfer to a four year university.

•   Cost. Usually, trade schools cost more to attend than a community college. Though, this may vary based on factors like the type and length of the program.

Pros and Cons of Trade School

Now let’s examine the pros and cons of attending trade school.

Pros of Trade School Cons of Trade School
Specific career training Training is usually limited to one career path
Many programs only take a year May be more expensive than community college
Less expensive than a four year degree Students don’t earn academic credits that can transfer to a university
Flexible schedules that accommodate students with families and who work

Pros and Cons of Community College

Before attending community college, some students may want to consider the benefits and disadvantages of doing so.

Pros of Community College Cons of Community College
More affordable than attending a four-year college Credits don’t always transfer
Students can live at home Lack of socializing opportunities
Easier acceptance than at four-year schools

Choosing for Yourself

After comparing the trade school vs community college pros and cons, prospective students can make a decision about which path forward seems like the best fit for them based on their personal and professional goals, financial situation, and lifestyle. Thinking about what career they want to pursue and which education option can prepare them for that career is a great place to start.

The Takeaway

Again — there is no one right education path to pursue. While some may be set on earning a Bachelor’s degree and may find that community college is a great stepping stone for them, others may feel that a trade school can adequately prepare them for the career of their choice. In some cases, community college can prepare a student to further their academic career or to work in a trade, but trade schools also offer specialized training programs that some prospective students may find appealing.

Community college students may be able to qualify for federal student aid to help them pay for their education. Students who face funding gaps, might consider private student loans. Though, keep in mind these loans don’t offer the same protections as federal student loans.

If private student loans seem like a fit for your financial situation, consider SoFi. While SoFi’s private student loans aren’t available to community college students, they could be an option for those transferring to a four year program.

3 Student Loan Tips

1.    Can’t cover your school bills? If you’ve exhausted all federal aid options, private student loans can fill gaps in need, up to the school’s cost of attendance, which includes tuition, books, housing, meals, transportation, and personal expenses.

2.    Even if you don’t think you qualify for financial aid, you should fill out the FAFSA® form. Many schools require it for merit-based scholarships, too. You can submit it as early as Oct. 1.

3.    Would-be borrowers will want to understand the different types of student loans peppering the landscape: private student loans, federal Direct subsidized and unsubsidized loans, Direct PLUS loans, and more.

Private student loans from SoFi loans have zero-fees and qualifying borrowers can secure competitive interest rates.

FAQ

Do community college or trade school graduates make more?

Because community college and trade schools both offer degrees and certificates that lead to mechanical jobs, graduates of both types of schools stand to earn the same income. Some students who pursue a higher education after community college, such as a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degree can have increased earning potential.

Which trades that you learn at trade school pay the best?

There are many trades that pay well, but a few of the best paying trade jobs include working as a transportation, storage and distribution manager (median annual salary of $98,230), an elevator/escalator installer and repairer (median annual salary of $97,860), and a nuclear power reactor operator (median annual salary of $94,970).

Is trade school or community college cheaper?

When it comes to the cost of community college vs trade school, generally community college costs less to attend on an annual basis ($3,800 per year for tuition and fees) than trade school ($5,000 to $15,000 for three to 18 months), but students may need to attend community college longer than trade school, which can make the costs rise.


About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco

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



Photo credit: iStock/andresr

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

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

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Guide to Cleared Funds

Cleared Funds: Definition and Breakdown of Funds Clearing Time

We live in a fast-paced world and are accustomed to immediate gratification. Just as we can get groceries delivered in minutes and order a new movie online with a few clicks, so too do we often expect our bank deposits to be available immediately.

But it doesn’t always work that way when it comes to finances. Some things do require a wait, even though it may seem like they should happen instantaneously. When money is put into a bank account, it can take a while for the deposited funds to appear and become available. Here’s a simple breakdown of how long it takes for funds to clear.

What Are Cleared Funds?

Depositing money into a bank account doesn’t always make those funds appear immediately. It can take time for the funds to clear and become available to use. This is because banks and credit unions may place a temporary hold on the deposit. When this happens, the account holder can see their “total balance” on their account and their “available balance.” The latter is the amount of the total balance minus any pending deposits. The available balance is, as the name indicates, what is available for use.

