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May

2022

All You Need to Know About a Foreign Currency Certificate of Deposit

By Laurel Tincher | Budgeting & Goals, Growing Wealth, money | Comments Off

A foreign currency certificate of deposit (CD) is similar to an ordinary CD in that an investor can lock up funds for a period of time and earn a set interest rate. But with a foreign CD, the money is converted into another currency for the duration of the term; the funds earn interest in that currency, and the money is converted back to dollars at the maturity date.

Foreign currency CDs sometimes offer much higher returns than other types of CDs. However, they do come with some potential downsides and these CDs can be affected by volatility in the currency markets.

Here’s what you need to know about how foreign currency CDs work, their pros and cons, and how to start investing in them.

How Foreign Currency CDs Work

There are a number of ways to invest in foreign currency. How does a foreign currency CD work? An investor deposits their U.S. dollars in the CD account for a specified period of time known as the term (typically three months to five years). The dollars are then exchanged for a foreign currency or basket of currencies, and the money earns interest in that currency.

At the end of the term the total is converted back to U.S. dollars, and the investor receives their principal plus the interest — similar to an ordinary certificate of deposit.

Typically CD interest rates are somewhat higher than traditional interest-bearing savings or checking accounts, to compensate for the fact that the investor’s money is inaccessible for the term — and foreign currency CDs tend to have higher rates owing to the higher risk.

The longer the term of a foreign currency CD, the higher interest rate the investor earns.

Foreign currency CDs can be a way for investors to hedge against the risk of the U.S. dollar depreciating in value.

How You Can Make Money With Foreign Currency CDs

Returns earned on foreign currency CDs depend on the current interest rates in the country of the chosen currency. Every country has different interest rates, some of which are much higher than the U.S. rates. By investing in another country one may be able to earn those higher rates.

If the currency exchange rates work in the investor’s favor, the value of the CD could also increase – and they could see a higher return in addition to the interest gained.

How You Can Lose Money With Foreign Currency CDs

Although there is an opportunity to earn high interest rates on foreign currency CDs, this type of CD is risky. Other types of CDs are known to be safe investments, so it’s important to understand the difference.

Currency markets have high volatility and are unpredictable, so the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the chosen currency may fluctuate a lot between the beginning and end of the CD term. If a foreign currency loses value compared to the U.S. dollar, an investor will lose money at the end of the term, and the interest gained may not be more than the loss. However, if a foreign currency rises in value compared to the U.S. dollar, investors will earn an even higher return than the interest alone.

The intricacies of currency markets are one reason why foreign currency CDs aren’t recommended for retail investors who don’t have the tools or experience to anticipate what might happen to any particular currency.

One catch to be aware of is that the countries that have the highest interest rates tend to have the most volatile currencies. So it can be tempting to invest to earn those higher rates, but there is a higher risk of loss as well.

How Risky Are Foreign Currency CDs?

Foreign currency CDs are fairly risky investments because currency markets can be quite volatile. For this reason, these CDs tend to be used by institutional investors more so than retail investors.

Investing in currencies requires an in-depth understanding of many different factors that can affect their values. Institutional investors often buy into foreign currency CDs if they know they have an upcoming payment to make in that currency. They can exchange the money and earn interest on it until it becomes time to make the payment.

How to Protect Your Investment

There are a few key ways to protect investments in foreign currency CDs.

Temper Currency Risk

One of the greatest risks in investing in foreign currency CDs is that global currencies can fluctuate a lot in a short amount of time. It can be tempting to buy into currencies that have the highest interest rates, but those are the most volatile and risky.

Instead, it’s better to choose stable currencies with lower interest rates, or invest in a basket of foreign currencies. It’s also recommended to only put a small amount of money into foreign currency CDs for portfolio diversification and exposure to foreign markets.

Look for FDIC Protection

The FDIC insures CDs up to $250,000, but this only applies to CDs opened with U.S. banks. Although an investor can buy into a CD from a foreign bank, it won’t be insured and will come with higher risk, so it’s best to look for foreign currency CDs backed by U.S. banks.

