Aug
31
2023
Easy Ways to Improve Your Gas Mileage

7 Easy Ways to Improve Your Gas Mileage

By | Budgeting & Goals, Financial Independence, money | Comments Off on 7 Easy Ways to Improve Your Gas Mileage

At the end of summer 2023, a gallon of regular gas cost just a hair under $4: perhaps not the worst you’ve ever seen, but not exactly a bargain basement price either.

According to J.D. Power, Americans spend about $5,000 on gas a year, a not insignificant figure.

If you’re looking for ways to save on this expense, this guide can help. It shares seven easy ways to boost your gas mileage, meaning you’ll go farther on a tank’s worth. Read on to learn how to save.

How to Improve Gas Mileage

Gas mileage is measured in miles per gallon (mpg). If a vehicle gets 25 mpg, this means that, on average, it can be driven for 25 miles for every gallon of gas pumped into it. Overall, miles per gallon is typically higher for a vehicle during highway driving than on city streets where speeds are slower and vehicles idle at stop signs and traffic lights. Vehicles can, in fact, typically get five more mpg with highway driving than with city driving.

Fortunately, there are ways to improve gas mileage no matter where you’re driving, many of them reasonably simple. To help, here are seven money-saving ideas for better gas mileage and two busted myths.

1. Reduce the Weight

Get rid of excess weight in the vehicle by removing unnecessary items in the trunk and backseat to lower fuel consumption. Every 100 pounds added to a car boosts fuel consumption by 2%. Think carefully about what to remove. Maybe those golf clubs don’t have to perpetually stay in your trunk. Taking out a toolbox full of tools, however, might reduce the weight being carried, but those items might be sorely missed in an emergency.

💡 Quick Tip: Make money easy. Enjoy the convenience of managing bills, deposits, and transfers from one online bank account with SoFi.

2. Watch Your Speed

In general, the mileage a driver gets from a gallon of gas decreases pretty quickly when traveling more than 50 miles per hour, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Lowering your speed by five to 10 mph can raise fuel efficiency by 7% to 14%. Why? Higher speeds decrease fuel economy because of two factors: air resistance and tire rolling resistance.

3. Keep Tires at Optimal Pressure

The DOE reports that keeping your tire pressure in the sweet spot can enhance your gas mileage. If your tires are underinflated, you can lower gas mileage about 0.2% for every drop of 1 psi (pressure per square inch) in the pressure of the tires. Overall, proper inflation can boost your mileage by up to 3%, which can add up at the pump.

4. Monitor Your Driving

Using a trip computer, drivers can receive immediate feedback about the impact that an action, such as the rapid acceleration of a vehicle, has on gas usage. These real-time, personalized insights into how to improve fuel economy, fuel consumption, maintenance reminders, and more.

5. Plan Your Gas Stops

Using a combination of strategies for how to improve gas mileage can help to reduce fuel costs. Having to fill up at a pricey pump, though, can negate all of that hard work. So, when out on the road, especially when away from home in unfamiliar territory, consider using apps like Gas Guru or GasBuddy. They can help you to find the most affordable gasoline in town, wherever you are when it’s time to fill up.

Recommended: 25 Ways to Cut Costs on a Road Trip

6. Road Trip Wisely

If you’re planning a trip and have a choice of cars to drive, some factors to consider are the car’s size (you want enough room to be comfortable as you travel as well as any luggage you bring) and its gas mileage. Using a trip calculator can estimate fuel consumption for each car so you can pick the one that will cost the least in gasoline.

7. Cold Weather Strategies

When thinking about how to get better gas mileage, take a look at the thermometer, and plan your winter driving carefully. FuelEconomy.gov states that the miles per gallon can be 15% lower, more or less, at 20°F than at 77°F. Since most of us can’t hibernate all winter long, money-saving suggestions include warming up your car for 30 seconds only and then driving gently to allow the vehicle to warm up in a more cost-efficient way. Also, combine trips whenever possible — especially in the winter.

Myths About Gas Mileage

Some strategies to improve gas mileage are tried and true, but there are still some myths that continue to be perpetuated. Here are a couple of common myths that don’t prove to be true when it comes to saving money daily on gas.

1. Refueling When Cool

Some people buy gasoline in the morning when temperatures are cooler, believing that this will help them get better gas mileage. The theory behind this idea is that cooler gas is denser, so you’ll get more bang for your buck in the mornings. However, consumer watchdogs say this won’t make any practical difference though, especially since most gas stations store the gasoline underground where temperatures are pretty stable.

2. Changing the Air Filter

In the past, people believed that dirty air filters reduced fuel economy because of lowered air intake. While studies have shown that a vehicle’s acceleration was lessened when an air filter change was overdue, swapping it out probably won’t boost fuel economy in most cars. Wondering what changed? Engine computers have the ability to compensate for the reduced airflow to maintain the right ratio between air and fuel.

💡 Quick Tip: Your money deserves a higher rate. You earned it! Consider opening a high-yield checking account online and earn 0.50% APY.

