Apr
01
2025

Guide to Student Loans from Credit Unions

By | Going to College, Student Loans, student_loan | Comments Off on Guide to Student Loans from Credit Unions

Credit union student loans are offered by member-owned financial institutions to help you cover college costs. While banks and online lenders also offer private student loans, credit unions often stand out by providing no-fee loans with competitive interest rates.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how credit union student loans work, explore your options, weigh the pros and cons, and explain how to apply.

What Are Credit Union Student Loans?

Credit union student loans are private loans offered by credit unions to help students pay for college or other educational costs. Depending on your situation, they can be a good alternative to loans from big banks or once federal student loans have been exhausted.

Advantages of Credit Union Student Loans

Credit unions are all about putting their members first. Because they prioritize people over profits, they can offer perks like lower interest rates and fewer fees. Some credit unions even team up with others to share resources, making things more convenient and affordable for you.

Advantages include:

Lower costs: As nonprofits, credit unions don’t focus on making money for investors. This allows them to pass savings on to you through lower interest rates and fewer fees, helping you save on loans.

Member-focused: Credit unions are dedicated to helping their members. You’re likely to receive personalized attention and support from representatives who take the time to understand your needs and recommend the best services for you.

Flexibility: Credit unions may be more flexible with loan eligibility requirements for members. They might be more willing to work with students who are considered high-risk or don’t have a cosigner.

Eligibility Requirements

To get a student loan from a credit union, you typically need to be a member. Each credit union usually has its own membership guidelines, which might require you to work in a specific industry, belong to a certain group, live in a particular area, or attend a specific school.

If you have a family member who’s already a member, you might be able to join through them. Many credit unions allow immediate family members to become members, which could give you access to a student loan.

Keep in mind, though, there might be a membership fee, typically between $5 and $25.

When it comes to getting a student loan, each credit union has its own criteria, just like banks and online lenders. While private lenders often look for a credit score of 670 or higher, you might still qualify even if your score is lower.

Recommended: Do Credit Unions Help You Build Your Credit Score?

Types of Credit Union Student Loans

Here’s a look at the types of student loans offered by credit unions. Keep in mind, though, that options vary by credit union.

Private Student Loans

Private student loans from credit unions are a way to help cover college costs. While it’s recommended to use federal financial aid first, a private student loan from a credit union may help bridge the gap. These loans often have competitive interest rates and flexible terms, making them an appealing option to finance higher education costs.

Unlike federal student loans, though, how much you can borrow and the interest rate you get usually depend on your credit and income.

Student Loan Refinancing

Some credit unions offer student loan refinancing options, which may help you streamline your student debt and potentially save you money. When you refinance with a credit union, you’re essentially getting a new loan to pay off your existing ones, whether your loans are federal or private.

In other words, credit union refinancing for student loans lets you consolidate your loans into one payment, potentially with a lower interest rate and better terms if you qualify. And with just one monthly payment to manage, handling your debt could become much less stressful.

Keep in mind, though, that refinancing federal student loans into private student loans makes it so you’re no longer eligible for federal benefits, such as student loan forgiveness programs and income-driven repayment plans.

Recommended: Pros and Cons of Student Loan Refinancing

How to Apply for a Credit Union Student Loan

Applying for a student loan from a credit union is a straightforward process, but it’s important to understand the eligibility requirements, necessary documentation, and application process.

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Before applying for a student loan from a credit union, you’ll typically need to become a member. Some credit unions will let nonmembers apply, but to receive a loan you must be a member. If you’re already a member, make sure you meet their lending requirements — like being enrolled at least half-time.

Also, double-check to see if your school qualifies for private student loans. If you’re attending a community college or trade school, not all schools may be eligible, so it’s important to confirm.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can typically apply online, by visiting a branch, or by reaching out to the credit union directly.

When you’re ready to apply, you’ll typically need to share some basic information, like your name, Social Security number, and proof of income. It’s a good idea to check your credit score first, as lenders typically look for borrowers with a solid credit history, a good credit score (670-739), and a certain level of income.

If you’re concerned you might not qualify on your own, think about getting a cosigner. A student loan cosigner could increase your chances of getting approved and might even help you get a lower interest rate and better terms.

Step 3: Compare Loan Options

You may want to compare lenders in order to get the best rate and terms for your situation. Some lenders let you get prequalified, which helps you explore your options. Since prequalifying only involves a soft credit check, it won’t affect your credit score and you can see potential rates and terms without any worries.

In addition to exploring credit unions, it’s worth checking out other lenders that might offer competitive rates and terms.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Once you choose your credit union or another lender, you can submit your official application. The lender will then usually do a hard credit check, and you’ll get the final approval decision.

Repaying Your Credit Union Student Loan

With some private student loans, you’ll need to make payments during school, while others let you hold off until you’ve graduated. To find out which one applies to your loan, check with your loan servicer or take a look at your loan documents.

