Jun
25
2024
Retail vs Corporate Banking: What's the Difference?

Retail vs Corporate Banking: What’s the Difference?

By | Life & Career, money, SMB | Comments Off on Retail vs Corporate Banking: What’s the Difference?

The main difference between retail vs. corporate banking lies in what type of services they provide and to whom. Retail banking is consumer-focused while corporate banking, also referred to as business banking, is designed to meet the needs of businesses.

Banks can offer both retail and business banking services to attract both types of clients. Understanding how each one works makes it easier to distinguish between retail vs. corporate banking.

What Is Retail Banking?

Retail banking refers to banking services and products offered to retail customers, meaning individuals. Retail banking can also be referred to as consumer banking or personal banking. The kinds of products and services offered by retail banks are designed for personal money management — such as checking and savings accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), debit cards, and more.

In the U.S., the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) is responsible for overseeing banks at the national level. Banks with assets in excess of $10 billion are also regulated by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). In addition to federal regulation, retail banks can also be subject to regulation and oversight at the state level. These organizations help ensure that services are being provided in keeping with the law and that charges are not excessive.

Recommended: How Do Retail Banks Make Money?

Services Offered Under Retail Banking

Retail banks typically offer products and services that are designed to help everyday people manage their finances. This is the key distinguishing factor between retail vs. business banking. For example, some of the services retail banks may offer include:

•   Deposit account services: Retail banks can allow consumers to open checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, and other deposit accounts to hold their money safely and securely.

•   Mortgage lending: Homeowners often require a loan to purchase a home, and many retail banks provide mortgages to qualified borrowers.

•   Secured and unsecured loans: In addition to home loans, retail banks can issue other types of loans, including auto loans, personal loans, home equity loans, and lines of credit.

•   Credit cards: Credit cards offer convenience for making purchases; many of them also offer rewards to consumers for using them. Retail banks may issue credit cards to creditworthy customers.

•   Certificates of deposit: Certificates of deposit (or CD accounts) are special types of deposit accounts that allow you to earn interest on your money for a set term.

Banks may also offer insurance to their retail clients. Private banking may also be available for higher net-worth customers.

Retail banks usually make money by accruing interest on the money they lend via loans and other vehicles. They may also charge various fees for banking services, including overdraft fees, loan origination fees, and checking account fees. Some retail banks have physical branches, while others operate exclusively online.

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What Is Corporate Banking?

Corporate banking is the branch of banking that offers its services and products to business entities. That includes large corporations as well as small and medium-sized business operations. Corporate banks may also serve government agencies and entities. While services may include deposit accounts, these banks also may offer credit and asset management, lines of credit, payment processing, and tools that facilitate international trade.

Like retail banks, corporate banks can charge fees for the various services they provide. Banking services can be directed toward a corporate audience in general or be tailored to target the needs of specific industries, such as healthcare or companies that operate in the tech space.

Recommended: When Would I Need a Business Bank Account?

Services Offered Under Corporate Banking

The services offered by corporate banks are designed to suit the needs of businesses large and small. The kinds of services a corporate bank can offer include:

•   Deposit account: Business banking can include many of the same deposit options as retail banking, such as checking accounts, savings accounts, and money market accounts.

•   Debt financing: Corporate banks can offer debt financing options to startups and established businesses that need capital to fund expansion projects and growth.

•   Trade lines of credit: Trade financing can make it easier for businesses to cover day-to-day operating expenses. Examples of trade financing that corporate banks may offer include merchant cash advances, purchase order financing, and accounts receivable processing.

•   Payments processing: Corporate banks can act as payment processors to help businesses complete financial transactions when providing products or services to their customers.

•   Treasury management: Treasury management services can help businesses keep cash flowing steadily and smoothly.

•   Global banking: Businesses that are interested in expanding into foreign markets may rely on business banking services to reach their goal.

