Aug
09
2023
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The Difference Between an Investment Portfolio and a Savings Account

By | Budgeting & Goals, invest, Investing | No Comments

A key part of wrangling your personal finances can be building personal wealth and preparing for the future, whether that means buying your own home in a couple of years or being able to retire before you turn 60.

There are various ways you can accumulate funds, such as putting your cash in a savings account or investing in the market. If you’re not sure which option is right for you (or are wondering if you should have both), then you’re in the right place.

Here, you’ll learn:

•   How is saving different from investing?

•   Is investing a kind of saving?

•   What kinds of bank accounts should I have?

•   What is an investment portfolio?

What’s the Difference Between Saving and Investing?

Savings accounts and investments can both help you get your finances on track for your future, but they can be used to meet very different goals. A big difference between savings vs. investing is risk.

When to Save

Think of savings as a nice safe place to park your cash and earn some interest.

You probably want lower risk on money you’ll need sooner, say for a fabulous vacation in two years. A savings account will fit the bill nicely for that goal because you want to be able to get to the money quickly, and savings accounts are highly liquid (they can be tapped on short notice).

When to Invest

With investing, you take on risk when you buy securities, but there’s also the potential for a return on investment.

For goals that are 10, 20, or even 40 years away, it might make sense to invest to meet those goals. Investments can make money in various ways, but when you invest, you are essentially buying assets on the open market; however, some investment vehicles are riskier than others.

Ways to Get Started Saving and Investing

So, what are some smart ways to start your savings and investment plan?

•   First, if you’re not already saving, start today. Time works against savers and investors, so write out some of your goals and attach reasonable time frames to them. Saving for a really great vacation may take a year or two. Saving for the down payment of a house may take years, depending on your circumstances.

•   One of the first goals to consider is an emergency fund. This money would ideally bail you out of an emergency, like having to pay a hefty medical bill or buying a last-minute plane ticket to see a sick loved one. Or paying your bills if you lost your job. You should save the equivalent of three to six months’ worth of expenses and debt payments available.

•   When it comes to saving vs investing, investing shines in reaching long-term goals. Many Americans invest to provide for themselves in retirement, for example. They use a company-sponsored 401(k) or self-directed IRA to build a portfolio over several decades.

•   Many retirement plans invest in mutual funds. Mutual funds are bundles of individual stocks or other securities, professionally managed. Because they have multiple stocks within, the account achieves diversification, which can help reduce some (but not all) investment risk.

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Do Investments Count as Savings?

While there are similarities between saving and investing, there are also very important distinctions.

•   When you save, you are putting your money in a secure place. A bank account, with Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, or FDIC, or NCUA (National Credit Union Administration) insurance, is a great example of this. You will be insured for up to $250,000 per account holder, per ownership category, per insured institution. And in many cases, you will be earning some interest.

•   With investments, you have the opportunity to grow your money significantly over time. For almost 100 years, the average return on the stock market has averaged 10%. However, it could be higher or it could be lower. And your funds are not insured, so you could withdraw funds at a moment where the economy is in a downturn and you experience a loss.

Because of this element of uncertainty, it’s wise to understand the distinction between saving and investing.

What Are the Different Bank Accounts I Should Own?

While some first-time savers think it’s either/or, savings account vs. investing, both have their role. Savings accounts can help you get to a spot in life where you can begin investing consistently.

There are two rules of thumb when it comes to savings and checking accounts.

•   On the one hand, you should own as few as you need. That reduces the strain of keeping up with multiple accounts and all those login passwords.

•   On the other hand, don’t neglect the benefits of having an additional savings account that you set aside for a certain purpose, like a house down payment.

You might even want to have additional different kinds of savings accounts. One could be for your emergency fund, kept at the same bank as your checking account. Another might be a high-interest one for that big vacation you’re planning. And the third might come with a cash bonus when you open it and be used to salt away money for that down payment on a home.

Having Multiple Bank Accounts

It can be a good idea to have at least one savings and one checking account. If you’re married, consider owning a joint checking account for paying family bills like the rent, mortgage, groceries, and other monthly expenses. You may also want separate accounts for you and your spouse to allow for some privacy. Decide what is the right path for your family.

There are many good reasons to open a checking account. It can be the hub for your personal finances, acting like bus stations for your money. Money rushes in from your paycheck and it hangs around for a short time before being sent off to pay some bills. Savings accounts are more like long-term car storage, letting you stow away money for longer periods.

Both can be interest-bearing accounts, but don’t simply look for the highest rates. Shop around for low fees, too.

An emergency fund can be tucked away in a savings account, and any income for regular expenses can be placed in a checking account. If you have a business or do freelance work, maybe create a completely different checking account for it.

A money-market account could be good for an emergency fund that has grown to several thousands of dollars, or for a windfall you didn’t expect. It’s an interest-bearing account, and while it historically carried higher interest rates than savings accounts, some savings accounts rival money-market account rates.

Unlike savings accounts, money-market accounts often have minimum deposit requirements — as much as $10,000. Keep an eye out for the lowest limits that suit your situation. The nice thing about money-market accounts is you can often make up to six transfers or withdrawals each month. And typically, money market accounts are insured by the FDIC for up to $250,000.

