What Is Buy to Cover & How Does It Work?

What Is Buy to Cover & How Does It Work?


Editor's Note: Options are not suitable for all investors. Options involve risks, including substantial risk of loss and the possibility an investor may lose the entire amount invested in a short period of time. Please see the Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options.

Buy to cover refers to when an investor purchases a stock or other security to close out a short position.

A short sale is when a trader borrows shares, betting the price will drop. A buy to cover order is a way to “cover” the short positions, so they can be returned to the lender.

Taking a short position requires a margin account, and buy to cover helps to prevent a margin call (when the broker requires that funds be deposited in the margin account).

Key Points

•   Buy to cover involves purchasing shares to close a short position.

•   Taking a short position requires a margin account, because the shares are borrowed, with the expectation the price will drop, and the shares can be bought at the lower price.

•   A short sale strategy aims to profit from the difference between the higher selling price and the lower buying price.

•   If the stock price rises, a margin call may occur, requiring additional funds or liquidation. A buy to cover order “covers” the shares needed to close out the short position.

Buy to Cover Meaning

Traditionally, you buy a stock with a bullish outlook, and sell to close out your position. In an ideal situation, you buy low and sell high, securing the difference between the purchase price and the sale price as your profit.

What Is a Short Position?

A short position is different. If you think a stock is currently overpriced, you might sell the stock before you have actually purchased it, via a short sale. Within the world of options trading, this requires temporarily borrowing the shares, usually from your broker or dealer.

Then, once the stock (hopefully) goes down, you purchase the shares at the lower price and return them to the lenderclosing out your position and pocketing the difference between the higher and lower price.

Buying to cover is the after-the-fact purchase of shares that you previously shorted, to cover the trade and avoid a margin call. When you do a short sale by selling first, you will eventually need to repay your short sale by purchasing shares.

What Is a Buy to Cover Limit?

When placing a buy to cover order, there are two ways that you can close your position. The first is a market order, in which you simply close the position at the first available market price.

The other method involves using a buy to cover limit order, in which you set a maximum price at which you’re willing to purchase the share.

One advantage of the latter approach is that you know exactly the price that you’ll get for your shares. This can help you when planning your overall strategy. A drawback, however, is that if the market moves against you, your order may not get filled.

How Does Buy to Cover Work?

A buy to cover order works much in the same way as a traditional buy order. The main difference is the order in which you make your buy and sell transactions.

In a traditional buy order, you purchase shares that you intend to later sell. With a buy to cover order, you’re buying shares to cover a sale that you previously made.

Also, a traditional buy order can be executed using cash; a short sale requires a margin account.

Example of a Buy to Cover Stock

Here’s a buy to cover stock example to help illustrate how the process works:

•   You believe that stock ABC is overpriced at $50.

•   You sell short 100 shares of ABC, borrowing $5,000 on margin from your broker.

•   After a few days, stock ABC’s price has dropped to $45.

•   You issue a buy to cover order for 100 shares of ABC, paying $4,500.

•   Your profit is $500 — the difference between the amount you receive from the short sale and the amount you pay to close the position, less any fees.

Sell Short vs Buy to Cover

“Selling short” and “buying to cover” are complementary actions within a short-selling strategy. If you think that a particular stock or investment is likely to go down in price, you can use a short sale to first sell shares that you’ve borrowed on margin, generally from your broker or dealer.

When you’re ready to close out your short sale transaction, you can place a buy- o cover order. This will purchase the shares that you sold originally, either at the market price or with a buy to cover limit order at a particular price.

If the stock declines in price as you expected, this strategy may yield a profit from selling high and then buying low.

Buy to Cover and Margin Trades

Using a buy to cover order is intricately tied in with both short selling and margin trading. When you sell short, you are using margin trading to borrow shares to sell that you don’t yet own.

When you are ready to close out your position, you issue a buy-to-cover order, purchasing the shares you need to correspond to the shares that you earlier sold on margin. If the stock price rises instead of falling, you may face a margin call, requiring additional funds or the liquidation of your position.

The Takeaway

A buy to cover is a purchase order executed to close out a short sale position in options trading. In a traditional sale, you purchase a stock first and then later sell the shares. When you sell short, you place a buy-to-cover order to close your position.