Key Differences Between Retail and Corporate Banking

Retail and corporate banking both have the same goal: serving the needs of their customers. But the way they achieve this goal differs. Here are some of the most noteworthy differences between retail banking vs. business banking.

Business Model

Retail banking’s business model is built around meeting the needs of retail banking clients. Banks that operate in the retail space are primarily concerned with three things: deposits, money management, and consumer credit.

Corporate banks, on the other hand, base their business models around products and services that are utilized by business entities. That includes offering business bank accounts, providing avenues for securing capital, and offering financial advice.

Customer Base

Retail banks are geared toward consumers who rely on financial products like personal checking accounts, savings accounts, or unsecured loans. A retail bank can offer accounts to different types of consumers, including specialized accounts for kids, teens, students, or seniors. But generally, they’re consumer-facing and work with everyday people to help them manage their money.

That’s a difference between retail vs. corporate banking: The latter is business-centric. For example, a corporate bank may offer services to companies with a valuation in the millions. Or it may cater to smaller businesses that need help with things like payment processing or cash flow management. Some business banks may serve companies both large and small.

Processing Costs

As mentioned, both retail and corporate banks can charge fees for the services they provide. These fees are designed to make up for the bank’s own handling costs for processing transactions. Both types of banks can also charge interest on loans, lines of credit, and credit cards. These are some of the ways that banks earn money.

In general, retail banks tend to have lower handling costs which means lower fees for consumers. Corporate banks, on the other hand, typically have higher processing costs which means their clients pay more for their products and services.

Value of Transactions

Since retail banks serve everyday consumers, the average value of transactions processed tends to be lower compared to that of corporate banks. A corporate bank, for example, might process a transaction valued at several million dollars for a single customer. Someone who’s adding money to their personal checking account vs. a business checking account, meanwhile, may be depositing a few hundred or few thousand dollars.

Profitability

Here’s another key difference between business banking vs. retail banking: Business banking tends to generate more profits. That’s because corporate banks typically deal in higher value transactions than retail banks.

The Takeaway

The difference between retail vs. business banking is quite straightforward: Retail banking serves individual customers’ needs, while corporate banking serves the needs of companies of all sizes, as well as other organizations.

For most people, retail banking is a good choice to manage and optimize their financial lives. For instance, you can use a retail bank account to pay bills, deposit your paychecks, transfer money to savings, and make purchases or withdrawals using your debit card.

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

Is corporate banking better than retail?

Corporate banking is not necessarily better than retail banking; they’re designed to serve different audiences. Corporate banking is usually a wise choice for a business entity, while retail banking is designed to serve individuals with their personal banking needs.

Is a current account retail or corporate?

Current accounts can be offered by retail and corporate banks. Generally speaking, a current account is a bank account that allows you to make deposits and withdrawals. A checking account, either personal or business, is an example of a current account.

Why do banks focus on retail banking?

Banks focus on retail banking because there’s a need for it among consumers; many adults might be interested in a checking account, a debit card, and a credit card, for example. The demand for retail banking also allows banks to generate revenue by charging fees for deposit accounts and interest on loans and lines of credit. That said, corporate banking also serves an important need and generates income for banks as well.

Photo credit: iStock/https://www.fotogestoeber.de

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.

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.

4.00% APY
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.

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Jun
25
2024
Check Kiting: What It Is and How to Avoid Potential Scams

Check Kiting: What It Is and How to Avoid Potential Scams

By | money | Comments Off on Check Kiting: What It Is and How to Avoid Potential Scams

Check kiting is the illegal act of writing bad checks using bank accounts with insufficient funds. Common variants include retail check kiting and securities-based kiting. Consumers and business owners should know about this fraudulent practice to protect themselves.

While mistakenly writing a bad check is often not a serious issue, there can be harsh penalties, including prison time, for intentionally engaging in check kiting. Knowing how to avoid this scam can save people time and money. As the financial world grows more digital and mobile, this age-old illegal practice still remains a risk.

What Is Check Kiting?