It’s also a good idea to ask if the interest that builds up during the time you’re in school will be added to your principal balance when repayment starts.

When it comes time to make your payments, where you pay depends on your loan servicer. Most servicers let you pay online, but it’s smart to confirm this before your payments begin.

Many servicers also offer automatic payments, which automatically deduct your monthly payment from your bank account. This can help you avoid missing payments or getting hit with late fees.

Recommended: 6 Strategies to Pay Off Student Loans Quickly

Tips for Managing Credit Union Student Loans

Here are a few tips for managing your credit union private student loans.

Make a budget. Knowing where your money goes each month is key to setting aside funds for loan payments. Review your income and expenses to see where you can cut back, and try to allocate more toward paying off your loans.

Compare repayment options. Unlike federal loans, repayment options with credit unions and other private lenders can vary. If you’re struggling to keep up with payments, check if your lender offers plans like interest-only repayments, which allow you to defer the principal.

Make extra payments. Whether it’s biweekly payments instead of monthly or tossing in extra cash when you can, paying a bit more here and there can help you pay off your loans faster. Just be sure to request that any extra funds go directly toward the principal balance.

Sign up for autopay. Many private lenders offer an automatic payment option. By enrolling in autopay, you can ensure you never miss a payment.

Focus on high-interest debt. If you have multiple student loans, paying off the one with the highest interest rate first could save you money in the long run.

Consider refinancing your loans. If managing your payments feels overwhelming, you can refinance your student loans. This allows you to combine multiple student loans into one, ideally with a lower interest rate or more favorable terms.

The Takeaway

Credit unions offer private student loans to help cover college expenses like tuition and books. Unlike federal student loans, these private loans don’t offer the same flexible repayment options or borrower protections. It’s best to use your federal aid first, and then turn to private student loans if needed.

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.

FAQ

Can you use a credit union for a student loan?

Yes, some credit unions offer private student loans to their members. These loans work similarly to those provided by banks or online lenders, often with competitive interest rates and additional member perks.

Are student loans from credit unions considered private?

Yes, student loans from credit unions are considered private since they’re funded by the credit union, not the government. While they don’t offer the same federal benefits and protections, they often come with competitive rates and special perks for members.

Is it more difficult to get a student loan from a credit union?

Getting a student loan from a credit union usually depends on your credit history and being a member. Membership might require living in a certain area or belonging to a specific group. But once you’re in, you could benefit from more personalized service and potentially better rates than what you may find with other lenders.

About the author

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy is a seasoned personal finance writer with 15 years of experience simplifying complex concepts for individuals seeking financial security. Her expertise has shined through in well-known publications like Rolling Stone, Forbes, SmartAsset, and Money Talks News. Read full bio.


Photo credit: iStock/hobo_018

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and Conditions Apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 04/24/2024 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Loan Products
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.


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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Apr
01
2025
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How Do Student Loans Affect Your Credit Score?

By | Credit, Fresh Out of School, personal_loan, Student Loans, student_loan | No Comments

Student loans don’t just help you pay for your college education. They also allow you to build a credit history, which can be useful when it comes time to get a mortgage or take out a car loan. The key, though, is to make regular on-time payment – or you may wind up with the sort of credit history that negatively impacts your ability to borrow money in the future.

Here’s a look at how student loans can affect your credit score.

How Is My Credit Score Calculated?

First, it can be helpful to know how your credit score is calculated. There are several types of credit scores, but FICO scores are the most commonly used by top lenders.

Your FICO score is calculated using five categories of data found in your credit reports, which each category weighted differently.

Category

 Weight in Scoring
Payment History 35%
Amounts Owed 30%
Length of Credit History 15%
New Credit 10%
Credit Mix 10%

Based on these calculations, there are a few ways you can build good credit and maintain a good credit score. Paying your bills on time is a big one, since your payment history is the most heavily weighted factor. Paying down existing debt and keeping credit card balances low will also have a big effect. Less impactful, but important strategies, also include diversifying the types of credit you have, avoiding opening too many new accounts at once, and keeping accounts open to lengthen the average age of your credit history.

Serious savings. Save thousands of dollars
thanks to flexible terms and low fixed or variable rates.

What Student Loan Factors Affect My Credit Score?

Now that you know how credit scores generally work, you might be wondering how your student loans specifically impact your score.

Again, one of the biggest ways your student loans can affect your credit is whether or not you pay them on time. If you’re a responsible borrower who continually makes on-time student loan payments, you will see positive shifts in your credit score over time.

But if you fail to repay a loan or continually make late payments, your credit score will likely see a dip. If you default on your student loan, your credit score could drop significantly. The lender may also send your account to a collections agency, and you may have a more difficult time securing credit in the future.


💡 Quick Tip: Get flexible terms and competitive rates when you refinance your student loan with SoFi.

How Does a Late Student Loan Payment Affect My Credit Score?