While investors are not able to sell options on SoFi’s options trading platform at this time, they can buy call and put options to try to benefit from stock movements or manage risk.

Investors who are ready to try their hand at options trading despite the risks involved, might consider checking out SoFi’s options trading platform offered through SoFi Securities, LLC. The platform’s user-friendly design allows investors to buy put and call options through the mobile app or web platform, and get important metrics like breakeven percentage, maximum profit/loss, and more with the click of a button.

Plus, SoFi offers educational resources — including a step-by-step in-app guide — to help you learn more about options trading. Trading options involves high-risk strategies, and should be undertaken by experienced investors. Currently, investors can not sell options on SoFi Active Invest®.

Explore SoFi’s user-friendly options trading platform.

🛈 While members can participate in margin trading on SoFi’s trading platform, short selling and buy-to-cover are not available at this time.

Photo credit: iStock/Ridofranz

SoFi Invest®

INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE

SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below: Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.
For a full listing of the fees associated with Sofi Invest please view our fee schedule.

Options involve risks, including substantial risk of loss and the possibility an investor may lose the entire amount invested in a short period of time. Before an investor begins trading options they should familiarize themselves with the Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options . Tax considerations with options transactions are unique, investors should consult with their tax advisor to understand the impact to their taxes.
Disclaimer: The projections or other information regarding the likelihood of various investment outcomes are hypothetical in nature, do not reflect actual investment results, and are not guarantees of future results.
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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What Is Compliance Testing for 401k?

What Is Compliance Testing for 401(k)?

To maintain the tax-advantages of a 401(k) or 403(b) retirement plan, employers must follow the rules established by the Employment Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) of 1974, including nondiscrimination testing.

401(k) compliance testing ensures that companies administer their 401(k) plans in a fair and equal manner that benefits all employees, rather than just executives and owners. In other words, a 401(k) plan can’t favor one group of employees over another.

Companies must test their plans yearly and address any compliance flaws surfaced by the tests. Often a third-party plan administrator or recordkeeper helps plan sponsors carry out the tests.

Understanding nondiscrimination tests for retirement plans is important both as an employer and as an employee.

401(k) Compliance Testing Explained

Compliance testing is a process that determines whether a company is fairly administering its 401(k) plan under ERISA rules. ERISA mandates nondiscrimination testing for retirement plans to demonstrate that they don’t favor highly compensated employees or key employees, such as company owners. 401(k) compliance testing is the responsibility of the company that offers the plan.

How 401(k) Compliance Testing Works

Companies apply three different compliance tests to the plan each year. These tests look at how much income employees defer into the plan, how much the employer 401(k) match adds up to, and what percentage of assets in the plan belong to key employees and highly compensated employees versus what belongs to non-highly compensated employees.

There are three nondiscrimination testing standards employers must apply to qualified retirement plans.

•   The Actual Deferral Percentage (ADP) Test: Analyzes how much income employees defer into the plan

•   The Actual Contribution Percentage (ACP): Analyzes employers contributions to the plan on behalf of employees

•   Top-Heavy Test: Anayzes how participation by key employees compares to participation by other employees

The Actual Deferral Percentage (ADP) Test

The Actual Deferral Percentage (ADP) test counts elective deferrals of highly compensated employees and non-highly compensated employees. This includes both pre-tax and Roth deferrals but not catch-up contributions made to the plan. This 401(k) compliance testing measures engagement in the plan based on how much of their salary each group defers into it on a yearly basis.

To run the test, employers average the deferral percentages of both highly compensated employees and non-highly compensated employees to determine the ADP for each group. Then the employer divides each plan participant’s elective deferrals by their compensation to get their Actual Deferral Ratio (ADR). The average ADR for all eligible employees of each group represents the ADP for that group.

A company passes the Actual Deferral Percentage test if the ADP for the eligible highly compensated employees doesn’t exceed the greater of:

•   125% of the ADP for the group of non-highly compensated employees

OR

•   The lesser of 200% of the ADP for the group of non-highly compensated employees or the ADP for those employees plus 2%

The Actual Contribution Percentage (ACP) Test

Plans that make matching contributions to their employees’ 401(k) must also administer the Actual Contribution Percentage (ACP) test. Companies calculate this the same way as the ADP test but they substitute each participant’s matching and after-tax contributions for elective deferrals when doing the math.

