Aug
07
2023
How Old Do You Have to Be to Open a Bank Account?

How Old Do You Have to Be to Open a Bank Account?

By | Budgeting & Goals, Financial Independence, money | Comments Off on How Old Do You Have to Be to Open a Bank Account?

Helping kids gain hands-on money skills can start with learning how a bank account works. After all, bank accounts can provide a hub for most people’s daily financial life. You may be surprised to know that there are many options if you want to open a bank account for a child. While a person typically has to be 18 to open their own account, a child can generally open a bank account at any age — as long as a parent or a guardian serves as a joint account holder.

Key Points

•   While SoFi requires bank account applicants to be 18 years old, some banks allow minors to open an account, as long as a parent or guardian serves as a joint account holder.

•   Custodial accounts are controlled by an adult until the minor reaches the age of majority.

•   Joint accounts list both a minor’s name and an adult’s name as co-owners, with equal control of the account.

•   Withdrawing money from a bank account depends on whether it is a custodial or joint account.

•   To open a bank account, you need government-issued photo identification, contact information, proof of address, and possibly a Social Security card, birth certificate, passport, or school photo ID.

What Age Can You Open a Bank Account?

How old do you have to be to open a bank account? Usually, a person has to be 18 to open their own account. However, there isn’t a federal law that sets a minimum age at which you can have a bank account. Each state can have its own regulations regarding accounts for young savers and, depending on the state, financial institutions also may have the ability to set their own rules.

If you’re interested in opening an account and are unsure of age requirements, you may want to contact a few different financial institutions to ask if they have an account that suits your needs.

🛈 Currently, SoFi only offers bank accounts to members 18 years old and above.

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.


Can a Minor Open a Bank Account?

Usually, you must be 18, or the age of majority in your state, to open a bank account without a parent or guardian. But there are ways in which a minor can open a bank account and have his or her name on it. Some popular options include:

Custodial Accounts

A custodial account is an account an adult opens on behalf of a minor. The money held in the account belongs to the minor but is controlled by the custodian — usually a parent — until the minor reaches the age of majority (typically 18 to 21, but it may vary by state). There are a few different types of custodial accounts, including savings, educational savings, and investment accounts.

With this type of account, the minor won’t be able to access funds on their own, and they won’t be issued an ATM card. Generally, a custodial account changes over to an individual account when the child reaches adulthood.

Joint Accounts

A joint account lists both a minor’s name and an adult’s name as co-owners, and they have equal control of the account. If the goal of the account is to help a minor learn financial responsibility or to give them control over their own money — but with an adult’s guidance — this might be the right choice. These accounts usually offer the parent the ability to monitor and control the account to some degree. For instance, the parent might set spending limits and get notified of transactions.

Depending on the child’s age, you may want to start with a joint savings account. Or, you might decide to look into the perks of a teen or student checking account that offers youth-friendly benefits (like low minimums and fees), and a debit card and/or checks for purchases and withdrawals.

When minors reach the age of majority, they may choose to keep a joint account, but they also may want to transfer the account to just their name. As another option, they can open a new, individual account that better suits their current needs.

Recommended: Tips to Improve Your Money Mindset

Can a Minor Withdraw Money from a Bank Account?

If you’re wondering if a minor can withdraw money from a bank account, the answer is: It depends. With a custodial account, it is likely that the child cannot touch the money. The adult likely maintains control until the child reaches majority and becomes the account owner.

However, with a joint account, the child may be able to deposit and withdraw funds, just as the adult on the account can. That said, parental monitoring and controls can often be set up.

What Age Can You Get a Debit Card?

Typically, checking accounts for kids and teens offer debit cards. The age at which a minor can get a debit card will be determined by the bank offering the account. This feature may only be available to teens, but some banks (such as Chase) allow six-year-olds and up to get debit cards.

There are also options like prepaid or secured debit cards that can be used by kids. GoHenry offers them to children as young as age 6 to help them learn money management skills, while Greenlight says there is no minimum age for its debit card. It is likely, however, that you will find plenty of parental monitoring and controls in place, so it’s not as if the child can spend all their money on a whim.

🛈 Currently, SoFi only offers bank accounts to members 18 years old and above.

What Will I Need to Open a Bank Account?

Whether you plan to open a bank account online or in person, you can expect to be asked for identification and certain types of documentation. Most account applications are straightforward and easy to complete; still, you may save some time by confirming that you meet all the criteria for a particular type of account before you get started.

You may have to provide the following information and documents when you set up a bank account:

•   Government-issued photo identification, such as a valid driver’s license or passport

•   Social Security number or individual taxpayer identification number

•   Contact information, including your full name, address and phone number

•   Proof of address, such as a utility bill or some other type of official document with your current address (you can print an online statement if you’ve gone paperless)

•   Student bank accounts may require proof of school enrollment, such as a student ID or acceptance letter

•   Joint account holders should be ready to provide required documents for all parties named on the account

This can mean that you may need one or more of the following forms of ID for the child who will be on the account:

•   Social Security card

•   Birth certificate

•   Passport

•   School photo ID

•   Immunization record

In addition to the above items, a minimum deposit to open an account may be required as well.

Recommended: How to Open a Bank Account

What to Consider When Choosing a Bank Account

Your goals for the account and how much participation you want the child to have can help you decide between a savings account vs. a checking account and between a custodial account or joint account.