Making payments on time is important, but what you might not realize is exactly how damaging late payments can be. Even if your credit history is pristine, it only takes one report of 30 days past due to change your score. Once a late payment is reported to the credit bureaus, it could remain on your credit report for up to seven years.

To help ensure your payments are on time, you might want to set up an automatic payment plan. Most lenders will even give you a small discount on your interest rate for doing so. If you know you can’t make a payment on time, talk to your lender or loan servicer right away. The Department of Education, which is the lender for four types of Direct Loans, and even some private lenders, offer loan deferment or forbearance. These options allow a borrower to temporarily suspend payments, which will minimize the impact on their credit score.

Does It Hurt to Pay Off Student Loans Quickly?

Repaying student loans quickly will always improve your credit score, right? Not necessarily. In fact, you could even see a small, temporary dip in your credit score right after paying off a loan. There are several reasons for this. If student loans are your primary source of open credit, closing those accounts means you’re no longer building payment history. Prematurely paying off a loan can also change your credit mix or credit utilization.

But credit score is just one factor to consider when deciding how quickly to pay off a student loan. You may want to think about how much extra interest you’d pay by leaving the account open. Carrying a high loan balance could also make it harder to qualify for new loans, which is something to keep in mind when it comes time to buy a home or car.

Notorious Big Bad D’s: Delinquent and in Default

Student loans affect credit scores in a variety of ways, but the worst thing you can do is ignore your monthly loan payment. If you’re even one day late with a payment, you’ll be considered delinquent and may be charged a penalty.

Once a missed payment is more than 90 days delinquent, your loan servicer will report it to the three major national credit bureaus. This could lower your credit score and hurt your ability to get a new credit card or qualify for a car loan or mortgage.

After 270 days of a missed student loan payment, your status changes to default and your student loans are due in full along with any accrued interest, fines, and penalties.

(Note that the on-ramp that’s in place for federal student loan repayment from October 2024 through September 2025 temporarily shields borrowers from the most immediate consequences of delinquency and default.)

Will Rate Shopping Different Student Loan Lenders Hurt My Credit?

When you’re shopping around for the best interest rate possible on a private student loan, lenders may pull your credit file. This is called a hard inquiry, and each one could temporarily knock a few points off your credit score.

To help protect your FICO score, try to finish shopping for rates and finalizing your loan within 30 days. Researching rates and getting quotes ahead of time can give you a good idea of whether you’ll qualify for a loan before you formally apply.

You may also want to ask lenders if they can tell you the interest rate you would receive without doing a “hard” credit pull, which might affect your score. You can’t get a loan without an eventual hard inquiry, but getting prequalified allows you to compare interest rates without impacting your credit score.

Will Refinancing Student Loans Help My Credit?

Because refinancing involves taking out a new loan with new terms to pay off existing debt, refinancing student loans affects your credit score—both positively and negatively.

In the short-term, refinancing will involve a hard credit inquiry and may cause a temporary ding to your credit. Again, as long as you keep your loan shopping to a short period, multiple inquiries will be treated as one, and should have a minimal impact on your score.

In the long-run, refinancing student loans at a lower interest rate can have an indirect positive effect on your credit. For example, if refinancing lowers the amount you pay each month, you may be more likely to make payments on time. You may also pay off your loans faster, which can help you reduce your overall debt and improve your score. (Note: You may pay more interest over the life of the loan if you refinance with an extended term.)

If you refinance federal loans with a private lender — in effect, turning your federal loans into a private loan — rest assured that credit bureaus don’t view these two types of loans any differently. However, when you refinance your federal loans, you will lose certain federal protections, such as income-driven repayment plans, deferment or forbearance, and loan forgiveness programs.

Do I Need a Good Credit Score to Take Out a Student Loan?

Your credit score may be a factor when you’re applying for a student loan. It all depends on the type of loan you’re planning to take out. Most federal loans don’t have a minimum credit requirement, which is why nearly every borrower gets the same interest rate regardless of their financial profile. However, federal PLUS loans for parents require that borrowers do not have an adverse credit history.

Credit scores are typically more of a factor with private student loans. Lenders often consider your score when determining student loan approval and interest rate. In general, the better your score, the better your rate will be.


💡 Quick Tip: Refinancing could be a great choice for working graduates who have higher-interest graduate PLUS loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and/or private loans.

Which Credit Scores Do Private Lenders Use?

When considering your student loan application, most private lenders look at your FICO® score. This score, which ranges from 300 to 850, helps lenders determine whether to extend credit and at what interest rate.

Because FICO is used widely throughout the lending industry, including by mortgage lenders and credit card providers, it gives lenders an apples-to-apples comparison of potential borrowers.

The Takeaway

Student loans can help borrowers establish a solid credit history, which can ease the way for future borrowing opportunities and attractive interest rates. The key is to pay what you owe on time, every time.

Paying a loan off early or shopping around for rates could cause a small, temporary dip in credit scores. Being late with a payment — or stopping payment altogether — may lower your credit score and hurt your ability to qualify for another loan.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.


