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Nov

2024

How to Calculate Your Net Worth and Wealth: The Ultimate Guide

By Austin Kilham | Growing Wealth, Life & Career, relay | Comments Off

In some ways, net worth and wealth can be tricky terms to define. To some people, the phrases are synonymous. As others acknowledge, the perception of wealth is influenced by a variety of factors, including where you live, your career, and your age.

Here’s a deep dive into how to calculate individual net worth and some of the factors that may influence our perception of wealth.

Key Points

• Net worth is calculated by subtracting liabilities from the total value of assets, including real estate and investments.

• Assets like cash, life insurance, household items, and jewelry contribute to overall wealth.

• A positive net worth results when assets exceed liabilities, indicating financial health.

• Lifestyle creep can hinder wealth accumulation as higher incomes often lead to increased discretionary spending.

• Middle-income families earn between $56,600 and $169,800 annually, defining economic classes.

How to Calculate Individual Net Worth

An individual’s net worth is the value of all of their combined assets minus any liabilities (that is, outstanding debts). If your assets are worth more than your liabilities, you have a positive net worth. If you owe more than you own, your net worth is negative.

Assets you may use as part of your net worth calculation can include:

• Real estate. Your home, second home, rental property, commercial real estate, or other holdings.

• Cars and other vehicles. Note that automobiles are typically subject to depreciation in value over time.

• Investments. Stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and retirement accounts.

• Cash

• Life insurance. Use the cash value.

• Household items. Furniture, silverware, etc.

• Jewelry. Plus precious gems and metals.

Liabilities are debts such as:

• Balance remaining on your mortgage

• Student loans

• Auto loans

• Credit card debt

Recommended: Does Net Worth Include Home Equity?

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What Is the Difference Between Net Worth and Income?

Net worth and income don’t necessarily go hand in hand. Income is the money that is reported on a tax return, while a high net worth results from owning valuable assets. High net worth could be a result of careful saving, inheriting money, or hanging onto highly appreciated assets.

For example, let’s say someone bought a house in a once-undesirable neighborhood decades ago. Today, that neighborhood is super popular and the house is worth much more. Even if they don’t sell, the homeowner has increased their net worth without a boost in income. (It can be useful to see how net worth changes by age and location.)

On the other hand, a professional with a high salary who carries a lot of debt could have a relatively low net worth, especially if they also maintain a costly lifestyle. That said, various types of income certainly can have a big impact on how much wealth a person is able to accumulate.

Income is also one way that researchers sort individuals into economic classes, though the income ranges that delineate class can vary from year to year and by research methodology.

What Salary Is Considered a Middle-Class Income?

Pew Research Center defines middle-income Americans as those whose annual size-adjusted income is two-thirds to double the median size-adjusted household income. (Size-adjusted household income refers to the number of people within the household.)

A middle-income family of three earned $56,600 to $169,800 in 2022, the most recent information available from Pew Research.

What Salary Is Considered an Upper-Class Income?

Upper-income individuals earn more than double the median size-adjusted household income. This means a family of three may earn more than $169,800.

Wondering how your income compares? It can be helpful to look at the median income for a three-person household in each income tier.

Income Tier	Median Income in 2022
Upper Income	$256,920
Middle Income	$106,092
Lower Income	$35,318

Source: Pew Research Center

Why Wealth Is Relative Person to Person

The definition of “wealthy” differs depending on a person’s background, geography, and age. Consider a law student who earns very little money each year and carries hundreds of thousands in student debt. While their current wealth may be low, their potential future earnings may be quite high, and could catapult them into the wealthiest classes.

Consider, too, that where you live has a big impact on how far your wealth will stretch. A middle-income earner in an expensive city like San Francisco or New York may find it more difficult to make ends meet than someone in a small town in Oklahoma with a lower cost of living.

Ways to Measure Wealth

Wealth and net worth can be considered synonymous in some cases. But there are other factors that play into the perception of wealth and a person’s ability to accumulate it. Examples include demographic differences and potential return on investment, which may not have an immediate impact but can increase future wealth.

Income

As mentioned above, high income does not necessarily lead to high net worth — but it can. High earners may use their income to acquire assets that maintain equity, such as a home. These people may also use their earnings to invest within retirement and brokerage accounts.

Personal Savings

Your personal savings may refer to the cash you have on hand in checking and savings accounts, certificates of deposit, and money market accounts. It may also refer to the savings you have invested in brokerage and retirement accounts.

Ideally, these investments will appreciate over time, increasing net worth and providing a future source of income to maintain your standard of living after you stop working. As you build up your savings, tools like a money tracker app can help you keep tabs on your money.

Investment Rate of Return

An important factor in accumulating wealth is the rate of return (ROR) on your investments. Investment returns are not guaranteed. Stock prices rise and fall according to various trends in the market. Even bonds, which are relatively safe, are subject to default from time to time.

In the past, the stock market tended to rise over the long term. In fact, since 1926, the average annual rate of return for the stock market has been about 10%, surpassing potential returns for other major types of investments, including bonds.

Investors who save more, and hold more of their investment portfolio in stocks, may be better positioned to take advantage of these potential future returns.

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Real Estate Assets

One way to think about wealth is as the maintaining of assets. Real estate can be a good place to build equity, and it can appreciate in value. Returns can vary widely depending on what type of real estate you buy — whether a home or commercial property — and where the property is located. Historically, the rate of return on real estate has been close to stock market returns. In the U.S. market, the median return on real estate investment is 8.6% annually, per the S&P 500 Index.

Age and Family Status

Demographic factors can have an impact on how much money you earn and the wealth you can accumulate. For example, median weekly earnings vary by age and gender.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, men and women ages 16 to 24 have the lowest median weekly earnings, with men earning $771 per week and women earning $695 in the second quarter of 2024, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Men age 35 and over enjoyed the highest median weekly earnings:

• 35 to 44: $1,379

• 45 to 54: $1,470

• 55 to 64: $1,361

Women earned less overall than men:

• 35 to 44: $1,114

• 45 to 54: $1,151

• 55 to 64: $1,048

The number of people in a household has a different impact. More people under one roof may require a larger home and more money spent on things like groceries, clothing, and transportation. As a result, a single individual usually requires less wealth to maintain a certain lifestyle than a family of five.

Good Credit Score

While not exactly a measure of wealth, a good credit score is a measure of financial health. It suggests that you have not taken on more debt than you can handle, and that you are able to make your payments on time.