Some other things to keep in mind as you compare accounts include:

Access

If you and/or your child expect to make frequent deposits and withdrawals, you may want to be sure the account comes with access to a large ATM network, easy online banking, or a convenient branch location.

Account Minimums

Many banks and credit unions have minimum balance requirements for savings and checking accounts. If you and your child would struggle to meet that threshold, you may want to look for an account that has a low or no minimum balance requirement.

APY

Earning interest isn’t necessarily a top priority with a bank account, but every little bit helps. Learning how an annual percentage yield (APY) works and how interest is calculated can be a good teachable moment for kids. What’s more, watching their money grow can be educational and motivational for young savers.

Customer Support

Does the financial institution have a reputation for reliable and helpful customer service? This could be important if you have questions or need help with disputing a transaction.

Fees

Fees can quickly eat away at a teen’s hard-earned money, especially if they’re using a non-network ATM to make withdrawals. You may want to find accounts that offer no or low monthly fees, ATM fees, overdraft fees and non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees.

Online/Mobile Experience

Whether you prefer online vs. traditional banking, be sure to check out the financial institution’s web and mobile platforms. It’s likely both parent and child will be using these tools on a regular basis.

Parental Protections

Though having a checking or cash management account can be a big step toward financial independence, it can be wise to put some parental controls on a minor’s account. Many accounts allow parents to monitor their child’s transactions so they can offer timely guidance.

Security

Will the money in the account be insured by the FDIC or NCUA? Will your personal and financial information be protected from unauthorized access with two-factor or multi-factor authentication? If one of your reasons for using a bank account is to keep your money safe, these can be important questions to ask.

Opening a Checking Account vs Savings Account for a Minor

As you consider options for opening a bank account for a minor, you may be faced with the decision of whether to go with a checking or a savings account. Here are some key differences to be away of; they can help you find the right fit:

Checking Account for Minors

 Savings Account for Minors
Typically not interest-bearing Interest-bearing
Intended for daily spending Intended to accrue funds towards a goal
Comes with a debit card Usually doesn’t come with a debit card
Unlimited withdrawals Withdrawals may be only 6x per month
Has ATM access May not have ATM access
May involve fees May involve fees
Likely to be FDIC-insured Likely to be FDIC-insured

The Takeaway

Though there is likely a minimum age to open a bank account on your own (typically 18), minors can generally share a joint account with a parent or guardian until then. There are several types of accounts that kids and their parents might consider depending on their needs and goals, so it’s important to do a little research before choosing an account.

For example, you might want to prioritize the account’s APY if you hope to grow the money on deposit. But if the account is for daily spending, you might want to focus on low fees and easy access to a wide network of ATMs.

If you’re searching for a banking partner that offers all of those features, see what SoFi offers. Our Checking and Savings Account pays a competitive APY, charges no account fees, and provides access to a network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs within the Allpoint Network.

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.

🛈 Currently, SoFi only offers bank accounts to members 18 years old and above.

FAQ

What is the youngest age to open a bank account?

In terms of at what age you can open a bank account, there’s no single rule. Typically, though, you must be age 18 or the age of majority in your state to have your own account. But, via joint accounts and custodial accounts, even younger individuals can have some banking privileges.

How do I open a bank account for a minor?

To open a bank account for a minor, you typically need various forms of identification, proof of residence, and an opening deposit. If the minor will share the account, they will need to provide identification as well.

Can a child get a debit card?

A child can get a debit card. On many of the joint accounts for minors, a debit card is part of the offering. You may find them for kids as young as age six. There are also some secured or prepaid debit cards for minors, some with no minimum age available.

Photo credit: iStock/Chaay_Tee

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.

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Aug
07
2023
Is $100,000 a Year Salary Good?

Is a $100,000 Salary Good?

By | Building Your Career, Life & Career, money | Comments Off on Is a $100,000 Salary Good?

In most parts of the country, a $100,000 salary is considered good; maybe even very, very good. It can be more than enough for an individual or even a small family to live comfortably. With $100,000 a year, a person could cover typical expenses, pay down debt, build their savings, contribute toward retirement, invest, and still have enough money for entertainment, hobbies, and vacations.

But there can certainly be exceptions to whether $100K a year is good, as well as ways to make that salary go even farther than it might otherwise.

Key Points

•   A $100,000 salary is considered good in most parts of the country, and can cover typical expenses, pay down debt, build savings, and allow for entertainment and hobbies.

•   According to the U.S. Census, only 15.3% of American households make more than $100,000 annually.

•   A $100,000 salary can yield a monthly income of $8,333.33, a biweekly paycheck of $3,846.15, a weekly income of $1,923.08, and a daily income of $384.62 based on 260 working days per year.

•   The five cheapest cities to live in 2022 are Hickory, North Carolina; Green Bay, Wisconsin; Huntsville, Alabama; Quad Cities (Davenport-Bettendorf, Iowa and Moline-Rock Island, Illinois); and Fort Wayne, Indiana.

•   Tips for living off a $100,000 budget include getting on a budget, saving your money, getting out of debt, and creating a retirement plan.

Factors to Determine if a $100,000 Salary Is Good

Is $100K a good salary? In almost every case, yes. It’s well above the poverty line as well as the American median income for both individuals and smaller families. Even in the face of rising inflation, a $100,000 annual income can typically afford a comfortable lifestyle and financial stability.

Here are some factors to determine if $100,000 is a good salary:

•   Location: While $100K can cover expenses in most places across the U.S., it won’t stretch as far in places with a higher cost of living. In some of the most expensive cities in the U.S., a $100K salary might mean spending a significantly higher percentage of your income on housing. For instance, in the summer of 2022, the average rent in Manhattan hit $5,000 a month.