Another important fact to keep in mind is that FDIC won’t protect against currency fluctuations for foreign currency CDs.

Be Aware of Fees and Charges

All types of CDs tend to have early withdrawal fees, although there are some no penalty CDs. Foreign currency CDs also have conversion fees that are sometimes included in the price of the CD. Be sure to inquire about the cost of any foreign currency CD.

How to Open a Foreign Currency CD

Most U.S. banks don’t offer foreign currency CDs, so investors interested in buying into them will need to do some research to find them. Banks that do offer foreign currency CDs tend to offer multiple foreign currency choices. Some also offer CDs that have a group of foreign currencies in them to provide investors with broader exposure.

Investors can open foreign currency CDs with overseas banks, but they are not FDIC insured so they come with greater risks.

Banks offering foreign currency CDs sometimes require a certain minimum deposit amount, and there may be fees associated with currency exchange.

Other Ways to Invest in Foreign Currency

In additional foreign currency CDs, there are other ways investors can gain exposure to foreign currencies:

• Mutual funds

• Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and leveraged ETFs

Investing in mutual funds and ETFs is just as easy as investing in stocks, and more CDs are becoming available to retail investors, so these are simple ways to buy into foreign currency markets. Forex trading is more complicated.

The Takeaway

Foreign currency certificates of deposit are one way investors can gain exposure to foreign markets. Although this type of CD can earn a higher interest rate than traditional CDs, they also come with a higher degree of risk. Global currency markets are complex and difficult to predict — often volatile — with the potential for higher returns but also steep losses for foreign currency CD holders. This type of savings option is recommended only for more experienced investors.

If you’re looking to open a checking or savings account, you might want to consider SoFi’s mobile banking app: an easy all-in-one account. You can open a Checking and Savings on your laptop or phone. There are no account fees, and if you use direct deposit you can earn a competitive APY. The online platform lets you set personal savings goals, and you can see all your financial information in one simple dashboard.

Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 4.20% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

Are foreign CDs FDIC insured?

If a foreign CD is purchased through a U.S. bank it will be FDIC insured, but if it is purchased through a foreign bank it is not.

Which US banks offer foreign currency accounts?

The most well known bank offering foreign currency CDs is TIAA bank, formerly known as Everbank.

Can US banks hold foreign currency?

Yes, U.S. banks can hold foreign currency.

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 4.20% 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 4.20% 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 4.20% 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 10/31/2024. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

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

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SOBK0322033

May

2022

Guide to Opening a Bank Account for a Minor

By Walecia Konrad | Budgeting & Goals, Family Finances, money | Comments Off

Is it time for a young person in your life to start understanding how banking works? Do they get an allowance? Are they raking in some cash for odd jobs? Or perhaps they are just plain curious about how money works, or you’re eager to get them in the habit of saving?

Whatever the trigger, there are plenty of benefits a kid can reap from learning how to bank before they leave the nest. Gaining financial literacy and responsibility is a very good thing. Fortunately, an array of banks and credit unions offer minor accounts designed for exactly this purpose.

Because most state laws and corporate policies don’t enter into contracts with minors — and opening a bank account is a kind of contract — most banks require a child to have an adult as a joint account owner.

That’s where you come in. It’s tempting to simply open an account for your young one at the place you do your banking. But it can also be worth comparing accounts to see which institution offers the best fees, rates, and other features specifically for minor accounts.

To help with your search, here are answers to several frequently asked questions regarding opening a bank account for a minor.

What Do I Need to Open a Bank Account for My Child?

As you shop around for an account, you’ll see that each financial institution has its own rules regarding documentation needed to open a bank account for a minor. In most cases, whether you are opening an account online or in person, you will need the following, in addition to a sum of money (often between zero and $25) to open the account:

Driver’s License

Government-issued photo identification is a gold standard for proving you are who you say you are. If you don’t have a driver’s license, a passport will likely be acceptable.

Social Security Card

You may or may not need the actual card in front of you; just knowing your Social Security number should do the trick.