💡 Quick Tip: If you’re saving for a short-term goal — whether it’s a vacation, a wedding, or the down payment on a house — consider opening a high-yield savings account. The higher APY that you’ll earn will help your money grow faster, but the funds stay liquid, so they are easy to access when you reach your goal.

What Is an Investment Portfolio?

The difference between saving and investing can be summed up with two words: safety and risk. A collection of bank accounts suggests liquidity. It’s where you keep cash so you can get hold of it in a hurry. A collection of investment assets doesn’t have as much liquidity, because you may not want to pull your money when an investment is thriving. It’s riskier, but also has the potential for long-term gains.

An investment portfolio can hold all manner of investments, including bonds, stocks, mutual funds, real estate, and even hard assets like gold bars. A mix is a way to diversify investments and mitigate some market risk.

When you start building your savings and investment, it’s a good idea to learn all you can and start slow. Figure how much risk you can live with. That will dictate the kind of portfolio you own.

What Is a Savings Portfolio?

A savings portfolio can mean a couple of different things:

•   A savings portfolio can refer to the different ways you hold money for the future, possibly a combination of savings accounts and/or investments.

•   There are also savings portfolios which are investment vehicles for saving for college.

How Should I Start a Savings and Investment Plan?

A good way to start your savings and investment strategy is to look into an investment account. These accounts offer services such as financial advice, retirement planning, and some combination of savings and investment vehicles, usually for one set fee. In some cases, fees may be discounted or waived if you meet certain deposit or contribution levels.

In addition, you’ll likely want to make sure you have money in savings. A bank account can be a secure place for your funds, thanks to their being insured. Plus, they are liquid, meaning easily accessed, and may well earn you some interest as well.

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.

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.

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Aug
08
2023
What Is Consumerism?

What Is Consumerism?

By | Budgeting & Goals, money | Comments Off on What Is Consumerism?

Consumerism is both an economic theory and cultural phenomenon that typically flourishes in a capitalist society. The theory of consumerism states that increased consumption of goods and services by the population will improve the economy. The people in this society, in turn, believe they must consume more goods and services to achieve happiness, fulfillment, and wellbeing.

While consumerism in the United States has historically boosted the economy, critics point out that it leads to a materialistic society in which people never feel satisfied with what they have. They may also experience anxiety over their imagined need to consume more. Opponents also criticize consumerism’s impact on the environment and, in instances such as cigarettes, alcohol, and unhealthy foods, overall physical health.

In this article, you’ll learn the following:

•   Consumerism definition, history, and examples

•   Pros and cons of consumerism

•   Tips for combating consumerism

Consumerism Definition

What is consumerism? Consumerism refers to the economic theory that consumer spending on goods and services is crucial to bolstering the economy. It also refers to the cultural phenomenon that has happened in capitalist societies as a result. Specifically, it describes individuals’ feeling that they must partake of goods and services to be happy, often spending more money than they can afford on things that they don’t really need.

Recommended: Compulsive Buying vs. Impulse Buying

History of Consumerism

While many point to the post-World War II era as the beginning of U.S. consumerism, historian William Leach believes it dates back a little further to the turn of the century. In his 1993 book, Land of Desire, Leach argues that this time period marked a surge in department stores, assembly lines, investment bankers, and mail-order catalogs — all of which were early hallmarks of a consumer society.

As businesses headed into the 1920s, their production prowess was unprecedentedly strong — but American consumers were not yet used to the idea of, well, consuming. Economists realized that they needed to persuade consumers (“through advertising and propaganda,” as author Edward Bernays once wrote) that they needed more.

In short, businesses could manufacture plenty of supplies; now they needed to manufacture demand for the items that were being pumped out.

While the Great Depression slowed down the progress of consumerism, the effects of World War II and the rise of mass media fueled consumerism in the decades that followed. By this time, economists agreed that excessive consumption was the best way to improve the economy.

This belief is evidenced by this telling quote from retail analyst Victor Lebow in 1955: “Our enormously productive economy demands that we make consumption our way of life, that we convert the buying and use of goods into rituals, that we seek our spiritual satisfaction, our ego satisfaction, in consumption … We need things consumed, burned up, replaced, and discarded at an ever-accelerating rate.”

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Examples of Consumerism

You can find many examples of consumerism in today’s society, including:

•   Huge shopping sales like Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

•   Ads on TV, websites, and social media that encourage you to buy a new product or subscribe to a new service.

•   Holidays built around gift-giving and consuming candy or food.

•   New cars, phones, and other innovative tech releasing every year — sometimes with upgrades more than once a year.

•   Services, like streaming platforms and video game systems, built around a subscription model where you must pay every month to retain access to the service.

Recommended: How to Improve Your Money Mindset

Pros and Cons of Consumerism

Consumerism can offer both advantages and disadvantages to society:

Pros

 Cons
Boosts the economy Can cause anxiety and unhappiness
Creates jobs Can lead to debt
Creates a connected global society Can create environmental problems
Encourages creativity, innovation, and better products Can lead to poor physical health
Enables entrepreneurship and self-employment May contend with spiritual or religious beliefs

Read on to consider these pros and cons of consumerism in more depth.

