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As your child enters the “getting into college” phase of their lives, there’s a lot to talk about, from whether it’s better to take the SAT or ACT to how many schools they should apply to. At the same time, it’s important to discuss how your family is going to pay for college and, if debt will be part of the equation, how student loans work.

For one reason, the topic is pretty complicated. For another, even if you plan to help repay any student loans, most qualified education loans are taken out in the student’s name, which means they are personally on the hook for repayment. Maybe your student-athlete or scholar is counting on a full ride. While confidence is a wonderful thing, full rides are exceedingly rare.

Here are six student loan concepts you can discuss with your aspiring college student.

1. Here’s What We Think We Can Contribute

It might be uncomfortable to talk frankly about your family finances, but they almost always determine the amount and types of financial aid your child may qualify for.

It can be important for parents to discuss what they’re able to contribute in order to help their young adults wrap their heads around the numbers, too. How much debt they may need to take on to pay for college could impact where they choose to apply to school, since tuition costs vary widely.


💡 Quick Tip: When shopping for a private student loan lender, look for benefits that help lower your monthly payment.

2. Let’s Forge Ahead With the FAFSA

The first step to hunt for financial aid is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). While this form has a reputation for being long and complex, a new streamlined FAFSA is being released for the 2024-25 academic year. The new form is scheduled to become available by Dec. 31, 2023 — a delay from the typical Oct. 1 release date.

Based on financial need, a college’s cost of attendance, and FAFSA information, schools put together a financial aid package that may be composed of scholarships and grants, federal student loans, and/or work-study.

Awards based on merit (scholarships) or need (grants) are considered “free money” for college. When they don’t cover the full cost of college, that’s where student loans can come in.

If your income is high, should you bother with the FAFSA? Sure, because there’s no income cutoff for federal student aid. And even if your student is not eligible for federal aid, most colleges and states use FAFSA information to award non-federal aid.

3. Interest Rates: Fixed or Variable

Your soon-to-be college student may not know that there are two types of interest rates for student loans: fixed and variable.

Fixed interest rates stay the same for the life of the loan. Variable rates go up or down based on market fluctuations.

You can explain that all federal student loans have fixed interest rates, which are set each year by the federal government, and that private student loan interest rates may be variable or fixed.

4. Federal vs Private Student Loans

Around now your young person is restless. But press on.

Anyone taking out student loans should learn that there are two main types: federal and private. All federal student loans are funded by the federal government. Private student loans are funded by banks, credit unions, and online lenders.

If your child is going to borrow money for college, it’s generally advised to start with federal student loans. Since federal student loans are issued by the government, they have benefits, including low fixed interest rates, forbearance and deferment eligibility, and income-based repayment options.

Private student loans have terms and conditions set by private lenders, and don’t offer the generous repayment options or loan forgiveness programs of federal loans, but some private lenders do offer specific deferment options.

Private student loans can be used to fill gaps in need, up to the cost of attendance, which includes tuition, books and supplies, room and board, transportation, and personal expenses. A student applicant often will need a cosigner.

5. Another Wrinkle: Subsidized vs Unsubsidized

Financial need will determine whether your undergraduate is eligible for federal Direct Subsidized Loans. Your child’s school determines the amount you can borrow, which can’t exceed your need.

The government pays the interest on Direct Subsidized Loans while your child is in college, during the grace period (the first six months after graduation or when dropping below half-time enrollment), and in deferment (postponing repayment).

With federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans, interest begins accruing when the funds are disbursed and continues during grace periods, and the borrower is responsible for paying it. Direct Unsubsidized Loans are available to both undergraduate and graduate students, and there is no requirement of financial need.

Borrowers are not required to pay the interest while in school, during grace periods, or during deferment (although they can choose to), but any accrued interest will be added to the principal balance when repayment begins.

There are annual and aggregate limits for subsidized and unsubsidized loans. Most dependent freshmen, for example, can borrow no more than $5,500, and no more than $3,500 of this amount may be in subsidized loans.


💡 Quick Tip: Parents and sponsors with strong credit and income may find much lower rates on no-fee private parent student loans than federal parent PLUS loans. Federal PLUS loans also come with an origination fee.