With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

FAQ

Do student loans help build credit?

Student loans are an opportunity for borrowers to build credit and establish a solid credit history, which can help when it’s time to get a mortgage or take out a car loan. The key is to make regular, on-time payments.

How can I improve my credit score if I have student loans?

Payment history is one factor of your overall credit score, so making regular, on-time payments on your student loans can help you build credit.

How is my credit score determined?

Your credit score is calculated using five different categories of data. These include payment history, amounts owed, length of credit history, new credit, and credit mix.

About the author

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy is a seasoned personal finance writer with 15 years of experience simplifying complex concepts for individuals seeking financial security. Her expertise has shined through in well-known publications like Rolling Stone, Forbes, SmartAsset, and Money Talks News. Read full bio.


SoFi Loan Products
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 Student Loan Refinance
Terms and conditions apply. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are private loans. When you refinance federal loans with a SoFi loan, YOU FOREFEIT YOUR EILIGIBILITY FOR ALL FEDERAL LOAN BENEFITS, including all flexible federal repayment and forgiveness options that are or may become available to federal student loan borrowers including, but not limited to: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, extended repayment plans, PAYE or SAVE. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. Learn more at SoFi.com/eligibility. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and Conditions Apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 04/24/2024 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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

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Apr
01
2025
Five Steps to Switching Your Car Insurance

5 Steps to Switching Your Car Insurance

By | Financial Independence, Insurance | Comments Off on 5 Steps to Switching Your Car Insurance

To some, it may sound like as much fun as the dentist, but switching car insurance companies can make a great deal of sense. Besides, getting new car insurance really doesn’t have to be an ordeal.

That being said, to make sure you’re getting the best policy for your situation — and potentially snagging a price cut when you make a successful switch — it’s important to follow a step-by-step plan. Read on to learn what to do if you’re wondering how to switch car insurance.

Key Points

•   Before switching car insurance, determine liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage needs.

•   Obtain quotes from multiple insurers for price and service comparisons.

•   Cancel the old policy to avoid penalties.

•   Ensure there are no gaps in coverage during the transition.

•   After switching, be sure to update the insurance ID card with new policy information.

When Do You Need to Switch Car Insurance?

Wondering whether switching car insurance companies makes sense? Here are some common reasons to make the change:

•   Your life circumstances have changed: Many people seek a new policy when their life has changed. Clearly if you have bought a new car, you need to look into options. If you’re planning to move to another state (or even to a different zip code), if you want to add a spouse or a child to the plan, or even if you have a new job, your existing insurance might no longer be the best fit.

•   You want to lower costs: Getting the least expensive premium is often the goal of getting new car insurance. If you noticed a sharp increase in your premium and didn’t have an accident or any other triggering incident, then switching may be a good way to lower your car insurance premiums.

•   You’re dissatisfied or looking to get certain perks: There are other reasons to change insurers aside from cost. Maybe you had a poor customer service experience with your current provider. Or perhaps you want a service that another insurer offers, like free roadside assistance.

•   Your credit score changed drastically: Another reason you might want to consider getting new car insurance is a drastic decrease or increase in your credit score. That shift could have a good (or bad) effect on your present policy, but a different insurer could look at it differently, so it’s worth your time to investigate. (Note: California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Michigan don’t let insurers set policy rates based on credit scores. And Maryland, Oregon, and Utah have strict limitations in place.)

On the other hand, there are some times when changing up your insurance might not be the best idea, including when:

•   You’ve just had an accident or gotten a ticket.: If you’ve had a recent accident or received a ticket, it might not be a good time for a change. Your insurer will likely raise your rate, but the recalculation won’t take effect until your annual renewal time. You may as well take advantage of the months you have left before the policy renews.

•   You’ll lose certain benefits if you switch.: Some companies offer loyalty discounts or accident forgiveness clauses for customers who stick with them. Make sure the loss of those benefits is worth it to you.

How to Switch Car Insurance in 5 Steps

If you’re ready to change car insurance, here’s what to do.

1. Research and Evaluate Your Coverage Needs

Do you have too much insurance or too little? The former could strain your budget, but the latter could leave you exposed to financial disaster.

Nearly every state makes it a law that you pay for some liability coverage or you can’t drive the car. After figuring out that base, it’s time to determine your collision and comprehensive car insurance needs.

Taking into account your type of car, your driver’s record, and your assets, you can determine how much auto insurance coverage you really need. You need to know that before you approach insurers eager for your business.

2. Shop Around

There are many more car insurance companies out there than you may realize, making it a highly competitive business. Experts recommend that you get quotes from at least three insurers.

You’ll need to have facts ready to feed into the evaluation to get a quote, including:

•   The address where the car will be stored

•   The car’s make, model, and year

•   The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

•   Your driver’s license or Social Security number

Be prepared to give the same facts to each insurer so you can make an accurate comparison.

Also, check out the companies’ customer service records and review each company’s payment options. Don’t forget to find out what discounts that you could qualify for, too.

