Jun
24
2024

What Are Intermediary Banks? What Do They Do?

By | Family Finances, money, Terminology | Comments Off on What Are Intermediary Banks? What Do They Do?

An intermediary bank is a bank that acts as a go-between, connecting two different banks as transactions are processed. Smaller banks require intermediary banks or correspondent banks to facilitate transactions with other banks, while larger banks may have enough connections to serve as their own intermediaries.

Intermediary banks are commonly used for international wire transfers and handling multiple types of currencies. Generally, retail bank customers do not have to worry about finding intermediary banks — instead, they work behind the scenes with the banks themselves. Read on to learn more about these important financial institutions.

What Is an Intermediary Bank?

An intermediary bank is a third-party bank that helps facilitate transfers and transactions between two other banks. Often, intermediary banks are dealing with international transactions such as wire transfers between different countries. If you are sending money to others abroad, your bank may end up using an intermediary bank.

You may not be aware of how the intermediary banks work behind the scenes, but it’s important to note that you may be charged additional bank fees for the work that intermediary banks are doing.

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How Do Intermediary Banks Work

If you are doing a bank account transfer, especially to an account in a different country than the one where your own bank is located, it is likely that an intermediary bank will be involved. During a monetary transfer between accounts at different banks, an intermediary bank works in between the sender’s checking or savings account and the account at the receiving bank.

Here’s how the transaction might work:

•   A person with an account at Bank A wants to send money to another person, a client with an account at Bank B.

•   However, Bank A doesn’t have an account or banking relationship with Bank B.

•   Bank A and Bank B do, however, each have an account with Bank C.

•   Funds can be funneled through Bank C, the intermediary bank, to make the transaction successful.

Intermediary Bank Example

Intermediary banks are like an international travel hub through which transfers flow. They are especially important for fund transfers made via the SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Telecommunications) network.

Here’s a simple example to show how intermediary banks usually work.

•   Say that John is an importer-exporter based in the United States who banks at the Acme Bank. He needs to make a payment to Angela, a supplier of his based in Germany, who banks with Big Bank.

•   He gives Angela’s bank’s information to his bank to make the transfer. If Acme Bank does not have an account at or a relationship directly with Big Bank (Angela’s bank), it will use an intermediary bank called Central Bank. This intermediary bank will have accounts at both Acme Bank, John’s bank in the United States, as well as Big Bank, Angela’s bank in Germany.

•   Central Bank can transfer the money between the two banks. It will likely charge a fee for its role in the transaction. The transaction will be completed by the three banks working together.

Recommended: How Retail Banking Works

When Is an Intermediary Bank Required?

Any time that money is being transferred between two banks that do not have an existing relationship, an intermediary bank is usually involved. Whether you have a single account or a joint bank account, when you transfer money to a user at a different bank (especially internationally), an intermediary bank will generally be required.

This is likely to occur as a commercial banking transaction. In other words, the use of an intermediary bank is not something the consumer has to initiate.

The Need for Intermediary Banks

Intermediary banks are important as part of the global financial system. Since banks generally do not have accounts with every single bank around the world, there is a need for intermediary banks to help facilitate monetary transfers.

The good news is that you typically do not have to worry about finding an intermediary bank yourself. Instead, the banks themselves have intermediary banks that they use to move money between other banks.

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When Will an Intermediary Bank Be Involved in a Transaction?

An intermediary bank will usually be involved whenever there is a need to transfer money between accounts at two separate banks. If the sending bank does not have its own account with the receiving bank, it will usually use an intermediary bank.

Even if a business thought it could get around the need for intermediary banks (and save money; see more on fees below) by opening multiple bank accounts, its main bank would still probably use an intermediary bank at some point to transfer funds on its behalf.

Difference Between Intermediary and Correspondent Banks

When considering how bank transfers work, you may hear two different terms: intermediary banks and correspondent banks. Depending on which part of the world you’re in, there may or may not be a difference between the terms “intermediary bank” and “correspondent bank.”

•   In some countries, the terms correspondent banks and intermediary banks are used interchangeably.

•   In the U.S. as well as in a few other countries, correspondent banks are often ones that handle multiple types of currencies.

•   Intermediary banks may be smaller banks that only typically handle transactions in one currency.