Why Banks Put a Hold on Deposits

One reason why banks don’t immediately declare deposits to be cleared funds is to help avoid issues that can arise when a deposit bounces. Having a brief waiting period helps protect customers from bank fraud and from paying unnecessary fees. If a bank were to allow a customer to spend funds from a check that ends up bouncing, the customer would then need to repay the bank the amount they deposited and probably pay an overdraft fee (even if the customer wasn’t at fault).

Some holds take longer than others. The federal government regulates the max amount of time a banking institution can hold onto the funds before they make them available to the account holder. Banks and credit unions also have their own policies regarding how long it will take for funds to become available after a deposit, which can be shorter than federal regulations. It can be helpful to review your bank’s policies for holding deposits so you can get a better idea of when cleared funds will become available. That way, you won’t accidentally overdraw your account.

How Do Cleared Funds Work?

Cleared funds appear in a bank account, such as a checking account, after the holding period ends. Usually, this holding period lasts until the next business day, but it can take longer. Weekends and holidays can slow this process down. The type of deposit made can also affect the timeline.

Here’s a specific example: If you deposit a check via an ATM that is not part of your bank’s network, you will probably have to wait a while to access the money. It may take up to five days before that check becomes available cash in your account.

Compare that to the case of electronic deposits made via the Automated Clearing House (ACH). The funds can actually clear and become available as soon as the same day. Having a paycheck deposited via direct deposit can help you access your money a lot faster than if you deposited a check at an ATM.

Breakdown of Times of Cleared Funds

All banks and credit unions have their own timeline they follow surrounding cleared funds. In addition, the federal government sets a maximum limit for how long they can make consumers wait to access their deposit.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the federally allowed wait times for different types of transactions, from wiring money to check deposits.

Type of Deposit

Timeline

Direct DepositUp to the second business day
Wire TransferUp to the second business day
Paper check (less than $200)*Next Business Day
Cash*Same day or next business day
U.S. Treasury check*Next Business Day
U.S. Postal Service money order*Next business day
State or local government check*Next business day
Casher’s, certified, or teller’s check*Next business day
Mobile check depositUp to second business day
Federal Reserve and Federal Home Loan checks*Next business day
Any other checks or non-U.S. Postal Service money ordersSecond business day
Deposits made at an ATM owned by the customer’s financial institutionSecond business day
Deposits made at an ATM not owned by the customer’s financial institutionFifth business day

*Deposited in person.

It’s worth noting that these are the maximum hold times allowed; in many cases these deposits happen much quicker. Again, it’s worth reviewing the bank’s funds availability policy. This will be listed in the account agreement given to you, the account holder, when you opened an account. You can also ask the bank for a copy of their holding policies or look online for it.

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When Can You Withdrawal Cleared Funds?

Deposits often clear in segments. That is, a portion of the funds will become available in your checking account before the whole amount deposited is ready for use. In most cases, the bank has to allow the customer to access $225 from the deposit at the start of the next business day. You could either withdraw cash or write a check. Usually the rest of the deposit is available on the second business day, unless something occurs to trigger a delay.

Cleared Funds vs Available Funds

The terms “cleared funds” and “available funds” both refer to funds that are available for immediate withdrawal or use. It’s important to keep in mind that simply depositing a check doesn’t mean you can use the money right away.

•   Regarding a deposit, the $225 that must be made available by the next business day is known as your cleared or available funds. So on the next day, you can go ahead and use that amount.

•   However, the rest of your deposit may not yet be available. If you try to draw against it, you are risking overdraft and charges. The full amount of the deposit may take up to a few more days to become ready for use.

Reasons Why Deposits May Be Delayed Until They Become Cleared Funds

There are a few different reasons why deposits can be delayed on their path to becoming cleared funds. Let’s examine some of these.

Deposits Over $5,000

When it comes to large deposits (excluding cash or electronic payments), the bank is typically required to make the first $5,525 of the deposit available by the second business day and the remainder available on the seventh business day, or later.

Recommended: Where to Cash a Check Without Paying a Fee

Brand New Customer Accounts

Newer customer accounts (less than 30 days old) can experience deposit delays up to nine days. Although with official checks and electronic payments, partial funds can be available the next day. (If you are in this situation and in a rush to make a payment, you can look into other ways to send money to another’s bank account, such as P2P apps. These can draw upon other available funds.)

Post-Dated or Fraudulent Checks

If a bank has reason to suspect a deposit is suspicious (such as if a check appears to be fraudulent), then it may hold the funds for longer than normal. A couple of examples of what might cause this kind of hold:

•   A check is post-dated, meaning it’s been filled out to show a date that is in the future.