Budgeting for Gasoline and More

How much can you afford to pay for gasoline each month? If you aren’t really clear about that, making a monthly budget can help. Basic steps of creating a budget include:

•   Gathering all of your financial documents together

•   Figuring out your monthly take-home pay

•   Adding up monthly fixed and variable expenses

•   Using this information to create a workable budget

While creating your budget, consider how much gas is used for needs (such as getting to work) and how much for wants (driving around town while trying to decide what restaurant to pick). One popular personal budgeting method involves dividing expenses into needs and wants and then also having a category for savings. Called the 50/30/20 rule, this method divides after-tax income in this way:

•   50% towards needs

•   30% towards wants (or discretionary expenses)

•   20% towards savings

This isn’t the only way to create a personal budget, though. There are plenty of budgeting resources to help you find the method that works best to manage your money.

The Takeaway

Gas prices can take a chunk out of the budget but by understanding a few important principles, you can help improve your gas mileage and make the most of the money you spend at the pump. Doing so can be part of taking control of your finances and managing your money well.

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

Photo credit: iStock/FG Trade

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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31
2023
10 Signs You're Living Beyond Your Means

10 Signs You’re Living Beyond Your Means

By | Budgeting & Goals, Financial Independence, money | Comments Off on 10 Signs You’re Living Beyond Your Means

Living beyond your means can easily happen. Typically, it’s a case of your spending outstripping your earnings. This in turn means it’s hard to pay off debt and save for your financial goals.

Sound familiar? If you find yourself running out of money before the next payday, you could be leaving above your means.

Here, learn more about this issue and the warning signs. Then you can begin to ake action and take control of your money.

What Does “Living Beyond Your Means” Mean?

Simply put, ”living above your means” means that you are spending more money than you are earning. People are able to do this by relying on credit cards, loans, and pior savings to cover their expenses. However, the process is not sustainable, and eventually overspending is likely to catch up to you.

Living beyond your means can also mean that you’re spending everything you bring in, and, as a result, don’t have anything left over for saving or investing, such as building an emergency fund, saving for a short-term goal like buying a car or a home, or putting money away for retirement.

Here are ten red flags that you’re living a lifestyle you simply can’t afford — and tips for how to get back on track.

1. You Live Paycheck to Paycheck

If most or all of your paycheck is spent immediately on bills, and you don’t have anything left over at the end of the month to put into savings, you are likely living over your means and may need to make some adjustments.

If your current lifestyle has become a habit, you may feel there is no place to cut back. However, if you get out your monthly statements for the past three months and take a close look at where all your money is going each month, you will likely find places where you can cut back on spending. This might be ditching cable, cooking (instead of ordering take-out) a few more times per week, or quitting the gym and working out at home.

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

2. Your Credit Score Has Dropped

If you’ve been putting a lot of your expenses on your credit card and/or don’t always pay your bills on time, you may see your credit score take a hit.

This number is important because it can be accessed by anyone considering giving you new credit and may be used to determine the interest rate you’ll pay on a home or car loan, and also new credit cards.

If you aren’t sure what your credit score is, you can get a free copy of your reports from all three credit bureaus at www.annualcreditreport.com .

Looking it over can help you understand why your credit score has dropped, and help you take the necessary steps to repair it.

For example, you might set up automatic payments for the minimum amount due on credit card bills and loans, so you never miss a payment.

You may also want to pay down your balances on your credit cards and lines of credit. This can lower your “credit utilization rate” (how much of your credit limit you are using), which is factored into your score.

Recommended: What Is Considered a Bad Credit Score?

3. You’ve Stopped Your Retirement Contributions

If money is feeling a little tight, you may feel that now is not the time to worry about retirement. But you likely won’t be able to work forever, so it can be wise to make saving for retirement a priority and to get started early.

Thanks to compounding interest (which is when the interest you earn also starts earning interest), the earlier you start investing in a retirement fund, the easier it will be to save enough money to retire well.

You don’t have to contribute a lot. Even just putting aside a small amount of each paycheck into a 401(k) or IRA each month can help you build wealth over time. This move can get you on track to meet your financial goals.

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

No account or overdraft fees. No minimum balance.

Up to 4.00% APY on savings balances.

Up to 2-day-early paycheck.

Up to $2M of additional
FDIC insurance.


4. A Big Portion of Your Income Goes to Housing

Keeping your rent or mortgage below 30% of your monthly pre-tax income is sometimes recommended because it can leave you with enough income left over to save, invest, and build wealth in general.

Staying below 30 percent can be difficult, however, if you live in a region of the country where the cost of housing is high.

Nevertheless, spending a lot more than a third of your income on housing can leave you “house poor,” and put your other financial obligations at risk.

If you find that your housing costs are taking too large a chunk of your monthly paycheck, you might consider downsizing, taking on a roommate, or finding a way to increase your income with a side hustle.

5. Your Savings Account Isn’t Growing

Another sign you may be living beyond your means is that your savings have stagnated.

Making regular deposits into your savings account–in addition to your 401(k) or IRA–allows you to work towards your short- and medium-term financial goals, such as putting a downpayment on a home or a car or going on vacation.

💡 Quick Tip: Want a simple way to save more everyday? When you turn on Roundups, all of your debit card purchases are automatically rounded up to the next dollar and deposited into your online savings account.

6. You’ve Been Charged an Overdraft Fee More than Once This Year

An overdraft fee — or “non-sufficient funds fee” — is charged when there’s not enough money in your account to cover a check or debit card payment.