What Are Some Typical Intermediary Bank Fees?

Because intermediary banks typically do not work directly with consumers, they also do not regularly post a breakdown of the fees they charge. Instead, you can look at your own bank’s fees for financial transactions such as domestic wire transfers or international wire transfers.

The wire transfer fees and other charges that you pay for these transactions generally include the fees that your bank pays to the intermediary bank it uses. These bank fees can range anywhere from $15 to $50 or more.

Recommended: How Do Banks Make Money?

Who Pays for Intermediary Bank Fees?

Intermediary bank fees are paid in different ways, depending on the specific transaction. Let’s say Person A is sending money to Person B. There are three ways the fees may be handled, depending on what the parties involved agree upon:

•   “OUR” is the code used when the sender will pay all fees. The fee for an international transfer can be as high as $70.

•   “SHA” is the code indicating shared costs. Person A will likely pay their bank charges (perhaps $15 to $30 on a typical transaction) and then Person B pays the rest: their bank’s and the intermediary bank’s charges.

•   “BEN” indicates that Person B, the recipient of the funds, will pay all charges.

The Takeaway

If a bank customer wants to send money to someone at a different bank and the two banks involved are not connected, an intermediary bank typically plays a role. Intermediary banks work to help facilitate monetary transactions such as domestic and especially international wire transfers. You, as a consumer, usually do not have to hire your own intermediary bank. However, your bank will likely pass along any intermediary bank fees if you initiate a transaction that requires one.

International money transfers are likely just one aspect of the services you use with your bank.

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


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

FAQ

What is an example of an intermediary bank?

An intermediary bank is one that moves funds between other banks. They do not typically work directly with consumers, so you likely neither need to know their names nor contact them. For instance, Bank of America might offer this service, or it might be provided by a foreign bank with which you are not familiar.

Why do you need an intermediary bank?

Intermediary banks are usually used when someone needs to send money to a person with an account at a different bank. An intermediary bank can serve as a middleman and facilitate the transaction. One common example is sending a wire transfer, especially internationally.

How do you find an intermediary bank?

In most cases, you will not need to find your own intermediary bank. The bank you use will have its own intermediary bank that it collaborates with as needed.

Photo credit: iStock/MicroStockHub

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*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.

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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Jun
22
2024

Guide to Voucher Checks

By | Family Finances, money, Terminology | Comments Off on Guide to Voucher Checks

Voucher checks (also called check vouchers) are an extended check format that includes payment details not typically seen on a standard check. For example, a payroll voucher check allows the recipient to view taxes and other deductions from their gross pay. Voucher checks get their name from the two detachable sections (the “vouchers” or stubs) below the check itself.

A disadvantage of voucher checks is the additional clerical work required by the business issuing the check. Keep reading for more insight into how voucher checks work.

What Is a Voucher Check?

Many consumers don’t know what a voucher check is. A voucher check is a type of check that has detailed informational sections attached. These vouchers outline what the content and purpose of the check is. The voucher check is typically printed as a full sheet of paper, with the check at the top and the two removable vouchers below.

The check payee holds on to the first voucher. Before cashing the check, the recipient will remove the remaining voucher and keep it for their records. Both parties can refer back to their vouchers in the event of a payment dispute.

A number of small businesses use voucher checks for employee payroll. Payroll vouchers, also referred to as “pay stubs,” usually list payroll deductions for taxes, insurance premiums, and other withholding items. This information can help employees better understand their pre- and post-tax income, and the breakdown of deductions.

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

How Do Voucher Checks Work?

For payees, voucher checks are handled the same as standard checks, with one exception: The payee should remove the voucher from the check before deposit. The voucher can be kept on file for future reference.

Anyone with a bank account can deposit a voucher check. Consumers who don’t have a bank account (about 1 in 20 Americans) can sign over a check to another recipient.

Or they might try cashing the check at a local bank or credit union for a fee. As with most corporate checks, recipients should try to deposit the check within 6 months or the check may expire.

Recommended: How to Balance a Checkbook

Who Uses Voucher Checks?

As mentioned above, voucher checks are commonly used by businesses to pay their staff or vendors. Even if a company uses direct deposit to pay employees, they may choose to keep a paper trail via a voucher check system.