Check kiting is the illegal practice of writing bad checks on accounts with insufficient funds. While credit cards and mobile payment methods grow more and more common, checks are still used today, so kiting remains an issue.

This fraudulent activity seeks to take advantage of what’s known as the bank’s float period, which is the time it takes a financial institution to determine if an account has funds to clear the check. If the funds are there, then the amount is cleared and made available for the payee to use. Nefarious individuals engage in check kiting to essentially take money from a bank by pulling cash from accounts that do not have enough funds to cover the checks.

Kiting is not only done through banks and checking accounts, but also with retailers and even individual companies. Retail kiting is performed by cashing a check on an account with insufficient funds to purchase goods and services. There are other variations that financial con artists attempt to pull off, too; more details on these are below.

How Does Check Kiting Work?

Banks and credit unions likely know about check kiting, but business owners and retailers might wonder about this practice. Kiting is the illegal practice of obtaining credit and cash from accounts and other financial instruments. Examples of kiting are when a scammer writes a bad check or uses securities to gain leverage while skirting regulations.

💡 Quick Tip: Want to save more, spend smarter? Let your bank manage the basics. It’s surprisingly easy, and secure, when you open an online bank account.

Real-Life Examples of Kiting

Perhaps the most common kiting example is within the banking world. With a checking account, for instance, a scammer might write a check for $100 on an account that only has a $20 available balance, then deposit that check in a separate account. The $100 is then quickly withdrawn from the second account, leaving the first account overdrawn. In this case, the individual took advantage of the bank’s clearing window to steal money.

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No account or overdraft fees. No minimum balance.

Up to 4.00% APY on savings balances.

Up to 2-day-early paycheck.

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Variants of Check Kiting

There are other examples of this malicious practice in the business world. Scammers are often highly creative in their practices to swindle cash. Below are a few variants of check kiting to watch out for; also protect yourself by making sure that the financial institution where you hold your bank account has top-notch fraud protection to help keep your cash safe from scammers’ activities.

Circular Check Kiting

Circular check kiting is among the most common forms of kiting. A financial con artist will use multiple bank accounts, maybe even at different banks, to illegally take advantage of the bank account float period. As described above, the scammer will pull real cash from non-existent money. While cashing checks without a bank account is a legal practice, doing so with no funds backing it up is kiting.

Circular kiting works by writing fraudulent checks on real accounts to gain unauthorized credit. The fraudster makes a deposit with a check they know will bounce, but quickly withdraws the cash, leaving the banks with overdrawn accounts. With circular check kiting, the individual might get extra creative and use different names or even several identities to hide their actions.

Retail-Based Check Kiting

Retail-based check kiting happens when an unscrupulous person swindles cash from other types of businesses. It may involve the illegal act of writing bad checks around town. A financial huckster might seek to purchase goods and services by writing a check on an account with insufficient funds. The con artist takes or receives the products, but then the check bounces and the money never makes it back to the retailer.

Another method involves requesting cash back on a bad check at the register. A second check may be used to cover the first check to stay ahead of the bank float period. This can facilitate a series of illegal retail acts. If a retailer becomes aware of this scam, they can try to issue a stop payment on the check. This might help prevent illegal activity, but it’s no guarantee.

Kiting With Securities

Kiting is also a problem in the investing world. Some firms may illegally use the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) settlement window to keep a short position in the market without actually purchasing the securities. (Selling short means an investor anticipates that a stock’s price will drop and they can buy low and make a profit.) The SEC’s three-day settlement period requires timely delivery of transactions and securities. If an individual exploits settlement delays in order to transfer unavailable funds, they are engaging in kiting. A trading company that does not receive securities within the three-day period is required to buy shares in the market.

Corporate Check Kiting

Corporate check kiting typically happens when a company doesn’t have the usual limits on deposits. Large sums can be put in an account. Deceitful managers or owners of a firm might take advantage of this; they might deposit bad checks and then immediately spend the cash, before it’s apparent that the check won’t clear.