6. Soothing Words: Scholarships and Grants

It’s important to not overlook the non-loan elements of the financial aid package. They can (hooray) reduce the amount your student needs to borrow.

Scholarships and grants are essentially free money, since you are not required to pay the money back. While some schools automatically consider your student for scholarships based on merit or other qualifications, many scholarships and grants require applications.

You may want to assign a research project to your college-bound young adult to look into all of the scholarship options they may qualify for. There are numerous scholarship finders available online. They may also want to talk to their guidance counselor and the financial aid office of their chosen school to learn about opportunities.

The Takeaway

Debt isn’t the most thrilling parent-child topic, but college students who will need to borrow should know the ins and outs of student loans: interest rates, federal vs. private, subsidized vs. unsubsidized, and repayment options.

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

About the author

Julia Califano

Julia Califano is an award-winning journalist who covers banking, small business, personal loans, student loans, and other money issues for SoFi. She has over 20 years of experience writing about personal finance and lifestyle topics. Read full bio.

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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).

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

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How many savings accounts you should have will depend on your savings goals and money management style. You may prefer the simplicity of having just one savings account. Or, you might find it helpful to have different savings accounts for different savings goals, such as an “emergency fund” and a “travel fund.”

There’s no ideal number of savings accounts to have, nor is there a limit to how many savings accounts you can open. So what’s the right number?

Read on to learn why you may want to have more than one savings account, the pros and cons of having multiple savings accounts, types of savings accounts to consider, and how to manage your savings accounts so you reach your financial goals.

How Many Savings Accounts Should You Have?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The number of savings accounts you should have depends on your financial goals and personal preferences. Some people find it helpful to have multiple accounts to separate their savings for different purposes, such as an emergency fund, a vacation fund, or a down payment on a house. Others prefer to keep all their savings in a single account for simplicity.

You might aim to have at least two savings accounts, one for your emergency fund (since you don’t want to accidentally deplete that for another purpose) and one for other savings goals. Or, you might want to further subdivide your savings. For example, you might have savings accounts for:

•   A vacation

•   A home improvement project

•   A down payment for a car or home

•   Holiday shopping

•   A wedding or other event

Reasons to Have Multiple Savings Accounts

Here’s a look at some reasons why you may find it helpful to have more than one savings account.

Separating Your Goals

Having multiple accounts allows you to separate your savings for different goals. This can make it easier to track your progress toward each goal and avoid the temptation to dip into funds earmarked for a specific purpose.

Emergency Fund

Many financial experts recommend having enough money set aside in an emergency fund to cover at least three to six month’s worth of living expenses. This helps ensure you can pay for a sudden expense like a car repair or medical bill without having to run up expensive debt. By keeping your emergency fund in a separate account, you’re less likely to touch it until it’s truly needed.

Tracking Your Progress

If all of your savings are lumped into one account, it can be hard to tell how much you have saved up for different goals, and how much farther you have to go. For example, if your goals include building up your emergency fund, saving for a vacation next year, and making a down payment on a home within three years, it can be unclear how much you’ve put away for each purpose. If you have multiple accounts, on the other hand, you’ll have different balances attached to different goals.

Advantages of Having Multiple Savings Accounts

There are both pros and cons to having more than one savings account. Here’s a look at some of the benefits.

•   Organization: Multiple accounts can help you keep your savings organized and easily accessible for different purposes.

•   Goal tracking: Separating your savings into different accounts makes it easier to track your progress toward each goal.

•   Earning more bonuses: If you set up savings accounts at several financial institutions, you might reap an account-opening bonus (which is usually cash) from each bank or credit union.

•   Get a higher interest rate: Opening savings accounts at different banks could help you take advantage of higher interest rates. For example, your brick-and-mortar bank may pay a lower annual percentage yield (APY) for a regular savings account compared to a high-yield savings account at an online bank.

Disadvantages to Having Multiple Savings Accounts

There are also some downsides to having multiple savings accounts. Here are some to consider.

•   It may trigger fees: Some savings accounts may be fee-free, while others might charge fees if your account dips below a certain balance. If you can’t meet the minimum balance required for each account, you could end up racking up fees by having multiple savings accounts.

•   More difficult to keep track of: Managing multiple accounts can be more time-consuming and require more effort than managing a single account. You may find that monitoring multiple accounts is too much of a juggling act.