This test reveals how much the employer contributes to each participant’s plan as a percentage, based on their W-2 income. Companies pass the Actual Contribution Percentage test if the ACP for the eligible highly compensated employees doesn’t exceed the greater of:

•   125% of the ACP for the group of non-highly compensated employees

OR

•   The lesser of 200% of the ACP for the group of non-highly compensated employees or the ACP for those employees plus 2%

Companies may run both the ADP and ACP tests using prior year or current-year contributions.

Top-Heavy Test

The Top-Heavy test targets key employees within an organization who contribute to qualified retirement plans. The IRS defines a key employee as any current, former or deceased employee who at any time during the plan year was:

•   An officer making over $215,000 for 2023 and over $220,000 for 2024

•   A 5% owner of the business OR

•   An employee owning more than 1% of the business and making over $150,000 for the plan year

Anyone who doesn’t fit these standards is a non-key employee. Top-heavy ensures that lower-paid employees receive a minimum benefit if the plan is too top-heavy.

Under IRS rules, a plan is top heavy if on the last day of the prior plan year the total value of plan accounts for key employees is more than 60% of the total value of plan assets. If the plan is top heavy the employer must contribute up to 3% of compensation for all non-key employees still employed on the last day of the plan year. This is designed to bring plan assets back into a fair balance.

Get a 1% IRA match on rollovers and contributions.

Double down on your retirement goals with a 1% match on every dollar you roll over and contribute to a SoFi IRA.1


1Terms and conditions apply. Roll over a minimum of $20K to receive the 1% match offer. Matches on contributions are made up to the annual limits.

Why 401(k) Compliance Testing Is Necessary

401(k) compliance testing ensures that investing for retirement is as fair as possible for all participants in the plan, and that the plan continues to receive favorable tax treatment from the IRS. The compliance testing rules prevent employers from favoring highly compensated employees or key employees over non-highly compensated employees and non-key employees.

If a company fails a 401(k) compliance test, then they have to remedy that under IRS rules or risk the plan losing its tax-advantaged status. This is a strong incentive to fix any issues with non-compliant plans as it can cost employers valuable tax benefits.

Nondiscrimination testing can help employers determine participation across different groups of their workers. It can also shed light on what employees are deferring each year, in accordance with annual 401k plan contribution limits.

Highly Compensated Employees

The IRS defines highly compensated employees for the purposes of ADP and ACP nondiscrimination tests. Someone is a highly compensated employee if they:

•   Owned more than 5% of the interest in the business at any time during the year or the preceding year, regardless of how much compensation they earned or received,

OR

•   Received compensation from the business of more than $150,000 in 2023 and $155,000 in 2024 or $135,000 (if the preceding is 2022) and was in the top 20% of employees when ranked by compensation

If an employee doesn’t meet at least one of these conditions, they’re considered non-highly compensated. This distinction is important when compliance testing 401(k) plans, as the categorization into can impact ADP and ACP testing outcomes.

Non-Highly Compensated Employees

Non-highly compensated employees are any employees who don’t meet the compensation or ownership tests, as established by the IRS for designated highly compensated employees. So in other words, a non-highly compensated employee would own less than 5% of the interest in the company or have compensation below the guidelines outlined above.

Again, it’s important to understand who is a non-highly compensated employee when applying nondiscrimination tests. Employers who misidentify their employees run the risk of falling out of 401(k) compliance. Likewise, as an employee, it’s important to understand which category you fall into and how that might affect the amount you’re able to contribute and/or receive in matching contributions each year.

💡 Quick Tip: Before opening an investment account, know your investment objectives, time horizon, and risk tolerance. These fundamentals will help keep your strategy on track and with the aim of meeting your goals.

How to Fix a Non-Compliant 401(k)

The IRS offers solutions for employers who determine that their 401(k) is not compliant, based on the results of the ADP, ACP or Top-Heavy tests. When a plan fails the ADP or ACP test, the IRS recommends the following:

•   Refunding contributions made by highly compensated employees in order to bring average contribution rates in alignment with testing standards

•   Making qualified nonelective contributions on behalf of non-highly compensated employees in order to bring their average contributions up in order to pass test

Employers can also choose to do a combination of both to pass both the ADP and ACP tests. In the case of the Top-Heavy test, the employer must make qualified nonelective contributions of up to 3% of compensation for non-highly compensated employees.