Preparing a Voucher Check

Voucher checks (or check vouchers) may be prepared by a business’ accounts payable or payroll department, using the following steps.

•   Step 1 All related documents — contracts, purchase orders, invoices, statements of accounts — are collected, either in hard copy or digitally.

•   Step 2 A voucher is created that incorporates any relevant info from the backup documentation, but always includes the voucher number, bank name, payor, date, amount, and recipient.

•   Step 3 The voucher is then attached to a standard written check, and both are signed by the authorized signatory.

•   Step 4 Once the recipient deposits or cashes the check, the business will file its own voucher and supporting documents.

Advantages of a Voucher Check

There are important advantages associated with voucher checks, which prompts businesses to go to the extra effort. Here are some of them:

Documents Maintained in Check Voucher System

When preparing a check voucher, a business must first gather all supporting documentation. This helps keep all relevant paperwork organized and in one place. It’s not possible to maintain a check voucher system without doing this.

Records Are in Order With No Irregularities

The bookkeeping process is considerably simpler when a payroll department uses a check voucher system, because all important documents are easily accessible in one place, in hard copy or digitally. Also, check vouchers are numbered and filed in chronological order, which keeps filing systems simple.

Easier to Track Checks

Businesses commonly do not file check vouchers until the check is deposited or cashed. Only cleared checks are filed.

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Disadvantages of Voucher Checks

There are downsides associated with voucher checks that small businesses in particular may want to keep in mind.

Maintenance Process Can Be Time-Consuming

Because of the additional documentation and organization requirements, it can be tedious for businesses to maintain a check voucher system.

Lack of Consumer Familiarity

Many consumers aren’t familiar with how paper check vouchers work, which can cause concerns about security. Consumers should take care to keep their vouchers private.

Check Voucher Alternatives

Some employers may choose to use the following alternative payment methods. None of these options, however, provides as extensive and organized a paper trail as check vouchers do.

•   Standard checks. A simple physical check still provides some form of a paper trail. Paper checks can also be tracked digitally or via duplicate checks.

•   Direct deposit. Many businesses and employees prefer the direct deposit route because of how fast and simple it is to electronically transfer the funds.

•   Prepaid debit cards. This is a newer and less common payment option. Workers paid in prepaid debit cards won’t need a bank account to access their funds.

Recommended: How to Verify a Check

The Takeaway

Voucher checks (also called check vouchers) are an extended check format that includes payment details not typically seen on a standard check, such as taxes and other deductions from their gross pay. These checks can provide a details paper trail for both the business issuing the check and the recipient.

Need a good place to deposit your pay? See what SoFi offers.

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


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

FAQ

How do you use a voucher check?

For payees, voucher checks are handled the same as standard checks, with one exception: The payee should remove the voucher from the check before deposit. The voucher can be kept on file for future reference.

What is the difference between a check and a voucher?

Voucher checks get their name from the two detachable sections (the “vouchers” or stubs) below the check itself. The voucher portion outlines the content and purpose of the check. Aside from the voucher, the check portion works like a standard paper check.

What does a voucher check look like?

A voucher check is typically printed as a full sheet of paper, with the check at the top and two removable vouchers below. The vouchers contain additional payment information that usually isn’t included on a standard check.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*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.

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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Jun
21
2024

What Are Income Verification Documents for an Apartment Application?

By | Financial Independence, relay, Terminology | Comments Off on What Are Income Verification Documents for an Apartment Application?

Income verification documents, which are typically requested when you’re applying to rent a home or apartment, are documents that prove you have a job and are earning an income.

A landlord requests these documents to ensure that you’re earning enough to cover your rent payments each month. The income verification paperwork requested may vary from landlord to landlord, and the documents may also differ, depending on your specific career situation. The landlord is simply doing their due diligence to make sure you can afford the rental.

Key Points

•   Income verification documents are required by landlords to confirm a potential tenant’s ability to pay rent.

•   Common documents include pay stubs, tax returns or W2 forms, and bank statements.

•   For self-employed individuals, 1099 forms or personal tax returns may be necessary.

•   Additional proof like a letter from an employer can also be used to verify income.

•   These documents help ensure that the rent does not exceed a reasonable portion of the tenant’s income.