•   Potential for errors: With multiple accounts, there is a risk of forgetting about or neglecting some accounts, which could lead to missed savings opportunities.

•   You could lose out on higher interest rates: Some banks have a tiered interest rate structure for savings accounts, meaning you only earn the highest rates once your balance reaches a certain amount. If your money is spread out, you may find it hard to reach the threshold for the best rate.

Types of Savings Accounts to Consider

There are different types of savings accounts you can open, and which one is best will depend on your goals and needs. Here’s a brief look at how they compare.

•   Traditional savings accounts: These accounts are offered by brick-and-mortar banks and credit unions and are designed to be a basic savings option. They typically pay a low interest rate, and may come with a monthly or minimum balance fee.

•   High-yield savings accounts: These accounts offer a higher interest rate than the average for savings accounts. You’re more likely to find high-yield savings accounts at online banks, though some traditional banks and credit unions offer them. In addition to providing higher average APYs, online banks usually charge lower (or no) fees due to their reduced overhead costs.

•   Money market accounts: These accounts are a hybrid of a checking account and a savings account. They pay interest on your deposits and also allow you to write checks or make withdrawals and purchases using a debit card. Money market accounts typically offer higher interest rates than basic savings accounts but may have higher minimum balance requirements.

•   Certificate of Deposit (CD): Certificates of deposit, or CDs, usually pay a higher yield than traditional savings accounts because you agree to let the bank keep your money locked up for a specific term that could range from three months to five years or longer. Should you need to withdraw your money before the CD has matured, you’ll incur an early withdrawal penalty.

Tips on Managing Multiple Savings Accounts

While having more than one savings account may sound confusing, it doesn’t have to be. Here are six tips for making the most of multiple savings accounts.

1.   Use account nicknames. If your bank allows it, consider giving each saving account a title, such as “Hawaii Fund” or “New Furniture Fund.” This makes it easy to identify the account and track your progress.

2.   Look for the best rates. If you’re looking to open a new savings account, see what online banks are offering (thanks to lower overhead, online-only banks often offer the most competitive APYs).

3.   Automate your savings. Setting up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings accounts will ensure that you’re consistently saving toward your goals.

4.   Use technology to track your accounts. Many banks offer online or mobile banking apps that make it easy to track your savings goals and account balances all in one place.

5.   Resist the urge to dip into different accounts for different needs. For example, try not to touch your emergency fund to come up with cash for a home improvement project.

6.   Stay on top of your financial goals. If your goals change, you might want to adjust how much money is going into each account – and how often.

Recommended: How Much Money Should I Save a Month?

The Takeaway

Ultimately, the decision of how many savings accounts to have is an individual one. While having multiple accounts can offer benefits such as goal separation and organization, it’s important to weigh these benefits against the potential drawbacks, such as fees and complexity.

By carefully considering your financial situation and goals, you can make an informed decision about how many savings accounts are right for you.

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.

FAQ

Is it a good idea to have multiple savings accounts?

Having multiple savings accounts can be a good idea for several reasons. It can help you organize your finances by separating your savings goals, such as an emergency fund, a vacation fund, or a down payment for a house. Being able to clearly see individual goals and track progress can help you stay committed and motivated to save.

However, having multiple accounts can also mean more fees (if your bank charges them) and more effort to manage them, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons based on your individual financial situation and goals.

Can you have multiple savings accounts at the same bank?

Yes. Many banks allow customers to open multiple accounts, each with its own account number and possibly different features or benefits. This can be useful for organizing your savings for different purposes or for taking advantage of different interest rates or account types offered by the bank.

What is the cost of having multiple savings accounts?

The cost of having multiple savings accounts can vary depending on the bank and the specific accounts you have. Some banks don’t charge any fees for savings accounts. Others may charge monthly maintenance fees or only charge fees if your account dips below a certain minimum balance. Before you open multiple savings accounts, you’ll want to make sure you understand what fees (if any) may be involved.

About the author

Julia Califano

Julia Califano is an award-winning journalist who covers banking, small business, personal loans, student loans, and other money issues for SoFi. She has over 20 years of experience writing about personal finance and lifestyle topics. Read full bio.

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Although the 16-digit number on your credit card might remind you of the routing number you see on your checks or bank statements, these sets of digits are not the same.