•   A check is more than 60 days old.

The Takeaway

Cleared funds are the funds that become available once a deposit to a bank account clears. That means the money is ready for use. The timeline for funds clearing depends on several factors, such as where, when, and how the deposit was made and how large the amount is. Some funds may clear right away, while others can take a few days. However, federal laws are in place regarding how long a bank can wait to clear funds. By understanding this process, you can likely manage your financial life a little better and avoid situations that involve overdrafts or bounced checks.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible 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 3.30% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings with eligible direct deposit.

FAQ

What is the difference between a cleared balance and an available balance?

A cleared balance (or cleared funds) and an available balance are the same thing — it’s the amount of money in your account that is available for immediate withdrawal or use.

How long does it take to get money cleared?

Some deposits clear as soon as the same day, but most generally clear the next business day. In some cases, though, a deposit can take as long as nine days to clear. Check with your bank to know their timelines.

Can you reverse a cleared check?

Once a check has cleared, there is little that can be done to reverse the transaction. If, however, a cleared check is to be found fraudulent, it may be possible for a bank to intervene.


About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco

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



Photo credit: iStock/RgStudio

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

Eligible 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 (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, 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 Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. 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.

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.

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What Are Community Colleges and What Do They Do?

Community Colleges: Defined, Explained, and Pros and Cons

Those looking to save on the price of higher education may decide to pursue community college as a path forward. What is a community college?

Community colleges are public colleges designed to make the cost of attending college more affordable for local students. While community colleges don’t offer four-year degrees, they have two-year degree programs and classes that can transfer to other colleges where students can obtain a four-year degree.

Keep reading for more insight into what a community college is and how these schools work, as well as how they compare to four year universities.

What Are Community Colleges?

Community colleges are colleges designed to serve the local community. Students live off campus (often at home with their families if they are young) and can pursue an Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree, which typically only take two years to complete. Students have the option of taking courses that can transfer credits to a four year university so they can pursue a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree.

Community colleges may also have vocational and technical programs for those looking to pursue careers that don’t require a four-year degree, but that do require technical knowledge. If you’re considering trade school vs community college, review factors such as the programs offered, time to complete programs, and any other opportunities (such as professional development opportunities) available at the schools.

How Do Community Colleges Work?

Community colleges provide a flexible learning opportunity that can help students reach a variety of goals. While some students attend community college with a goal to transfer after earning some lower division credits, some attend with the goal of earning an Associates degree.

Other students aim to earn technical certificates (similar or the same as what technical schools offer) and some simply attend because they love learning and want to pick up a new language, take a film history course, or brush up on a favorite subject. Students can choose to take one class or can enroll full-time.

Do They Accept Everyone?

Community colleges generally accept all students. For example, in California community colleges don’t have any testing requirements and students don’t need to have a certain GPA to be accepted. A high school diploma isn’t required either, but for students that want to apply for federal financial aid, usually a GED or high school diploma is required.

Why Are They Cheaper?

Community colleges are funded by the government in order to offer an affordable education for students. The average cost of attending community college for a year is $3,800, but in many states students who meet certain eligibility requirements can qualify for free tuition. Not to mention, there is generally no on-campus housing option for community college students and many choose to save money by living with a family member such as a parent.

What Kinds of Degrees Are Available?

What are community colleges for and what do community colleges offer? As noted previously, community colleges are designed to help students afford the cost of attending college locally. They offer AA and AS degrees, as well as technical and vocational programs. Attending a community college can also make it possible to transfer credits to a four year university so that the student can spend less time and money at a more expensive school.

Pros and Cons of Attending Community College

Before attending community college, there are some advantages and disadvantages worth keeping in mind.

Pros

Pros of community college include affordability, flexibility, and the opportunity to live at home while attending school.

More Affordable

On average, the annual community college tuition is $3,570 versus $9,970 for attending an in-state and public four-year college. Attending a public college out of state or a private college can cost even more.

Can Live at Home

Because community colleges are designed to serve local students, it’s usually possible to live at home with family while attending community college which helps keep education costs down.

Easier Acceptance

Community colleges don’t require a certain high school GPA or test scores in order to be accepted.

Flexible Course Scheduling

Community colleges may have flexible course schedules that allow students to work while attending classes. Some programs may also offer online or hybrid class models.