Mistakes happen, and a one-off overdraft isn’t necessarily an indicator of overspending. But repeat offenses can be a sign that you are living too close to the edge and don’t have a clear picture of how much money is going into your account and how much is going out.

You may want to start tracking your spending and keeping a closer eye on your spending account to make sure you always have enough to cover your electronic payments.

Recommended: Using a Personal Cash Flow Statement

7. You’ve Never Set a Budget

Many people think making and following a budget will be too complicated. But having a budget can actually simplify your spending decisions by letting you know exactly what you can and can’t afford.

Having a budget also helps to ensure you have enough money to cover essentials, fun, and also sock some away in savings.

If you’ve never set financial parameters for yourself, you may want to consider taking an honest inventory of how much you are bringing in each month and how much is going out each month.

Once you get a sense of your own patterns and habits, you can work toward building a realistic budget that allows you to spend and save more wisely.

8. You’re Leasing a Car You Can’t Afford to Buy

Leasing a vehicle you would not be able to purchase outright or finance can be a major financial red flag. Leasing lets you rent a high-end lifestyle, but many people end up with leases they really can’t afford.

You might be covering your monthly payments, but if you can’t do that while meeting your other expenses and also putting money into savings, then your car is likely too expensive.

You may want to consider downgrading your vehicle or saving up enough money to buy a car — either outright or by making a solid downpayment so your monthly payments are low.

9. You’re Only Making Minimum Payments on Credit Cards

It’s fine to use your credit card to pay for everyday expenses and the occasional big purchase. But if you can’t pay off most of the balance each month, you’re likely living beyond your means.

Rather than give over part of your paycheck just to interest each month, you may want to cut back on nonessential spending and divert that money towards paying off your balances.

10. You Don’t Have an Emergency Fund

Not having a stash of cash you can turn to in a pinch can be a sign that you’re overspending. You may be gambling on the fact that nothing will go wrong. But life is unpredictable, and getting hit with an unexpected expense you can’t pay for can lead to a financial crisis.

Instead, you may want to build an emergency fund that can cover three to six months worth of living expenses. That way, you’ll be covered should something happen, such as an illness or injury, job loss, housing issue, or any other expensive personal matter should come up.

The Takeaway

Unfortunately, living beyond your means is all too easy to do. And while a few weeks or months of spending more than you earn may not be a major problem, overspending on a regular basis will likely catch up to you in the form of high debt and neglected savings.

Creating (and sticking to) a spending budget can help ensure that you can afford your bills and basic expenses, and still have money left over to save for the things you want in the future.

Ready to get better control of your spending? The right bank can help.

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

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

Photo credit: iStock/urbazon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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 .

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

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31
2023
How to Become a Digital Nomad: 25+ Things to Consider

How to Become a Digital Nomad: 25 Things to Consider

By | Budgeting & Goals, Financial Independence, money | Comments Off on How to Become a Digital Nomad: 25 Things to Consider

These past few years have proved that plenty of people can work from anywhere, which has further fueled the digital nomad movement.

Digital nomadism is a “have laptop, will travel” lifestyle for both freelancers and those who work full-time but can do so remotely. It means you can travel and do your job from wherever, enjoying new experiences and scenery as you globetrot.

But before you decide that travel plus remote work is the right situation for you, read the following 25 considerations.

They’ll help you understand if this is the right fit for you and how you’ll need to prepare before you start packing your bags.

What Is A Digital Nomad?

Digital nomads are professionals who work fully remote jobs and move locations frequently. They are able to do this either because they are self-employed, or because their company allows for a more transient lifestyle.

The number of people who are digital nomads is estimated to be more than 20 million in America and 35 million all around the world.

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

How Much Do Digital Nomads Make?

It seems that many digital nomads make high salaries; perhaps this earning power allows them to call the shots and travel when and where they see fit.

One 2023 study found that 36% of digital nomads around the world earned between a $100,000 salary and $250,000 per year. Only 6% of those surveyed reported earning less than $25,000 per year.

Common Jobs for Digital Nomads

Among the most popular fields for digital nomads include:

• Writing

• Education & Training

• Administrative

• Customer Service

• Art & Creative

• Computer & IT

• Consulting

• Data Entry

• Marketing

• Project Management

25 Things to Know Before Becoming a Digital Nomad

If you’re trying to decide if the digital nomad life is right for you, here are a number of things you may want to consider.

1. You’ll Be Able to Learn About Different Cultures

As a digital nomad, you get to choose where you spend your time. Maybe you’ve always wanted to know what it’s like to live on the Greek island or in the Peruvian Andes. Or, maybe you want to learn more about your ancestors. You can do that as a digital nomad. Making a list of the things you really want to see, do, and learn in your lifetime can help you start formulating a plan.

2. You Could Learn a New Language Along the Way

Beyond meeting new people, you can also choose to learn new things as a digital nomad. Living and working in a place can significantly improve your language skills. So if you want to learn Spanish, you may want to plan on living in Spain for a few months.

3. You Can Enjoy Winter or Summer All Year Long

Hate winters? They can be a thing of the past. As a digital nomad, you get to choose where you live and work, so if you want to summer in the states, then summer again in Australia or South America, or anywhere else where the temperatures are right for you, you can do it.