Child’s Social Security Card

Many people apply for their child’s Social Security number at birth; it’s an important thing to have for obtaining medical coverage or government services. Have those nine digits at the ready.

Child’s Birth Certificate

The bank will want to document that your child is who you say they are. That birth certificate is an important way to do just that.

Proof of Address

A typical way to authenticate your address is with a recent utility bill. If you don’t have a hard copy of your bill lying around, you should be able to easily download a bill from your provider’s online portal.

Types of Bank Accounts for Children

As with standard banking, checking and savings are the most common types of accounts for minors. There are, however, some special aspects of both types of accounts when the child is under age 18. These accounts can help teach good money management and support your family savings efforts. Let’s take a closer look at how they work.

Checking Accounts for Children

Minor checking accounts are common offerings at banks. Most accounts are designed for kids ages 13 to 17; in other words, kids who are a little older and ready to learn the budgeting skills needed to balance a checking account. Some teen checking accounts offer interest, and the best of the bunch offer very low or no fees. This is important since teens are unlikely to carry large balances in their checking or savings accounts. You don’t want fees eroding or even erasing their money.

Savings Accounts for Children

Lots of banks offer special savings accounts for kids. Age restrictions vary, but these may be designed for younger children (the 12-and-under set). There are even savings accounts designed for babies. Check at a couple of banks you are considering for this kind of account and compare offerings.

Many of these accounts have competitive interest rates Some, however, require a minimum deposit to earn those rates. In addition to looking into those details, also see what kind of parental controls are available. These typically allow you to monitor the account and control access. This can be a good thing to have in place in case your child decides to go splurge on videogames or the like.

Recommended: How Does a Savings Account Work?

What to Look for in Bank Accounts for Kids

As you look for the best checking and savings accounts for kids, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Interest. As mentioned before, you may want to compare interest rates on a number of children’s savings accounts. Some are quite competitive but may come with other requirements.

Fees. You want a minor banking account that doesn’t charge the same types of fees you find on an adult account. Many banks waive an application fee and the monthly maintenance fee. But debit card and ATM fees may still apply. Because an adult is the joint account owner, sometimes overdraft and other fees are eased. Be sure to check specific fees on the minor account carefully.

Balance Requirements. Sure, you’ll start the account with an initial deposit, but after that, how much do you need to keep at the bank? Kids’ accounts may require a minimum balance to avoid monthly fees or earn the best interest rates.

Aging Out of the Account. Many banks convert kids’ accounts to standard accounts once the child turns 18. This often takes both adults and the account holder by surprise. The conversion can mean adult account fees, minimum balance requirements, overdraft fees, and changes in withdrawal and deposit protocols. With savings accounts, it may mean a change in interest rates and balance requirements.

On the other hand, some banks allow children to keep their minor account well into their twenties. And there may be special considerations for kids who turn 18 and are students. Be sure to understand what your child’s account allows.

Apps and Financial Literacy Features. Many minor accounts offer apps that help you monitor the account and your child’s activities. Some even go so far as to allow you to assign chores and make the decided-upon payments. In addition, you may be able to get a preloaded debit card for your child, which can help teach budgeting in a very hands-on way. When all the money’s gone, your child will likely understand the value of careful tracking expenses.

Notifications. Many banks allow you to sign up for automatic notifications whenever a transaction has taken place on the minor’s account. This not only lets you know that your child may be overspending but you may also be alerted to any suspicious account activity.

Tax Implications

Sometimes, a minor’s account has a small amount of money that slowly accrues as your child deposits birthday money and some summer-job earnings. Other times, a budding entrepreneur or devoted saver might have a higher balance. In either case, interest income on your child’s account may be subject to taxes, specifically what’s known as the “kiddie tax,” which applies to children under 19 and full-time college students under the age of 24. Any unearned income over $2,100 is taxed at the rates that apply to trusts and estates. This is to avoid parents putting large amounts of money in their children’s name and likely lower tax rate.