•   Taxes: As an individual, $100K a year puts you in the 24% federal income tax bracket. That means that you’d only bring home $76,000 after federal taxes — even less depending on state, city, and school district taxes. Married individuals bringing in $100,000 total are taxed slightly lower (22%), meaning $78,000 after Uncle Sam’s cut at the federal level.

•   Family size: A $100K a year salary can yield comfortable living for most individuals, but the larger a family becomes, the harder it is to make that money stretch. Additional children or other dependents may result in higher grocery bills, utility usage, school costs, and doctor visits.

How Does a $100,000 Salary Compare to the American Median Income?

The American median household income is roughly $67,500, per the latest published U.S. Census results. More recently, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the median weekly income for a full-time worker is $1,037, which translates to a $54,000 median annual salary.

Either way, a $100,000 salary is almost double the American median income. If you live in what’s known as a DINK household (dual income, no kids) and your domestic partner also brings home a sizable paycheck, you are sitting even higher above that median household income.

Recommended: Typical Bills for One Person Per Month

What Percentage of Americans Make Over $100,000 Annually?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, only 15.3% of American households pull in more than $100,000 annually. However, a “household” might consist of two or more salaries totaling $100,000.

$100,000 Salary Breakdown

So is making $100K a year good? It’s almost surely easier than living on $20K a year. Let’s look at how it breaks down into monthly, weekly, and even daily pay:

•   Monthly income: $8,333.33

•   Biweekly paycheck: $3,846.15

•   Weekly income: $1,923.08

•   Daily income: $384.62 based on 260 working days per year.

Keep in mind that this salary breakdown uses pre-tax income. Actual paychecks will likely be lower after taxes and any health insurance premiums and retirement contributions are deducted.

Can You Live Individually on a $100,000 Income?

It is indeed possible to live individually on a $100,000 income. At that salary, many individuals will be able to cover not only basic living expenses but also discretionary expenses, like dining out and traveling.

Individuals making $100K annually often have enough disposable income to pay down debt, contribute to retirement, work toward multiple savings goals (like home ownership and vacations), and even invest.

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 Much Rent Can You Afford Living on a $100,000 Income?

The conventional advice on how much of your income to spend on housing is no more than 30%. While economists may need to reevaluate that number given current inflation and soaring housing prices, that would mean an individual could afford $30,000 in rent costs each year, or roughly $2,500 a month, on $100K a year.

However, at $100,000 a year, an individual could consider buying a home instead. A $100K salary might make it easier to save for a down payment and keep up with maintenance expenses, property taxes, and homeowners insurance.

Best Places to Live on a $100,000 Salary

At $100,000 a year, an individual or small family can likely live in most locations. In fact, $100,000 is higher than the annual median income ($65,290) of America’s most expensive city, Los Angeles.

That said, if you want to make your dollars stretch as far as possible, consider what U.S. News has deemed the five cheapest cities to live in 2022:

•   Hickory, North Carolina

•   Green Bay, Wisconsin

•   Huntsville, Alabama

•   Quad Cities (Davenport-Bettendorf, Iowa and Moline-Rock Island, Illinois)

•   Fort Wayne, Indiana

Recommended: Cost of Living by State

Worst Places to Live on a $100,000 Salary

A $100,000 salary can typically afford at least basic living expenses even in America’s most expensive cities. However, living in such places can make it harder to build your savings and invest toward your future.

If you want to live comfortably on $100,000 a year, it may be wise to avoid what have been deemed America’s most expensive cities in 2022:

•   Los Angeles, California

•   Miami, Florida

•   San Diego, California

•   Salinas, California

•   Santa Barbara, California

Is a $100,000 Salary Considered Rich?

Many people may consider a $100,000 salary to be rich. However, “rich” is a relative term with a vague definition, meaning an abundance of wealth and assets. Much of it depends on where you live and how you use the income (spending vs. saving vs. investing).

Also, consider how personal circumstances can differ. If you earn $100K a year and your spouse doesn’t work outside the home and you are supporting three children as well as a relative with medical needs, that high salary may not stretch as far. Add some student loans, a jumbo mortgage, and car payments to the picture, and you realize a person earning $100,000 a year might not qualify as rich in most people’s estimation. They may be barely making ends meet.

Tips for Living off a $100,000 Budget

How can you make the most of a $100,000 salary? Here are a few tips for living off a $100,000 budget:

Getting on a Budget

No matter your salary, it’s a good idea to design a monthly budget. At a minimum, keep track of your monthly expenses vs. your monthly income. After you have accounted for all your mandatory expenses, like your mortgage and your groceries, you can calculate what you have left for discretionary expenses (the “wants” in life), savings, debt repayment, and investments.

Saving Your Money

It’s a good idea to have emergency savings at the very least; being able to cover three to six months’ of expenses without any income flowing in is ideal.

Beyond an emergency savings, you may want to allocate money in your budget each month to other savings goals, including a house or car down payment, wedding, vacation, or home renovations. Having a high-interest savings account with automatic savings features can help you get to your goal faster.

Recommended: How to Save Money From Your Salary

Getting Out of Debt

Paying down debt can be a good use of funds when you have room in your budget, especially if you have particularly high-interest credit card debt. You can weigh options like the debt avalanche vs. debt snowball method when you have multiple sources of debt or even consider a credit card debt consolidation loan.