4. Having a Plan B, and Maybe Even C, Is Prudent

As a digital nomad, you will likely be moving around a lot, which means you may hit more snags than if you were staying in one place. Because of this, it is a good idea to always have a backup plan, like a second accommodation option in case your first one doesn’t fit the bill, multiple options for reaching Wi-Fi, as well as a starting an emergency fund.

5. Making Close Friendships Can Be a Challenge

If you’re not staying in one place for very long, it can be difficult to create deep connections with people you meet. However, if you’re willing to put time and effort into making and keeping new friends, these relationships can last for as long as you want.

6. There’s a Massive Global Network Waiting to Welcome You

Fortunately, if you decide to dip your toe in the digital nomad waters, you will not be alone. There are millions of others around the globe who are currently living the digital nomad life, and plenty of Facebook, Instagram, and chat groups to help you connect with them.

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

No account or overdraft fees. No minimum balance.

Up to 4.00% APY on savings balances.

Up to 2-day-early paycheck.

Up to $2M of additional
FDIC insurance.


7. You May be Able to Set Your Own Hours

Because you are no longer working in an office, it may be possible to create your own working hours. This can be a major perk for many who do not like to adhere to the nine-to-five lifestyle. For example, you could choose to work early in the morning and take the afternoons off or vice versa. If your working situation allows this, it’s totally up to you.

8. Your Entire Day Will Likely Depend on WiFi Availability

If connecting to the internet to conduct work and communicate with clients or employers is important for your job on a regular basis, it can be a good idea to choose destinations with reliable WiFi. You can also take advantage of websites, such as WiFi Map, that help you track down free WiFi wherever you are in the world.

9. Investing in a VPN Could Be Smart

Depending on where you decide to travel, internet access could become an issue. That’s because the internet is censored in certain destinations. To help you access the websites you want or need for work, you may want to download a VPN (virtual private network) prior to departure. This can help you get around any censorship issues and help protect your privacy online. The cost of a good VPN service is around $10 per month.

10. You’ll Likely Become a Coffee Shop Connoisseur

Cafe life can be clutch for digital nomads. Not only are coffee shops typically welcoming to those who need to use WiFi, but they can also be excellent places to chat with locals, make new friends, or simply soak up the local culture.

11. Maintaining a Routine Can Be a Challenge

If you’re traveling on your own, and have the freedom to set your own work hours, your routine will be entirely up to you. For some people, this can become a challenge because they have little structure to their day. As a digital nomad, it can be a good idea to come up with your own daily schedule, such as walking in the morning, working in the afternoon, and taking an exercise class at night, no matter where you are.

12. It May Be Hard to Maintain Connections With Old Friends

Just as your life is moving on in a new direction, so are the lives of those you left behind. If you want to stay connected, you are likely going to have to make an effort. You may want to set reminders for yourself to send text messages, make phone calls, or go the old-fashioned way and write letters to those you hold nearest and dearest.

13. You’ll May Need to Learn Global Visa Rules

If you want to become an international digital nomad, you will likely have to learn a lot of the rules of entry into different countries and make sure you have all the necessary documents in advance. For example, some countries require all travelers to have visas, while others only require them for stays longer than 90 days.

14. You’ll Need to Take Stock of Your Finances

The good news: Being a digital nomad doesn’t have to be expensive. You can save money by spending time in a nation where goods cost less, or you might forgo a car and take public transit, or even couch surf when you can. No matter how you choose to travel and live, it’s a good idea to figure out a budget beforehand, and keep track of your spending as you go so you don’t run out of funds while you’re still a long way from home.

Recommended: How to Save for a Vacation: Creating a Travel Fund

15. You’ll Want to Have Easy Access to Your Money

Traveling the globe, you will want to make sure you can access your money wherever and whenever you need it. And while you can do that with many U.S. banks, many will charge you foreign transaction fees, as well as ATM fees, which could make it expensive to access your own cash. It’s a good idea to read the fine print before you set out and, if necessary, choose a different financial institution and change banks.

💡 Quick Tip: Want a new checking account that offers more access to your money? With 55,000+ ATMs in the Allpoint network, you can get cash when and where you choose.

16. You’ll Want to Check Your Phone and Insurance Plans

It’s a good idea to check your cell phone contract to find out what the coverage is while traveling. Ideally, you want a phone plan that allows for unlimited data while traveling internationally. It’s also a good idea to find out what your cell phone protection plan will cover if you need care in another part of the country, or in a different country.

17. Hiring a Tax Professional Can Be a Smart investment

Depending on your employment situation, you may need to pay quarterly income taxes. You may also need to pay taxes on income earned while living abroad. Since this can get complicated, it may be worthwhile to hire a tax professional who can help you navigate the ins and outs of tax law and even complete your tax return for you, giving you one less thing to worry about on the road.

18. The Right Housing Can Be Hard to Find

As a digital nomad, you may not have the luxury of getting to see a property before renting it. That means you may get there and realize you made a mistake. If possible, you may want to avoid committing to (and paying upfront) a long-term stay before you see the place. It can also be a good idea to have a backup accommodation plan in case things don’t look quite as good as they did online.