In fact, there’s no such thing as a credit card routing number, even if it was issued by a bank or credit union. The series of digits you see on the front or back of your card is your credit card number, and it provides important information about the credit card issuer, the card’s payment network, and you (the card holder).

Read on to learn more about the differences between a routing number and a credit card number and why credit cards don’t need routing numbers.

What Are Routing Numbers?

A routing number is a nine-digit number used to identify a specific bank, credit union, or other type of financial institution in the United States. The American Bankers Association created routing numbers in 1910 to aid in processing checks.

Routing numbers are still used today to help keep banking transactions secure, whether you’re making a direct deposit, an automatic bill payment, a wire or P2P transfer, or a phone payment.

Every bank has its own routing number — and some have more than one — that works kind of like a payment address. The routing number ensures the money from a financial transaction is correctly “routed” from one financial institution to another. Once the funds get to the proper financial institution, the money can then be moved into the designated bank account.

Recommended: Routing Number vs. Account Number

Where Can I Find My Routing Number?

If you still use paper checks and keep your checkbook handy, that’s probably the easiest place to look for your bank’s routing number. You should be able to find the routing number in the lower left corner of your checks.

The first nine digits are the bank’s routing number. After a gap, the next 10 digits are your account number. After another gap, the last few digits represent the number of the check you’re currently using.

You can also find your routing number by logging into your checking or savings account online. (If you have more than one account at a particular bank, your account numbers will be different, but the routing number for those accounts will likely be the same.) Or you can call your bank’s customer service line and ask for help getting the correct routing number.

Routing numbers can sometimes change, such as when two financial institutions merge, for example, or go through an acquisition. You should receive advance notice if that happens, but you may want to look just to be sure you’re using the most up to date routing number.

Why Don’t Credit Cards Have Routing Numbers?

A routing number is used to move funds between two bank accounts — from your employer’s account to your checking or savings account, for example, or from your checking account to the electric company.

When you use a credit card, you aren’t depositing or transferring money. You’re borrowing money, and processing that transaction works differently. That’s why there’s no routing number on a credit card.

Instead, the credit card issuer uses your credit card number to track your transactions and make sure they end up on your bill. The number also can help card processors identify the financial institution that will settle the payment when the card is used.

Recommended: Understanding Purchase Interest Charges on Credit Cards

What Do the Numbers on a Credit Card Represent?

It’s important to note that your credit card number is not the same as your account number. Your credit card number includes your account number, but it has a few more digits. And each of those digits has a purpose.

Every credit card number is unique: If you apply for a credit card and you’re approved, the card you receive will have its own number. But most cards use a similar, formatted sequence that can be used to identify the card issuer, the payment network, and the account holder:

•   The first number in this sequence typically represents the card’s payment network. Most credit cards start with a 3 (American Express), 4 (Visa), 5 (Mastercard), or 6 (Discover), as those are the major payment networks.

•   The next five digits complete the card’s Bank Identification Number (BIN), or Issuer Identification Number (IIN), and can tell you about the card’s “issuer.” (The credit card issuer is the financial institution that gave you the card and manages your account.)

•   The remaining digits — except, usually, the last digit — represent the cardholder and the account the card is connected to.

•   And finally, there’s the “checksum” or “check digit,” which is used by card issuers and payment networks to catch errors and help protect against unauthorized card use.

Though this format may differ a bit from one card to the next — some card numbers may have 15 digits instead of 16, for example — all card issuers must follow a set of standards created by the International Organization of Standardization (ISO) and enforced by the American Network of Standards Institute (ANSI). This allows consumers to use their card or card number no matter where they are in the world.

Does a Debit Card Have a Routing Number?

Although a debit card is typically tied to at least one bank account, it does not have a routing number. Each debit card has a unique 16-digit card number that identifies the card issuer, the card network, and the bank customer and accounts to which it’s connected.

You read that right. While each credit card you own is linked to one specific credit account, your debit card may be linked to multiple accounts (checking, savings, etc.) if they’re at one financial institution.

How does the bank decide which account you want to use for each transaction? If you use your debit card to make a purchase, the money will be pulled from the account you’ve designated as your primary checking account. And if you’re using your debit card at an ATM, you should be able to see a list of all the accounts connected to that particular card, and you can make a deposit to or withdrawal from the account of your choice.