Creating a Retirement Plan

If you’re wondering “When should I start saving for retirement?” many financial experts would likely say the answer is “yesterday.” The sooner you start saving, the sooner your money can grow via compound interest.

If your employer offers a 401(k) match and you can afford to funnel a percentage of your paycheck into a retirement account, it’s often a wise idea to opt in. But employer-sponsored 401(k) accounts aren’t your only retirement option. Depending on your situation, it may be a good idea to take advantage of a rollover or traditional IRA and other retirement strategies.

Investing Your Money

Investing isn’t only for retirement. If you are earning $100K a year and have extra money after having built up emergency savings and wiped out your debt, you might benefit from investing in the stock market or even real estate.

Learning how to invest can be intimidating; if you’re not sure where to start, it can be a good idea to work with a trusted investment broker.

The Takeaway

For most individuals and small families, the answer to “Is $100,000 a good salary?” is a resounding “yes.” Cost of living and family size can affect how far $100,000 will go, but generally speaking, you can live comfortably on $100,000 a year.

Are you hoping to make the most of your salary? Consider a bank account from SoFi Banking. When opened with direct deposit, you’ll earn a competitive APY and pay no monthly account fees, which can help your money grow faster. Plus, eligible SoFi accounts provide paycheck access up to two days early. You enjoy other rewards, like cash back on local purchases and no-fee overdraft coverage.

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 jobs pay over $100,000?

Many jobs pay over $100,000 a year in various fields. These jobs include doctors, lawyers, software engineers, business leaders, pharmacists, psychologists, IT managers, finance managers, and many others. Those in creative fields, from writers to hair stylists, can earn that salary, too.

Is making $100,000 a year common?

Making $100,000 a year is not common in the U.S. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, only 15.3% of American households make more than $100,000.

Can you live comfortably on $100K a year?

Most people can live comfortably on $100K a year. If you live in an area with a high cost of living and/or have a large family or very high expenses and/or debt, it may be more difficult to live comfortably on $100K a year. In either case, it is usually not challenging to afford basic living expenses.

What is considered wealthy in the U.S.?

Americans said in one survey that they believe it takes a net worth of $2.2 million to be considered “wealthy.” When calculating net worth, you’ll factor in more than just income; it also includes assets (like a house and retirement account), less any debts and liabilities.

Photo credit: iStock/Inside Creative House

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.

SOBK0822011

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Aug
07
2023

Guide to Financial Security and Achieving It

By | Budgeting & Goals, Financial Independence, money | Comments Off on Guide to Financial Security and Achieving It

Most of us have some dreams for our financial future, whether that means buying a home, starting a business, sending a kid to college with a minimum of student loans, or retiring by age 50, or perhaps even all of the above.

Your vision of your future is undoubtedly unique, but one thing all these dreams have in common: They usually are free, and they don’t unfold without planning and effort.

Whether you’re dreaming big of owning multiple homes and taking luxurious vacations or are more focused on simply getting out of credit card debt, achieving financial security can be one way to make it a reality.

What is the definition of financial security? It means you can meet your financial obligations, feel secure about your financial future, and you are able to enjoy life rather than dealing with a major dose of money stress.

Here, you’ll learn more about financial security and some simple steps that can help get you on the path to achieving it.

What Is Financial Security?

One definition of financial security is being able to pay the bills (without having to check account balances first) and not being worried that you’ll run out of money down the road. It’s also a sense of knowledge and control when it comes to your personal finances.

This can include a huge range of lifestyles and aspirations. For some people, it’s all about the numbers — how much they own, the size of their portfolio, or their net worth. But for others, it could mean accumulating a nest egg so they can travel the planet with all their earthly possessions in a backpack and work odd jobs wherever they land until they make enough money for a ticket to their next destination.

Why Financial Security Matters

Financial security matters for several reasons. One, these can be uncertain times. Think about how much life changed during the pandemic and how thin some people were stretched financially. Consider how health emergencies and job layoffs can crop up unexpectedly. When you have financial security, you are likely better able to deal with the ups and downs of life.

Also, having financial security means you have a plan and are preparing for what’s ahead. That’s a valuable thing in and of itself. It means you are paying attention to your earnings, spending, and saving. You’re in the driver’s seat and can course-correct when needed.


💡 Quick Tip: Make money easy. Open a bank account online so you can manage bills, deposits, transfers — all from one convenient app.

7 Ways to Achieve Financial Security

For those who haven’t received a huge inheritance or won the lottery, achieving financial security is likely to involve lots of hard work, determination, and a DIY attitude.

Why? One reason is because the safety nets intended to protect Americans in retirement are starting to unravel. The Social Security trust fund is on the way toward depletion sometime after 2034, and recipients might only receive a portion of the benefits they were expecting. That’s only a decade or so away.

The good news is, it’s never too late to get in the game. And achieving financial security may even help achieve emotional wellness at the same time. Win-win!

Here are a few smart strategies that could help with laying out a financial security plan.

1. Setting Goals

Financial goal-setting can be like jumping ahead to the last chapter of a book. It starts with the endgame, such as paying for kids’ college, traveling, or upgrading a home or vehicle.

From there, “reading” goes backward by breaking those goals into bite-size steps until the arrival at Chapter 1 — an overview of the current situation and a plan to meet those long-term goals.

Short-term financial goals could include things like paying off high-interest debt, eliminating student loans, optimizing a credit score, or growing an emergency fund.