A good credit score can also help you leverage your wealth to achieve financial goals. For example, lenders will look at your credit score when you apply for a loan to determine your creditworthiness. A good score can help you qualify for loans with lower interest rates. Individuals with bad credit, on the other hand, may be seen as a risk, and lenders may charge higher interest rates to compensate.

As a result, a good credit score can help you qualify for loans, such as a mortgage, at affordable rates that can help you build wealth.

Difference Between Material Wealth vs Spiritual Wealth

Material wealth is dependent on the physical and financial assets that you own and the debts you carry. Spiritual wealth, on the other hand, is not based on tangible items. Rather, it’s based on things like a sense of well-being and happiness.

Are material wealth and spiritual wealth linked? In a 2023 paper, authors Daniel Kahneman, Matthew A. Killingworth, and Barbara Mellers discovered an overall connection between larger incomes and increasing levels of happiness. But they also found that happiness peaks at $100,000 a year and then plateaus in people who are already unhappy.

Appreciating What You Have

One of the reasons that higher income doesn’t always translate into greater wealth is a phenomenon known as “lifestyle creep.” This occurs when increasing income leads to an increase in discretionary spending. A certain amount of lifestyle creep can result from trying to “keep up with the Joneses” — a tendency to accumulate material goods to compete with others in one’s perceived social class.

For example, as a person earns more, they might buy a bigger house, a more expensive car, pricey clothes, and start sending their kids to private school. These costly habits can mean that the individual may not be able to save more than when their salary was lower.

Try to avoid lifestyle creep by putting off grand lifestyle changes, like buying a large home, and putting off big purchases until absolutely necessary. Build and stick to a budget that includes wealth-building line items, such as saving in retirement funds. Track your progress with a budgeting app.

Practice appreciating what you already have, and you may find that some of the upgrades you desire are just wants — not necessities.

The Takeaway

Net worth and wealth are inextricably linked. Measuring net worth helps people assess how many assets they currently have at their disposal. Accumulating wealth is about acquiring and maintaining assets that hold their value or increase in value. Doing so often requires careful saving and investing, as well as constant monitoring to ensure you stay on track.

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FAQ

What salary is considered middle-class income?

Middle-income Americans have annual incomes that are two-thirds to double the median income, according to Pew Research. For example, a middle-income family of three will earn $56,600 to $169,800.

What salary is considered upper-middle class income?

An upper-middle class income is at the high range of middle class income. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s “Income in the United States: 2022” report, that’s an average annual income of $94,001 to $153,000.

What salary is considered lower-class income?

Low-income Americans are anyone earning less than two-thirds of the median household income. Per Pew Research Center, that means a family of three would have a household income of less than $56,600.

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Nov

2024

Should I Pull My Money Out of the Stock Market?

By Brian Nibley | Growing Wealth, invest, Investing | Comments Off

When markets are volatile, and you start to see your portfolio shrink, there may be an impulse to pull your money out and put it somewhere safe — but acting on that desire may actually expose you to a higher level of risk. In fact, there’s a whole field of research devoted to investor behavior, and the financial consequences of following your emotions (hint: the results are less than ideal).

A better strategy might be to anticipate your own natural reactions when markets drop — or when there’s a stock market crash — and wait to make investment choices based on more rational thinking (or even a set of rules you’ve set up for yourself in advance). After all, for many investors — especially younger investors — time in the market often beats timing the stock market. Here’s an overview of factors investors might weigh when deciding whether to keep money in the stock market.

Investing Can Be an Emotional Ride

An emotion-guided approach to the stock market, whether it’s the sudden offloading or purchasing of stocks, can stem from an attempt to predict the short-term movements in the market.

This approach is called timing the market. And while the notion of trying to predict the perfect time to buy or sell is a familiar one, investors are also prone to specific behaviors or biases that can expose them to further risk of losses.

Giving into Fear

When markets experience a sharp decline, some investors might feel tempted to give in to FUD (fear, uncertainty, doubt). Investors might assume that by selling now they’re shielding themselves from further losses.

This logic, however, presumes that investing in a down market means the market will continue to go down, which — given the volatility of prices and the impossibility of knowing the future — may or may not be the case.

Focusing on temporary declines might compel some investors to make hasty decisions that they may later regret. After all, over time, markets tend to correct.

Following the Crowd

Likewise, when the market is moving upwards, investors can sometimes fall victim to what’s known as FOMO (fear of missing out) — buying under the assumption that today’s growth is a sign of tomorrow’s continued boom. That strategy is not guaranteed to yield success either.

Why Time in the Market Matters

Answering the question, “Should I pull my money out of the stock market?” will depend on an investor’s time horizon — or, the length of time they aim to hold an investment before selling.

Many industry studies have shown that time in the market is typically a wiser approach versus trying to time the stock market or give in to panic selling.

One such groundbreaking study by Brad Barber and Terence Odean was called, “Trading Is Hazardous to Your Wealth: The Common Stock Investment Performance of Individual Investors.”

It was published in April 2000 in the Journal of Finance, and it was one of the first studies to quantify the gap between market returns and investor returns.

• Market returns are simply the average return of the market itself over a specific period of time.

• Investor returns, however, are what the average investor tends to reap — and investor returns are significantly lower, the study found, particularly among those who trade more often.

In other words, when investors try to time the market by selling on the dip and buying on the rise, they actually lose out.

By contrast, keeping money in the market for a long period of time can help cut the risk of short-term dips or declines in stock pricing. Staying put despite periods of volatility, for some investors, could be a sound strategy.

An investor’s time horizon may play a significant role in determining whether or not they might want to get out of the stock market. Generally, the longer a period of time an investor has to ride out the market, the less they may want to fret about their portfolio during upheaval.

Compare, for instance, the scenario of a 25-year-old who has decades to make back short-term losses versus someone who is about to retire and needs to begin taking withdrawals from their investment accounts.

Is It Okay to Pull Out of the Market During a Downturn?

There is nothing wrong with deciding to pull out of the markets if they go south. But if you sell stock or other assets during a downturn, you run the risk of locking in your losses, as they say. Depending on how far values have declined, you might lose some of your gains, or you might lose some or all of your principal.

In a perfect world if you timed it right, you could pull your money out at the right moment and avoid the worst — and then buy back in, just in time to catch the rebound. While this sounds smart, it’s very difficult to pull off.

Benefits of Pulling Out of the Market

The benefit of pulling out of the market and keeping your money in cash is that cash isn’t volatile. Generally speaking, your cash won’t lose value over night, and that can provide some financial as well as psychological comfort.