Companies can also avoid future noncompliance issues by opting to make safe harbor contributions. Safe harbor plans do not have to conduct ADP and ACP testing, and they can also be exempt from the Top-Heavy test if they’re not profit sharing plans. Under safe harbor rules, employers can do one of the following:

•   Match each eligible employee’s contribution on a dollar-for-dollar basis up to 3% of the employee’s compensation and 50 cents on the dollar for contributions that exceed 3% but not 5% of their compensation.

•   Make a nonelective contribution equal to 3% of compensation to each eligible employee’s account.

Safe harbor rules can relieve some of the burden of yearly 401(k) testing while offering tax benefits to both employers and employees.

The Takeaway

A 401(k) is a key way for employees to help save for retirement and reach their retirement goals. It’s important for employers to conduct IRS-mandated 401(k) compliance testing in order to ensure that their 401(k) plans are administered in a fair and equal manner that benefits all employees.

If you don’t have a 401(k) at work, however, or you’re hoping to supplement your 401(k) savings, you may want to consider opening an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) to help save for retirement. Since IRAs are not employer-sponsored, they’re not subject to 401(k) compliance testing, though they do have to follow IRS rules regarding annual contribution limits and distributions.

Ready to invest for your retirement? It’s easy to get started when you open a traditional or Roth IRA with SoFi. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).

Easily manage your retirement savings with a SoFi IRA.

FAQ

What is top-heavy testing for 401(k)?

Top-heavy testing for 401(k) plans determine what percentage of plan assets are held by key employees versus non-key employees. If an employer’s plan fails the top-heavy test, they must make qualified, nonelective contributions on behalf of non-key employees in order to bring the plan into compliance.

What happens if you fail 401(k) testing?

If an employer-sponsored plan fails 401(k) compliance testing, the IRS requires the plan to make adjustments in order to become compliant. This can involve refunding contributions made by highly-compensated employees, making qualified nonelective contributions on behalf of non-highly compensated employees or a combination of the two.

What is a highly compensated employee for 401(k) purposes?

The IRS defines a highly compensated employee using two tests based on compensation and company ownership. An employee is highly compensated if they have a 5% or more ownership interest in the business or their income exceeds a specific limit for the year. Income limits are set by the IRS and updated periodically.


About the author

Rebecca Lake

Rebecca Lake

Rebecca Lake has been a finance writer for nearly a decade, specializing in personal finance, investing, and small business. She is a contributor at Forbes Advisor, SmartAsset, Investopedia, The Balance, MyBankTracker, MoneyRates and CreditCards.com. Read full bio.



Photo credit: iStock/tumsasedgars

SoFi Invest®

INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE

SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below: Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.
For a full listing of the fees associated with Sofi Invest please view our fee schedule.

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.


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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student with laptop

Applying for No-Interest Student Loans

When you take out any type of loan, you typically pay interest. This is the cost of borrowing money from a lender. The interest you pay for many student loans starts growing from the day the funds are released and continues until you’ve fully paid off the loan. This is why you pay more for most student loans than the amount you originally borrowed.

No-interest loans or interest-free loans, also known as scholarship loans, don’t charge any interest, so you only pay back exactly what you borrowed. They are typically offered by nonprofit organizations, state governments, and universities.

While these loans are relatively rare, and amounts tend to lower than other types of student loans, no-interest student loans do exist and may be worth looking into for the potential savings. Read on to learn how interest-free student loans work and where to find them.

Key Points

•   No-interest student loans, also known as scholarship loans, require repayment of only the principal amount borrowed.

•   These loans are typically offered by nonprofit organizations, state governments, and universities.

•   Although rare and usually for smaller amounts, no-interest loans can significantly reduce overall student debt.

•   Applicants for these loans often undergo a process similar to scholarship applications, including essays and interviews.

•   It’s advisable to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as some no-interest loans use it to determine financial need.

What Is a No-Interest Student Loan?

Interest-free student loans are loans that do not accrue interest. Unlike grants and scholarships, the loan amount must be repaid. Because there are no interest charges, however, the amount repaid by the borrower remains the same as the original amount borrowed. Traditional student loans, whether federal or private, all come with interest rates that are either fixed or variable.