Once those are achieved, money could be shifted into longer-term planning, such as retirement (perhaps even retiring early), buying or upgrading a home, paying off a mortgage, or investing.

No matter how long it takes, checking something off a goal list can be a huge feeling of accomplishment, as well as motivation to start the next chapter.

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.


2. Creating a Goals-Based Budget

As a good witch from the North once said, “It’s always best to start at the beginning.” And when outlining a plan for financial security, that can mean taking a refresher course on personal finance basics.

Getting reacquainted with simple concepts like avoiding credit cards, paying bills on time, and creating a budget could be a good way to help focus on a plan that’s all about individual goals.

It could also help kickstart a habit of tracking cash flow, because creating a budget that curbs spending or pumps up savings isn’t likely to work if where the money is going remains a mystery.

And remember that joy of checking off boxes? Every time money that used to be spent instead goes toward a savings goal, it could trigger that same feeling of accomplishment.

3. Keeping Your Money Safe

How else to achieve financial security? Keep your money safe. This strategy isn’t about stashing cash under the mattress. In 21st-century terms, keeping money safe is more about making decisions that will protect an investment.

•   You’ll likely want to keep your money at a financial institution that’s insured by either the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or NCUA, the National Credit Union Administration.

•   Tactics like diversifying a portfolio to include some low-risk investments, cash-based savings investments, or even commodities, can help keep that portfolio steady if the market has a bad day.

•   Keeping your money safe could also involve keeping finances organized so it’s obvious what money is where, knowing the penalties and late fees on each account, when bills are due, and how much interest is being earned.

•   Since much of today’s money management is done online, keeping money safe can also mean protecting identity, passwords, and offline financial documents.

4. Getting Out of Debt

If those monthly high-interest credit-card payments didn’t exist, where would that money go instead? Paying off debt could free up a potentially big chunk of money to put toward those big dreams.

Creating a debt-payoff strategy can take just as much time and effort as creating a financial wellness plan, but if one is dependent on the other, it’s an essential step.

Two popular methods include:

•   The debt snowball, which calls for paying off the lowest balance first and then applying that entire amount to the next-lowest balance (on top of the minimum).

•   The debt avalanche, which is similar but focuses on the highest-interest debt first.

Other solutions for dealing with debt include looking into zero- or low-interest balance transfer offers for credit cards, which can give your breathing room (often 18 months) to pay off what you owe without those steep interest charges. Or you might look into debt consolidation with a personal loan, which could give you a lower monthly payment, or you might meet with a low- or no-cost debt counselor for guidance.

Recommended: Steps to Financial Freedom

5. Saving

Having money in the bank, whether for short- or long-term goals, is an important part of financial security. Some pointers:

•   Keeping money in a high-interest savings account for short-term use can be a good way to put your cash to work earning you some money. Typically, online banks vs. traditional ones offer the best rates.

•   Aim to build an emergency fund equal to three to six months’ salary, which would tide you over if you had a major medical bill or car repair or got laid off. You might decide that a high-interest savings account is the safest place to keep the funds. (It can also provide the easiest access to money in a pinch.)

•   Consider automating your finances and paying yourself first. This can mean setting up recurring transfers from checking right after you are paid into your savings account. You don’t see the money in checking, so you’re not tempted to spend it, and your savings account can grow.


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

6. Investing

To achieve financial security by saving for the longer term, there’s goals-based investing. This is different from traditional portfolio investing in that, instead of focusing on which assets will give the best returns over a period of time, the strategy is adapted to meet individual needs.

An investment strategy to save for a down payment, for example, is different both financially and psychologically from saving for retirement in 15 years or more.

You can also determine your risk tolerance based on the timeline of your goal as well as other factors.

7. Managing Your Expenses

A key aspect of how to achieve financial security can be understanding where your money goes and keeping close tabs on it. Your budget will help with that.

However, to really ensure that you meet future goals, you may want to avoid these two scenarios:

•   One is lifestyle creep. This means that as you earn more, you spend more, so your future goals don’t get well funded. For instance, if you change jobs and get a $10,000 raise (congratulations!) and promptly move to a pricier new home and lease a luxury car, you could wind up spending more than you actually receive after taxes. So you want to carefully balance rewarding yourself for a job well done and achieving the aspirations that represent financial security to you.

•   Another issue can be FOMO, or Fear of Missing Out. This is when we succumb to social pressure. In the case of finances, it could be that all your friends have every streaming service known to humankind, and you feel compelled to sign up too. Who wants to miss out on discussions about the latest hit? Or you might see that all your coworkers are traveling to Europe, and you decide to book an expensive trip too. Doing so could throw your savings plan off for a long time to come.

Holding your ground, managing your budget, and remembering your most important goals can keep you on track to achieve financial security.

Opening a SoFi Savings Account

The “How to Achieve Financial Security” list can be long and varied, but as the old saying goes, there are two ways to make money: You work for it or make it work for you. If you’re ready to make your money work harder, it may be time to review your banking partner.

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.

FAQ

What is an example of financial security?

Financial security means being able to afford your lifestyle, not carry too much (bad) debt, and being able to save for your future.

How do you start financial security?

There are several important steps towards financial security. These can include goal setting, budgeting, starting a savings plan, and investing for long-term growth.

What are financial security issues?

Issues that can hinder your pursuit of financial security include not setting goals (or not doing so soon enough), not managing debt well, and not saving for short-term and long-term goals. One example would be not saving for retirement.

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.