Recommended: How to Spend Money Wisely

Consumerism Pros

Consumerism can bestow a number of benefits to a society, such as:

•   Improved economy: The primary tenet of consumerism is that individual spending will drive economic growth. While history has taught us that this is generally true, many opponents may ask, “At what cost?”

•   Job creation: The more that a society spends on goods and services, the more that businesses need to hire people to create those goods and services. And it’s not just a phenomenon that impacts the U.S. Because America relies on raw materials from other parts of the world, consumerism typically creates jobs around the globe.

•   Connected global society: Consumerism now happens on a global scale. America depends on other countries for products and services — and they in turn depend on us. While globalization is itself a nuanced topic, many believe that a more connected global society is a good thing.

•   More creativity and innovation: Advocates of consumerism argue that it encourages and rewards creativity. When consumers vote with their dollars, companies are more likely to push the boundaries to deliver newer, better, safer products and services — and at lower prices. This can be especially important for medical advances.

•   Entrepreneurship: In a consumerism-driven society, if you have an idea for a product or service that others want, you are free to pursue it. Launching your own business or working as a freelancer may mean that you can make money and take care of your family using your creativity and business acumen, as well as doing what you love to do.

💡 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 checking account.

Consumerism Cons

Outside of an improved economy, however, critics argue that consumerism can be bad for mental and physical health, as well as the environment. Downsides to consumerism may include:

•   Anxiety and unhappiness: When people feel they always need newer, better things, they may never be satisfied. The pressure to have a new phone or car may lead them to work extra hours, unfairly compare themselves to others, and feel bad about themselves when they can’t afford the next best thing.

•   Debt: Consumerism can motivate individuals to spend money on new things in an effort to achieve happiness. Unfortunately, many consumers spend more than they should on everything from cars and vacations to clothing and jewelry — and take on debt in the process. The average American had nearly $5,600 in credit card debt at the end of last year. Unmanageable debt can destroy families, but it can also be detrimental to the entire economy, as the subprime mortgage crisis of 2008 demonstrated.

•   Environmental impact: Producing, using, and throwing away goods is harmful to the environment, with studies indicating that consumerism has a large part to play in global greenhouse gas emissions. Not only that, but as the human race grows and likely demands more and more things, the nonstop manufacturing of consumer goods could possibly harm or even destroy animal habitats.

•   Poor physical health: Consuming unhealthy foods, alcohol, and cigarettes can be detrimental to one’s health. But it’s not just what is consumed; as innovators introduce more technologies that make life easier — like robotic vacuums, gutter guards, and apps for grocery delivery — it’s easier for consumers to do less, leading to a more sedentary lifestyle.

•   Spiritual and religious issues: Those whose spiritual or religious beliefs promote minimalism and charitable giving may find those beliefs at odds with the spirit of consumerism, which is about increasing your own wellbeing through the consumption of more goods.

Recommended: 14 Reasons Why It’s So Hard to Save Money Today

Tips to Combat Consumerism

Consumerism can be a good thing: It creates jobs and bolsters the economy, and it allows opportunities for individuals to create new things. But when consumerism becomes excessive, it can damage an individual’s finances and possibly be harmful to their emotional and physical health.

Here are some ways you can be a more responsible consumer:

Creating a Budget

By creating a line-item budget that prioritizes the things you need, it’s easier to see how much money you can spend on the things you want. It’s unrealistic to think that you’ll completely stop buying goods and services that you enjoy. Instead, through budgeting, you might gain a better understanding of how much you can afford to splurge without taking on debt or adding anxiety to your life.

Recommended: 10 Most Common Budgeting Mistakes

Giving Things Away (or Selling Them!)

If your home currently has too much stuff, you might have been a victim to excess consumerism at some point. But it’s not too late: Try giving things away to those less fortunate, or have a garage sale to make some extra cash. Doing so may show you that you can be happy with less.

Thinking About What Really Makes You Happy

It’s easy to see what others have and think you need to buy it too. But is a new phone really going to make you happier? What’s wrong with the one you have?

If you challenge yourself to define what happiness is for you, you may find that having new things isn’t a large part of the equation. In keeping this realization with you at all times, you can cut back on spending money on things you don’t need — and instead focus on the people, places, and hobbies that bring you happiness.

Recommended: Guide to Financial Downsizing

The Takeaway

Consumerism has likely been great for the economy: It’s probably created more jobs and opportunities for self-employment, and it’s led to better-quality, safer products for a larger number of people. However, consumerism may also be responsible for negative impacts on our environment, physical health, and mental health. Consumerism is a nuanced topic with implications in nearly every aspect of life; it’s wise to be aware of how consumerism can affect you so that you can make smarter financial decisions.

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.

FAQ

What is a consumerism example?

There are several examples of consumerism in everyday life, including the seemingly constant release of new smartphone models, yearly mega sales on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and the constant ads we’re exposed to on TV and the internet.

Is consumerism positive or negative?

Consumerism has pros and cons for society. While consumerism creates jobs, boosts the economy, and leads to better-quality goods and services, it can also lead to debt, anxiety, and even physical health issues. Further, consumerism can help create a more connected world, but it can also have negative environmental impacts.

What is the simple definition of consumerism?