As noted above if you make your move at the right time, you might prevent steeper losses — but without a crystal ball, there are no guarantees. That said, by using stop-limit orders, you can create your own guardrails by automatically triggering a sale of certain securities if the price hits specific lows.

Disadvantages of Pulling Out of the Market

There are a few disadvantages to pulling cash out of the market during a downturn. First, as discussed earlier, there’s the risk of locking in losses if you sell your holdings too quickly.

Potentially worse is the risk of missing the rebound as well. Locking in losses and then losing out on gains basically acts as a double loss. When you realize certain losses, as when you realize gains, you will likely have to deal with certain tax consequences.

And while moving to cash may feel safe, because you’re unlikely to see sudden declines in your cash holdings, the reality is that keeping money in cash increases the risk of inflation.

Using Limit Orders to Manage Risk

A market order is simply a basic trade, when you buy or sell a stock at the market price. But when markets start to drop, a limit order does just that — it puts a limit on the price at which you’re willing to sell (or buy) securities.

Limit orders are triggered automatically when the security hits a certain price. For sell limit orders, for example, the order will be executed at the price you set or higher. (A buy limit order means the trade will only be executed at that price or lower.)

By using certain types of orders, traders can potentially reduce their risk of losses and avoid unpredictable swings in the market.

Alternatives to Getting Out of the Stock Market

Here’s an overview of some alternatives to getting out of the stock market:

Rotating into Safe Haven Assets

Investors could choose to rotate some of their investments into less risky assets (i.e. those that aren’t correlated with market volatility). Gold, silver, and bonds are often thought of as some of the safe havens that investors first flock to during times of uncertainty.

By rebalancing a portfolio so fewer holdings are impacted by market volatility, investors might reduce the risk of loss.

Reassessing where to allocate one’s assets is no simple task and, if done too rashly, could lead to losses in the long run. So, it may be helpful for investors to speak with a financial professional before making a big investment change that’s driven by the news of the day.

Having a Diversified Portfolio

Instead of shifting investments into safe haven assets, like precious metals, some investors prefer to cultivate a well-diversified portfolio from the start.

In this case, there’d be less need to rotate funds towards less risky investments during a decline, as the portfolio would already offer enough diversification to help mitigate the risks of market volatility.

Reinvesting Dividends

Reinvesting dividends may also lead the long-term investor’s portfolio to continue growing at a steady pace, even when share prices decline temporarily. Knowing where and when to reinvest earnings is another factor investors may want to chew on when deciding which strategy to adopt.

(Any dividend-yielding stocks an investor holds must be owned on or before the ex-dividend date. Otherwise, the dividend won’t be credited to the investor’s account. So, if an investor decides to get out of the stock market, they may miss out on dividend payments.)

Rebalancing a Portfolio

Sometimes, astute investors also choose to rebalance their portfolio in a downturn — by buying new stocks. It’s difficult, though not impossible, to profit from new trends that can come forth during a crisis.

It’s worth noting that this investment strategy doesn’t involve pulling money out of the stock market — it just means selling some stocks to buy others.

For example, during the initial shock of the 2020 crisis, many stocks suffered steep declines. But, there were some that outperformed the market due to certain market shifts. Stocks for companies that specialize in work-from-home software, like those in the video conferencing space, saw increases in value.

Bear in mind, though, that these gains are often temporary. For example, home workout equipment, like exercise bikes, became in high demand, leading related stocks higher. Some remote-based healthcare companies saw share prices rise. But in some cases, these gains were short-lived.

Also, for newer investors or those with low risk tolerance, attempting this strategy might not be a desirable option.

Reassessing Asset Allocation

During downturns, it could be worthwhile for investors to examine their asset allocations — or, the amount of money an investor holds in each asset.

If an investor holds stocks in industries that have been struggling and may continue to struggle due to floundering demand (think restaurants, retail, or oil in 2020), they may opt to sell some of the stocks that are declining in value.

Even if such holdings get sold at a loss, the investor could then put money earned from the sale of these stocks towards safe haven assets — potentially gaining back their recent losses.

Holding Cash Has Its Benefits

Cash can be an added asset, too. Naturally, the value of cash is shaped by things like inflation, so its purchase power can swing up and down. Still, there are advantages to stockpiling some cash. Money invested in other assets, after all, is — by definition — tied up in that asset. That money is not immediately liquid.

Cash, on the other hand, could be set aside in a savings account or in an emergency fund — unencumbered by a specific investment. Here are some potential benefits to cash holdings:

First, on a psychological level, an investor who knows they have cash on hand may be less prone to feel they’re at risk of losing it all (when stocks fluctuate or flail).

A secondary benefit of cash involves having some “dry powder” — or, money on hand that could be used to buy additional stocks if the market keeps dipping. In investing, it can pay to a “contrarian,” running against the crowd. In other words, when others are selling (aka being fearful), a savvy investor might want to buy.

The Takeaway

Pulling money out of the market during a downturn is a natural impulse for many investors. After all, everyone wants to avoid losses. But attempting to time the market (when there’s no crystal ball) can be risky and stressful. For many investors, especially younger investors with a longer time horizon, keeping money in the stock market may carry advantages over time.

One approach to investing is to establish long-term investment goals and then strive to stay the course — even when facing market headwinds. As always, when it comes to investing in the stock market, there’s no guarantee of increasing returns. So, individual investors will want to examine their personal economic needs and short-term and future financial goals before deciding when and how to invest.

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Opening and funding an Active Invest account gives you the opportunity to get up to $1,000 in the stock of your choice.

FAQ

Should you pull out of the stock market?

Ideally, you don’t want to impulsively pull your money out of the market when there is a crisis or sudden volatility. While a down market can be unnerving, and the desire to put your money into safe investments is understandable, this can actually expose you to more risk.

When is it smart to pull out of stocks?

In some cases it might be smart to pull your money out of certain stocks when they reach a predetermined price (you can use a limit order to set those guardrails); when you want to buy into new opportunities; or add diversification to your portfolio.

What are your options for getting out of the stock market?

There are always investment options besides the stock market. The ones that are most appealing depend on your specific investing goals. It may be a good idea to speak with a financial professional to get an idea of what specific investment options may be best for your specific goals and situation.

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Nov

2024

What Are The Tax Benefits of an Limited Liability Company (LLC)?

What Are the Tax Benefits of a Limited Liability Company (LLC)?