SOBK0523018

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Aug
06
2023
What Are Traveler's Checks and How Do They Work?

Guide to Traveler’s Checks

By | Financial Independence, money, Terminology | Comments Off on Guide to Traveler’s Checks

Once upon a time, traveler’s checks were considered vital for keeping your money secure and helping you spend when traveling internationally. But as digital payment options have emerged and ATMs have popped up on street corners around the world, traveler’s checks have become less popular.

However, while perhaps not your primary source of funding while overseas, traveler’s checks may still have a place when you take a trip.

A key benefit of traveler’s checks is that they are very much like using cash. Many businesses will accept traveler’s checks, whether you are paying for a spa treatment or a pair of sandals. But, unlike cash, if your checks were to get lost or stolen, you can (phew!) get your money back.

Read on to learn why you might want to take some of these checks on your next trip, including:

•  What are travelers checks

•  How do traveler’s checks work

•  Where to buy traveler’s checks

•  Pros and cons of traveler’s checks

•  Alternatives to traveler’s checks.

What Is a Traveler’s Check?

Traveler’s checks are paper documents that can be used as a traditional paper check and also like cash. They are intended to aid tourists and are typically used by people on vacation in foreign countries.

Issuers print checks in varying denominations, such as $10, $20, or $50, and they are available in a range of currencies. There may be a fee to purchase these checks and/or exchange them when you are traveling; this varies with the issuer.

Here’s a bit more about how to use them:

•  You can use these checks just like cash to pay merchants for goods and services, as long as they accept traveler’s checks. Typically any change due back to you will be given in local currency.

•  You can also get the checks converted into cash in the local currency at many banks, hotels, and foreign exchange offices, which can be a major convenience when you want some spending money (say, when hitting an outdoor market).

•  If traveler’s checks get lost or stolen, the issuer will replace the checks or give you a refund.


💡 Quick Tip: Banish bank fees. Open a new bank account with SoFi and you’ll pay no overdraft, minimum balance, or any monthly fees.

How Do Traveler’s Checks Work?

Traveler’s checks are issued by a bank or other financial institution. Right after you purchase your checks, you sign each one. When you are ready to use the check, you fill in the payee and date, and then sign the check again.

For the second signature, the person or business you’re paying must be present to watch you sign. The two signatures should match. This is a deterrent to would-be criminals who for that reason may think twice about stealing them.

Though traveler’s checks function like cash, they also are similar to paper checks in that each check has a unique check number. If that check is lost or stolen, the issuer cancels it and issues you a new one.

Recommended: Where to Cash a Check Without Paying a Fee

Where Can I Get a Traveler’s Check?

You can still buy traveler’s checks in the U.S. and other countries. In the U.S, companies that still issue travel checks include American Express and Visa.

You can also purchase traveler’s checks online from the American Express website, but you will need to be registered with an account. In addition, Visa offers traveler’s checks at many Chase and Citibank locations nationwide, as well as at several other banks.

You may also be able to get traveler’s checks from your local bank. If your bank offers them, you may be able to get them for free. If you are buying them elsewhere, you will likely pay a 1% to 3% purchase fee, which could exceed the cost of using an ATM while traveling.


💡 Quick Tip: The myth about online accounts is that it’s hard to access your cash. Not so! When you open the right online checking account, you’ll have ATM access at thousands of locations.

Pros and Cons of Traveler’s Checks

Traveler’s checks are handy for tourists who do not want to risk losing their cash or having it stolen while abroad. But they come with a few disadvantages as well. Here’s a look at the pros and cons.

Pros of Traveler’s Checks

They keep your money safe. If something should happen to your traveler’s checks, they can be quickly replaced, typically within 24 hours.

They don’t expire. If you bought them and end up not taking your trip, you can use them, or redeem them, at any time in the future.

They protect your identity. Traveler’s checks are not linked to your bank account or line of credit and do not contain personally identifiable information, thus eliminating risk of identity theft.

Cons of Traveler’s Checks

They aren’t as widely accepted as they once were. You could find yourself not able to spend them as freely as you like. Outside of major tourist regions, you may find that few shops or hotels accept traveler’s checks as payment.

They can be hard to get. There are a limited number of issuers today, and the paperwork involved in obtaining them can be time-consuming.

You may have to pay a fee. Unless you’re getting them from the financial institution where you have an account, you’ll likely have to pay a fee to purchase a traveler’s check.

Here’s this intel in chart form:

Pros of Traveler’s Checks

Cons of Traveler’s Checks

SecureNot as widely accepted anymore
No expirationCan be hard to obtain
Protect your identityMay charge a fee

Do I Need Traveler’s Checks When Going Abroad?

You certainly don’t need them, but they may come in handy–depending on where you’re traveling.

Before purchasing traveler’s checks, it can be a good idea to research how widely this form of payment is accepted in the city or region you are planning to visit. You can simply Google something like, “Where can I spend traveler’s checks in Paris” to get this information.

As an alternative, you might consider:

•  Using a prepaid travel card, which is the modern-day version of a traveler’s check. You can load the card with money from your bank account and then use it like a debit card at an ATM (to get local currency), or a credit card at stores and restaurants.

Like traveler’s checks, prepaid cards are not linked to your bank account, which prevents anybody from draining your checking account if the card gets lost or stolen — and you can’t go into debt.

•  Another alternative to traveler’s checks is your debit card, which you can use to get local currency at ATMs and also to make purchases.