In addition, funds in your child’s bank accounts can affect their financial aid awards. Because money in a child’s name is weighted more heavily in financial aid formulas than it is for parents’ accounts, you may find high bank account balances work against your student when it comes time to apply for financial aid.

Now that you understand the ins and outs of opening an account for a minor, you can take the next step and figure out the best place for your child to start banking. Congrats on taking this step to foster a healthy financial life for your child.

Open a Bank Account With SoFi

Currently SoFi Bank does not offer accounts to minors. But while you’re researching minor bank accounts, why not take a fresh look at your own banking needs?

If you want an account where you can earn interest, spend, and save all in one place, check out SoFi Checking and Savings. Sign up for direct deposit, and you’ll earn a competitive APY. Plus, you won’t pay account fees and you’ll have access to 55,000+ fee-free ATMs worldwide.

Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 4.20% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

Photo credit: iStock/Riska

Sep

2021

Marginal Propensity to Save: Definition & Formula

A Look at Marginal Propensity to Save (MPS)

By Sarah Li Cain | Budgeting & Goals, Financial Independence, money | Comments Off

The marginal propensity to save (MPS) refers to the amount of disposable income a consumer is able to save. It’s used to reflect the proportion someone is willing to save for each additional dollar of their income.

To understand why MPS is important when quantifying fluctuations in savings and income, we’ll go over how to calculate MPS and how to apply it to your budgeting strategy.

What is the Marginal Propensity to Save?

The marginal propensity to save is defined as the portion of an increase in income that goes towards household savings. In other words, it’s the percentage of additional income a household saves instead of spending on goods and services, and it offers insight into the consumption habits of consumers.

MPS is also referred to as leakage, where the savings is an amount (expressed as a percentage that doesn’t go back into the economy via consumption. Typically, the more a household saves, the more likely it indicates that there is a higher income and better equipped to cover their household expenses.

So, theoretically, if a household saves 10%, it means that for every additional dollar they earn, they’ll save 10 cents.

When consumers are more likely to save as their income grows, the chances are higher they’ll become wealthier. Plus, households will also be able to access services and goods that require more money, such as larger homes in higher cost of living areas, elaborate vacations, or luxury vehicles.

How Income Level Affects Marginal Propensity to Save

Given data on household income and household saving, economists can calculate households’ MPS by income level. This calculation is important because MPS is not constant—it varies by income level. Typically, the higher the income, the higher the MPS because as wealth increases so does the ability to satisfy needs and wants, and so each additional dollar is less likely to go toward additional spending. However, the possibility remains that a consumer might alter savings and consumption habits with an increase in pay.

The Multiplier Effect

The MPS plays an important part in regulating the multiplier effect. The multiplier effect looks at the proportional increase or decrease in income that comes from consumption or savings.

For instance, if there is spending at the government level, it’ll have a multiplier effect (much like how a snowball rolls down a hill) on different parts of the economy. This change is due to the fact there is now additional disposable income consumers can spend on consumption and savings.

By understanding what the MPS is, economists can see how increased government spending can influence savings. It’ll also help to determine how consumers’ saving habits will influence the overall economy. The lower the MPS, the more of an impact on changes in government spending there will be.

Calculating the Marginal Propensity to Save

Calculating the MPS involves dividing the change in savings by a change in disposable income.

The following formula is used to calculate the MPS:

MPS = change in savings / change in disposable income

The savings represented by the value of the MPS will change if income changes by a dollar. Presented on a graph, the MPS is the equivalent of the savings line that’s created by plotting changes in income on the horizontal line (x-axis) and changes in savings on the vertical line (y-axis).

Another important point to note is that MPS will range between zero and one. If the MPS is zero, then it means changes in income doesn’t have an effect on savings (consumers spend all additional income). If MPS is one, then all additional income is saved.

Example

Jasmine successfully negotiated a promotion and annual bonus and received an additional $3,000 with her next paycheck. Jasmine decides she wants to spend this amount on a nice dinner out with friends totaling $150, and a vacation in Mexico for $2,000. The total she spends out of her bonus is $2,150, saving $850.