How to Show Proof of Income to Rent an Apartment

There are a number of ways that prospective renters can show proof of income to a prospective landlord or property management company. The types of documents you need to produce will likely depend on the specific request from the landlord.

Generally, there are a few standard income verification documents that landlords and property managers are looking for:

•  Pay stubs

•  Tax returns or W2 forms

•  Bank statements

•  A letter from your employer

Typically, a landlord will request two forms of income verification. Often, your pay stubs and tax forms will suffice as proof of income. But in some cases, you may need to submit several months’ worth of bank statements. You might even need to ask your employer to write you a letter to assure the landlord that you have a job and do have income.

How to Show Proof of Income if You’re Self-Employed

If you’re self-employed, the process can be more complicated. You may need to submit 1099 tax forms or your personal tax returns showing regular and steady income going back a couple of years. Depending on the nature of your self-employment, you may have business tax returns, such as a Schedule C if you own and run a small business, that you can use to verify your income.

You can also use bank statements from your business bank account to show a landlord that you have income. The documents required will likely be similar to those you need when applying for self-employed personal loans. Ask the landlord what will work best for them so you will know exactly what documents you should present.

How to Show Proof of Income for Side Hustles

You may have a side hustle — perhaps you make and sell crafts online, for instance — and that’s similar to owning a small business. And you should be reporting the income you make from your side hustle to the IRS on your tax return. By presenting your tax return to a landlord, you can prove that you’re making side hustle income.

If you’re working for a ridesharing app or food delivery service, the company should be sending you a tax statement with your annual earnings so that you can report them on your tax return. You can always show a copy of that tax statement to a prospective landlord.

Why Proof of Income is Important

Proving your income is important when you rent an apartment — or apply for credit, for that matter — because it shows that you have money coming in every month, and are able to fulfill your financial obligations. In other words, it shows the property owner that you can make your rent payments.

Recommended: What Is The Difference Between Transunion and Equifax?

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Understanding Rent-to-Income Ratio

Along with proving your income, you need to make sure that your rent is not eating up too much of your paycheck. That’s where the “rent-to-income ratio” comes into play. It calculates the percentage of your total income that you’re spending on rent.

The general rule of thumb is that you shouldn’t spend more than 30% of your gross monthly income on housing costs. Depending on where you live, those costs may be a higher or lower percentage of your income, but try to aim for around 30%. An online money tracker can help you keep tabs on your spending.

To figure out your rent-to-income ratio, divide your total annual earnings by 12, which gives you your monthly earnings, and multiply that number by 0.3 (or 30%). The result is how much you can afford to spend on rent per month.

Annual earnings ÷ 12 x 0.3 = How much you can afford to pay for rent

For example, let’s say you earn $50,000 a year. Divide that number by 12 and multiply it by 0.3 and you get $1,250. That’s what you should aim to spend on rent each month. Depending on where you live, you may need to spend more, but that figure gives you a ballpark of where you should be in order to have enough money to pay for your other expenses and hopefully, contribute to your savings as well.

How to Best Prepare to Pay Rent

When you are approved by a landlord to rent an apartment, you’ll need to plan and prepare to pay your rent on time and in full every month.

That means having your finances in order. First, you should have a checking account set up. Typically, you’ll pay your landlord by check or through an online portal and either way, you’ll need a bank account in order to do this. You may be surprised to learn that more than 6% of U.S. households (or more than 14 million people) don’t have a bank account. Fortunately, it’s easy to open a bank account if you don’t have one.

Next, make sure that you’re properly budgeting for your rental expenses. You want to make sure that you have enough money in your account to cover the rent when your landlord cashes your check. A budget planner app can help.

There are other expenses that can go along with renting an apartment or home that you may need to pay. Here are a few you should be aware of:

•  Utility bills

•  Renters insurance

•  Parking, maintenance, and fees for amenities such as a gym or pool

Finally, know the terms of your lease. It’s common for rent to go up once a lease expires, which you may discover when you go to re-sign or renegotiate the rent. Unfortunately, renting is not like a fixed-rate mortgage when you have a monthly rate locked in. So don’t be surprised if the costs of staying in your apartment go up after your lease expires.