19. Storage May Become an Issue

Depending on how long you plan to travel around the globe, you may need to store your items along the way. When doing so, it can be a good idea to store items in facilities or places that a friend or family member is able to access. That way, if you need something important while you’re on the other side of the world, they can get it and send it to you.

20. You May Want to Start Journaling

As a digital nomad, you will likely be making incredible memories. Even if you’ve never kept a journal, you may want to start keeping a notebook where you jot down a few lines at the end of each day or week, and document things you saw or experienced or simply what you’re feeling. You’ll likely enjoy looking back on this later. And, knowing what worked and didn’t work can also help you plan your next adventure as a nomad.

21. “Vacation” May Take on New Meaning

Because you can live and work from anywhere in the world, “vacation” may no longer mean the same thing as it used to. It can be important as a digital nomad to still ensure you are taking time off to rest and relax and recharge from your work routine. What’s great is that you can now take a vacation without having to hop on a plane to get away from it all because you’re already there.

22. Longer-Term Stays Tend to Work Best

When transitioning to a digital nomad lifestyle, it can be tempting to hop around from one place to the next in quick succession. However, this can wreak havoc on your routine and become exhausting. It also makes it hard to get to know a place or make new friends. Instead, you may want to plan for longer stints of time, such as several months, in each destination.

23. Being Alone Can Be Challenging

If you are taking up the digital nomad lifestyle on your own, you will likely be spending more time than ever before solo. And, you’ll no longer have co-workers to chat with during the day. While this can be a welcome relief for many, others may struggle with loneliness. To help combat feelings of social isolation, it can help to join meetup groups, head to events solo where you can meet new people, or join a co-working space.

24. You May Get Homesick

Yes, getting to explore the world and go wherever you wish as a digital nomad is a gift. But, the reality is that, at one point or another, you will likely miss home. It may be that you are missing family, friends, or that bit of normalcy you once had. It can help to know that this is normal and expected, and you may even want to give in to it by calling home and letting it out.

25. You May Find Out It’s Not the Right Life for You

The digital nomad lifestyle can sound wildly appealing. After all, we often see people living their best nomad life on social media. However, there are difficulties and challenges that come with the nomad lifestyle. You may try it and decide it’s not the right choice for you, which is perfectly fine. Sometimes you don’t know what you’ll like until you try it.

Pros and Cons of Being a Digital Nomad

First, consider the pluses:

• Being a digital nomad can bring personal and professional freedom. You’ll no longer have to deal with everyday office politics or have to go to the same place every weekday.

• Instead of only having a couple of weeks to travel each year, you can see and experience new places all year long.

In terms of negatives, prepare for the following:

• Being a digital nomad can also be a lot of work. If you’re going freelance or starting your own business, it can take a lot of time, effort, and hustle to start making real money.

• Depending on your budget, you may also have to put up with less than glamorous accommodations.

• For some, the nomad life can get lonely.

The Takeaway

The digital nomad lifestyle can be an exciting way to travel and live in new places while working, rather than being limited to a brief week or so away.

The nomad life can take more work than some are willing to put in, including finding new routines, more personal accountability, and dealing with details like getting visas and finding the best cell phone and health insurance plans.

However, this life-work choice can pay off, both in terms of seeing the world and earning money. Ready to hop on a plane and become a digital nomad? Make sure you have your banking squared away first.

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

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

Check out all the benefits of SoFi Checking and Savings today.

Photo credit: iStock/Vasil Dimitrov

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

SOBK0823006

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Aug
31
2023
How to Calculate Your Savings Rate

How to Calculate Your Savings Rate

By | Budgeting & Goals, Financial Independence, money | Comments Off on How to Calculate Your Savings Rate

You have probably heard (multiple times) that saving money for your future is important, but do you know how much you are actually socking away? There’s a formula to calculate your own specific personal savings rate (aka the percentage of your after-tax dollars that you’re putting away).

It’s not too complex and can be a helpful tool to see how your money management is tracking. Find out how to calculate your savings rate here.

What Information is Included in the Savings Rate Formula?

The basic formula to calculate savings rate is:

Your savings / your after-tax income = your savings rate

Once you’ve calculated your savings rate, you can use it to:

• Review how you’re doing from month to month or year to year.

• See how your current spending habits are affecting your future goals and financial independence.

• Motivate yourself to do better with your savings.

• Compare your efforts to others.

You can gather up the numbers you need to determine your savings rate (which is sometimes referred to as a savings ratio) in just a few steps:

Step 1: Add Up Your Income for the Month

Your income streams might include, after taxes: your monthly salary, the money you earned from any side gigs or from selling homemade items online, or rental income if you’re renting out a room of your home to get extra funds. Don’t forget to include money you earned that’s automatically deducted from your pay and added to a retirement account, such as a 401(k) or a traditional or Roth IRA. And add in your employer’s matching retirement plan contributions, as well.

Recommended: 39 Ways to Earn Passive Income Streams

Step 2: Add Up the Money You Put into Savings Each Month

This is about what you’re saving for the long-term, not next week. So it would include the money that’s automatically coming out of your check for retirement savings, plus your employer’s matching contributions, along with any funds you’re putting into separate savings or brokerage accounts.