Consequences of Check Kiting

Obviously, check kiting, like other forms of bank fraud, can cause financial loss and a considerable amount of stress, anger, and frustration. There are a range of consequences to the illegal activity of check kiting. Penalties for this type of financial fraud vary depending on how severe the case is:

•   Banks might restrict someone’s account features or close their account.

•   Certain scams can result in misdemeanor or even felony charges.

•   Fines and prison sentences can happen after a severe crime.

Avoid Check Kiting Scams

While there is no sure way to avoid becoming a victim of malicious illegal financial activity, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances. These include:

•   Know how to identify a fraudulent check and a check’s expiration date

•   Be aware of customers and individuals with whom you do business. Before you accept a check or deposit it into your bank account, take steps to verify that checks are good.

•   Avoid wiring funds to people you do not know.

•   Use a voided check’s information to verify the account is real.

Also, be cautious about scam scenarios in which someone sends you a check that overpays you and then requests that you quickly return the difference to them. You could wind up the victim of fraud.

Banking With SoFi

Choosing a bank account with the services and features you need is important. Be sure to explore your options to find an account that can help you manage your financial life.

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

Why is check kiting illegal?

Check kiting is illegal because it fraudulently uses financial products to gain unauthorized money or credit. It typically employs checks for which there are insufficient funds (that is, checks that will bounce rather than clear).

Why is it called kiting?

The term “kiting” is thought to come from the nineteenth-century practice of bond issuance that had no real financial backing. It was said that the only thing keeping the bonds afloat was “air” and nothing else. “Check kiting” grew in prevalence during the 1920s, perhaps as retail banking became more common.

What is cash kiting?

Cash kiting takes advantage of banks through the use of two separate accounts. A fraudster might write a check on one account for more than its available balance and deposit it in the other account. The individual takes advantage of the bank float period, which is the processing time for funds to clear. During cash kiting, both accounts appear to have more funds than they truly do. The fraudster can profit from drawing cash from the accounts when it’s not really available.

Photo credit: iStock/MicroStockHub

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.

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.

4.00% APY
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.

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

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

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Jun
24
2024

Financial Planning Tips for Young Adults in Their 20s

By | Budgeting & Goals, Fresh Out of School, money | Comments Off on Financial Planning Tips for Young Adults in Their 20s

The 20’s can be a really busy, really exciting time, whether you’re finishing school, building a career, getting married, or starting a family (or some combination thereof). Add to that things like traveling, hanging out with friends, and discovering your passions in life, and it can be hard to prioritize financial planning.

But it’s important not to miss out on this important decade when major financial progress can be made. Establishing good money habits doesn’t have to be hard. Plus, skills like managing debt well and saving methodically for the future can set you up for a lifetime of financial wellness. Here’s how to start on that path.

10 Financial Tips for Your 20s

Here are some of the most important components of good money management and building wealth. The following advice can help you enjoy financial stability in your 20s and beyond.

In Your 20s

1. Open Your Own Bank Account

If you’re a 20-something who doesn’t already have a bank account, you’ll want to open one. It can be the hub of your daily financial life. With a checking account, you can direct-deposit your paychecks, easily pay bills electronically, and have a debit card for daily spending.

You’ll also probably benefit from a savings account, so you have a safe place to store your money while earning interest. Having FDIC-insured bank accounts means your money is secure, and it’s easier to stay organized and work toward financial goals.

💡 Quick Tip: An online bank account with SoFi can help your money earn more — up to 4.00% APY, with no minimum balance required.

2. Budget Wisely

If you’re like many young adults, you may earn a limited income while building your career. Creating and sticking to a budget can be a very helpful move. Alongside budgeting for your basic living expenses, you can also accommodate the “wants” in life (fun spending, such as dining out, travel, and concert tickets) and savings goals into your budget. Financial planning in your 20s can be hard to accomplish without a strong budget in place.