The Takeaway

Income verification documents offer proof to a landlord or property management company that you have enough money coming in every month to pay the cost of an apartment or home rental. Typically, pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements are the only forms of documentation you need. However, if you are a small business owner, you may be required to produce additional documents. The good news: Once you are approved to rent, you can start the process of moving in.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

SoFi helps you stay on top of your finances.

FAQ

Can you rent an apartment with no income?

It is possible to rent an apartment with no income, though it likely will be quite difficult. In this instance, having a high credit score can help, because it shows you have a track record of paying your expenses. A healthy savings account can also be useful to prove you have money in the bank.

Can proof of income for an apartment be faked?

It is possible to fake proof of income for an apartment by using online tools to create fake pay stubs and other documents. This constitutes fraud and is illegal, but it does happen.

Is proof of income different for a student?

Yes, it can be, yes. If a student has no income because they are studying full-time, they may need to get a co-signer like a parent or guarantor in order to secure a lease.

Photo credit: iStock/Anna Kim

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

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.

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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Jun
18
2024
Guide to Bank Affidavits

Guide to Bank Affidavits

By | Financial Independence, money, Terminology | Comments Off on Guide to Bank Affidavits

A bank affidavit is a legal document that proves a person’s relationship with a financial institution. An affidavit can also help in matters of financial fraud and with the immigration process. It does this through the use of official signatories and witnesses to assure proper document completion.

Typically, banks and embassies are places to find a bank affidavit document. Learn more about these important documents and how they work.

What Is a Bank Affidavit?

A bank affidavit is a legal document that attests to someone’s relationship with a financial institution. A bank or credit union can verify certain aspects of a person’s financial activities with this document. A bank affidavit is commonly used for investigative cases of potentially fraudulent activity or in matters involving an immigration application.

Incidentally, you may also sometimes hear the phrase self-proving affidavit. This is somewhat different; it’s a document that can be created when making a will. It helps prove the validity of a will. While an important legal document, it’s not the same thing as a bank affidavit.

Banking customers might wonder what is a bank affidavit and how it is created.

•   When requesting this legal document, you must appear at a bank and have the affidavit completed and signed by an authorized individual of the bank or credit union.

•   A bank affidavit often requires at least one witness to assure the accuracy and completeness of all required information.

A bank affidavit is often used to protect customers from nefarious individuals seeking to swindle people out of their savings. This document can be used to assert that fraudulent transactions were conducted and are not the responsibility of the bank customer (aka the victims of the crime). Beyond fraud cases, immigration applications sometimes request proof of financial support, and a bank affidavit helps provide that documentation.

💡 Quick Tip: Help your money earn more money! Opening a bank account online often gets you higher-than-average rates.

How Does a Bank Affidavit Work?

A bank affidavit works by providing official verification of a person’s or business’ financial account holdings and their relationship with a bank or credit union. This is similar to the process used with an affidavit of title in the home-buying process.

An affidavit is a written statement of facts confirmed by the oath of the party making it. Affidavits must be notarized or administered by an officer of the court with such authority.

A bank affidavit in particular works by attesting to certain financial details of a person or legal entity. Banking representatives are the signatories, while witnesses assure that the details are correct and that the document is completed properly. This process goes a long way in proving the financial standing of the account holder or immigration applicant. These documents can help move matters along through the proper channels, especially in cases of suspected fraud or in the immigration process.

Once completed, the bank affidavit should be securely stored, perhaps in a safe or bank account deposit box. You likely want to be sure that only individuals you trust and who are authorized to view your personal information have access to the document. Also bear in mind that when this sort of legal filing is handled by the court system and other government agencies, they are obligated to keep it confidential. Authorized officials must act in a manner to assure your personal information stays private.

Recommended: Guide to Bank Account Closure Letters

Reasons Why Someone Needs a Bank Affidavit

A bank affidavit is necessary when instances of financial crime are suspected, as well as for immigration purposes. Here’s a closer look.

•   Financial crime: Fraudulent activity is a serious white-collar crime in today’s banking world, and financial institutions must take steps to ensure the safety of customer accounts. It’s worthwhile to bank with a financial institution that uses strict fraud protection and security control measures so that you have the best possible security for your accounts.

When needing a bank affidavit, a customer requests a legal document from the financial institution that cites the fraudulent transactions. The affidavit often indicates that financial damages as a result of the malicious activity are not the responsibility of the banking customer in a statement of unauthorized debt. The bank affidavit can then be used in a court of law if any further legal action be taken. Moreover, the affidavit is helpful in a situation involving a business that’s being targeted for illegal financial activity.