Discover real-time vehicle values with Auto Tracker.¹

Now you can instantly monitor vehicle prices in this unprecedented market—to help you make smart money moves.

3. Contact Your Current Insurer

Once you’ve picked your new plan and have proof of insurance, contact your previous insurance company to cancel. Keep in mind that some insurance companies may penalize you if you cancel before the policy expires.

To be on the safe side, log onto your account and cancel the automatic payments after you’ve ended the old policy. Some experts recommend that you put this all in writing and send a letter to your insurer, specifying to cancel the coverage by the agreed-upon date.

4. Avoid a Coverage Gap

It’s extremely important to make sure there are no gaps in your auto insurance, even a single day. You’ll bring a firestorm of legal and financial problems on yourself if you have an accident while uninsured, and you may even lose your driver’s license.

Also, should you seek out a new insurer in the future, if you have a record of lapsed insurance, you could be stuck with an expensive policy. So before canceling your old insurance, make sure to triple-check the effective date of your new policy.

Recommended: Auto Insurance Terms, Explained

5. Print Out Your ID Cards and Switch

After you’ve signed up with your new insurer and canceled your old plan, take the former ID card out of your car or your wallet and replace it with your new one. If you haven’t received the card in the mail yet, you can always print it out.

If your state allows digital proof of ID, you can access your digital ID card through the insurer’s app.

How Often Can You Switch Car Insurance Providers?

You can switch companies as often as you like, and there is generally no penalty for doing so (though some insurers do charge a fee if you switch before the end of your coverage period). The Insurance Information Institute recommends reviewing your coverage once a year.

Aside from switching carriers entirely, you can also speak to your current insurer about updating your plan if your life circumstances have changed since you got your existing plan.

Recommended: Car Insurance Guide for New Drivers

The Takeaway

A better auto insurance plan might exist for you — but how to switch car insurance, you wonder? It’s not that hard. Making the change requires research into how much coverage you really need, obtaining quotes, and then, once you’ve decided to switch, canceling properly and making absolutely sure there are no coverage gaps.

When you’re ready to shop for auto insurance, SoFi can help. Our online auto insurance comparison tool lets you see quotes from a network of top insurance providers within minutes, saving you time and hassle.

SoFi brings you real rates, with no bait and switch.

Photo credit: iStock/Edwin Tan

Auto Insurance: Must have a valid driver’s license. Not available in all states.
Home and Renters Insurance: Insurance not available in all states.
Experian is a registered trademark of Experian.
SoFi Insurance Agency, LLC. (“”SoFi””) is compensated by Experian for each customer who purchases a policy through the SoFi-Experian partnership.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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

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Mar
31
2025

What Is APY

By | Financial Independence, Growing Wealth, money, Terminology, Tools & Calculators | Comments Off on What Is APY

Annual percentage rate, or APY, is the rate of interest earned on a savings or investment account in one year, including compound interest (the interest you earn on interest). Unlike the nominal interest rate, which does not consider the impact of interest compounding, APY provides a more accurate picture of how much you’ll earn in an account over the course of one year. This allows you to compare different financial products and make informed decisions about where to put your money for the best returns.

Read on to learn the basic APY meaning, how to calculate annual percentage yield, and some of the limitations of APY.

What Is APY?

An abbreviation for annual percentage yield, APY indicates how much interest a bank account, such as a high-yield savings account or certificate of deposit (CD), earns in one year, expressed as a percentage.

An APY includes the effect of compounding interest, which is when you earn interest on both the money you’ve saved (principal) and the interest you earn. Depending on the bank and type of account, interest on an account can compound (i.e., get calculated and added) yearly, monthly, quarterly, or daily. The more frequently an account compounds, generally, the more the account will earn.

That’s why it’s important to consider APY — and not just the interest rate — when looking for a bank account. Comparing APYs helps you compare financial products as apples to apples by letting you know the real return on the account. Almost all savings accounts, and some checking accounts, have an APY.

Simple Interest vs Compound Interest

Understanding APY involves knowing the difference between simple and compound interest. With simple interest, an account holder earns interest only on the principal, or the initial amount of money they deposited. With compound interest, on the other hand, an account holder earns interest on the principal along with the accrued interest.

Compound interest helps your money grow faster, as you’ll earn interest on your interest. The frequency of compounding is important; the more often your interest compounds, the more money you’ll generally earn. An account may compound interest daily, monthly, quarterly or annually.

When it comes to savings and investment accounts, simple interest is less common than compound interest.

Recommended: Difference Between APY vs Interest Rate

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Calculating APY

There is a specific formula for calculating APY. To use it, you’ll need to know your interest rate and how frequently the interest compounds.

APY = (1 + r/n)^n – 1

Where:

•   ^ = to the power of

•   r = the nominal interest rate

•   n = the number of compounding periods per year

APY Calculation Examples

To see how much compounding frequency can affect your APY, let’s look at four examples with the same interest rate but four different compounding periods (annually, quarterly, monthly, and daily).