However, when using a debit card in another country, you may want to watch out for fees, which may include both an out-of-network ATM fee, as well as an international ATM fee, for every withdrawal you make.

•  Your credit card is another option. These cards can offer you fraud protection and possibly rewards, such as miles vs. cash back. However, there may be fees involved with using your card overseas, called foreign transaction fees.

And, unless it’s an emergency, you’ll likely want to avoid using your credit card for getting cash at an ATM. When you perform a cash advance from a credit card, you can get hit with a fee (around 5% or more), as well as interest, which can run around 25%. You may also pay an ATM fee of several dollars.

Recommended: Ways to Be a Frugal Traveler

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.


What Can I Do With Old Traveler’s Checks?

Because traveler’s checks don’t expire, those that you have tucked away in a drawer can be used for your next adventure.

You can also redeem traveler’s checks, no matter how old. Some banks allow account holders to deposit their traveler’s checks (including foreign currency traveler’s checks) into their bank account. It’s a good idea to check with your bank first, and also find out if they will charge a fee for clearing the checks.

You can redeem your unused American Express Travelers Cheques online at the company’s website.

Recommended: Here’s What You Can Do with Leftover Foreign Currency

History of Traveler’s Checks

Travelers checks have a long history. They were first issued in England in 1772 (yes, that’s over 250 years ago). They were popularized over the centuries by the Thomas Cook company in 1874 and by American Express, whose president in 1890 found it difficult to cash checks while in Europe.

They became a popular travel mainstay for Americans for years, before technological advances made other payment techniques possible.

4 Modern Alternatives to Traveler’s Checks

Do people still use traveler’s checks? Today, traveler’s checks are less popular as there are other ways to pay when traveling to another country. Here are some alternatives.

Credit Card

You can likely whip out your plastic to pay when traveling. However, keep in mind that you are basically borrowing money, will pay an interest rate, and there may be foreign transaction fees involved. Credit cards do typically provide good fraud protection.

Debit Card

Your debit card may be accepted at many places when you travel. It will pull funds out of your checking account to pay for goods and services.

Prepaid Debit Card

As you travel, you may be able to pay with a prepaid debit card. You load money onto the card when you purchase it, and then you draw down those funds as you spend.

Mobile Wallet

This digital edition of your wallet may enable your spending as you travel. It can electronically hold your credit card, debit card, and other financial information to allow you to scan and spend while on vacation.

The Takeaway

Traveler’s checks are a form of payment issued by financial institutions such as American Express. These checks function like cash but are more secure since you can get your money back if the checks are lost or stolen.

While traveler’s checks can be handy for tourists who do not want to risk losing their cash or having it stolen while abroad, they are not as widely issued or accepted as they used to be.

Today’s travelers may prefer to use a prepaid debit card, which functions in a similar way to a traveler’s check, and/or their credit cards to pay for expenses while traveling overseas.

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.

FAQ

How does a traveler’s check work?

A traveler’s check works by purchasing a check in the denomination you want (a fee may be charged) and signing the checks. Then, when you want to pay with the checks while traveling, you would sign them again. This double signature is one way that these checks present a secure way to spend when you’re on a trip.

Why are traveler’s checks not used anymore?

As technology has advanced, other methods of payment while traveling may be simpler. For instance, you might just swipe or tap your credit or debit card versus making a special trip to buy traveler’s checks before you head to another country.

Can you cash traveler’s checks?

Yes, you can cash traveler’s checks when traveling, but there may be a fee involved. When you return, you may also cash or deposit any unused checks.

Photo credit: iStock/AndreyPopov

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.

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Aug
04
2023
How to Get Into College With a GED_780x440:

How to Get Into College With a GED

By | Student Loans, student_loan | Comments Off on How to Get Into College With a GED

Millions of students have earned a GED diploma and gone on to get a college degree. In fact, 97% percent of colleges accept the GED credential just as they would a high school diploma.

Some competitive schools and programs, however, require a certain minimum GED test score for admission, and possibly other tests and requirements. Here’s what you need to know to get into college with a GED.

What Is a GED Diploma?

A GED diploma is an alternative to a high school diploma for students who didn’t complete the requirements to graduate from high school. To earn a GED, you need to take a series of tests that will indicate whether or not you have a high school level of education. This is known as the GED (or General Educational Development) test.

The test covers four subject areas: Social Studies, Science, Mathematical Reasoning, and Reasoning Through Language Arts. Each test is administered separately (so you can space them out), timed, and covers several topics in the subject area.

•   Social Studies (70 minutes):

◦  Reading for Meaning in Social Studies

◦  Analyzing Historical Events and Arguments in Social Studies

◦  Using Numbers and Graphs in Social Studies

•   Science (90 minutes):

◦  Reading for Meaning in Science

◦  Designing and Interpreting Science

◦  Experiments

◦  Using Numbers and Graphics in Science

•   Mathematical Reasoning (115 minutes):

◦  Basic Math

◦  Geometry

◦  Basic Algebra

◦  Graphs and Functions

•   Reasoning Through Language Arts (150 minutes):

◦  Reading for Meaning

◦  Identifying and Creating Arguments

◦  Grammar and Language


💡 Quick Tip: SoFi offers low fixed- or variable-interest rates. So you can get a private student loan that fits your budget.

Preparing for and Taking the GED Test

The first step to getting your GED is to create an account on GED.com. Once you have an account, you’ll be able to access free study guides and practice tests, register for low-cost online and in-person prep classes, and purchase a voucher for the official GED Ready practice test.