Using the above MPS formula, the calculation is as follows:

$850 / $3,000 = 0.283 = 28.3%

Therefore, Jasmine saved 28% of her additional income or 28 cents for each additional dollar she earns.

Remember, MPS isn’t constant since various factors in addition to changes in income will influence consumer spending habits. For instance, the time of the year can influence seasonal trends, which can correlate with higher spending.

Applying MPS to Your Budget Strategy

Though it seems like MPS is more for economists, you can apply this tactic to your personal budget.

When it comes to increasing your income, it might be tempting to spend a large portion of it. After all, you might want to celebrate a pay raise or promotion. Or, you might decide to increase your grocery budget, swapping out some of your regular produce for organic varieties.

However, there are benefits to saving some of the extra money. Perhaps you have a financial goal you can use it towards, like saving for a down payment on a house. Or you want to start investing and with this boost in income, you now have the means to do so.

If you haven’t yet decided what you’re saving for, just getting into the habit of saving will get you on the right track. Plus, you’ll learn how to budget effectively, no matter which type of budgeting technique you use.

Let’s say you want to be able to set aside 20% of each paycheck towards investments and a larger emergency fund. You received a $1,000 bonus from work this month and want to make sure you’re not tempted to spend it all.

Using the above formula, you want to have an MPS of 30%, or 0.3. That means with that bonus, you want to be able to save $300, allowing you to put $800 of it towards other areas in your budget. Once you have this number, you can take proactive steps to save that money. Automatically transferring $300 to a separate savings account is a good start.

Considering your income may fluctuate, you’ll probably want to revisit this formula on occasion to make sure you’re on track. Plus, it’s likely your spending habits will also change—such as spending more during the holidays—so if you need to spend more, then you can adjust your savings rate temporarily. At the end of the day, it’s all about being aware of where your money is going.

Recommended: 39 Ways to Earn Passive Income Streams

The Takeaway

Marginal propensity to save may seem like a term that doesn’t relate to your budget since it’s normally used to help economists. However, thinking about it in simple terms such as a savings rate is more helpful. That way, you can use it to apply it towards your savings goals and budgeting tactics as your income changes.

Saving money is half the battle: making sure your money is working for you is the other half. Opening a checking and savings account with SoFi can earn you more than the national interest average, squeezing even more value from your hard-earned dollars.

Check rates offered by SoFi Checking and Savings®.

Photo credit: iStock/Toxitz

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As of 6/9/2020, accounts with recurring monthly deposits of $500 or more each month, will earn interest at 0.25%. All other accounts will earn interest at 0.01%. Interest rates are variable and subject to change at our discretion at any time. Accounts opened prior to June 8, 2020, will continue to earn interest at 0.25% irrespective of deposit activity. SoFi’s Securities reserves the right to change this policy at our discretion at any time. Accounts which are eligible to earn interest at 0.25% (including accounts opened prior to June 8, 2020) will also be eligible to participate in the SoFi Money Cashback Rewards Program.
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SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.20% 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 4.20% 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 4.20% 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 10/31/2024. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

SOMN0721065

Jun

2021

5 Steps to Help You Achieve Financial Security

By SoFi Editors | money | Comments Off

Maybe your ultimate financial goal is to pay off your mortgage and live debt-free. Or, perhaps your dream is to retire early and relocate to a remote tropical island.

Whether you’re dreaming big, small, or somewhere in between, achieving financial security can help make your vision of the future a reality.

But what exactly is financial security? Broadly speaking, financial security or wellness refers to a condition in which you are able to meet your current and ongoing financial obligations, have the capacity to absorb a financial shock, feel secure in your financial future, and are able to make choices that allow you to enjoy life.

While that may sound like a far-off concept, achieving financial stability often isn’t as far off as many people think. The key to getting there is to think about your short- and long-term financial goals, and then devise a savings plan that can help you reach them.

Here are five steps that could help you achieve financial security.

1. Setting Goals

Financial goal-setting can be like jumping ahead to the last chapter of a book.