There are various ways to learn how to budget as a beginner, like the envelope system or the 50/30/20 rule. It may take a bit of experimentation to find a method that suits you. Another option: There are many apps that will help with this task, including those offered by your bank. Checking your account balances is another good step, as it helps you stay in touch with your money and course-correct if you are out of sync with your budget.

3. Don’t Overspend While Having Fun

Of course, you want to enjoy your 20s. Hanging out with friends, going to concerts, and decorating your first home are all worthy pursuits. However, being a financially responsible adult involves slowly chipping away at savings goals like retirement (more on that in a minute) or a down payment for a home. It can be helpful to set aside 10% to 15% of your earnings each month for your savings goals to make sure they aren’t ignored.

Also be smart about your spending. According to the 50/30/20 budget rule mentioned above, 30% of your take-home pay should go toward “wants” vs. 50% for “musts” and 20% toward savings and additional debt repayment.

There is plenty of advice available about cutting costs on groceries, streaming platforms, subscriptions, and travel. It’s wise to balance “in the moment” fun with working your way toward long-term aspirations, like your own home.

4. Avoid Credit Card Debt

Credit card debt comes with pricey interest charges and fees which can make it hard to pay it down. As of this writing, the average credit card interest rate on new offers was almost 25%. Think about it: Purchases cost a lot more than they seem to in the moment when you consider that interest getting tacked onto the purchase price. Plus, those high rates can mean that paying only the minimum amount due on your balance will take quite a while to pay off.

Whenever possible, it’s best to avoid taking on credit card debt. Otherwise, the interest charges will just mount. If you do have credit card debt, explore offers for balance transfer cards that give you no or super low interest rates for a period of time so you can hopefully get out of debt. Or consider a lower interest personal loan or talking to a debt counselor at a nonprofit like NFCC (National Foundation for Credit Counseling).

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

No account or overdraft fees. No minimum balance.

Up to 4.00% APY on savings balances.

Up to 2-day-early paycheck.

Up to $2M of additional
FDIC insurance.


5. Be Smart About Student Loans

If you’re out of school and are paying back student loans, that can certainly take a bite out of your disposable income. Whether you have a federal or private student loan, you can benefit by regularly making extra payments, whenever possible, so you can pay down your debt faster and spend less on interest. If the amount you owe seems overwhelming, you might look into options for switching repayment plans or consolidating your loans.

6. Earn Interest on Your Money

As noted briefly earlier, it’s possible to earn interest on savings by keeping it in a savings account. To earn even more, 20-somethings can turn to high-yield savings accounts that tend to earn more interest than traditional savings accounts do, which is of course a good thing. These accounts also keep your cash liquid, meaning your funds are very accessible. You’ll often find the best rates at online-only banks.

If you have additional funds available and are comfortable with taking on more risk, you can look into investing in your 20s. You might seek professional guidance on managing your money, though there’s likely a cost for working with a financial advisor.

7. Prioritize Goals

If you can buckle down and focus on the money goals that matter now, your long-term financial fitness can benefit greatly. You can develop a financial strategy for achieving the following, as they apply:

•   Buying a home

•   Child rearing expenses

•   A child’s college education

You can create a savings account (preferably a high-yield savings account) for whichever ones may apply. A way to make saving seamless is to automate your savings. That means setting up recurring transfers from your checking account, usually just after payday. That way, you don’t have to remember to build these accounts.

One other very important account to begin building is an emergency fund. This should hold three to six months’ worth of living expenses. It’s a great cushion to have if you are hit with a major unexpected expense or get laid off. Even contributing $20 or so per pay period is a good start. The critical thing is to begin earmarking funds in this way.

8. Invest Early for Retirement

It takes decades to save for retirement, so the younger you can start saving, the more time your savings have to grow. Once you enter the working world, if your employer offers a 401(k) plan or a different retirement account type, you may want to participate. You can really benefit from this kind of tax-advantaged saving. If your employer matches some of your contributions, that’s even better. It’s akin to free money that helps you grow your savings for the future.