Consumerism is the economic theory that consumer spending on goods and services is key to driving the economy. To that end, businesses create new products and services to market to individuals. Individual consumers may feel like they need those new products and services to improve their wellbeing and happiness. While consumerism creates new jobs and bolsters the economy, critics believe that it can be harmful to our physical and mental health.

Photo credit: iStock/Dimensions

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.

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.

SOBK1022020

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Aug
08
2023
Taxable vs Non-Taxable Income

Taxable vs. Non-Taxable Income: What’s the Difference?

By | Family Finances, Life & Career, money | Comments Off on Taxable vs. Non-Taxable Income: What’s the Difference?

Nothing is as certain as tax season. Like it or not, it comes every year, and taxpayers need to report and pay their dues on all taxable income. But did you know that some income is non-taxable?

That’s right: In some rare cases, Uncle Sam won’t be asking for his fair share. But you may wonder how to know the difference and how you can correctly file your taxes. This guide can help you understand this important distinction.

Read on to learn:

•   What is taxable income vs. non-taxable income?

•   What are some examples of taxable income?

•   What are some examples of non-taxable income?

Taxable and Non-Taxable Income Explained

The difference between taxable and non-taxable income is pretty straightforward:

•   Taxable income is subject to taxes. That means you must report it to the IRS on your tax return and pay taxes on it based on your filing status and tax bracket. And remember: Income isn’t just money that you earn. Income can come in the form of money, property, or services rendered.

•   Non-taxable income is not subject to taxes. Though you may have pocketed money throughout the year (perhaps child support), you do not need to pay taxes on it. However, you may still need to report it on your tax return.

Understanding the differences between these two terms is easy. It’s understanding just what is considered taxable income vs. non-taxable income that can be more challenging without the help of an accountant.

Understanding your taxes is an important aspect of managing your finances. Incorrectly accounting for income could leave you owing the government money plus penalties, so read on to learn more.

💡 Quick Tip: If your checking account doesn’t offer decent rates, why not apply for an online checking account with SoFi to earn 0.50% APY. That’s 7x the national checking account average.

What Is Taxable Income?

Taxable income is money, property, or services that you received that the IRS requires you to pay taxes on. Common types of taxable income include wages, self-employment earnings, and stock dividends.

Examples of Taxable Income

Wages are an easy example of taxable income, but the list of what kind of earnings are taxed is much more extensive. Below are some examples of taxable income to keep in mind when filing, but note that this list is not exhaustive, meaning you should research each type of income you earned throughout the year to determine if you owe taxes.

•   Salary, wages, tips, bonuses, and self-employment income: First and foremost, the income you make for doing your job counts as taxable income. That includes both salaried and hourly workers who receive a W-2. If you earn tips — even cash tips — you’ve got to report those, too. Bonuses are also taxable, as is any income you make as a self-employed individual.

Self-employed taxpayers who receive 1099 forms have to pay more in taxes than salaried employees. That’s because they also owe self-employment taxes to cover items like Social Security and Medicare contributions.

•   Investment income: If you rent out property (like a house or a vehicle), you must report that income to the IRS and pay taxes on it. If you have investments that pay interest and unqualified dividends, those are taxable as well.

•   Fringe benefits: The IRS is careful to spell out that income isn’t just money you earn. For example, if your employer pays for an off-site gym membership or sends you a Christmas gift every year, these are considered fringe benefits — and you’ve got to report and pay taxes on the monetary value of those benefits. Not all fringe benefits are taxable; if you’re unsure whether you need to pay taxes on something, you can check out the IRS’s resource on fringe benefits or work with an accountant.

•   Some retirement income: If you contributed to a traditional IRA or traditional 401(k) plan, those contributions were pre-tax. When you start withdrawing those funds, you unfortunately have to pay taxes on that money.

•   Income from the sale of assets: When you sell something — whether it’s your car, a stock, or even an old couch — you generally have to report the capital gain from that sale. There are exceptions, including the big tax break you may receive when you sell your house (more on that below).

•   Royalties: If you earn royalties from copyrights, patents, or oil, gas, and mineral properties, you’ll have to pay taxes on those royalties.

•   Alimony, sometimes: Tax law on alimony payments has changed. If you got a divorce before 2019 and have not altered the agreement to expressly state that alimony isn’t considered income, then you’ll pay taxes on it.

•   Unemployment compensation: Yes, even if you’re out of work and receiving unemployment benefits, you’ve got to pay taxes.

Remember, this list is not all-encompassing. The IRS has guidance on everything from cash for babysitting to bartering to lottery winnings. If you’re unsure what income to report, you may benefit from working with an accountant. As you prepare for tax season, these professionals can help you sort out what is taxable vs. non-taxable income so you can file correctly.

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What Is Non-Taxable Income?

Non-taxable income is money, property, or services that you received that the IRS does not require you to pay taxes on, though you may still need to report it on your tax return. Common types of non-taxable income include child support payments, cash rebates, and welfare payments.

Recommended: What Is Unearned Income?

Examples of Non-Taxable Income

As with taxable income, the list of non-taxable income is extensive (and has a lot of fine print). We’ve compiled some examples of non-taxable income below, but it’s a good idea to work with an accountant if you’re unsure how to report your income on your tax return. Again, this is not a complete list.