The interest rates on federal student loans are fixed and are set annually by Congress. For the 2023-2024 school year, the interest rate on Direct Subsidized or Unsubsidized Loans for undergraduates is 5.50%, the rate on Direct Unsubsidized Loans for graduate and professional students is 7.05%, and the rate on Direct PLUS Loans for graduate students, professional students, and parents is 8.05%.

While federal student loan rates are the same for every borrower, private student loan rates range based on the lender, the type of interest rate (fixed or variable), and the borrower’s credit score. Interest on private loans can run anywhere from 4.42% to 16.99% APR.

Whatever the interest rate on a student loan, you will end up paying more than you borrow. No-interest student loans can be an attractive alternative. Here are some places to look for interest-free loans:

•   Schools Some colleges and universities offer no-interest loans for current students to cover emergency expenses.

•   States You may be able to find an interest-free student loan through your state’s education agency. For example, Massachusetts offers students who demonstrate financial need and attend a qualifying school in Massachusetts a no-interest loan for up to $4,000 each academic year.

•   Nonprofit organizations Some foundations and nonprofits offer no-interest student loans. These loans can be set up in different ways. In some cases, you can get a small loan amount; in others, the organization will pay your remaining cost of attendance. Some are awarded based on merit, while others are awarded based on financial need.



💡 Quick Tip: Make no payments on SoFi private student loans for six months after graduation.

Applying for Interest-Free Student Loans

The application process for most interest-free loans resembles the application process for grants or scholarships more closely than a traditional loan application.

It’s a good idea to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®), even if you want to focus on loans without interest. Some interest-free loans use the FAFSA to determine financial need. And while federal loans generally accrue interest, they typically have lower rates than private student loans. Federal student loans also come with benefits, such as income-based repayment and forgiveness programs, that private student loans and no-interest loans may not offer.

Interest-free student loans are often local and state-based, rather than national. They may require proof of residency in a certain state. Some may also have an essay requirement, as well academic requirements, and might even require an interview.

The process is usually more intense than a regular student loan because funds are limited. Some state agencies and philanthropic organizations use the term “scholarship loan” to refer to interest-free loans. Scholarship loans may also be repaid through public service.

Keep in mind though that those organizations are still separate from the government, and do not offer the same repayment plans as the loans offered through the U.S. Department of Education.

Recommended: student loan interest deduction

Subsidized Loans: No Interest Until After Graduation

Interest-free loans are relatively rare, so it’s possible that students will still need to rely on federal student aid. There are two types of federal Direct Loans available to undergraduate students: subsidized and unsubsidized.

Subsidized loans are available to undergraduates who demonstrate financial need. The U.S. Department of Education pays the interest accruing on the loans while you’re in school, during your six-month grace period, and when your loans are in deferment.

On the other hand, unsubsidized loans are available to undergraduate and graduate students, and they don’t require that students demonstrate need in order to qualify. Interest accrues while you’re in school, and during grace periods, deferment, or forbearance — and you’re responsible for paying the interest.

Federal student loans also offer a few different payment plans, including income-driven repayment plans, so that borrowers can find the option that works best for them. There are also borrower protections like deferment or forbearance that can act as a safety net for borrowers who find themselves facing financial difficulties down the road.


💡 Quick Tip: Would-be borrowers will want to understand the different types of student loans that are available: private student loans, federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans, Direct PLUS loans, and more.

The Takeaway

No-interest student loans, sometimes called scholarship loans or interest-free loans, are loans awarded to students that do not accrue interest at all. While not common, there are some nonprofits, state agencies, schools, corporations, and religious organizations that offer interest-free loans to students.

In case you’re not able to find or qualify for a no-interest loan, it’s a good idea to fill out the FAFSA to access other forms of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and federal student loans.

Sometimes, financial aid and scholarships don’t provide enough funding to pay for college. In that case, you might want to look into private student loans. While private student loans can be helpful tools when it comes to paying for college, they do not have the same borrower protections as federal student loans, so you generally only want to consider them after all other aid options have been reviewed.

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.



About the author

Julia Califano

Julia Califano

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


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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. 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).

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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What Is a Manufactured Home? Features, Pros & Cons

What Is a Manufactured Home? Explaining the Pros & Cons

You may have grown up calling manufactured homes mobile homes — and the two terms are sometimes still used interchangeably — but these dwellings have evolved.