By Kelly Boyer Sagert | Building Your Career, relay, Terminology | Comments Off

When people are starting a business, it’s likely that they’ll consider the tax benefits of different company structures. In some cases, founders may create a limited liability company (LLC) specifically for its tax benefits.

Here, we’ll delve into the tax benefits of LLCs for business owners, as well as other pros and cons.

Key Points

• LLCs offer flexibility in choosing tax classification, such as sole proprietorship or partnership.

• Pass-through taxation allows LLC income to be taxed once at the individual level, avoiding corporate taxes.

• Members report income and losses on personal tax returns, potentially lowering overall tax liability.

• LLCs can opt for S-Corp taxation, retaining pass-through benefits while potentially reducing self-employment taxes.

• Tax benefits vary by state, so consulting a tax professional is recommended for specific advantages.

💡 Recommended: How To Incorporate

What Is an LLC?

An LLC is a type of business structure available in the United States. A kind of hybrid, it combines some characteristics of corporations with others from a partnership or sole proprietorship.

According to the IRS, LLC owners are called “members.” Depending on the state in which you set up the LLC, members may be individual people, other LLCs, or corporations. There is no maximum number of members that a company can have, and most states allow LLCs with just one member. Check your state for specifics.

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Tax Benefits of Forming an LLC

As mentioned above, company founders may choose an LLC structure especially for its tax benefits. Here, we go into detail about what those benefits are.

Limited Liability

An LLC, as its full name implies, provides limited liability to its members. This means that, if the company fails, the owners’ and investors’ private assets are not at risk and can’t be seized to repay company debts.

Flexible Membership

As noted previously, an LLC can have one member or many, and those members can be individuals or companies. This business structure gives owners significant freedom when starting their company.

Management Structure Options

LLCs can be managed by a member (owner) or by a hired manager. A member-managed LLC may be chosen if the company has limited resources or few members. An owner may select a member with management experience to oversee the business, or they may want all members to actively participate in the company’s operations.

A hired manager is someone who is not a member but has the appropriate experience and skill sets to run the LLC. An accountant or financial advisor can go into detail about the tax benefits of member-manager vs. hired manager approaches. (Here’s what to know if you’re filing taxes for the first time.)

Pass-Through Taxation

LLC member-owners have some control over how their business will be taxed. If there is only one member, it will automatically be treated like a sole proprietorship, and if there is more than one, like a partnership. In those cases, business income will pass through the business to the member-owners, and they’ll only get taxed once. Members will report income and losses on their personal tax returns, while the LLC itself is not taxed. (Learn how business income differs from other types of income.)

Because income and losses are reported as part of members’ personal financial pictures at tax time, taxes will be owed at each member’s personal tax rate.

Alternatively, the LLC owners may decide to be taxed as a corporation. If they choose an S-Corp structure, pass-through taxation still applies.

Heightened Credibility

When someone opens an LLC, it shows that they’ve gone beyond just hanging a shingle. Instead, they went through the decision making and paper filing processes involved in setting up the LLC.

Limited Compliance Requirements

According to the U.S. Small Business Association (SBA), another form of business structure — the corporation — has the strictest requirements. In contrast, LLCs have some but fewer.

In general, an LLC should maintain a current operating agreement, hold annual meetings, ensure that they have appropriate shares recorded for each member, and keep records if membership interests transfer. (Find out if you can use a personal checking account for your business.)

Disadvantages of Creating an LLC

So far, the LLC sounds like the ideal low-maintenance company structure. However, there are several caveats to be aware of.

Cost

Forming an LLC can cost a few hundred dollars, which may be more than what a small business wants to spend. (An online budget planner can help business owners set budgets and track spending.) The company will also need to file annual reports along with annual fees and taxes. These taxes and fees may cost a miniscule amount or several hundred dollars annually.

No Stock Ownership

When a corporation wants to raise funds, they sometimes issue shares of stock. An LLC cannot issue stock.

Recommended: How to Start Investing in Stocks

Transferable Ownership

Some states may require that an LLC be dissolved if there is a change in ownership. If the people starting the business expect to take in outside investors over the years, a corporation might be a better choice.

How to Form an LLC

Once you’ve decided to start an LLC, you’ll want to choose and reserve a company name that doesn’t conflict with currently existing ones. Typically, an LLC must have what’s called a registered agent — someone who will handle official documents for the company.

Then, you’ll need to document the nuts and bolts of the operating agreement that describes the structure of the company. This can include who owns what portion of the company and who gets to vote on which issues. You’ll detail how profits and losses will be addressed, how the company will be managed, when meetings will be held, and how to handle the business if a member leaves the company or dies. This document should also describe what should happen if the company goes out of business.

How LLCs Are Different From Other Business Entities

An LLC is formed to be a legal entity that’s separate from its owners and is responsible for its business debts. Here’s how an LLC differs from other company structures.

LLC vs Sole Proprietorship

Profits in an LLC are only taxed once because of the pass-through taxation structure. This is reported on and addressed through owners’ personal tax returns by filing a Form 1040, Schedule C, listing profits or losses. As an LLC owner, you may be taxed as a sole proprietor, a partnership, or a corporation.

A sole proprietorship is owned by one person and is the simplest structure available. A sole proprietorship also involves pass-through taxation with the business owner paying taxes on the business’s profit. There isn’t as much flexibility in filing as a sole proprietor as there is with an LLC.

LLC vs S-Corp

An LLC is a business structure. An S-corp, meanwhile, is a tax classification. Many businesses decide to have their LLC taxed as an S-corp. The nuances can be complicated, so it makes sense to consult your personal accountant or other professional before making this decision.

LLC for Rental Property

If you create an LLC to buy rental homes, you’ll have the benefits of no personal liability and pass-through taxation. There can be a flexible ownership structure, personal anonymity, and fairly simple reporting.

However, it may be harder to finance rental property as an LLC. There can also be significant fees to get the LLC up and running. LLCs for rentals can be more complex at tax time, and property transfers can also be more complicated.

How to Choose the Right Business Type

Consider how simple or complex your proposed business will become. Do you plan to basically run the business yourself, or will it ideally turn into something bigger? What kind of legal protections will you need based on your business plans?

Entrepreneurs should also weigh the tax benefits of LLCs and sole proprietorships. The two structures, along with partnerships and S-corps, feature pass-through benefits, meaning that profits are taxed only when they’re paid to the company owner(s). A C-corp, meanwhile, is taxed as a company as well as when shareholder payouts are made.