You can register to take the GED test online or at a local test center through your GED account. Some states require that you take the GED practice test to register for the official GED test in-person or online. You can look up your state’s requirements here.

Each of the four tests is taken and scored separately, and there are three scoring levels.

•   GED Passing Score: Scoring a 145 on each test subject is a passing score, the minimum needed to obtain a GED diploma.
•   GED College Ready Score Level: Scoring between 165 and 174 on each test subject indicates a readiness for college-level coursework.
•   GED College Ready + Credit Score Level: Scoring between 175 and 200 indicates not only a readiness for college-level coursework, but possible eligibility for college credit, depending on the college program.

Test scores are typically available in your GED.com account within 24 hours of taking the test, though it can sometimes take up to three business days. The scoring section of your account will also include a detailed report of each subject test’s score and skills you can work on to improve their score.

Can You Go to College With a GED?

Absolutely! Nearly all colleges accept a GED diploma in lieu of a high school diploma. These include community colleges, vocational schools, private universities, and public universities. In some cases, however, you may need to meet a few specific requirements, or take a few extra steps, in order to be admitted with a GED.

Certain colleges, for example, may require a GED grad to show they’re ready for college-level courses either by submitting a high enough ACT or SAT score to the college or by taking the college’s placement test. The placement test score will be a factor in the admissions process.

Recommended: College Application Checklist

How to Get Into College With a GED: Step-by-Step

While most colleges and universities accept the GED diploma, this diploma can sometimes be perceived as less challenging than a high school diploma. As a GED student, you may also lack other things colleges might be looking for, such as transcripts that show academic performance or class rank.

Fortunately, there are a number of steps GED grads can take to increase their chances of getting accepted to college.

Check the School’s Admission Requirements

Some schools and competitive programs require students to have a minimum GED test score or some prior college credit to be considered for admission. Other institutions require applicants who hold a GED diploma to take additional placement tests. There is also a small percentage of schools that do not accept the GED diploma at all.

You can learn about requirements on a school’s website. If you can’t find enough information online, you can always call the school’s admissions office. The admissions staff can be a great source of accurate and up-to-date information on general admission policies, as well as standards pertaining to GEDs, such as getting credit for a College Ready+ score.

Consider Taking the SAT or ACT

Many colleges are test-optional now, which means students don’t have to submit SAT or ACT scores along with their applications. However, If you take one of these entrance exams — and get a higher-than-average-score — you could potentially increase your chances of getting in. Some schools (even those that don’t require the ACT or SAT) also use these test scores for class placement or scholarships.

The SAT scores range from 400 to 1600, and the national average is 1050. The ACT scores range between 1 and 36, and the average is around 21.

Write a Compelling Essay

The college admissions essay gives GED grads an opportunity to shine. Telling a personal story, perhaps about challenges that you have overcome or ways in which you have persevered, or describing how a volunteer activity has made an impact on your life, might be the thing that makes your application stand out against a stack of others.

Include Activities on Your Application

If you participated in extracurricular activities while you were in high school or volunteered with a community organization, putting that information on your college application can give the admissions team a fuller view of who you are as a person (instead of just looking at your test scores). You may also want to include any jobs you’ve had that are to the field you want to study.

Get Letters of Recommendation

Some colleges require two or three letters of recommendation. Even if a letter of recommendation is optional, including one can help your application stand out. A highly positive letter gives the admissions team insights into your character, while also showing that someone is willing to vouch for you. Good sources include former coaches, teachers, school counselors, supervisors, local leaders, and mentors.

Apply to Multiple Schools

A common — and recommended — strategy for all students is to apply to more than one school. Even if your goal is to attend a four-year college, you may want to include a local community college on your list. Community colleges often have “open enrollment,” which means that they don’t require the ACT or SAT tests. And, if you don’t get into colleges of your choice this go around, you might opt to get an associate degree at a community college, then transfer to a four-year college to complete your bachelor’s degree.

Recommended: How to Qualify for a College Application Fee Waiver

Explore Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships and other financial aid packages can reduce the cost of getting a college education. So be sure to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This allows you to find out if you’re eligible for federal aid, such as grants, work-study opportunities, and even federal student loans. You can also qualify for state-level and school-based aid through the FAFSA form.

In addition, you may want to explore private scholarships opportunities using a database like Fastweb or SoFi’s Scholarship Search Tool. Your school’s financial aid office might know about more resources available, too.

If you need to borrow to pay for college, it’s generally a good idea to take out federal student loans before private ones. Federal loans have benefits that private loans don’t, including access to income-driven repayment plans and loan forgiveness programs.


💡 Quick Tip: Federal student loans carry an origination or processing fee (1.057% for Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans first disbursed from Oct. 1, 2020, through Oct. 1, 2024). The fee is subtracted from your loan amount, which is why the amount disbursed is less than the amount you borrowed. That said, some private student loan lenders don’t charge an origination fee.

The Takeaway

Just because you didn’t finish high school, doesn’t mean you can’t go to college. By getting your GED diploma, you can apply to virtually any type of secondary school, including community colleges and four-year universities.

To improve your odds of getting into college, you’ll want to make sure you meet all of the school’s admissions requirements, take any necessary entrance or placement tests, and put together a strong application that includes a great essay and personal recommendations.

To make going to college affordable, it can also be a good idea to start researching ways to cover the cost of your education. Options include: savings, scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and federal or private student loans.

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


Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.


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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

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

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

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