Cons

There are also some disadvantages, worth considering before attending a community college.

Credits Don’t Always Transfer

Certain course credits only transfer to select colleges which can make the transfer process confusing. Some community college students end up taking courses they don’t end up getting credit for when they transfer. It can help to work closely with your advisor to ensure the courses you complete at community college will transfer to the universities you are interested in transferring to.

Instructors May Not Be Full-Time

Some community college instructors teach at multiple colleges, which could make them less accessible when it comes to office hours.

Less Social or Extracurricular Opportunity

Community colleges have less of an emphasis on social life and activities since students commute and don’t live on campus. Many students also juggle work, parenthood, and other commitments outside of attending community college which leaves little time for socializing.

The table below outlines a recap of the pros and cons of attending a community college.

Pros

Cons

•   More affordable

•   Can live at home

•   Easier acceptance

•   Credits don’t always transfer

•   Instructors aren’t full-time

•   Less Social or Extracurricular Opportunity

Differences Between Community Colleges and Universities

When evaluating community colleges vs. universities, major differences include degree types available, cost, time commitment to complete a degree, and the application process.

Community Colleges

Universities

•   Lower cost

•   AA and AS degrees

•   Vocational and technical training

•   Smaller class sizes

•   May offer guaranteed acceptance

•   Can’t obtain a four year degree

•   More expensive tuition

•   BA and BS degrees

•   On campus housing and meal plans available

•   Competitive application process

•   Specific admittance requirements

•   Better athletic and extracurricular opportunities

What Are the Job Prospects for Community College Graduates?

Attending community college can lead to many different job opportunities in the business and labor sectors. From automotive technology to culinary arts to childcare to marketing to sales — the list goes on.

Additionally, community college graduates can continue their education if they are interested in a career path that requires a Bachelor’s degree or more.

How to Pay for Community College

Even though community college is one of the more affordable higher education options available to students, some may still need help affording the cost of tuition, fees, and books, which can cost thousands of dollars a year. Here’s a few options students can pursue for paying for community college.

FAFSA

Each year, students can fill out the free Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) to find out what types of federal grants, scholarships, and federal student loans they qualify for. After seeing what grants they qualify for, students can better determine how much they actually need to spend and if they’ll need to borrow money to afford the costs of attending community college.

Grants

Speaking of grants, this is a form of gift aid that students don’t need to pay back. This is why it’s so important to fill out the FAFSA each year to see what grants are available.

Scholarships

Scholarships are another form of gift aid that students don’t have to worry about paying back. Each school’s financial aid office can help students learn more about what scholarships they have available, but students can also apply for scholarships with external organizations. There are a variety of online databases and scholarship search tools that students can use to learn more about scholarship opportunities.

Federal Student Loans

Federal student loans come from the U.S. Department of Education and as a result tend to have better interest rates and protections (like deferment and access to forgiveness programs) than private student loans for undergraduates offer. When students complete the FAFSA, they’ll learn more about which types of federal loans they qualify for and how much they qualify for.

Private Student Loans

Private student loans come from financial institutions like banks, credit unions, and loan lenders. These loans tend to cost more and how each lender handles repayment and fees, and the rates they charge can vary greatly. Generally, it’s best to exhaust federal student loan options before applying for private ones.

One important thing to know before applying for private student loans is that lenders will evaluate the applicants credit score and history, as well as their income are taken into account. The better someone’s credit history is, the better interest rates and loan terms they can qualify for. This is why many young students find it beneficial to add a cosigner to their private student loan application.

The Takeaway

Attending community college can lead students down many different paths, including transfering to a university that offers BA and BS degrees. Community college is typically a more affordable education option for students (unless they qualify for a full-ride scholarship to a four-year university) looking to pursue higher education.

That being said, some students may find they need to take out loans to afford the cost of community college. This is where private student loans can step in.

With SoFi Private Student Loans, borrowers can apply online with a cosigner in just a few minutes. While SoFi’s loans aren’t available to community college students, they may be an option for those transferring to a four-year university. There are no fees and graduates can enjoy a six month grace period before they have to start the repayment process.

Private student loans from SoFi have no fees, offer flexible repayment plans, and an easy online application.

FAQ

How are community colleges and regular colleges different?

Community colleges offer a variety of technical and vocational programs, as well as two year Associate degree programs. Regular colleges offer four-year Bachelor’s degrees, as well as graduate school degrees.