•   Immigration issues: Immigration applicants seeking to legally prove financial support commonly request a bank affidavit, too. In these instances, a bank affidavit demonstrates that a person can financially support the immigrant. The affidavit is also used to outline the individual’s bank account information and holdings. (People with a poor credit history can also open a second chance checking account to begin improving their financial footing.)

In the immigration process, a bank affidavit is used to prove that the applicant can financially support themself with monetary savings and with financial help from family and friends. Those who cannot demonstrate a solid financial footing might get turned down due to the possibility that they will wind up needing welfare programs.

How to Write an Affidavit

If you need to write an affidavit, here are the five steps to follow:

1.    Visit a bank or a credit union if you need the affidavit for financial matters. In cases of immigration, you may also travel to a country’s embassy to find blank forms to fill out.

2.    Complete the form to the best of your ability and request assistance from bank representatives or embassy officials for any information you are unsure about. It can be helpful to have the institution fill out the form to avoid mistakes.

3.    After the bank affidavit form is properly filled out and the details are verified for their accuracy, ensure that all necessary signatures are on it and that witnesses attest to the affidavit’s completion.

4.    Create a copy of the legal document and store it in a secure location. This provides a backup should the original get lost, stolen, or damaged.

5.    Immigration applicants can keep a bank affidavit as a receipt to help expedite their process.

Recommended: Important Estate Planning Documents to Know

Where Can I Get a Bank Affidavit?

You can visit a bank or credit union branch to request a bank affidavit. However, not all locations may have the necessary individuals available to provide the required signatures. It can be worthwhile to check in about this in advance. This legal document is usually available at a nation’s embassy, too.

You must complete the form and sign where indicated. It is sometimes preferable to have the banking or embassy officials fill out the form as much as possible to avoid incorrect details on the document.

The Takeaway

Bank affidavits can be important tools if you are trying to clear up fraudulent activity on your account or if you are working your way through immigration procedures. These forms will need to be carefully filled out, signed, and witnessed, but they play a vital role in certain circumstances. Your financial institution or embassy can partner with you to get this document completed.

If you’re looking for a partner in your everyday financial life, see what SoFi offers.

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


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

FAQ

How do I write a bank affidavit?

Visit a bank or an embassy to request a form. You will need signatures from certain officials and likely will need witnesses to the document being completed. It might be easier to have the institution write the bank affidavit for you to prevent any inaccuracies or other errors.

Why do banks ask for an affidavit?

Banks might ask for an affidavit to prove certain details associated with their customers. A common reason a bank affidavit is necessary involves situations where a checking or savings account was used fraudulently. Also, a bank might want the assurance that an immigration applicant has a good financial standing.

Where can I get a bank affidavit?

You can usually get a bank affidavit at a bank or credit union branch. In addition, an embassy may have the forms. Keep in mind that you likely need the forms notarized, so it’s a good idea to make sure one is available when you want to complete the documents.

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

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

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

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

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

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

*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.

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.

This article is not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for advice.

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17
2024
What is Margin Equity & Margin Equity Percentage?

What Is Margin Equity & Margin Equity Percentage?

By | Growing Wealth, invest, Investing, Terminology | Comments Off on What Is Margin Equity & Margin Equity Percentage?

Investors who trade using margin, or funds they’ve borrowed from their broker, do so via a margin account. The amount of money in that account is their margin equity, and their margin equity percentage is the portion of funds in that account that they own (versus funds they’ve borrowed).

It can be important for investors who use margin to understand both margin equity and margin percentage — and their importance when trading or investing with a margin brokerage account.

What Is Margin Equity?

Margin equity is the amount of money in a margin trading account at any given time. A margin account is a stock brokerage account that allows the account holder to borrow up to a specific amount of money from the brokerage firm.

Margin accounts can be a powerful investment tool for sophisticated investors comfortable with higher levels or risk because they have to put up less of their own money in order to make a trade.

Investors can use funds in a margin account to invest in more financial securities, such as stocks, bonds, or funds, that are paid for with funds that exist in the margin account. Money in a margin account is typically in either cash or securities.