•   Annual compounding interest: n = 1

•   Quarterly compounding interest: n = 4

•   Monthly compounding interest: n = 12

•   Daily compounding interest: n = 365

Assume a nominal interest rate (r) of 5.00%.

Annual compounding interest:

APY = (1 + .05/1)^1 – 1

APY = 5.00%

Quarterly compounding interest:

APY = (1 + .05/4)^4 – 1

APY = 5.09%

Monthly compounding interest:

APY = (1 + .05/12)^12 – 1

APY = 5.12%

Daily compounding interest:

APY = (1 + .05/365)^365 – 1

APY = 5.13%

As you can see, the more often interest is compounded, the higher the APY is. Choosing an account or investment that compounds daily will yield a higher amount earned from interest at the end of the year.

Fortunately, you don’t have to do any fancy calculations to learn the APY of a bank account. To help people compare accounts and accurately estimate possible earnings, banks are required to display account APYs.

Recommended: Use this APY calculator to start comparing APY.

Fixed vs Variable APY

Another factor to consider with APY is whether it is fixed or variable. Savings accounts, checking accounts, and money market accounts are typically variable rate accounts. This means the APY can change over time depending on market conditions.

Fixed rate accounts, on the other hand, have an APY that does not change during the term of the account. For example, a certificate of deposit (CD) account usually has a fixed APY for the term of the CD. No matter what happens to market rates, the APY will stay the same.

Both types of APYs have pros and cons. Locking in a fixed APY can be beneficial if market rates go down after you open the account. However, it could be a negative should market rates go up, since you won’t benefit from the increase.

Recommended: What Is a High-Yield Checking Account?

Limitations and Considerations of APY

Knowing the APY for an account or investment can tell you a lot, but there are other factors to consider when choosing where to put your money. Here are a few other things to keep in mind.

•   Fees and penalties: Some financial products come with monthly and incidental fees or penalties that can impact the effective return. APY calculations typically do not account for these additional costs, so it’s a good idea to consider them when evaluating the overall profitability of a deposit account or investment.

•   Liquidity: While CDs often have higher, fixed APYs compared to traditional savings accounts, your money is tied up until the maturity date. That means you can’t access that money in the event of an emergency if you want to earn the interest you were promised upon investing.

•   Fixed vs. variable: A high-yield savings account may advertise a high APY right now, but it is likely variable. This means that as the market changes, the interest rate could go down. It’s a good idea to routinely check how much interest your savings account (or checking account or money market account) is earning. If the APY has significantly dropped, you may want to consider opening a bank account with a higher APY elsewhere.

•   Inflation: Inflation erodes the purchasing power of money over time. While APY provides a return rate, it does not account for inflation. To understand the real rate of return on any type of account or investment, it’s important to adjust an APY for inflation.

•   Taxes: Interest earned on savings accounts is typically subject to taxes. The APY does not consider the impact of taxes on the effective return. So it’s important to factor in tax obligations when evaluating the net return on an investment.

The Takeaway

Understanding and calculating APY is essential for making informed financial decisions. Whether you’re evaluating savings accounts or investment products, APY provides a clear picture of the true return, accounting for the effects of compounding interest. By comparing APYs, you can see how different savings vehicles stack up against each other. This can help you choose the most profitable options and optimize your financial growth.

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 3.80% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

What is the difference between APY and APR?

APY stands for annual percentage yield and tells you how much interest you’ll earn on a deposit or investment account over the course of one year, including compounding interest (which is when your interest also earns interest). APR stands for annual percentage rate and represents the annual cost of borrowing money. It includes the interest rate plus any fees and costs associated with the loan or line of credit to reflect the real cost of borrowing.

How do you calculate the APY for a savings account or investment?

To calculate the annual percentage yield (APY) for a savings account or investment, you can use this formula:

APY = (1 + r/n)^n – 1

Where:

•   ^ = to the power of

•   r = the nominal interest rate

•   n = the number of compounding periods per year

Banks and credit unions are required to display the APY of their financial products, so you generally don’t need to do any calculations. If you know the APY and how much you’ll be depositing, you can use an online APY calculator to determine how much interest you’ll earn by the end of the year.

What factors can affect the APY of a financial product?

The main factors that affect the annual percentage yield (APY) of a financial product are the nominal interest rate and how often the interest compounds (meaning gets calculated and added to the account). Generally, the higher the interest rate and the more often it compounds, the higher the APY.

About the author

Timothy Moore

Timothy Moore

Timothy Moore is a personal finance writer and editor and a Certified Financial Education Instructor. His work has been featured on sites such as USA Today, Forbes, Business Insider, LendingTree, LendEDU, and Time. Read full bio.

SoFi members with Eligible Direct Deposit activity can earn 3.80% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Eligible 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 (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below).