What purpose do community colleges serve?

Community colleges make achieving a post-high school education more accessible and affordable to students. Students can live at home with their families while attending a local community college so they can save money on housing while accessing affordable tuition.

Why are community colleges so much cheaper than 4-year universities?

Community colleges are funded by the government to help make pursuing a college education or vocational training more affordable. Community colleges also lack some of the expensive bells and whistles that large universities come with, like on-campus housing and dining halls.


About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco

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



Photo credit: iStock/SDI Productions

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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.


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

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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

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What Are Technical Schools and What Do They Do?

Technical School: Defined, Explained, and Pros and Cons

Pursuing a four-year degree can lead to a lot of great career opportunities, but there are also many lucrative career opportunities that require a more technical education that a university can’t provide. To pursue certain careers, it may be necessary to attend a technical school.

What are technical schools? In short, technical schools are postsecondary institutions that teach students specialized skills designed to prepare them for a specific profession or trade.

Continue reading for more insight into what technical school is and what the advantages and disadvantages of this education option are.

What Is Technical School?

As briefly mentioned, a technical schools meaning is a school that provides students with education and training in a practical and specialized trade or profession. Technical schools don’t lead to bachelor’s degrees like a university and instead result in earning diplomas or certificates that generally take less than two years to qualify for.

Technical schools are a good fit for students who know what career path they want to pursue, because when a student attends a technical school they choose a specific program designed to prepare them for a certain career. Students who attend technical school don’t take general education classes, which means they are not required to learn more about different disciplines before they choose where to focus their efforts.

Technical school courses include instruction and studying course materials, but also provide hands-on training that helps students build the skills they need to pursue their chosen career. Often, students who attend technical schools are connected to internship opportunities that help them gain real world work experience.

How Is Technical School Different From Trade School?

Trade schools typically focus on more hands-on careers that require having either a certain amount of on-the-job supervised hours in order to pursue a career or a certification of some sort. Trade schools offer hands-on education and prepare students for labor-focused jobs like working as an electrician or carpenter and similar to technical schools, trade school costs are generally less than university degrees.

Technical schools have more classroom lectures and simulated job training and can lead to more creative career paths like floral design, graphic design, and cosmetology, as well as more labor-focused jobs. A recap of the comparison between trade school and technical school is in the below table.

Trade School

Technical School

•   Hands-on education and training

•   Prepares students for labor-focused jobs

•   Helps students achieve certificates or supervised working hours

•   Classroom education and simulated job training

•   Prepares students for labor-focused jobs and creative careers

•   Can earn diplomas and certificates

How Is Technical School Different From Vocational Training?

A vocational school is generally the same thing as a technical school and people often use these names interchangeably. Some four-year universities offer vocational degree programs, such as becoming a paralegal, but some vocational programs like cosmetology can only be found at technical or vocational schools.

How Is Technical School Different From Community College?

Community colleges focus more on general education, but also offer technical training, whereas technical schools don’t teach general education at all.

Community College

Technical School

•   Students can pursue a general education

•   Credits can transfer to four year universities

•   Can prepare students for technical careers or to pursue further academic education

•   Only offers technical coursework

•   Credits don’t transfer to universities

•   Prepares students for technical careers

How Is Technical School Different From University?

Universities and technical schools are very different. They offer different degree programs, costs, time commitments and more. The table below provides an overview on the differences.

University

Technical School

•   Can pursue a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degree

•   On-campus dorm

•   Intramural sports

•   Clubs and student activities

•   Four-year degrees

•   Technical focus

•   Less classroom learning

•   Hands-on training

•   Shorter programs

How Does Technical School Work?

The way that technical school works is students choose a specific program to pursue and then complete the required coursework to finish the program or earn a certificate that enables them to work in the career of their choice. Technical school involves hands-on instruction so students can learn valuable technical skills.

Getting Into Technical School

Generally, students need to have a high school diploma, state-issued GED, or to have passed a state-authorized equivalency exam in order to qualify for technical school, but students don’t have to compete for acceptance like they would at a four-year university.

Cost of Technical School

The cost of technical school can vary quite a bit based on factors including the school, its location, the program type and the length of the program.