Consult your accountant or financial advisor for specifics on your situation.

No matter what business structure you choose, it’s important to keep track of your finances. SoFi’s spending app provides you with an easy-to-use online budget planner so you can stay on top of your finances.

The Takeaway

Limited liability companies (LLCs) come with plenty of advantages and a few disadvantages. As its name implies, the owners’ and investors’ private assets are not at risk if the company should struggle financially. Owners of the LLC are referred to as members. Membership may range from one individual to multiple individuals to other companies.

A major benefit is pass-through taxation, where income passes through the company to its members, who report it on their personal taxes. One disadvantage of LLCs for very small businesses is the startup cost and annual fees, which can run to several hundred dollars a year. Consult a professional to find out whether an LLC is the right fit for your business plan.

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

FAQ

What are the tax benefits of having an LLC?

With an LLC, you’ll have flexibility in deciding the structure under which your company will be taxed. There are more tax benefits of an LLC, including pass-through taxation, which means you’ll only get taxed once at your individual tax rate.

What are the benefits of a limited liability company?

They can include limited liability, meaning that owners aren’t personally responsible for company debts; flexible structures; pass-through taxation; more credibility; and fewer compliance requirements compared to a corporation.

What is the best tax option for an LLC?

Each situation is unique, so consult your accountant or financial advisor for specifics.

Photo credit: iStock/hh5800

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.

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.

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.

SORL-Q424-006

Nov

2024

21 Good Paying Jobs Without a College Degree and Experience in 2022

Good Paying Jobs Without a College Degree or Work Experience

By Sarah Li Cain | Life & Career, relay | Comments Off

A college degree doesn’t guarantee a good paying job. And the reverse is even more true: Not having a degree doesn’t doom you to low paying jobs forever. In fact, many occupations that offer competitive pay don’t require any college.

According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projections, about 60% of new jobs in the 2020s won’t require a college degree. And many command salaries higher than $60,580, the median wage for all occupations.

We’ve gathered 21 good paying jobs you can get without a degree. We’ll also discuss the pros and cons of jumping into the job market right out of high school.

Key Points

• Some 60% of new jobs in the 2020s are projected not to require a college degree.

• Industries like transportation, construction, and renewable energy offer competitive salaries without a degree.

• High-paying roles include wind turbine service technicians, solar photovoltaic installers, and commercial pilots.

• On-the-job training, apprenticeships, or technical school education are pathways to an array of careers.

• Renewable energy jobs, such as wind turbine technicians and solar installers, emphasize technical education and offer significant job growth.

Reasons for Choosing Work Over a College Degree

Choosing to work over a college degree (or vice versa) is a personal decision that can’t be labeled “right” or “wrong.”

For many people, the cost of college is the main reason to choose work instead. Not everyone is willing or able to take on student loan debt.

Working can also allow people to experiment with different career paths until they find something that’s right for them.

If your main motivation for attending college is to secure competitive pay after graduation, know that there are many good paying jobs you can get without college.

No matter how much you earn, it’s important to track your cash flow so that you can reach your financial goals. SoFi’s spending app helps you do that by monitoring your credit score, tracking your debts, and connecting all your accounts in one mobile dashboard.

Check your score with SoFi

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Recommended: The Highest Paying Jobs by State

Who Should Consider a Job Without a College Degree or Work Experience?

Jobs that don’t require college are typically suitable for people who are interested in blue collar professions, such as technicians and machine operators. These jobs can also be good for people who prefer training outside of a school environment, such as in an apprenticeship or on-the-job experience.

Pros and Cons of a Job Without a College Degree or Work Experience

Consider both sides before making a decision to skip college for a job.

Pros

• High-paying trade jobs hire candidates based on skills rather than credentials.

• You’ll get more experience in the field and earlier opportunities to move up.

• Education can be inexpensive or free, especially in a paid apprenticeship or on-the-job training.

Cons

• There are fewer networking opportunities than in college.

• Good candidates may not stand out alongside those with a degree.

• Earning potential is not as high overall.

Average Salary of Workers Without a College Degree by State

The following table shows median salaries for workers without a college degree. Wages vary depending on whether workers have attended some college.

State	Median Salary with an Associate Degree
Alabama	$37,181
Alaska	$40,475
Arizona	$37,368
Arkansas	$34,062
California	$44,707
Colorado	$41,422
Connecticut	$49,811
Delaware	$41,427
Florida	$37,862
Georgia	$36,104
Hawaii	$41,360
Idaho	$34,900
Illinois	$41,407
Indiana	$39,291
Iowa	$40,080
Kansas	$37,398
Kentucky	$38,845
Louisiana	$37,332
Maine	$37,688
Maryland	$51,525
Massachusetts	$46,109
Michigan	$37,149
Minnesota	$41,689
Mississippi	$34,252
Missouri	$36,151
Montana	$35,678
Nebraska	$39,026
Nevada	$44,153
New Hampshire	$42,253
New Jersey	$50,254
New Mexico	$36,218
New York	$46,245
North Carolina	$36,107
North Dakota	$45,085
Ohio	$39,729
Oklahoma	$36,144
Oregon	$39,875
Pennsylvania	$41,887
Rhode Island	$45,184
South Carolina	$36,986
South Dakota	$37,826
Tennessee	$37,413
Texas	$41,520
Utah	$41,284
Vermont	$39,453
Virginia	$42,908
Washington	$45,932
West Virginia	$36,596
Wisconsin	$42,392
Wyoming	$41,069

Data courtesy of U.S. Census American Consumer Survey and GOBankingRates

21 High Paying Jobs That Don’t Require a College Degree

1. Wind Turbine Service Technician

National average salary: $61,770

Job growth outlook: 60%

Job description:

• Install, repair, and maintain wind turbines

• Collect turbine data for analysis

• Service underground systems related to wind turbine maintenance

• Minimum interaction with colleagues makes this a promising job for antisocial people

Requirements: Likely need certification

How to get started: You can attend a technical school for this occupation and learn additional skills on-the-job to advance your career

2. Solar Photovoltaic Installer

National average salary: $48,800

Job growth outlook: 48%

Job description:

• Set up, assemble, and maintain systems which convert sunlight into energy

• Connect panels to electrical systems

• Perform routine maintenance of photovoltaic systems

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

How to get started: You’ll typically need to take courses at a technical college and receive on-the-job training

3. Security and Fire Alarm System Installer

National average salary: $56,430

Job growth outlook: 9%

Job description:

• Ensure work aligns with relevant local codes

• Install and program security and fire alarm wiring and equipment

• Perform routine maintenance and repairs to wiring and equipment

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

How to get started: You can attend technical school or get an entry-level job and receive training there

4. Floor Layers

National average salary: $48,690

Job growth outlook: 6%

Job description:

• Remove existing floor materials to prep for installation

• Lay and finish materials on floors

• Lay and set materials on other surfaces such as countertops, showers, and walls

Requirements: None

How to get started: You can work as an assistant or apprentice, and learn additional skills on the job to advance your career

5. Tile and Stone Setter

National average salary: $48,690

Job growth outlook: 6%

Job description:

• Remove existing materials to prep surfaces

• Apply tile or stone to floors, walls, and countertops

• Lay tile and stone in accordance to design plans

Requirements: None

How to get started: You can work as an assistant or apprentice, and learn additional skills on the job to advance your career

6. Industrial Machinery Mechanic

National average salary: $61,170

Job growth outlook: 15%

Job description:

• Disassemble and reassemble problematic machinery

• Repair or replace malfunctioning machinery components

• Perform tests and calibrate machinery to required specifications

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

How to get started: Work as an apprentice or assistant, and learn skills on the job

7. Commercial Diver

National average salary: $61,300

Job growth outlook: 8%

Job description:

• Build, repair, and inspect structures submerged in liquid

• Work in teams to coordinate underwater tasks

• Work with other professionals to ensure tasks are conducted safely, such as with engineers to lay foundations for a bridge

Requirements: Technical school

How to get started: You’ll need technical school and on-the-job training to advance

8. Aircraft Mechanic and Service Technician

National average salary: $75,400

Job growth outlook: 5%

Job description:

• Diagnose electrical or mechanical problems on aircraft

• Ensure work meets performance requirements

• Test parts of aircraft with diagnostic equipment

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

How to get started: You’ll likely need specialized certifications

9. Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanic

National average salary: $61,000

Job growth outlook: 9%

Job description:

• Perform routine maintenance on machinery

• Diagnose and repair or replace defective parts

• Travel to worksite for heavy or large equipment

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

How to get started: You may need technical school or an entry-level position and on-the-job training

10. Farm Equipment Mechanic and Service Technician

National average salary: $48,010

Job growth outlook: 7%

Job description:

• Perform routine maintenance on farm machinery

• Diagnose and repair parts on broken farm equipment

• Maintain records of repairs and maintenance

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

How to get started: You’ll need either technical school or an entry-level position to receive on-the-job training

11. Millwright

National average salary: $61,170

Job growth outlook: 15%

Job description:

• Inspect and replace or repair broken or defective machinery in factories, power plants, and construction sites

• Test major components when necessary

• May need to travel to conduct repairs and maintenance tasks

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

How to get started: You’ll need an apprenticeship program, which can last several years

12. Airfield Operations Specialist

National average salary: $51,140

Job growth outlook: 5%

Job description:

• Coordinate between air traffic control and maintenance personnel

• Implement airfield safety procedures

• Monitor and maintain flight records

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

How to get started: You’ll need some training in technical school or on the job

13. Pump Operators

National average salary: $54,690

Job growth outlook: 5%

Job description:

• Tend, control, and operate pumps (portable, power-driven, or stationary)

• Handle equipment to transfer materials such as oil, liquid, and gasses to and from vessels

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

How to get started: You’ll typically need either technical school or to work as an apprentice and receive training on the job

14. Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor

National average salary: $58,920

Job growth outlook: 8%

Job description:

• Coordinate and supervise loading, unloading, staging, and securing of aircraft baggage or cargo

• May need to assist members of flight crews in handling in-flight cargo

• May need to determine cargo quantity to ensure it’s loaded safely

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

How to get started: You’ll need related experience, such as cargo handling, to be promoted to the job

15. Commercial Pilot

National average salary: $171,210

Job growth outlook: 5%

Job description:

• Fly and navigate aircraft such as airplanes and helicopters

• Ensure aircraft is balanced and in good condition before flights

• Monitor aircraft during flight, takeoff, and landing

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

How to get started: You’ll need to complete flight training

Recommended: Is $100,000 a Good Salary?

16. Subway and Streetcar Operator

National average salary: $84,270

Job growth outlook: 4%

Job description:

• Drive and maneuver public transportation

• Watch for obstructions and other vehicles at crossings and remain alert to potential hazards

• Report delays or mechanical problems using dispatch devices like radios

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

How to get started: May need formalized training

17. Massage Therapist

National average salary: $55,310

Job growth outlook: 18%

Job description:

• Speak with clients about symptoms, treatment goals, and medical history

• Manipulate muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues on the body

• Offer guidance on stretching and strengthening muscles

Requirements: You’ll need to get certified and licensed

How to get started: Attend training school; some programs help with job placement. Wages may be paid by salary or hourly.

18. Community Health Worker

National average salary: $48,200

Job growth outlook: 13%

Job description:

• Develop materials and programs to teach the community about health topics

• Help community find health services

• Analyze data from community to learn how to help and improve services

• Good opportunity for working after retirement

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

How to get started: You’ll usually need certification and on-the-job training

19. Private Detective and Investigator

National average salary: $49,540

Job growth outlook: 5%

Job description:

• Conduct surveillance and collect evidence for clients

• Search records to gather clues

• Interview people to collect information that will help investigation

• Because investigations are increasingly conducted online, this can be an interesting work-at-home job for retirees

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent; may need licensing, depending on the state

How to get started: You’ll most likely need work experience, so it’s best to get started assisting another private detective or investigator

Recommended: Does Net Worth Include Home Equity?

20. Hearing Aid Specialist

National average salary: $58,670

Job growth outlook: 15%

Job description:

• Administer and interpret hearing tests

• Take ear impressions in order to prepare, design, or modify ear molds

• Help select and fit hearing aids

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

How to get started: You can get hired as an assistant or apprentice and receive on-the-job training

21. First-Line Supervisor of Security Workers and Protective Service Workers

National average salary: $67,800

Job growth outlook: 4%

Job description:

• Supervise and manage security and protective service staff

• Create and maintain records related to the job

• Ensure security and protective service workers are monitoring potential hazards and dangerous situations

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

How to get started: You’ll typically be promoted after years of experience

The Takeaway

It’s possible to earn a good income without having to complete a college degree. Many skilled positions still require technical school, apprenticeship, or on-the-job training. Certifications may also be required. Job growth looks promising for specialized mechanics and machine operators, security supervisors, and health workers. Other industries needing skilled labor include transportation, construction, and renewable energy. As long as you’re willing to put in the work and continue learning, you can be on your way to a fruitful career.