💡 Quick Tip: Want to save more, spend smarter? Let your bank manage the basics. It’s surprisingly easy, and secure, when you open an online bank account.

Step 3: Do the Math

Divide the total amount of your long-term savings (Step 2) by the total amount of your after-tax income (Step 1). Turn the number you get into a percentage (.10 is 10%, for example), and that’s your savings rate.

You may hear or see a few variations on what’s included in the calculation. Some people don’t include their employer’s 401(k) contributions in their calculations, for instance, and some might add in extra payments they’re putting toward the principal on a student loan or other debt. The point is to be consistent with what you do or don’t include from month to month.

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

No account or overdraft fees. No minimum balance.

Up to 4.00% APY on savings balances.

Up to 2-day-early paycheck.

Up to $2M of additional
FDIC insurance.


How About an Example?

Let’s use Jane, whose hypothetical after-tax Income every month is $4,500. She brings in another $500, after taxes, by renting the extra bedroom in her apartment to her cousin, for a total of $5,000 a month.

Jane’s employer doesn’t offer a 401(k) plan, but on her own, Jane puts $500 a month into a Roth IRA. And she always puts another $100 a month in an online savings account she has earmarked for long-term goals. Jane’s savings amount totals $600 a month.

Using the savings rate formula, that’s $600 / $5,000 = .12, which makes Jane’s personal monthly savings rate 12%.

Of course, everyone’s numbers may not be quite so straightforward. Couples, for instance, may have to consider two or more paychecks and, possibly, two or more retirement accounts. Some individuals work more than one job or earn income from multiple sources. Some might count their emergency fund as savings, and others don’t. But the idea is the same: An individual’s or a household’s savings rate measures how much disposable income (defined by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) as after-tax income) is being set aside for long-term savings and retirement.

Recommended: Use SoFi’s savings account calculator to see how much your money can grow over time in a savings account.

Why Is Knowing Your Personal Savings Rate Important?

The BEA tracks the nation’s personal savings rate from month to month to monitor Americans’ financial health and better predict consumer behavior. And you can do much the same thing with your own savings rate.

By tracking your rate on a regular basis, you can assess how you’re doing in real-time. If you’re consistently falling short of the savings goals you’ve set for yourself, you can look at what behaviors might need changing or if you need to rework your budget. You also can use the information as an incentive to do better. And you might even find it’s a fun way to compete with others close to you, with the nation’s average personal savings rate, or just against yourself.

If you saved 8% in 2023, for example, could you bump that amount to 9% or 10% in 2024? What if you got an unexpected raise or bonus: Would you have the discipline to put that amount into your savings to keep your rate the same or improve it?

Knowing your savings rate can help you make those kinds of financial decisions.

💡 Quick Tip: Most savings accounts only earn a fraction of a percentage in interest. Not at SoFi. Our high-yield savings account can help you make meaningful progress towards your financial goals.

What’s a Good Savings Rate?

The average personal savings rate in the U.S. was about 4.03% in mid 2023, according to the Fed. But financial experts generally advise savers to stash away at least 10% of their income every month ($500 of a $5,000 monthly salary, for example). The popular 50/30/20 budget rule created by Sen. Elizabeth Warren suggests saving 20% of after-tax income.

If that seems extreme, it’s probably more useful to simply target a number you’re sure you can stick to monthly or annually. Just having a positive savings rate — anything above zero — can be a good starting point for building good fiscal habits and a nest egg. You can always make adjustments as you accomplish other financial goals, such as paying off student loans or credit card debt.

Isn’t Having a Good Budget Enough?

A personal budget can be a useful guide when it comes to reaching financial goals. And tracking your spending with a spreadsheet or an app can help you see where your dollars (and dimes) are actually going, as opposed to where you think they’re going—those two places might be very different.

Many people who make a budget include the amount they plan to put toward savings in their budget as a monthly expense. But that’s different from knowing your savings rate.

A savings rate provides a separate, wide-angle view of how much of what you make is going into savings. And that can help you further evaluate how you’re doing.

How Can Someone Improve Their Savings Rate?

The answer is simple: Spend less and save more.

Here are some steps that could help improve an individual’s or household’s savings rate.

Opening or Contributing More to a Retirement Account

One of the easiest ways to save more money can be to open a 401(k) or IRA, or to boost the amount that’s automatically deposited to an account you already have. After all, if you never see the money, you likely won’t be as tempted to spend it. And if you’re a long way from retirement, the money you invest should have lots of time to grow with compound interest. If your employer offers a 401(k) with a matching contribution, a goal might be to save as much as possible to maximize those funds.

Recommended: How an Employer 401(k) Match Works

Opening an Online Savings Account

If you’ve been saving s-l-o-w-l-y with a traditional type of savings account, it might be time to consider other options. Many online financial institutions, for example, offer higher interest rates for deposit accounts because they have lower overhead costs than brick-and-mortar banks, and they pass those savings on to their customers. Online accounts also may offer lower fees than traditional banks—or, in some cases, no fees.

Cut Back on Discretionary Spending

The thought of squeezing out additional dollars for savings each month might be daunting if you’re already on a tight budget. But even a little spending cut can go a long way toward nudging up your savings rate.