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

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

Short-term financial goals could include things like paying off credit card debt, student loans or car loans, saving for a downpayment on a home or a car, or growing an emergency fund (more on that below).

Once those are achieved, money you were setting aside each month for those goals could be shifted into longer-term planning, such as retirement, buying or upgrading a home, paying off a mortgage, or investing.

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

2. Creating a Budget

One of the most important things you can do to achieve financial security is to live on less than you earn, since this enables you to siphon some of your income into saving towards your financial goals each month.

A great first step is to set up, or fine-tune, a monthly budget. To do this, you’ll want to grab the last few months of financial statements and pay stubs, then use them to determine what your average monthly take-home (after tax) income is, and what your average monthly spending looks like.

If you find that your spending is equal to, or exceeding, your income, you may then want to drill down into exactly where your money is going each month. You can start by making a list of essential expenses (rent/mortgage, utilities, insurance, car payments, groceries) and nonessential expenses (clothing, dining out, entertainment).

It’s often easiest to cut back spending in the nonessentials category. You might decide to cook more meals at home instead of eating out, for example. Or, you might cancel a streaming service or quit the gym and work out at home.

The money you free up can then be put into savings every month for your future goals.

3. Attacking Debt

If those monthly high-interest credit card payments didn’t exist, where would that money go instead? Paying off debt could free up a potentially big chunk of money to put toward those big dreams. Creating a debt-payoff strategy can be an essential part of a financial wellness plan.

One popular method for getting out of debt is the debt snowball. This calls for listing debts from smallest to largest amounts owed, then paying any extra money you have each month towards the smallest debt (while paying the minimum on the others). When that debt is paid off, you move on to the next smallest debt, and so on.

Another option is the debt avalanche method. This involves making a list of all your debts in order of interest rate (regardless of balance). You then put extra money towards the debt with the highest interest rate, while paying the minimum on the others.

When that debt is paid off, you start tackling the debt with the next-highest interest rate, and so on. As you continue paying off bills, you will be saving in interest payments and should have more and more money to put toward each debt as you go.

4. Building an Emergency Fund

An emergency fund is money tucked away that you can use in times of financial distress. Having this contingency fund can significantly improve financial security by creating a safety net that can be used to meet unanticipated expenses, such as an illness, job loss, or major home repair.

A good rule of thumb is to keep enough money in an emergency fund to cover three- to six-months worth of living expenses, but some people may need a larger emergency fund. You may want to keep this money in an account that earns more interest than a standard savings account, but is still easily accessible. Good options include a high-yield savings account, online savings account, or a checking and savings account.

Having this money available when you need it can reduce the need to tap high-interest debt options, such as credit cards or unsecured loans, or undermine your future security by dipping into retirement funds.

5. Saving for Retirement

Once you are free of high interest debt and have a solid emergency fund, you may want to focus on investing more of your income into a retirement fund.

The earlier you start saving for retirement, the easier it will be to meet your goal, thanks to the benefit of compounding interest (when the money you invest earns interest, that interest then gets reinvested and earns interest of its own).

One of the simplest ways to save for retirement is through a 401(k) program at work, since you can set up automatic pre-tax deductions from your paycheck (and may not even miss the money). If your employer is matching up to a certain percent of your contributions, you’re essentially getting free extra cash to save.

Another option is to open an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). Like a 401(k), an IRA allows you to put away money (before taxes are taken out) for your retirement. However, there are annual contribution limits you’ll need to keep in mind.

The Takeaway

Reaching a state of financial stability means you feel confident and don’t feel stressed about money. You are able to pay your bills each month, have money set aside for any unexpected bills or emergencies, you are saving money each month, and you are also debt-free.

One of the easiest and most important ways to achieve financial security is to spend less than you earn and to put money aside each month towards your goals.

If you’re looking for a good place to start–or build–your savings, you may want to consider opening a SoFi Checking and Savings®️ checking and savings account.

With SoFi’s special “vaults” features, you can separate your savings from your spending while earning competitive interest on all your money. You can also set up recurring deposits to help you reach your financial goals faster.