•   Child support payments: Child support payments are not taxable income — and there’s no fine print to worry about with this money, either.

•   Welfare: Welfare benefits are not taxable. Like child support payments, guidance is very straightforward on this.

•   Alimony, sometimes: If you receive alimony for a divorce in 2019 or later, you do not pay taxes on that income. If you got a divorce before 2019 and modified the agreement after 2018, you may not have to pay taxes on alimony.

•   The sale of a house, sometimes: If you’re quickly flipping houses for a profit, those capital gains are taxable. However, the government has provided a sizable tax break for homeowners. If you sold your home and lived in it for at least two of the last five years, you don’t have to pay taxes on the first $250,000 in profit ($500,000 if married, filing jointly). There’s more fine print about this tax break, so it’s a good idea to reference IRS materials if you have large capital gains from the sale of a house.

•   Some fringe benefits: In general, fringe benefits are taxable, but the IRS does have a list of exclusions, like adoption assistance and dependent care assistance (up to certain limits). For full details, review the IRS’s detailed breakdown of fringe benefits and taxation; the link is provided above.

•   Some retirement income: While you’ll pay taxes when withdrawing from your traditional IRA and 401(k) in retirement, you won’t have to worry about taxes when drawing from a Roth IRA and Roth 401(k). Why? Contributions are post-tax, so you’ve already paid taxes on the funds.

•   Gifts and inheritances: You usually don’t have to pay taxes on (property) gifts you receive; the IRS doesn’t come for Santa’s presents!). What’s more, you likely don’t have to pay taxes on inheritances. Instead, the deceased’s estate pays taxes on the money before you receive the inheritance.

•   Life insurance payout: If you receive proceeds as the recipient of a life insurance policy when the policyholder dies, that money is not taxable. But if you cash in a life insurance policy, some or all of it is taxable.

The IRS has a more comprehensive list to review before filing.

Recommended: Different Types of Taxes

The Takeaway

It’s possible to earn both taxable and non-taxable income. While the most common source of income — your paycheck — is taxable, you might receive some income for which you pay no taxes, like child support or capital gains on the sale of your home. It’s wise to make sure you fully understand how money you receive is categorized, so that you can file your taxes correctly. This could be accomplished by working with a tax professional, using tax software, or doing your own research.

Looking for a way to make more money from your cash? Open a SoFi bank account, which boasts a competitive annual percentage yield (APY) and charges no account fees, both of which can help your savings grow. You can also spend and save in one convenient place and have savings tools like Vaults and Roundups at your fingertips.

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.

FAQ

What are the pros and cons of taxable income?

The largest pro of taxable income is that it inherently means you’re making money. Whether it’s from a salary or an investment, having income that’s taxable implies you are receiving the money you need to survive. And, of course, the con of taxable income is that not all of the income is yours — you’ll have to pay taxes on it, and generally, the more you earn, the more you’ll owe.

What are the pros and cons of non-taxable income?

The biggest pro of non-taxable income is that you don’t have to pay taxes on it. Every dollar you earn is yours to keep. Non-taxable income can have some cons, however, depending on the source. For example, you may receive non-taxable income as a life insurance payout or inheritance, which implies you’ve lost someone special in your life. Non-taxable income can also be more confusing to navigate on your tax return and could necessitate the help of a professional accountant.

How do you calculate taxable and non-taxable income?

The IRS has a comprehensive guide to taxable vs. non-taxable income. In assessing each source of your income, you can review IRS guidance for how to report it and whether it’s taxable or not. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you may benefit from using tax preparation software or a professional tax preparer.

Photo credit: iStock/atakan

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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Aug
08
2023
Financial Assistance Options for the Disabled

Financial Assistance for People With Disabilities

By | Family Finances, Life & Career, money | Comments Off on Financial Assistance for People With Disabilities

Approximately 26% of Americans live with a disability that can impact cognition and mobility skills, according to the National Center for Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities. These disabilities can make it challenging to manage daily tasks or full-time employment, putting a significant strain on finances and possibly making it challenging to make ends meet.

On top of that, according to research from Stony Brook University, the University of Tennessee, the National Disability Institute, and the Oxford Institute of Population Ageing, a household containing an adult with a disability (with limited ability to work) requires 28% more income (or an extra $17,690 annually) to meet the same standard of living as a household without someone with a disability.

Fortunately, various programs are available that provide financial assistance to disabled adults. So, whether you need help with housing costs or healthcare, understanding your options can help you get the assistance you need.

Read on for the details.

How Many People Have Disabilities in the U.S.?

As briefly noted above, about 26% of Americans live with a disability; that means more than one in four people are facing issues with mobility or cognition.

That is a significant number. If you or someone you care about is living with a disability, it’s important to know about the programs that can help access aid.

Types of Help Available for People With Disabilities

When it comes to financial help for the disabled, there are many options. Here are some programs that can assist in this situation.

Healthcare

There are healthcare programs that provide financial help for disabled adults, so medical bills don’t seem so overwhelming. Available programs include:

•   Medicare. Usually, enrolling in Medicare is a program associated with seniors. However, Medicare also offers medical cost assistance for folks with disabilities under 65 years old. If you just began receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you usually have to wait 24 months before your Medicare coverage kicks in. However, eligible applicants can forgo the waiting period if they meet specific requirements.