Let’s go back to our hypothetical saver, Jane, for an example. If Jane could manage to save just $50 more every month (or about $12 a week), she could increase her savings rate by a full percentage point — from 12% to 13%. That might mean getting takeout one less time every week. Or one less night out with the girls every month. Or maybe cutting back on streaming services she seldom uses.

Lowering Fixed Expenses

Lowering the bills that have to be paid every month can increase the amount of money that’s available for savings. That could include:

• Shopping for cheaper car insurance or a less expensive cell phone carrier

• Keeping your paid-off car for an extra year or two instead of jumping right back into another auto loan

• Refinancing to a lower interest rate on a mortgage or student loans

• Cutting the cord on cable

• Doing your own landscaping.

Ditching the Credit Card Debt

Yes, credit cards are convenient, and using your cards wisely can have a positive effect on your credit score. But the interest on credit cards is typically higher than for other types of borrowing, and it compounds, which means you could be paying interest on the interest charged on previous purchases.

If you’re carrying a balance from month to month and paying interest, you’re giving money to the credit card company that could be going into your savings account. Using a debt payoff strategy or consolidating your credit card debt with a personal loan could help you dump those credit card bills and get your savings back on track.

Putting Pay Raises Toward Savings, Not Spending

No one is suggesting that you should live ultra frugally like when you were scraping by in college or starting your career, but it might not hurt to hold on to some of those money-saving habits you had then. Otherwise, if your pay goes up and your savings stay static, your savings ratio is doomed to drop.

One last example using our hypothetical friend, Jane: If Jane got a $100-a-month raise (after taxes), but she continued putting $600 a month into savings, her savings rate would fall from 12% to just below 10%.

The Takeaway

Saving money might not be considered exciting by everyone, but the thought of being financially secure is pretty appealing. Think of your savings rate as a mirror you can hold up every month to see how you’re doing.

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

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

Photo credit: iStock/fizkes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

SOBK0823005

Read more
Aug
31
2023

What Is a Land Contract and How Does It Work?

By | Home Ownership, mortgage | Comments Off on What Is a Land Contract and How Does It Work?

If you’ve been exploring alternative financing to a mortgage, you might be wondering, what is a land contract? A land contract is a real estate transaction where the buyer and seller agree to an installment loan without the services of a bank, but with some recorded interest of the buyer in the property. The seller retains the title until the purchase amount is paid in full.

Land contracts are an alternative financing tool for buying property. If you’re up against a situation where your finances or your desired property don’t qualify for a traditional mortgage, you’ll want to take a closer look at whether or not a land contract makes sense. Land contracts, however, do have their limits.

In this article, we cover:

•   What exactly is a land contract and how does a land contract work?

•   Examples of how land contracts work

•   How a land contract compares with a mortgage

•   How to turn a land contract into a traditional mortgage

•   Pros and cons of a land contract

•   Alternatives to land contract financing

First-time homebuyers can
prequalify for a SoFi mortgage loan,
with as little as 3% down.

What Is a Land Contract?

A land contract is a seller-financed real estate contract where the buyer makes installment payments until the full purchase price is paid. Once the buyer has paid in full, then the seller transfers the deed to the buyer. It’s comparable to a lease-to-own arrangement and is also known as a Installment Sales Contract, Agreement to Convey, and Agreement for Purchase and Sale. A land contract is not to be confused with a land loan, also known as a lot loan, which is used to purchase a plot of land. Nor is it the same as a real estate options contract, in which a buyer pays a premium to have the option to purchase a property during a specific window of time.

Land contracts are incredibly flexible, with the terms decided on by the buyer and seller. They’re often used when a buyer is unable to qualify for a traditional mortgage, the property does not meet lender requirements for a mortgage, or when the purchaser is buying a house from a family member.

Land contracts are usually set up with owner financing so the arrangement to pay the seller is temporary. It’s common to see a balloon payment at the end, with the expectation that the buyer will obtain traditional financing from other sources or pay off the loan entirely.

Land contracts can be risky for the buyer, and past uses of land contracts have been predatory. This is because the seller holds the title while the buyer is responsible for paying for the maintenance and repairs of the property. If the buyer gets behind on payments, the seller can demand the buyer vacate the property. If you are considering a land contract, it’s wise to also look into first-time homebuyer programs which might be another way to make ownership possible.

How Does a Land Contract Work?

With a land contract, the buyer receives what is called “equitable title” for the property. The buyer takes on many of the responsibilities of a homeowner, including paying for the upkeep and repairs of the property.

The city of Detroit, where there are more land contracts than traditional home mortgage loans, outlines four parts of the land contract.

Step 1: Research the home and review the contract

Some things you may want to look for before entering into a land contract include:

Ownership. Look for the name of the owner listed on official records (usually at your county clerk’s office). Prospective buyers have been duped into signing contracts with people who are not the property owners. (Getting a title report can help provide clarity.).

Liens and debts. Does the owner have any liens recorded against the property? Again, it’s likely you’ll need to check the county recorder’s office for this information.

Sales price. Is the sales price in line with what other properties of a similar size, age, and condition?

Condition of the home. Take into account what repairs need to be made and how much it will cost.

Review the contract: What deposit and installment amounts is the buyer expected to pay the seller? What are the other costs the buyer is responsible for? Are there any red flags in the language of the contract? It would be wise to hire a real estate attorney to review a land contract before signing.