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

FAQ

What job gets paid the most without college?

Some of the best paid jobs that don’t require a college degree include those in construction, maintenance and repair, and transportation.

What is the easiest job to get without a degree?

The easiest jobs to get without a college degree include entry-level positions in the construction or transportation industries.

Photo credit: iStock/dusanpetkovic

SORL-Q424-010

Oct

2024

27 Most Fulfilling Full-Time Jobs That Pay Well for Extroverts in 2022

27 Fulfilling Jobs for Extroverts That Pay Well

By Alene Laney | Building Your Career, Life & Career, relay | Comments Off

You know when you’re an extrovert. So does your employer. If your vibrant personality doesn’t feel like a good fit with your current job, you may want to join the 28% of workers who said they’re likely to quit their job in 2024.

We’ve rounded up dozens of fulfilling jobs that pay well and welcome extroverts. Because sometimes, the grass looks greener elsewhere because it really is.

Key Points

• Extroverts thrive in roles that require frequent interaction, team management, and public recognition.

• High-paying jobs suited for extroverts include CEO, marketing manager, nurse practitioner, dentist, and financial manager.

• Due to their outgoing nature, extroverts tend to earn more, benefiting in interviews and performance-based roles.

• Healthcare, business, technology, and public relations may all offer fulfilling, well-paying opportunities for extroverts.

• Careers ideal for extroverts involve communication, teamwork, and competitive pay, leading to both personal and financial satisfaction.

Are You an Extrovert?

Extroverts are known for their outgoing personalities that are energized by interactions with other people. They often enjoy the spotlight and seek attention. Employees with this type of personality thrive in roles that would be pure misery for antisocial people.

If this sounds familiar, pat yourself on the back: Being an extrovert often gives candidates a leg up in job hunting. Generally speaking, the job seeking process tends to favor extroverted job seekers, who may come across more natural and comfortable in interviews than more reserved candidates.

Extrovert or not, people who are passionate about their jobs often don’t have time for much else. The right financial software can help busy professionals manage their day-to-day finances. SoFi’s money tracker app is the kind of app that keeps any personality type on track. It monitors your credit score, tracks your spending, and helps you set savings goals — for free.

Common Characteristics of Good Extrovert Jobs

The right job can make you feel more fulfilled in and out of the office. Extroverts are wise to look for jobs that offer:

• Interaction with people

• Frequent opportunities for communicating or persuading

• Room for risk-taking

• Opportunities to work with a larger team

• Public recognition for good performance

• Outlets to express positive energy

And don’t miss our roundup of trade jobs that make the most money.

27 Fulfilling Jobs for Extroverts That Pay Well

Here are some ideas of where you can start looking for fulfilling jobs that pay well. Our criteria in highlighting these jobs were frequent interaction with people, opportunity to manage teams, recognition for good performance, and outlets to express positive energy. And high pay doesn’t hurt.

1. Registered Nurse

Average salary: $86,070

Primary duties: Provide patient care and education. Patients and loved ones really appreciate an extrovert’s positive energy and communication skills.

2. Nurse Practitioner

Average salary: $129,480

Primary duties: Diagnoses and treats illnesses in patients. Like doctors, NPs may order prescriptions and procedures to improve the health of a patient.

3. Physical Therapist

Average salary: $99,710

Primary duties: Helps injured people with pain, mobility, fitness, and overall function. Extroverts may enjoy demonstrating exercises and seeing progress in patients.

4. Physician Assistant

Average salary: $130,020

Primary duties: Practices medicine under the supervision of a licensed doctor. May prescribe medication or diagnostic tests.

5. Surgical Technologists

Average salary: $60,370

Primary duties: Assists with surgeries, prepares the operating room, and organizes equipment. Best for an individual who can calmly assist under pressure.

6. Dentist

Average salary: $170,910

Primary duties: Provide preventative dental and surgical care for oral diseases and tooth decay. Sees many patients every day. Great dentists combine precision technique with the ability to reassure nervous patients. Here’s one job where paying off student loans shouldn’t be a problem.

7. Dental Hygienist

Average salary: $87,530

Primary duties: Under the supervision of a dentist, cleans teeth and helps with preventative oral care and education for patients. As with dentists, a positive, reassuring attitude is key.

8. Medical and Health Services Manager

Average salary: $110,680

Primary duties: Directs medical and health services, including hiring staff, creating work schedules, working with finance managers, and developing goals for a department or organization. Managers need strong egos to take charge and get employees to fall in line. (You might also be interested in Is $100,000 a Good Salary?)

9. Sales Representative

Average salary: $73,080

Primary duties: Sells products and services for businesses. High-energy, extroverted individuals often do well getting people to buy whatever they’re selling. Sales reps who work on commission can earn big bucks.

10. Marketing Manager

Average salary: $156,580

Primary duties: Develops a client base for a business, works on the brand image, oversees creation of marketing materials, and performs market research. Manages teams that implement the vision of the company. Positions range from staff jobs on salary vs. hourly pay for freelancers.

11. Industrial Engineer

Average salary: $99,380

Primary duties: Designs systems that integrate people, resources, equipment, and processes for building products or providing services. Engineers tend to be the center of attention while building systems for an organization.

12. Financial Manager

Average salary: $156,100

Primary duties: Responsible for the financial activities of an organization, including financial reporting, investments, and decisions that drive profitability. Managers oversee teams of people and the financial direction of an organization. (The next best thing to a personal financial manager? This spending app.)

13. Human Resources Manager

Average salary: $136,350

Primary duties: Responsible for the management of an organization’s talent recruitment, training, retention, compensation, benefits, and adherence to state and federal employment law. (These folks help determine entry level salaries.) Dynamic personalities in HR help companies attract high-performing employees to an organization.

14. Chief Executive Officer

Average salary: $206,680

Primary duties: Coordinates, directs, and manages the business activities of a company. Responsible for large groups of people and programs. CEO is typically not a job for introverts, though there are high-profile exceptions to that rule.

15. Real Estate Agent

Average salary: $56,620

Primary duties: Assists with the buying and selling of real estate. Advises clients throughout the process, on pricing, marketing, contracts, financing, and negotiation. Charismatic agents can make very competitive pay.