Your debit card will not be linked to your credit card account, however, even if it’s through the same financial institution. And even if your debit card has a payment network logo or hologram in the corner, you cannot use it as a credit card. The money will be withdrawn from your bank account, either right away or after a short delay.

Credit Cards vs Debit Cards

It can be useful to have both a credit card and a debit card on hand to help manage your finances. Though they look a lot alike, there are key differences:

Recommended: Can You Use a Credit Card Like a Debit Card?

The Takeaway

Unlike checks, credit cards do not have routing numbers. Rather, a credit card number contains information about the financial institution that will settle the payment when the card is used, and it identifies the card holder who will ultimately be responsible for those charges. Understanding how these numbers work can help make managing your finances easier.

Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.

FAQ

What is a routing number?

A routing number is a nine-digit number that identifies your bank or credit union in a financial transaction.

Does a credit card have a routing number?

Credit cards don’t have routing numbers. Instead, credit cards have a 16-digit credit card number that identifies the card issuer, the payment network, and the card holder.

Where can I find my routing number?

The easiest way to find your bank’s routing number is to look at your paper checks or a bank statement. The first nine digits in the lower left corner are the routing number. You also can log onto your account online or call your bank’s customer service number to get the correct routing number.

Photo credit: iStock/RgStudio

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.

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.

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

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

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Getting invited to a wedding is an honor — it means you are seen as a valued part of the couple’s life. However, it also means you’ll need to start thinking about what to give as a wedding gift and, the thorniest of wedding etiquette issues, how much you should spend. You may also wonder when to give a wedding gift (do you really have a year?) and, if you’re not going to be able to attend, if you still need to send a gift.

Navigating the intricacies of wedding gift etiquette can be tricky for everyone. But don’t stress. What follows is a modern day guide to wedding gift etiquette that will help ensure you give an appropriate wedding gift without going broke.

8 Wedding Gift Rules to Follow

What follows are eight essential wedding gift etiquette rules and customs all guests need to know.

1. Spend an Appropriate Amount

Some people think that how much to spend on a wedding gift should be based on how much is being spent on you — in other words, cover your plate. For example, if you think a reception costs a couple $150 per person, that should be your gift value. But, the truth is, how much you spend on a wedding gift should depend more on your relationship to the couple, how far you’re traveling for the wedding, and your own financial situation.

On average, guests spent $160 on a wedding gift in 2022, according to The Knot. But that may not make sense for everyone. If you’re younger or just out of college, spending $50 on a friend’s wedding might be just right. If you are very close to the couple and attending with your spouse or a date, you might give $250 or more. There is no one “right” amount to give as a wedding gift.

2. Budget for Other Expenses

When considering how much to spend on a wedding gift, you’ll also want to look at other costs related to the wedding. For example, you may be invited to other events that call for giving a gift, such as an engagement party and shower. In that case, you might allocate a certain percentage of your total gift budget for each event, such as 20% each for the engagement and shower gift and 60% on the wedding gift.

Also consider travel-related expenses and the cost of attire. If you are in the wedding party and have already maxed out your budget due to other costs, like hosting a bachelorette/bachelor party or buying a bridesmaid dress/groomsmen suit, then it is okay to simply give a small token gift for the ceremony.

Also keep in mind that if you’re invited to a destination wedding, your presence may actually be enough of a present. It’s likely that the couple will understand if you give a thoughtful handwritten note in lieu of a gift, or give them a smaller gift.

Recommended: Destination Weddings: 8 Awkward Money Questions, Answered

3. Use the Couple’s Wedding Registry

While you aren’t required to purchase a gift off the couple’s registry, doing so can make your life a lot easier. For one, the registry is a curated list of items the couple actually wants. It also typically offers gift ideas at a variety of price ranges, giving you a lot of flexibility. What’s more, you won’t have to worry about how you’ll actually get the gift to the couple (see rule # 6). You simply need to write a short note, input your credit card information, and hit “buy.” The store will do the rest. The registry is also a great resource for engagement and shower gifts.

4. Consider Chipping in on a Group Giftsticking to your budget. Just be sure that everyone who contributes to the gift signs the wedding card.