Need more incentive to get a head start on saving for retirement? Consider this:

•   Say you start saving at age 25 and put away $10,000 a year for 15 years at a 6% return, and then stop saving. If that money just sits there, earning interest, you’ll have $1,058,912 at age 65.

•   Now, say you have a friend who starts saving $10,000 a year at age 35, does so for 30 years, and earns the same 6% return. Your pal will have $838,019 at age 65.

They saved twice as long as you did, but wound up with less money. That’s the beauty of compounding interest in action. And it can serve as an important incentive to start saving ASAP.

9. Pay Your Bills on Time

It may seem like a no-brainer that it’s important to pay bills on time. But doing so isn’t just about the joys of punctuality; it’s also a great way to build your credit score. Paying bills on time is one of the largest components of your credit score, and a solid credit score can help you borrow money in the future (say, when you take out a mortgage) at the best possible rates.

Not sure where your credit score stands? You can pull a free copy of your credit report annually from each of the big three credit reporting agencies to see how you’re doing and correct any errors you might find.

10. Build Your Credit

Speaking of credit scores, it takes time to build a credit history, and you need to take out credit to do so. A credit card is a great place to start. If you can apply for a credit card in your 20s and make payments on it month after month, this can positively impact your credit score. Just be sure not to charge more than you can afford to pay off.

Another tip is to keep your credit utilization ratio low; under 30% is good, and under 10% is even better. Here’s an example of how this plays out: If your credit limit is $10,000, a wise move is to avoid carrying a balance of $3,000 (30%) or more on it. Ideally, you should keep that number at $1,000 (10%) or lower.

The Takeaway

The basics for smart money management in your 20s is a combination of getting financially savvy, starting to save, and avoiding pitfalls like too much debt. Taking proactive steps today will keep your money in good shape and prepare you to navigate and enjoy the years ahead.

Having the right banking partner is also an important facet of money management at every age.

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

Should a 20-year-old have a financial advisor?

While hiring a financial advisor isn’t necessary, some 20-year-olds may find it valuable. This is especially true if you’re earning a high income and aren’t sure how to best save and invest your money.

How can I be financially stable at 20?

Financial stability at age 20 can involve several factors, such as spending within your means, managing debt well, and starting to save for an emergency fund and long-term goals.

What is the best financial advice for a young person?

There are several important pieces of financial advice for a young person. Finding a budget that works for you and sticking with it is valuable, as is making sure you are earning a competitive rate of interest on your emergency fund and other savings. Allocating any extra money to pay down debt, such as high-interest credit card debt, is also a wise move.

Photo credit: iStock/Wiphop Sathawirawong

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.

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.

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.

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

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Jun
24
2024

Tips for Overcoming Bad Financial Decisions

By | Financial Independence, Life & Career, money | Comments Off on Tips for Overcoming Bad Financial Decisions

While bad financial decisions can set you back, it’s important to remember that mistakes can also be an opportunity to learn and grow. While you can’t go back and undo the things you’ve done or didn’t do (if only!), you can acknowledge where you went wrong and change your behavior moving forward.

Below, take a look at some of the most common financial missteps people make, as well as what can be done to overcome them.

15 Bad Financial Decisions

Here’s a look at where things can go wrong, and how you set them right.

1. Not Paying Down Your Credit Card Debt

Just making the minimum payment on your credit cards each month can drain your pockets and damage your credit. The reason: When you carry a balance, interest keeps on building, making the total balance higher and even more challenging to pay off. Debt also shows up on your credit report and can have a negative effect on your scores.

To break the pattern, consider putting any extra money toward the card with the highest interest rate, while paying the minimum on the rest. When that card is paid off, you can tackle the next-highest interest debt, and so, until you’re out of debt.