They’re more customizable and arguably fancier than previous iterations. Still, it’s a good idea to look beyond the sticker price.

Key Points

•   Manufactured homes are cost-effective, often 20% to 45% cheaper than site-built homes, excluding the cost of land.

•   Built to strict, newly updated HUD codes, manufactured homes must meet a high standard that ensures quality and energy efficiency, with customizable finishes and features.

•   Custom options may be limited by the builder, restricting certain design choices.

•   Lot rent increases in manufactured home communities have been substantial in recent years, so purchasing land for a hard-to-move manufactured home may be a better option than leasing.

•   Retirees and first-time homebuyers may benefit most from the cost-effective and customizable nature of manufactured homes.

Characteristics of a Manufactured Home

First, to clarify a popular point of confusion, modular homes and manufactured homes are different types of houses.

Both are built partially or entirely in a factory, but modular homes — aka kit homes — must adhere to the same codes that site-built homes do.

Manufactured homes are intended to be permanent dwelling units. Starting in 1976, they began to be built to a code developed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and moved past the name “mobile homes” and the notion of trailers placed atop blocks.

The manufactured home, built on a permanent chassis, is tested to ensure that it can be transported properly before being attached to a foundation, or the underlying chassis may be “skirted” by blocks or siding.

The home may be movable, depending on its age and condition, but few are moved. Moving a manufactured home, if it is new enough to be moved, can cost $20,000 or more.

Pros and Cons of a Manufactured Home

Before buying a manufactured home, the housing choice of about 20 million Americans, take a look at the following advantages and disadvantages to help you in your decision-making.

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

Questions? Call (888)-541-0398.


Pros

•   Cost effective: According to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, manufactured homes cost around 20% to 45% less than comparable site-built homes, excluding the price of land.

•   High quality: Manufactured homes must adhere to the HUD code, which applies to the home’s design, construction, durability, transportability, strength, and energy efficiency. Factories also need to adhere to standards and must inspect each step during construction.

•   Few delays: Because manufactured homes are built indoors in a controlled environment, the weather won’t interfere with the timeline to construct the home.

•   Home warranties: Most manufactured homes have some form of warranty to guarantee the quality of the home, usually for one to five years. The seller has its own warranties for transporting and installing the home.

•   Customizable: Most manufactured home makers allow homebuyers to customize some aspects of the home, such as certain finishes, porches, vaulted ceilings, and fireplaces.
Energy efficient: The HUD code ensures that manufactured homes have a high degree of energy efficiency.

•   Financing: The financing options include loans even if the buyer will not own the land the home will rest on.

•   Appreciation: Manufactured homes may not appreciate at the same rate as other types of homes and may even depreciate. The resale value depends on the location, and the age and condition of the home.

Cons

•   Limited customization: You can customize some parts of a manufactured home, but you may not have the options you want, depending on the builder.

•   Price increases: The average sales price of a manufactured home increased nearly 50% during the pandemic, driven by the demand for affordable housing.

•   Lot rent: Most residents own their homes but rent the land. Those who lease lots face uncertain increases in monthly costs. Park rents have been doubling and tripling.
Financing options may carry higher rates. Whether the home is considered real property or personal property makes a big difference.

A manufactured home built on or after June 15, 1976, and considered real property might qualify for a conventional or government-backed loan. To be considered real property, the home must be at least 400 square feet, permanently attached to a foundation, and on land that you own or plan to buy. The loans usually carry slightly higher interest rates than mortgages for traditional homes.

Financing options for manufactured homes classified as personal property include chattel loans, which come with a higher interest rate and a shorter term than most traditional mortgages. (A chattel mortgage also may be used for tiny house financing.)

FHA Title I loans and personal loans are other options for manufactured homes classified as personal property. Rates for unsecured personal loans will be higher than rates for secured loans like mortgages or chattel loans.

Finding a Manufactured Home

Most manufactured homes are sold through retailers instead of the builders. It’s also possible to purchase manufactured homes through real estate agents and online manufactured home marketplaces.

Think of buying a new manufactured home like going to a store where you can view model homes. You’ll be able to see your options, such as the number of bedrooms, layout, and customizable features. Depending on the retailer, you may even be able to apply for financing and arrange for delivery all in the same day.