16. Police Officer

Average salary: $74,910

Primary duties: Protects life and property, keeps the peace, interacts with the public, investigates crimes, and files reports. While the starting salary isn’t huge, extras like holiday pay, night-shift differentials, and overtime can push salaries over $100,000. Some departments are even offering signing bonuses.

17. Talent Manager / Agent

Average salary: $123,720

Primary duties: Manages the business interests of artists, performers, and athletes. Works in booking, contract negotiation, and money management. Superior communication and negotiation skills required.

18. Producers and Directors

Average salary: $82,510

Primary duties: Direct the business and creative endeavors of visual productions for television, stage, and film. This is show business, baby!

19. Construction Manager

Average salary: $104,900

Primary duties: Directs construction projects, including timelines, scheduling subcontractors, managing budgets, responding to delays, finding resources, developing relationships, and ensuring work complies with legal requirements.

20. Architect

Average salary: $99,310

Primary duties: Combines structural requirements and client preferences to design beautiful and functional buildings and interior spaces. Works in a team with many other professionals. Bringing a vision to life can be incredibly rewarding for architects.

21. Mechanical Engineer

Average salary: $99,510

Primary duties: Addresses problems through the creation of mechanical and thermal devices. Works in teams to research, design, manufacture, and test tools, machines, and engines.

22. Public Relations Professional

Average salary: $66,750

Primary duties: Create and maintain a positive public image for clients through traditional media networks and social media platforms. Great communicators will perform above expectations in this job.

23. Social Media Specialist

Average salary: $58,190

Primary duties: Learn social platforms and engage followers. Build a brand’s reputation through images and text shared with the public. It’s a job that doesn’t require a college education. It can also be a fulfilling part-time job.

24. Sales Manager

Average salary: $135,160

Primary duties: Direct sales activities for an organization. Develops new markets, trains sales representatives, coordinates distribution of a product or services, and creates goals for the department. Pursuing shared goals and collaborating with many people make this a great job for an extrovert.

25. Sales Engineer

Average salary: $116,950

Primary duties: Sells technical, complex, or scientific products or services to businesses. Persuasive individuals with a technical background are best suited for these roles. Also called software sales or technology sales.

26. Computer Systems Analyst

Average salary: $103,800

Primary duties: Also called systems architects, analysts design computer systems for organizations to help them operate more efficiently.

27. Pilot

Average salary: $171,210

Primary duties: Responsible for the safe operation of aircraft. Files flight plans, communicates with air traffic controllers and monitors weather conditions. May operate helicopters or planes as commercial or private pilots. High-achieving, extroverted personalities can do well. You may also want to read our tips on paying for flight school.

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The Takeaway

Extroverts can do any job they set their mind to, but the most fulfilling jobs for extroverts are the ones where their work can be seen and appreciated by others. Extroverts gravitate toward careers that demand high performance, often under pressure: medicine, sales, finance, even the C-suite. In exchange, many roles in those fields offer competitive pay.

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

FAQ

What job is best for extroverts?

While there’s no one job that is best for everyone, extroverts tend to find jobs that harness their drive to perform and their superior people skills most fulfilling.

Do extroverts make more money than introverts?

Extroverts tend to make more money than their introverted peers, though introverts and extroverts are both positioned to be successful leaders in their fields.

Can part-time jobs be fulfilling?

Part-time jobs can be fulfilling. They may also allow you extra time to yourself. To find a fulfilling part-time job, search websites where this is a primary feature, such as Indeed.com.

Do fulfilling jobs ever pay well?

Fulfilling jobs can pay well. If you don’t want to sacrifice your financial well-being to enjoy a rewarding occupation, pay attention to salary reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. They can reveal where high-paying jobs and industries are.

Photo credit: iStock/andresr

SORL-Q424-009

How to Calculate Your Net Worth and Wealth: The Ultimate Guide

How to Calculate Individual Net Worth

Check your score with SoFi

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

What Is the Difference Between Net Worth and Income?

What Salary Is Considered a Middle-Class Income?

What Salary Is Considered an Upper-Class Income?

Why Wealth Is Relative Person to Person

Ways to Measure Wealth

Income

Personal Savings

Investment Rate of Return

Real Estate Assets

Age and Family Status

Good Credit Score

Difference Between Material Wealth vs Spiritual Wealth

Appreciating What You Have

The Takeaway

FAQ

What salary is considered middle-class income?

What salary is considered upper-middle class income?

What salary is considered lower-class income?

Should I Pull My Money Out of the Stock Market?

Investing Can Be an Emotional Ride

Giving into Fear

Following the Crowd

Why Time in the Market Matters

Get up to $1,000 in stock when you fund a new Active Invest account.*

Access stock trading, options, alternative investments, IRAs, and more. Get started in just a few minutes.

Is It Okay to Pull Out of the Market During a Downturn?

Benefits of Pulling Out of the Market

Disadvantages of Pulling Out of the Market

Using Limit Orders to Manage Risk

Alternatives to Getting Out of the Stock Market

Rotating into Safe Haven Assets

Having a Diversified Portfolio

Reinvesting Dividends

Rebalancing a Portfolio

Reassessing Asset Allocation

Holding Cash Has Its Benefits

The Takeaway

FAQ

Should you pull out of the stock market?

When is it smart to pull out of stocks?

What are your options for getting out of the stock market?

What Are the Tax Benefits of a Limited Liability Company (LLC)?

What Is an LLC?

Check your score with SoFi

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

Tax Benefits of Forming an LLC

Limited Liability

Flexible Membership

Management Structure Options

Pass-Through Taxation

Heightened Credibility

Limited Compliance Requirements

Disadvantages of Creating an LLC

Cost

No Stock Ownership

Transferable Ownership

How to Form an LLC

How LLCs Are Different From Other Business Entities

LLC vs Sole Proprietorship

LLC vs S-Corp

LLC for Rental Property

How to Choose the Right Business Type

The Takeaway

FAQ

What are the tax benefits of having an LLC?

What are the benefits of a limited liability company?

What is the best tax option for an LLC?

Good Paying Jobs Without a College Degree or Work Experience

Reasons for Choosing Work Over a College Degree

Check your score with SoFi

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

Who Should Consider a Job Without a College Degree or Work Experience?

Pros and Cons of a Job Without a College Degree or Work Experience

Average Salary of Workers Without a College Degree by State

21 High Paying Jobs That Don’t Require a College Degree

1. Wind Turbine Service Technician