A group gift can be especially helpful for members of the wedding party, who may have already bought multiple shower and engagement gifts and paid for wedding attire and bachelorette/bachelor parties.

Recommended: Why Saving Money Is Important

5. Cash is Completely Acceptable

When it comes to wedding gift etiquette, it’s perfectly acceptable to give money as a wedding gift. In fact, many couples prefer cash gifts, and will even register for cash funds to help pay for their honeymoon or a down payment on a home. If giving cash through the registry isn’t an option or not your preference, you can also give cash by writing a check and inserting in an envelope with a thoughtful note.

If you do go the check route, it’s a good idea to write only one of their names on the check (to avoid potential confusion at the bank) and include both names on the memo line, and in your note, so it’s clear this is a gift for both of them. You can either mail your check in advance or bring it to the wedding (the one time you can break rule #6).

6. Don’t Bring the Gift to The Wedding

In some communities and cultures, it’s customary to bring your gift to the wedding and there will be a table at the reception where you can leave it. Generally speaking, however, it’s not considered proper wedding gift etiquette to bring a gift to a wedding (the exception being a card with a check). While you should bring a shower gift to the actual shower, it’s easier for the couple if you send a wedding gift to their home.

7. Send a Gift Before (or Soon After) the Wedding

The old rule that you have up to a year to send a gift is no longer considered proper wedding gift etiquette. Thanks to digital registries, online shopping, and two-day free shipping, it’s generally expected that guests will send a gift before the wedding or within three months of the couple getting married. This is respectful, and also avoids the awkwardness of running into the couple six months after the reception knowing that you still haven’t given them a gift to acknowledge their wedding.

8. Send Something Even if You Don’t Go

A wedding invitation is a thoughtful gesture that tells you that the couple appreciates your friendship and wants to include you in their celebration. If you are close friends or family to the bride or groom, you generally want to recognize that honor with a thoughtful note and gift, even if you are not able to attend the wedding. It doesn’t have to be a large gift. You might choose an item of nominal value from their registry or for their new home.

There is an exception to this etiquette rule, however. if you are not particularly close to the couple, you can likely get away with simply dropping a thoughtful note in the mail — and skipping the gift.

Recommended: Understanding Discretionary Expenses

The Takeaway

Just like weddings themselves, wedding gift etiquette has evolved over time, which can make purchasing a wedding gift all the more confusing. To avoid running afoul of any etiquette rules, you generally want to pick out a gift from the registry or give a cash gift (either through registry or via check). As for how much to spend on a gift, consider your relationship to the couple, what you can feasibly afford, and other costs involved (such as traveling to attend the wedding).

FAQ

What is proper wedding gift etiquette?

Proper wedding gift etiquette involves several considerations. First, you’ll want to consult the couple’s gift registry to find out what they would like to receive. Giving a cash gift is also perfectly acceptable, and often preferred by couples. You might also consider going in on a group gift.

Ideally, you’ll want to send a physical gift before the wedding or within three months of the event. It’s fine to bring a card with a check to the celebration.

As for how much to spend, you’ll want to consider your budget, relationship to the couple, and how far you’re traveling for the wedding.

What should you avoid giving as a wedding gift?

According to proper wedding gift etiquette, you’ll want to avoid giving overly personal items (since everyone’s preferences are different) and anything that could potentially offend or cause discomfort to the couple. Also consider avoiding gifts that are overly extravagant or impractical, especially if they might burden the couple with maintenance or storage issues.

Is it rude to attend a wedding and not give a gift?

It’s customary to give a gift if you are attending a wedding. How much you spend, however, is flexible. If you have significant budget constraints, it’s perfectly okay to give a modest gift, along with a thoughtful note wishing the couple well.

Is it ever okay to not give a wedding gift?

If you are attending the wedding, it’s customary to give a gift to commemorate the couple’s special day. Even if you’re not attending the wedding, you generally still want to send a note and a gift. However, if you’re not attending the wedding and don’t know the couple well, it’s acceptable to send a thoughtful note without a gift.

About the author

Julia Califano

Julia Califano is an award-winning journalist who covers banking, small business, personal loans, student loans, and other money issues for SoFi. She has over 20 years of experience writing about personal finance and lifestyle topics. Read full bio.

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