Before signing on the dotted line, make sure you read the fine print, such as what warranties come with the home. You may be able to purchase both the land and home through a manufactured home community.

Who Should Get a Manufactured Home?

A manufactured home may be a good fit for a retiree or a first-time homebuyer who is looking for a more cost-effective housing solution than a condo or single-family home — especially if they own the land underneath them.

It also may be suited for those who want a new construction home and to be able to customize parts of the structure.

The Takeaway

A manufactured home may be a good choice for some buyers, and others may want to try to buy a condo, townhouse, or single-family home.

If you’re in the latter group or buying investment property, SoFi can help you get started by providing a rate quote with no obligation.

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


SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

FAQ

What are the advantages of manufactured homes?

The main advantages of manufactured homes are the relatively low cost and the building standards they must meet.

Is a manufactured home considered real property?

A manufactured home is considered real property if you own both the land and the home, and the structure is permanently attached to a foundation.

Can I get a loan to buy a manufactured house?

Yes, though the type usually depends on whether the home is considered real or personal property. Classification as personal property is almost certain to preclude conventional financing. A borrower need not own the land for an FHA Title I loan from an approved lender. The loan may be used to buy a manufactured home, a lot on which to place the home, or a manufactured home and lot in combination. There are maximum loan amounts and terms.

Are manufactured homes safe?

Yes. Manufactured homes built after mid-1976 abide by HUD standards, and the agency significantly updated its manufacturing and safety standards in 2024. Most come with warranties.


Photo credit: iStock/clubfoto

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Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.


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


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.

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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Is 24/7 Stock Trading Available?

Stock exchanges typically have set hours during which they operate, but trading activity isn’t restricted to traditional operating hours. After-hours trading sessions allow investors to continue making trades once the markets have closed for the day.

While after-hours trading isn’t exactly the same as regular day trading, there are some advantages to 24/7 trading. For investors who are interested in trading outside normal stock exchange hours, there are some important things to keep in mind.

Reviewing After-Hours Trading

In the U.S. the NYSE and the Nasdaq are the two primary stock exchanges investors can use to trade stocks and other securities. Like the NYSE, the Nasdaq also follows a 9:30 am ET to 4:00 pm ET operating schedule, with certain holidays observed.

Both the NYSE and the Nasdaq allow after-hours trading. After-hours trading is divided into two distinct windows: pre-market trading and post-market trading.

What Is Pre-market Trading?

Pre-market trading allows investors to make portfolio moves in the hours before the market officially opens for the day. For both the NYSE and the Nasdaq, the pre-market trading period extends from 4:00 am ET to 9:30 am ET.

The NYSE also allows for a 30-minute pre-opening season beginning at 3:30 am ET in which limit orders can be entered and queued ahead of the pre-market session.

What Is Post-market Trading?

Post-market trading, also referred to as extended trading, runs from 4:00 pm ET to 8:00 pm ET on both exchanges. If an investor is completing after-hours trading with an online brokerage, the brokerage may set their own hours for when trading can occur, within the time frames the NYSE and the Nasdaq follow.

Of course, this timing pertains to the U.S. markets only. Globally, foreign markets have their own operating hours. Due to time zone differences, stock markets in the U.S. and markets in other countries don’t always operate during the same time periods.


💡 Quick Tip: Look for an online brokerage with low trading commissions as well as no account minimum. Higher fees can cut into investment returns over time.

Put your money to work and make
your first trade with active invest.


How After-Hours Trading Works

After-hours trading takes place outside the regular markets so it doesn’t work exactly like regular day trading. During the day, trades occur through exchanges — but during pre-market or post-market trading, they’re completed through a different type of exchange — technically, an alternative trading system known as an electronic communication networks (ECNs).

An ECN matches up buy orders with sell orders from different investors to execute trades. Orders can only be matched if the buy and sell prices are the same.

All trades placed after-hours have to be limit orders — with buyers and sellers agreeing to the price — rather than market-on-open orders, since the markets are closed.

Just like regular day trades, investors may pay commissions to execute an after-hours trade. But the fees charged may be higher than the fees for normal day trades.

Is 24/7 Trading an Option?

Being able to trade stocks 24 hours a day, 7 days a week might sound appealing to active traders or investors who don’t have the opportunity to make trades during regular market hours. But is 24/7 stock trading even possible?