Step 2: Sign the contract

Buyers can expect to bring payment and identification to signing. Forms you may be expected to fill out include: land contract, memorandum of land contract, property transfer affidavit, and principal residence exemption. Buyers will also want to read any disclosures the seller is required to provide, such as a lead disclosure.

Step 3: File contracts and uphold terms of the agreement

Be sure that the land contract is recorded. Obtain insurance and change utilities over to your name. Make sure you pay property taxes and make your scheduled installment payments.

Step 4: Exit the land contract

When the full amount is paid off — either with regular payments or by obtaining another mortgage — buyers will receive the deed to the property. Be sure to have the deed officially recorded and file a property transfer affidavit.

Land Contract Examples

Some examples of situations that might make a land contract a sensible alternative include:

•   Buyer credit scores. Buyers with poor or no credit can sometimes find a path to homeownership through a land contract.

•   Condition of the home. Homes that won’t pass inspection or meet lending guidelines will have trouble being financed with a traditional mortgage.

•   Value of the home. Low-value homes may not be worth enough to qualify for a mortgage.

•   Banks may view a community as high-risk. Some banks may not offer mortgages based on the location of the property.

Recommended: How to Make an Offer on a House

Land Contract vs Mortgage: How Do They Compare?


When you’re comparing a land contract with a mortgage, the key difference is who has ownership of the property. When a buyer secures a mortgage, the title of the property is transferred into their name. With a land contract, the title isn’t transferred to the buyer’s name until the purchase price is paid in full. There are other key differences, as outlined in the following comparison chart.

Land Contract

 Mortgage
How the title is handled Title conveyed when paid in full Title conveyed when buyer secures a mortgage and closes
Foreclosure procedures Seller can take back the property without going through the foreclosure process Has legal foreclosure protections
How the buyer pays for the property Buyer pays the seller directly Buyer pays a lender
Who is involved in the contract Contract made between buyer and seller Contract involves a third-party lender
Closing costs Avoids many closing costs Has many closing costs
Who’s responsible for upkeep of the property? Buyer Buyer

How to Turn a Land Contract Into a Traditional Mortgage

A land contract ends when it is paid in full. However, buyers don’t need to have paid the full amount to exit the land contract. Ideally, after a few years, the buyer is able to obtain a mortgage, pay off the land contract, and secure the title to the property. When the buyer pays on their own mortgage instead of paying a seller directly, they’ll have actual ownership and more legal protections. These are the steps buyers can follow to get a traditional mortgage following a land contract.

1.    Improve your credit score if it is on the lower end

2.    Build up your cash reserves and/or equity in the property

3.    Get prequalified for a mortgage

4.    Choose a lender, provide them with the land contract and installment history, and close on a loan

5.    Pay off the land contract and receive the deed.

Pros and Cons of Land Contracts

Land contracts can be complicated, so it’s important to evaluate all the pros and cons of how it’s going to work.

Pros

•   Land contracts are much more flexible than traditional mortgages

•   Land contracts avoid large closing costs.

•   Buyers can purchase properties that lenders are unwilling to underwrite.

•   Fixer-uppers and low-priced homes can fall into this category.

•   Buyers with low or no credit can purchase property with a land contract.

Cons

•   Buyers can be taken advantage of by sellers in a land contract.

•   The buyer has no control over the seller’s title.

•   Situations, such as the death of the seller, can upend a land contract before title is conveyed.

•   Buyers usually have to pay a higher interest rate on a shorter term, which could mean much higher payments than a traditional mortgage.

•   Buyers do not have the legal protections of the foreclosure process and may lose all principal and installment payments made if they fail to meet the terms of the contract.

•   The buyer may not be able to transfer the contract to another buyer should they change their mind and wish to exit the agreement.

Alternatives to a Land Contract

If you’re looking at buying property with a land contract, you’ve probably also come across these alternatives:

Owner financing. A land contract is a type of owner financing, but an owner can also help a buyer finance a home outright. With a land contract, the seller has more power to take back the property should the buyer miss payments. With owner financing, there may be a promissory note and mortgage recorded. (Owner financing is also known as a purchase-money mortgage.)

Lease with the option to purchase. With this type of contract, the buyer acts more like a renter and the seller as landlord. The buyer pays a fee to have the option to buy the property at the end of the lease period at a predetermined price.

Recommended: Can You Put an Offer on a Contingent House

The Takeaway

Land contracts have their place, but they also have limitations. When you’re ready to switch over to a traditional mortgage, you can have full interest in the property, meaning, the property is titled in your name and there are more legal protections on your side when it comes to foreclosure.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

FAQ

What is the main disadvantage of a land contract to the seller?

Sellers may need to take on the role of landlord since the financing to the buyer bypasses a lender. They also delay getting paid in full for the property.

What is the interest rate on a land contract in Michigan?

As per state law, the maximum interest rate that can be charged on a land contract in Michigan is 11%.

Does a land contract have to be recorded in Indiana?

To be valid in Indiana, a land contract must be recorded with the county recorder. If it’s not recorded, the contract isn’t enforceable and disputes are difficult to resolve in court.

Photo credit: iStock/skynesher

*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

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

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