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning 3.80% APY, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit arrives. If your APY is not showing as 3.80%, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning 3.80% APY from the date you contact SoFi for the rest of the current 30-day Evaluation Period. You will also be eligible for 3.80% APY on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider 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 Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with Eligible Direct Deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

As an alternative to Direct Deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 3.80% 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 Eligible 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 an Eligible Direct Deposit or receipt of $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 3.80% 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 Eligible 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 Eligible 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 Eligible 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 Eligible Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until SoFi Bank recognizes Eligible Direct Deposit activity or receives $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Eligible Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit.

Separately, SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days can also earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. For additional details, see the SoFi Plus Terms and Conditions at https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus.

Members without either Eligible Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, or who do not enroll in SoFi Plus by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days, will earn 1.00% 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 1/24/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2025 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.


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.

*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

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Credit Card Debt Forgiveness: What It Is and How It Works

Credit Card Debt Forgiveness: What It Is and How It Works

By | Credit, Debt Payoff, Financial Independence | Comments Off on Credit Card Debt Forgiveness: What It Is and How It Works

If you’re overwhelmed by credit card debt, you might consider credit card debt forgiveness, which can involve paying less than you owe. This type of credit forgiveness is rare, however, and it usually comes with some financial consequences.

Still, if you’re unable to repay your credit card balance, it may be an option worth exploring. Read on to learn how to get credit card debt forgiven and what options there are to credit card forgiveness.

What Is Credit Card Debt Forgiveness?

Credit card debt forgiveness occurs when a portion of your credit card debt is effectively erased. However, this rarely happens. And when it does, it usually comes at a high cost.

As part of the terms and conditions you agreed to when signing up for a credit card, you likely committed to repaying your credit card debt accrued from swiping your card to make purchases. For this reason, it’s unlikely the credit card company will forgive your debt unless you have a compelling reason for why you don’t have to repay it.

(If your identity was stolen and a fraudster ran up your credit card bill, for instance, you’re probably not responsible for repaying the outstanding balance. In this case, you may consider disputing a credit card charge.)

When you don’t pay your credit card bill for an extended time, the credit card company may sell your debt to a debt collector. At this point, the debt collector will reach out to try to get you to repay all or a portion of the debt you owe. However, if you agree to repay a portion of your debt, they may forgive the rest, resulting in credit debt forgiveness.

Recommended: Charge Card Advantages and Disadvantages

How Does Debt Forgiveness Work for Credit Cards?

If a debt collector forgives your debt, you’ll generally still have to pay off a portion of the amount you racked up. Here’s a look at how credit card debt forgiveness works:

•   Say that you owe $10,000 in outstanding credit card debt. If you haven’t paid your bill for the last six months — not even your credit card minimum payment — your credit card company may have sold the debt to a debt collector.

•   At this point, you’ll no longer communicate with your credit card company about debt negotiations since the debt collector is now responsible for recouping the loss.

•   If you agree to repay $5,000 of the debt, your debt collector may require you to make a lump sum payment or installment payments over a set period of time.

•   This means that the other $5,000 of your outstanding credit card balance is now forgiven, meaning you don’t have to pay it.

While this may seem like a relief, here’s one important point to note: You’re still responsible for paying taxes on the amount of credit card forgiveness you receive in most cases. Essentially, you will claim the forgiven debt as taxable income and report it on your tax return.

When Does Credit Card Debt Forgiveness Work Best?

When you’ve fallen behind on your credit card payments and your creditor sells your debt to a debt collector for a fraction of the total balance, this is usually the best time to request credit forgiveness. Typically, debt collectors are more willing to settle some of your debt since they purchased your debt for a portion of what you owe. In other words, any debt you agree to pay back will help the debt collector make a profit from the transaction.

However, if your debt has not yet gone to a debt collector and the creditor is about to charge-off your account, you could still consider credit card forgiveness. A charge-off means that the creditor is accepting your debt as a loss. Therefore, they can recoup the funds by selling your debt to a debt collector. So, before they sell the debt, they might be willing to negotiate credit card debt forgiveness with you.

How Credit Card Debt Forgiveness May Affect Your Credit

The most significant financial implication of credit card debt forgiveness is the negative impact it can have on your credit. When you don’t pay your credit card bill for an extended amount of time, the creditor may report this as a charge-off to the three major credit bureaus (TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian). A charge-off indicates that you didn’t follow through with your financial commitments to a lender, and it can stay on your credit report for up to seven years.

Because credit bureaus use this information to calculate your credit score, a charge-off could lower your score for a while. A lower credit score may make it challenging to qualify for future loans or credit cards. And if you do qualify, you may have to pay a higher than average credit card interest rate, which can make borrowing more expensive.

To avoid this situation, it’s best to contact your credit card issuer as soon as you get behind on payments. Credit card companies may be willing to help you if you’ve fallen on hard times. They may offer a hardship plan, which can lower your monthly payments or reduce your interest for a set amount of time and ultimately help you get back on your feet. This is only a temporary solution though, so if your financial issues are more significant, you may need to explore another solution.