While after-hours trading allows investors more time to execute trades, there is a gap in between the post-market and pre-market hours. Technically, an investor wouldn’t be able to trade between the end of the post-market period at 8:00 pm ET and the beginning of the pre-market period at 4:00 am ET.

However, some online trading platforms have begun rolling out 24/7 trading as a brokerage account option. With this feature, investors would be able to make trades at all times of day — during regular market trading hours, pre-market trading hours, post-market trading hours, and beyond.

For example, if an investor wanted to place a limit order to purchase 100 shares of stock at midnight, they could do so if their online brokerage offered 24/7 trading.

Depending on which trading platform investors are on, they may be limited as to the type of securities they can trade after-hours. For example, some brokerages may only allow 24/7 trades of select individual stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

Pros of 24/7 Stock Trading

Being able to make trades on one’s own schedule, rather than following the market’s standard trading hours, can yield some benefits.

Trading stocks and other securities after the market closes and before it opens could pay off if an investor is able to capitalize on overnight news or market developments that could affect stock prices, including:

•   Earnings reports. It’s common for companies to release earnings reports after the market has officially closed for the day. If the earnings report looks to boost a stock’s price or cause it to decline, an investor might choose to place an after-hours trade to buy or sell, according to their investment strategy.

•   The announcement of a merger or acquisition.

•   A major political event. For example, the results of a presidential election can influence market outlooks and trading activity.

Trading overnight could allow an investor to get the jump on other investors who normally trade during the day.

There’s also the convenience factor: 24/7 trading is helpful for investors who don’t have time to watch the markets and schedule trades throughout the day.

Trading after-hours means they don’t have to miss out on any opportunities to build and grow their investment portfolio if their day job keeps them busy.


💡 Quick Tip: When you’re actively investing in stocks, it’s important to ask what types of fees you might have to pay. For example, brokers may charge a flat fee for trading stocks, or require some commission for every trade. Taking the time to manage investment costs can be beneficial over the long term.

Risks of After-Hours Trading

While having access to 24/7 trading can have its advantages, there are a few potential downsides to keep in mind.

•   Limit orders aren’t guaranteed. There’s no guarantee that limit orders placed after-hours will be executed. For a trade to be completed, an ECN has to be able to match up your order with another investor’s. Since trading volumes are typically lower during the pre-market and post-market periods, finding a match could prove difficult. Or you could get stuck in a trade at a less than desirable price.

•   The potential for increased volatility. Lower trading volume can also lead to increased volatility and sharper, more sudden price movements. For example, an investor may see a much wider gap between the bid price and ask price during after-hours trading.

Those things make 24/7 trading of stocks or other securities riskier overall. For investors considering this strategy, it might require them to pay closer attention to market movements to minimize the potential for losses.

The Takeaway

While 24/7 stock trading was a long-time a dream for some investors, now it’s becoming a reality. As online trading platforms start to offer 24/7 trading to their investors, trading at any hour of the day or night is increasingly possible.

While there are risks to 24/7 trading — notably the chance of increased volatility as well as that a limit order won’t get executed — there are also benefits, such as the convenience of not being limited to the 9:30 am to 4pm ET confines of the NYSE and Nasdaq.

One of the first rules of investing is that in order to make it work for you, you have to get started.

Ready to invest in your goals? It’s easy to get started when you open an investment account with SoFi Invest. You can invest in stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), mutual funds, alternative funds, and more. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).

For a limited time, opening and funding an Active Invest account gives you the opportunity to get up to $1,000 in the stock of your choice.


About the author

Rebecca Lake

Rebecca Lake

Rebecca Lake has been a finance writer for nearly a decade, specializing in personal finance, investing, and small business. She is a contributor at Forbes Advisor, SmartAsset, Investopedia, The Balance, MyBankTracker, MoneyRates and CreditCards.com. Read full bio.


Extended hours are from 9 AM – 9:30 AM and 4 PM – 8 PM ET Monday to Friday. Only limit orders can be placed during extended hours. Orders placed after 4 PM ET that and not filled by 8 PM ET will be canceled. Trading during extended hours involves greater risk including lower liquidity and greater volatility.
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INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE

SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below: Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
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For a full listing of the fees associated with Sofi Invest please view our fee schedule.

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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