•   Medicaid. Medicaid is designed to offset the cost of medical bills for low-income and disabled individuals. To see if you qualify for this federal and state-funded program, you can check with your state’s Medicaid office. Usually, your eligibility depends on your age, income, the number of people in your family, and if you’re disabled.

•   Marketplace health insurance coverage. If you don’t qualify for instant Medicare coverage, you can apply for a low-cost private insurance plan to fill in your coverage gap while you complete the waiting period. In addition, depending on your income and level of need, you may qualify for a “premium tax credit,” which can reduce your monthly premium payment.

Housing

Housing assistance can help you identify an affordable place to live, modify your home for your disability, or help you toward a path to live independently. Housing programs that provide financial help for people with disabilities include:

•   State-run independent living centers. Living independently can be difficult for those with a disability. That’s why states and local municipalities offer independent living centers to help folks develop their skills to live without assistance.

You can also contact your state’s department of human services or disability office to discover programs that assist with home modifications, locating housing, and housing counseling for first-time home-buyers.

•   Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Public Housing Agencies (PHA) offer this government-backed housing program to help people with disabilities buy homes and pay housing expenses. However, since every PHA jurisdiction is allowed to decide whether or not HCVs are offered within their jurisdiction, check with your local PHA to see if this program is available in your neck of the woods.

•   Non-Elderly Disabled (NED) Voucher. If you’re not a senior but have a disability, you may qualify for a Non-Elderly Disabled (NED) Voucher. This voucher gives you access to housing communities usually explicitly reserved for seniors.

•   Public housing. Local housing agencies (HA) offer affordable public housing to low-income families or individuals with disabilities. Each local HA determines eligibility based on your income and disability. Nationwide, close to a million families live in public housing units.

•   Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This government-funded program offers financial help for people with disabilities who have difficulty paying their utility bills. Also, if your utilities are turned off due to unpaid bills, the LIHEAP can provide emergency assistance.

Income and Daily Expenses

If you have a disability, you may also need help paying for basic expenses, such as food and clothing. Here are some programs available that can provide monthly financial assistance for disabled individuals and their families.

•   The Social Security Administration. Through the Social Security Administration (SSA), you may qualify for either Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which both offer financial assistance for people with disabilities. SSDI offers financial support to disabled individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes long enough to qualify for assistance (you may be able to have a savings account while on SSDI incidentally). SSI also offers financial support to meet the basic needs (food, clothing, and shelter) of disabled people with limited (or no) income.

Recommended: 9 Common Social Security Myths

•   Supplement Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Also known as the food stamp program, SNAP helps low-income or disabled folks suffering financial hardship save on their grocery bill. This can include using food stamps online. As a disabled adult, you could qualify for increased assistance.

•   Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). If your SSI benefits haven’t kicked in yet and you’re tight on cash, you may qualify for TANF. This is another government-backed program that offers grants to families in need of immediate financial support. It can be a source of financial assistance for the disabled in the short-term.

•   Veteran disability compensation. If you have a disability that either resulted from or worsened due to service in the military, you could qualify for a government grant or other financial assistance through government disability programs.

💡 Quick Tip: Typically, checking accounts don’t earn interest. However, some accounts do, and an online bank are more likely than brick-and-mortar banks to offer you the best rates.

Education

If you have a disability but want to achieve a degree, financial assistance for people with disabilities is available. Here are some programs worth exploring.

•   Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). To ease the financial burden of higher education costs, you can use the FAFSA to determine if you qualify for a variety of aid programs such as the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity, Grant Federal Pell Grant, and Federal Work-Study programs.

•   State and independent education agencies. You can also seek financial support from your state’s department of education or independent agencies around where you live. Remember that eligibility requirements and guidelines will vary by state and organization.

•   Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) Discharge. If you took out federal student loans to pay for higher education costs but can no longer work due to your disability, you could qualify for a TPD discharge. If you’re eligible, the TPD will serve as a disability discharge for student loans, wiping away your student debt.

What’s more, you won’t have to repay your federal loans or meet your TEACH Grant service obligations.

Other Financial Assistance for Disabled Adults

There are other programs that can offer financial assistance for disabled adults. Here are a few other options to consider.

•   Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) savings account. Individuals with disabilities may qualify for an ABLE account, a tax-advantaged saving vehicle. This means account holders are not taxed on the earnings if they use the money within the account to cover qualified disability expenses such as education, housing, or medical costs. You can contribute up to $17,000 per year as an account holder as of 2023.

•   Disability loans. A disability loan is a personal loan that provides financial support for disabled adults while they wait for disability benefits to kick in. Applicants can use this type of loan to cover living costs, medical bills, or any other expense they have pertaining to their disability. Borrowers must meet the lender’s eligibility requirement to qualify. Remember, the disability loan must be repaid according to the lender’s terms and conditions.

•   Disability insurance. Many employers offer disability insurance as part of their compensation package. So, if you become disabled, your disability insurance will pay a portion of your income. Usually, short-term disability insurance supplements your salary for three to six months, while long-term disability can supplement your income from two years until the time when you can retire, depending on the plan and your condition. Plans can pay between 40% and 70% of your salary.