Pros and Cons of Credit Card Debt Forgiveness

If you can’t make your credit card payments, credit card forgiveness might be a viable option. But, while getting your debt forgiven can help alleviate the financial burden, it also can harm your credit and cost you financially.

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of pursuing credit card debt forgiveness.

Pros

 Cons
Potentially avoid bankruptcy Can harm your credit score
Repay only a portion of the debt you owe Will remain on your credit report for up to seven years
Pay off debt in a shorter time frame Must pay income tax on forgiven debt

Alternatives to Credit Card Debt Forgiveness

An alternative to credit card debt forgiveness may make more sense for your financial situation. Exploring all of your options in advance can help ensure that you make the best decision for your needs.

Debt Management

Third-party credit counseling agencies offer debt management plans that help you establish a plan for debt repayment. Working with one of these agencies may help you lower the fees you owe as well as your interest rate. However, you usually must agree to repay the total amount of outstanding debt before moving forward.

With a debt management plan, you’ll make one monthly payment to the credit counselor, who will then distribute the funds among the creditors you owe. Most plans help you repay your debt within three to five years. During this time, your account will still accrue interest, though your creditor might be willing to offer a lower rate.

To use one of these plans, you usually have to close your credit card account. This can negatively impact your credit score since it lowers your total credit card limit, thus increasing your credit utilization rate. Your credit utilization ratio is one of the most significant factors credit bureaus use when calculating your credit score.

Also, you will likely have to pay a monthly fee to your credit counselor. If considering this option, carefully vet the counselors you are considering and make sure the one you are working with has a good reputation.

Debt Settlement

Working with a debt settlement company can help you to lower the amount of debt you owe. For example, if you owe $10,000 as your credit card balance, the credit debt settlement company may try to help you settle your debt for $5,000 instead. But, of course, this strategy will only work if the creditor would rather have some of your debt repaid instead of having you default on the account.

Debt settlement also can harm your credit. Usually, debt settlement companies require you to stop making credit card payments while they negotiate with your creditor. At this time, your payments will go toward the debt settlement company so they can offer your creditor a lump sum payment as an incentive to settle your debt. However, pausing payments can negatively impact your debt since payment history is another factor used to calculate your credit score.

While debt settlement may sound good in theory, you should use it as a last resort option before filing bankruptcy. This solution is risky since it doesn’t guarantee that you’ll settle your debt. Your creditor could reject the offer.

Debt Consolidation

If your credit isn’t damaged too much, you might be able to qualify for a debt consolidation loan. While this isn’t technically a debt relief option, it can help you to consolidate your debt and potentially lower your interest rate, allowing you to save money.

To consolidate your debt, you’ll apply for another loan, ideally one with better terms than your existing debt. You’d use the loan to pay off your outstanding credit card debts. Then, you will make installment payments to the lender instead of paying the creditors.

Before you apply for a debt consolidation loan, compare your options to identify the loans with the most competitive terms and interest rates.

Declaring a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Depending on your situation, declaring Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy may make the most sense. For instance, if you can’t make the payments with a debt management or debt settlement plan, bankruptcy could be an option to avoid going deeper into debt. But before you declare bankruptcy, consider speaking with a bankruptcy attorney to weigh out the pros and cons of this solution.

Bankruptcy should be one of your last resorts since it can drastically harm your credit. Also, it will stay on your credit report for up to 10 years after the filing date. To settle your debts with bankruptcy, you may also be forced to sell some of your assets.

The Takeaway

Credit card debt forgiveness involves paying less than the full amount you owe. While this prospect may sound great in theory, in reality it can harm your credit and end up costing you financially. If you find yourself starting to struggle with debt repayment, contact your credit card company to see if they will offer a hardship plan. If they’re unwilling to help or your financial troubles require a more long-term solution, you can explore credit debt forgiveness and other alternatives.

While credit cards can land you in a heap of debt, they can also be a great financial tool when used responsibly.

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

FAQ

How long does it typically take before a debt is forgiven?

Depending on the route you go, the time frame for debt forgiveness may vary. For example, bankruptcy can take four to six months, while debt settlement can take 36 months or more.

Does debt forgiveness hurt your credit score?

Yes, once you become delinquent on payments, your credit score can be negatively impacted. Then, when your credit card company sells your debt to a debt collector, they may report your balance as a charge-off or a complete loss, which can also impact your credit drastically.

How do you get your credit card balance forgiven?

Usually, once a creditor sells your outstanding debt to a debt collector, the debt collector may agree to forgive some of your credit card debt. But, you must agree to repay a portion of the debt for this to happen.

About the author

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy is a seasoned personal finance writer with 15 years of experience simplifying complex concepts for individuals seeking financial security. Her expertise has shined through in well-known publications like Rolling Stone, Forbes, SmartAsset, and Money Talks News. Read full bio.


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.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.


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


Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

Photo credit: iStock/damircudic
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