What Can You Study in Technical School

A few examples of career paths technical school can lead to include:

•  Computer technology

•  Healthcare support

•  HVAC technology

•  Electrical installation and maintenance

•  Welding or plumbing

•  Hospitality/hotel and restaurant management

•  Culinary arts

•  Cosmetology

•  Floral design

•  Auto mechanics

•  Graphic design

•  Visual arts

•  Office administration

•  HVAC technology

•  Carpentry or construction

Pros and Cons of Attending Technical School

Now let’s look at some advantages and disadvantages associated with attending technical schools.

Pros

Cons

•   Only requires a one to two year commitment

•   Some programs only last a few weeks

•   Hands-on training for students who have chosen a career path

•   Limited program and course offerings

•   Funnels into specific career paths which could feel limiting

•   Academic credits don’t transfer to four-year universities

Technical High Schools

There are also technical high schools that prepare high school students for technical career paths while providing them with a more traditional high school education at the same time.

Financing Technical School

Students who are having trouble affording the cost of technical school or who want to save some money can pursue these options for helping them finance their education.

FAFSA

Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) each year while attending school, will allow technical school students to learn if they qualify for any grants, scholarships, or federal student loans. Check in with the financial aid office at your technical school if you have any questions about whether or not they participate in the federal aid program.

Grants

Grants are a form of financial aid that students don’t have to pay back. Essentially, a grant gives students free money to pay for their school tuition, fees, and supplies.

Scholarships

Scholarships are another form of gift aid that students don’t have to pay back. It can be a good idea to apply for scholarships to help lower the cost of attending vocational school.

Private Student Loans

Students who don’t qualify for enough gift aid or federal student loans to cover the costs of attending vocational school can apply for a private student loan through a private lender such as a credit union, bank, or loan lender. Unlike federal student loans, private lenders will often evaluate an applicant’s credit score and history, among other factors, when making lending decisions.

Recommended: A Guide to Private Student Loans

Usually, private student loans come with higher interest rates and less perks than federal student loans, so they are generally considered an option after federal options and other funding sources have been exhausted.

Employer Sponsorship

If someone’s employer would benefit from the skills they would gain by attending technical school, then their employer may be willing to pay for them to attend technical school by offering tuition reimbursement or some other form of financial aid. It can’t hurt for employed students to see what support programs their employer has in place.

Job Prospects for Technical School Graduates

Because different technical schools focus on different training programs, students need to choose one that has a program that aligns with their goals. For example, students who want to attend technical school may be doing so to pursue a career as an auto mechanic, electrician, hair stylist, or chef.

Is Technical School Right for You?

There’s no one right path to take after high school or when deciding to switch careers, but some may find that attending technical school can help them pursue the career of their choice.
Consider your career goals and the requirements for pursuing that career path. If that career path would benefit or require the training offered by a technical school, then it may benefit the student to explore attending a technical school. In some cases, another education option may help them reach that goal more effectively and efficiently than technical school.

The Takeaway

Attending technical school can be a great option for those who want to pursue a career that requires a specialized skill set, yet which doesn’t require a college degree. Technical school takes less time than pursuing a four-year degree and can lead to many great career opportunities.

Some students may find they can’t afford to pay cash for technical school and need to borrow money in order to finance their education. This is where private student loans could help.

SoFi’s private student loans aren’t available to technical school students, but may be worth considering for students transferring to a university. With SoFi private student loans, it’s easy to apply online and borrowers don’t have to worry about expensive fees. After graduation, they can enjoy a six month grace period to give them time to start their career before having to pay back their student loans.

It takes just a few minutes to find out if you pre-qualify for a no fee SoFi private student loan.

FAQ:

How are technical schools and trade schools different?

What’s a technical school and how does it differ from a trade school? The main difference between trade schools and technical schools, is that technical schools offer more classroom and instructional education, whereas trade schools do more hands-on training (although technical schools offer this type of training as well, just not as much).

How is college different from a technical school?

At a college, it’s possible to pursue a bachelor’s degree, which usually takes four years to complete, whereas technical school helps students work towards certificates that take two years or less to pursue. Students who attend college usually focus on more academic disciplines, whereas technical school teaches specialized skills.

What can you study at a technical school?

It’s possible to study many different subjects at technical schools and the subjects each school teaches can vary. For example, students can enroll in programs focused on computer technology, healthcare support, HVAC technology, electrical installation and maintenance, and plumbing.


About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco

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



Photo credit: iStock/Laurence Dutton

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.


SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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