Get on the path to financial security with the help of SoFi Checking and Savings.

May

2021

man on phone and laptop in kitchen mobile

3 Ways to Use Your Stimulus Check

By SoFi Editors | Budgeting & Goals, money | Comments Off

Editor's Note: For the latest developments regarding federal student loan debt repayment, check out our student debt guide.

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of Americans received stimulus checks from the federal government. As of March 2021, a year into the pandemic, the third round of stimulus checks have been approved with the American Rescue Plan Act.

This package includes one time payments of $1,400 for individuals making $75,000 or less and per person for couples earning $150,000 or less. Additionally, those with dependents would qualify for another $1,400 per child. The IRS sent out “Economic Impact Payments” as checks in the mail or electronically via direct deposit.

The stimulus checks are a measure to provide financial relief to millions of Americans. Many people used the proceeds of the checks to pay for food, utilities, credit card bills and other expenses while others saved the money for future emergencies.

The federal government also provided stimulus checks in 2008. The amount was much lower—individuals received $600 and couples filing jointly received up to $1,200.

These economic impact payments could be used by consumers in several ways, including paying off debt such as credit cards or private student loans, starting an emergency fund, or by investing the money for retirement.

Paying Off Debt

The additional $1,400 can come in handy for people who want to pay off their debt, especially higher interest debt such as credit cards. Consumers could use all or a portion of the stimulus payment to make extra payments on a credit card, loan, or other debt. Additional payments could go towards the principal portion of what is owed, or what the consumer originally borrowed, helping pay down the interest faster; if you want to do this, it’s smart to contact the lender to let them know and ensure those extra payments are applied to the principal balance.

People who still have other credit card debt could look into obtaining a personal loan. Generally, personal loans have lower interest rates than credit card debts. Securing a lower interest rate could potentially help expedite debt repayment, so long as the repayment term is not extended.

For some, student loan debt may be a focus. In March 2020, the CARES Act temporarily paused federal student loan payments, reduced interest rates to 0% on all federal student loans, and temporarily halted collections on federal student loans in default. These protections have now been extended through Aug. 31, 2022. This does not apply to private student loans. The stimulus payment could help a borrower pay down their federal student loans or make extra payments.

Some may consider refinancing their student loans, should they be able to qualify for a lower fixed or variable interest rate, or preferable lending terms. This can make sense for some borrowers, especially those who already hold private student loans, but won’t be right for everyone. Federal loans offer borrower protections that private loans do not, so borrowers with federal student loans may want to consider all of their options carefully. Refinancing federal student loans eliminates them from all federal benefits, including the temporary relief offered by the CARES Act.

Starting an Emergency Fund

An emergency fund comes in handy to pay rent or a mortgage, auto loan, student loans, or credit cards if you lose your job or your hours are slashed. Finding another full-time or part-time job could take several weeks or months and the additional money could be useful.

Saving for an emergency fund can be difficult after paying your bills each month. The money from the stimulus check could provide a boost to help start a rainy day fund. Having the extra savings can help prevent someone from having to rely on their credit cards and rack up more debt in case there is an emergency, say something like a last minute car repair or a sudden illness.

Having the extra money can also be a relief in the event of a job-loss since it can take several weeks for unemployment funds to arrive.

General recommendations suggest that people save three to six months of expenses in their emergency fund. In some situations, it may make sense to save more than three to six months worth of expenses. For example, freelancers with a fluctuating income may want to have more saved up. If you are not sure how much money you need, look at your monthly bills and determine which ones you can’t ignore if you lost your job for an extended period.

Another way to gauge how much to save in an emergency fund is to factor in things like the deductibles for your car and health insurance in case there is an accident and you need to make repairs to the auto or you get injured.

Starting an emergency fund with the money from your stimulus check is one way to get started. From there, more money can be added to your savings account whenever you get the opportunity. There are many ways to stash more money into your rainy day fund. Clean out your closet and see if there are any items you can sell online such as electronics, clothing, a bike, or musical instrument.