Worth noting: You can buy private disability insurance if you don’t have a plan through your employer.

•   Debt repayment plans.You can consider a debt management plan if your credit card debt is weighing you down. With a debt repayment plan, you work with a credit counseling agency that helps you create a solid repayment plan and can even negotiate with your creditors.

•   Loan forbearance. Some lenders offer forbearance programs if you’re struggling to pay your mortgage, halting your payments for a provisional amount of time. Your lender may also be willing to revamp the terms of your loan to make payments more manageable.

Tips on Applying for Financial Assistance

Applying for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) might be a great place to start sourcing financial assistance if you have recently become disabled from a medical disorder.

To determine if your disability meets the eligibility requirements for benefits, you’ll want to complete the Social Security Disability (SSD) application online, via or at your local Social Security office. The application is detailed and requires documentation to support your case. Preparing carefully in advance may help you improve your chance of approval.

Here are some tips to streamline the process.

•   Include detailed responses to all application questions. It’s best to provide as much information on your application as you can. Since the purpose of the application is to prove your disability doesn’t allow you to work, you’ll want to make your answers very detailed. Simply providing “yes” or “no” answers can result in an application denial.

•   Submit ongoing medical records. Your doctor will provide your initial medical records for your application proving your disability. In addition, you should provide any other medical records when you receive them. Medical records can include lab tests, medication paperwork, treatment documents, and more. Whenever you receive a medical record from your medical professional’s office, you could forward it to the SSA. The more supporting documentation you have, the better your chances of qualifying.

•   Partner with a disability lawyer. Disability lawyers are well-versed on SSD applications. Yes, it could be an additional expense, but their expertise could be advantageous when completing the application. It might even increase the odds of benefit approval.

You can expect the entire application process usually takes anywhere between three to six months. However, the SSA may grant you an expedited process if you have a rare condition or aggressive disease.

In addition to benefits from the SSA, other government and non-profit organizations provide financial assistance to disabled adults and their families. If you’re in need, explore all available options starting with the list above. Once you pinpoint several programs to apply for, gather all your documentation (i.e., income documents, medical records, etc.) in advance to streamline the application process. Keep in mind there might be a waiting period before benefits are approved. So, it’s best to apply as soon as you can.

The Takeaway

Having a disability can be emotionally, physically, and financially challenging. The same applies if you care for a person with disabilities, literally or figuratively. Fortunately, plenty of programs are available to help with medical bills, income, housing, education, and much more. These can be available to help with short-term and ongoing needs. By doing some research and outreach, you may be able to get financial assistance to help with your needs.

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.

FAQ

Is there an income limit for these financial assistance options for the disabled?

Income limits vary by the program you’re applying for. For example, the monthly income limit is $1,470 for non-blind disabled SSDI or SSI applicants, and $2,460 for blind SSDI applicants in 2023.

Is there a chance that someone can get denied assistance?

Yes, but it depends on the program. For example, only about 20% to 30% of disability benefits applicants are awarded financial support. Denials can result from a variety of factors, including technical errors and issues with medical information.

What is the criteria for getting financial assistance as a disabled person?

Criteria and eligibility depend on the program. So, before you apply, make sure you understand the requirements of the aid you are hoping to qualify for.

Photo credit: iStock/Renata Hamuda

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.

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.

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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Aug
08
2023

Guide to Bank Deposits

By | Family Finances, Life & Career, money | Comments Off on Guide to Bank Deposits

A bank deposit is money that you give a financial institution like a bank or credit union to keep safely in an account. You can make bank deposits via cash, checks, online transfers, or direct deposit. The type of deposit you make will determine when you can withdraw funds.

You can make a deposit into a checking or savings account, among others. Some of these accounts may pay interest for the privilege of having your cash on deposit.

Understanding how bank deposits work and the pros and cons of each type of deposit can help you better manage your money. Here’s what you need to know.

What Are Bank Deposits?

The bank deposit definition is when you put money into a bank account. Your bank deposits can go into various accounts such as savings, checking, money market accounts, or certificates of deposits (CDs).

Depositing your money into a bank account can help you accomplish two things:

•   It can keep your money safe.

•   It can help your money grow.

Bank deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) (up to $250,000 per depositor, per ownership category, per financial institution, and in some cases even more). That means your money is a whole lot safer in a bank account than under your mattress.

The other thing you can accomplish by depositing your money is helping it grow. Because many financial institutions offer interest-bearing bank accounts, you can capitalize on compounding interest by not withdrawing funds and also consistently adding to your balance over time.

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How Do Bank Deposits Work?

The type of deposit you make dictates the process.

For example, when you deposit a check, the bank sends a digital image of the check to the payer’s financial institution. While large banks usually communicate directly to clear checks, other banks work through a clearinghouse or a third-party intermediary to verify checks. The clearinghouse organizes all the deposits coming in and out of a specific bank and ensures all deposits are put in and taken out of the correct accounts.

If the payer’s account doesn’t have enough funds to process the check, it will bounce and be returned unpaid. If you have already taken out the funds from the check, you will have to pay the total balance back, usually plus a fee.

Direct deposits, on the other hand, work a little differently. Since direct deposits are scheduled payments, the payer’s or employer’s bank will credit the account before sending the direct deposit. This way, the payer’s bank can ensure the account has enough money to cover the transaction.