Using the value of those assets, a margin account investor can borrow up to 50% of the amount of the cash needed to buy a stock or other security. The securities broker charges interest on any money borrowed in a margin account, plus a commission for executing the trade.

The goal for any margin account investor is to earn back enough profit from a margin account trade to cover the costs of interest on the borrowed margin account funds. If an investor loses money on a margin account trade using borrowed funds, they still have to repay those funds, with interest.

💡 Quick Tip: When you trade using a margin account, you’re using leverage — i.e. borrowed funds that increase your purchasing power. Remember that whatever you borrow you must repay, with interest.

Recommend: What Is Margin Trading and How Does It Work?

Margin Account Rules

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) sets the minimum balance of a margin account at $2,000. And a brokerage firm may have its own maximum fund limits based on the ability of the investor to prove they can repay any money borrowed from the broker via a margin account.

Any time a margin buying investor wants to buy a new security and requires borrowed margin account funds to do so, the amount of cash the investor puts on the table is known as the margin requirement.

To determine an account’s margin equity, you’d first add up the cash amount borrowed from the brokerage firm and the value of “covered call” options the investor has sold. Any unleveraged assets (like cash or stocks) left in the margin account after the above assets are subtracted is margin equity.

Increase your buying power with a margin loan from SoFi.

Borrow against your current investments at just 11%* and start margin trading.

*For full margin details, see terms.

What Is Margin Equity Percentage?

Margin equity percentage is the portion of unleveraged assets in the account. The process of calculating margin equity percentage is similar to using debt-to-equity ratios.
Here’s an example:

Let’s say the investor buys $10,000 in stocks and funds and has borrowed $5,000 in margin account funds from the broker. The value of that $10,000 investment has increased to $11,000, as the assets purchased have increased by $1,000. The margin loan hasn’t changed – it’s still $5,000. Thus, the investor margin equity in the account stands at $6,000.
If that original $10,000 investment had resulted in a $1,000 loss, the margin equity portion of the account stands at $4,000 ($5,000 – $1,000 = $4,000.)

In the example above, the equity margin percentage is represented by the investors margin equity divided by the value of the margin account.

Using the same figures in the example where the account grows by $1,000 ($10,000 + $1,000), $6,000 divided into $11,000 is 54.5%. Using the same figures where the account declines by $1,000, and the equity value of the margin account is $4,000 and divided by $9,000 (the total amount of money left in the margin account) the margin equity percentage is 44.4%.

💡 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.

The Importance of Knowing Your Margin Equity and Margin Equity Percentage

Knowing your margin equity and margin equity percentage can help you understand the level of risk that you’re taking in the account. That can help you determine whether you might need to make changes in order to boost your maintenance margin, or the minimum account balance needed to avoid a “margin call.”

Brokerage firms issue margin calls if an investor’s funds fall below the required maintenance margin. If you can’t meet a margin call, the brokerage firm can shut down your margin account and hold you personally responsible for any losses incurred in the account (and charge you additional fees and commissions, as well.)

The Takeaway

As discussed, the existing balance in a margin account is their margin equity, and their margin equity percentage is the portion of funds in that account that they own (versus funds they’ve borrowed).

Investors who choose to trade on margin should keep an eye on their margin equity and margin equity percentage as one metric on measuring the performance and investment risk of that account. A margin account with a higher equity percentage has lower levels of debt, making a margin call less likely.

If you’re an experienced trader and have the risk tolerance to try out trading on margin, consider enabling a SoFi margin account. With a SoFi margin account, experienced investors can take advantage of more investment opportunities, and potentially increase returns. That said, margin trading is a high-risk endeavor, and using margin loans can amplify losses as well as gains.

Get one of the most competitive margin loan rates with SoFi, 11%*

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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.
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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.

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.

*Borrow at 11%. Utilizing a margin loan is generally considered more appropriate for experienced investors as there are additional costs and risks associated. It is possible to lose more than your initial investment when using margin. Please see SoFi.com/wealth/assets/documents/brokerage-margin-disclosure-statement.pdf for detailed disclosure information.
Claw Promotion: Customer must fund their Active Invest account with at least $25 within 30 days of opening the account. Probability of customer receiving $1,000 is 0.028%. See full terms and conditions.

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