Save the money earned from a part-time job, freelance work, or your annual tax refund. Or review your budget and see if there is anything you can cut such as a streaming service you rarely use.

Those in a comfortable financial position, could transfer some money automatically from your weekly or bi-weekly paycheck into a new savings account. The amount could be small, but even $25 a week adds up over a year.

Investing the Stimulus Check

The extra money from the stimulus check could also be an investment. Depending on individual financial circumstances, the stimulus check could be used to make a contribution to a retirement account like an IRA. Others may be focusing on other goals like a downpayment for a house, a vacation, a wedding, or a home remodel.

Once you open an account and start putting money towards it weekly or even monthly, you may see the balance grow, especially as the investments appreciate in value and interest compounds

The Takeaway

The stimulus checks are intended to provide temporary relief to those struggling due to the unprecedented challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic. How you use the money will depend on your individual circumstances. Some options include paying down debt, establishing an emergency fund, or investing.

A SoFi checking and savings account could be one place to stash your stimulus check. Getting started is as easy as depositing the stimulus check. From there, SoFi Checking and Savings makes it easy to earn interest and receive cash back on purchases. A SoFi Checking and Savings account allows you to spend, save, and earn money from one place. There are no account fees and your cash balance earns interest. The interest rate and fee structure is subject to change at any time, but SoFi aims to offer competitive interest rates and not charge any account fees.

With SoFi, account holders can create financial vaults within a SoFi Checking and Savings account for different reasons such as an emergency fund or investing account.

Building an emergency fund is a huge accomplishment. Get started with SoFi Checking and Savings.

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FINRA / SIPC . SoFi Securities LLC is an affiliate of SoFi Bank, N.A. SoFi Money Debit Card issued by The Bancorp Bank.
SoFi has partnered with Allpoint to provide consumers with ATM access at any of the 55,000+ ATMs within the Allpoint network. Consumers will not be charged a fee when using an in-network ATM, however, third party fees incurred when using out-of-network ATMs are not subject to reimbursement. SoFi’s ATM policies are subject to change at our discretion at any time.
SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.20% 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 4.20% 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 4.20% 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 10/31/2024. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

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

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

SoFi Student Loan Refinance
SoFi Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). SoFi Student Loan Refinance Loans are private loans and do not have the same repayment options that the federal loan program offers, or may become available, such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, PAYE or SAVE. Additional terms and conditions apply. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal.

SOMN20062

All You Need to Know About a Foreign Currency Certificate of Deposit

How Foreign Currency CDs Work

How You Can Make Money With Foreign Currency CDs

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

How You Can Lose Money With Foreign Currency CDs

How Risky Are Foreign Currency CDs?

How to Protect Your Investment

Temper Currency Risk

Look for FDIC Protection

Be Aware of Fees and Charges

How to Open a Foreign Currency CD

Other Ways to Invest in Foreign Currency

The Takeaway

FAQ

Are foreign CDs FDIC insured?

Which US banks offer foreign currency accounts?

Can US banks hold foreign currency?

Guide to Opening a Bank Account for a Minor

What Do I Need to Open a Bank Account for My Child?

Driver’s License

Social Security Card

Child’s Social Security Card

Child’s Birth Certificate

Proof of Address

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

Types of Bank Accounts for Children

Checking Accounts for Children

Savings Accounts for Children

What to Look for in Bank Accounts for Kids

Tax Implications

Open a Bank Account With SoFi

A Look at Marginal Propensity to Save (MPS)

What is the Marginal Propensity to Save?

How Income Level Affects Marginal Propensity to Save

The Multiplier Effect

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

Calculating the Marginal Propensity to Save

Example

Applying MPS to Your Budget Strategy

The Takeaway

5 Steps to Help You Achieve Financial Security

1. Setting Goals

2. Creating a Budget

3. Attacking Debt

4. Building an Emergency Fund

5. Saving for Retirement

The Takeaway

3 Ways to Use Your Stimulus Check

Paying Off Debt

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

Starting an Emergency Fund

Investing the Stimulus Check

The Takeaway

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