Once the funds are deposited, you can access the sum the next business day.

How Long Do Bank Deposits Take to Process?

Process times vary by the financial institution and how the deposit is made. However, federal law limits the time it takes for a bank deposit to process.

•   For example, if you deposit checks totaling $225 or less, the bank must let you access the funds the next business day. So, if you deposited checks on a Monday, you should be able to access your money on Tuesday. However, if there’s a bank holiday, transactions may be delayed.

•   If you deposit a check(s) totaling more than $225 you will have access to the first $225 the next business day. Then, you will have access to the remaining deposit the following business day.

•   When you deposit a check from another account from that financial institution, a government check, or a certified check in person at a bank branch, you should have access to the money the next business day.

Keep in mind some banks and credit unions apply cut-off times, which dictate the end of the day. So, if you deposit after the cut-off time, you may have to wait an extra business day before accessing the deposit.

Also, other types of deposits have different processing time. For example, wire transfers, and ACH deposits may take between one and five business days to process.

Here are a few reasons why it can take longer for your deposit to process:

•   You’re depositing money into a new account

•   You made an ATM deposit to an ATM outside the financial institution’s network

•   If you have a deposited check that was returned unpaid

•   Your deposits exceed $5,525

•   You’ve overdrawn your account too many times.

Recommended: Causes of Overspending

2 Types of Bank Deposits

There are two primary types of bank deposits: demand deposits and time deposits. Here’s a breakdown of each.

Demand Deposits

Demand deposits consist of money you put into the bank that you can take out when you need cash. Demand deposit accounts usually have minimal interest rates (or no interest), but they give you more freedom to withdraw money when needed. These types of deposits can be made to three types of accounts, including:

•   Checking accounts. This type of account is meant for everyday transactions. You can deposit and withdraw money as often as you want. Usually, checking accounts have checks and debit cards linked to them so you can access your money when you’re on the go.

•   Savings accounts. This type of account is designed to help you sock your money away for short-term or long-term goals. Since the different types of savings accounts are meant for savings, some banks apply withdrawal limits, limiting the number of monthly withdrawal transactions that can occur in an account.

Savings accounts may also have interest rates higher than checking accounts. This is especially true if you deposit funds at an online vs. traditional bank.

•   Money market accounts. This type of account combines the features of a savings account with those of a checking account. Money market accounts let you earn interest like a savings account. They can also provide a debit card and checks so you can withdraw funds.

Time Deposits

A time deposit is when you put money into a deposit account with a fixed rate and term, like certificates of deposit (CDs). You can only take money out of a time deposit account once the term expires. (You may have to pay a penalty if you take money out of the account beforehand. But whether you get a penalty or not depends on the type of account and the financial institution.)

For example, let’s say you deposit $5,000 in a CD that earns 5% interest for one year. Then, after one year, you can withdraw $5,250.00, which includes your deposit and interest earned.

You can think of banks as using time deposit accounts to borrow money from depositors. In exchange for borrowing money for a certain amount of time, the bank usually gives the depositor a fixed interest rate, typically higher than traditional savings accounts. At the end of the term, the depositor can take out the money in the account or renew the time deposit for another term.

Recommended: What Is an Electronic Check (E-Check)?

What Are Mobile Deposits?

Many banks and credit unions now offer mobile banking, giving you access to banking services no matter where you are. You can make mobile check deposits from your phone as part of mobile banking. So, instead of driving to an ATM or local bank branch, you can deposit it on your mobile device.

All you have to do is:

•   Download the bank’s mobile banking app.

•   Log into your account.

•   Choose the account you want to deposit the check into.

•   Endorse the back of the check.

•   Enter the amount of the check.

•   Snap a photo of the front and back of the check.

•   Review the deposit information, and then hit deposit.

Remember, though, there can be limits on the amount and type of checks you can deposit on your mobile app. For example, some banks prohibit depositing third-party checks, money orders, traveler’s checks, and foreign checks. So, verify the rules with your bank or credit union.

Also, if you deposit a check using the mobile app, keep the paper check until the check clears. This way, you’ll have a backup if it doesn’t go through or there is an error.

Open a Bank Account Today

Are you looking for a home for your money? If so, see what SoFi has to offer. With a SoFi bank account, you will spend and save in one convenient place. Plus, you’ll earn a competitive annual percentage yield (APY) and pay no account fees, both of which can help your money grow.

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.

FAQ

What are the 2 types of bank deposits?

Demand deposits and time deposits are the two types of bank deposits. A demand deposit references deposits made into an account such as a checking or saving account where you can withdraw. A time deposit, on the other hand, refers to a deposit made to an account with a fixed interest rate and set terms, like certificates of deposits.

What happens if you deposit more than $10,000 in the bank?

When you deposit $10,000 or more into a financial institution, federal law requires them to report the deposit to the federal government. The federal government requires this alert to help prevent money laundering and fraud.

Does deposit mean payment?

Yes, deposits can mean an initial payment towards a product or service. It can also mean putting something of value away for safekeeping, like when you make a bank deposit to a bank.

Photo credit: iStock/AlexSecret
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.

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.

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.

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