Recommended: Creating a Credit Card Debt Elimination Plan

2. Putting Important Financial Decisions off to the Side

Delaying important financial decisions, such as saving, investing, and paying off debt, can cost you money and put your goals further out of reach. A good way to stop the procrastination cycle is to break down your financial goals into small to-dos that feel manageable. You might want to set aside time once a month to check in on your finances and make one small change that can help you get closer to your goals.

3. Not Protecting Personal Financial Information From Fraud

Identity theft and financial fraud are all too common these days, and not taking a few steps to protect your personal and financial information can come back to haunt you. The financial damages caused by fraud can last for months or even years. What’s more, the recovery process usually isn’t easy, and may even involve working with the IRS or Social Security Administration to clear your name.

To protect your information, it can be smart to regularly check your credit reports (and report any suspicious activity immediately). You’ll also want to avoid sharing your personal data unless absolutely necessary and never over public wifi.

💡 Quick Tip: Want to save more, spend smarter? Let your bank manage the basics. It’s surprisingly easy, and secure, when you open an online bank account.

4. Overspending so You Can’t Save

Overspending means you’re spending everything you earn (and not putting anything into savings) or, worse, you’re spending more than you’re bringing in. This can be a costly financial mistake that puts your goals further from your grasp. It means you may be living just paycheck to paycheck.

To change course, you may want to take a look at the last three months of financial statements and assess exactly how much you are spending each month and on what. This can be eye-opening, and you may immediately see some easy ways where you can cut back. Any money you free up can then become money saved, and little by little, it will add up.

5. Not Having Any Backup Options

A recent study found that not even 44% of Americans could not afford an unexpected expense of $1,000 from their savings. Without an emergency cushion, many Americans are at risk of going into high-interest debt should they face an unexpected bill or any loss of income.

It’s generally recommended to have enough cash set aside to cover all your living expenses for three to six months. In some situations, this amount should be as much as 12 months. To get there, you may want to put a percentage (10%, for example) of your monthly take-home income into a high-yield savings account or online bank account — online banks often offer higher interest rates than traditional banks. If that doesn’t seem doable, it’s fine to start smaller and gradually work up. Consistently saving a modest amount, such as $25 per paycheck, can be a good habit to start.

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

No account or overdraft fees. No minimum balance.

Up to 4.00% APY on savings balances.

Up to 2-day-early paycheck.

Up to $2M of additional
FDIC insurance.


6. Paying High Amounts on Multiple Monthly Subscriptions

Subscription streaming services, box deliveries, and apps that bill on a monthly basis can add up to a significant sum. And, since these service providers typically bill automatically, you may not even be fully aware of what you are paying for each month, or that you may be overpaying for some of these services.

To cut your monthly bills, go through your statements and tally up everything you are currently paying for on a recurring basis. Can anything go? Could you get a better deal on some of these services? It never hurts to shop around or call up a service provider and ask for a lower price.

7. Not Investing Any of Your Money

You may think you have to be rich or an expert on stocks to start investing, but this is a common money misconception. And one that can leave you ill prepared for the future.

While investing can be intimidating (and does come with some risk), there are easy ways to get started. If you don’t want to do the work of picking and choosing investments, for example, you might start investing with a robo-advisor. These are digital platforms that provide automated investment services based on your goals and tolerance for risk. Robo-advisors are typically inexpensive and require low opening balances.

8. Not Planning for Retirement

When you don’t plan for retirement, you forgo the factor of time that is key to achieving your goals. Giving your investments a long time to grow is vital to having a nest egg you can retire on. If your employer puts any matching funds towards your retirement fund, that can be a valuable boost, too.

However, there is more to retiring than starting an IRA or contributing to a 401k. You’ll also want to consider when you want to retire, what kind of lifestyle you will want to lead, and how much money you will need. This can help you determine how much you should be putting away each month starting now.

9. Making Small but Unnecessary Purchases

An iced cappuccino here, a pay-per-view there. These little extras may not seem like a big deal, but they add up. Consider that spending just $50 a week eating out costs you $2,600 a year. That sum could go a long way toward paying off your credit card or car and help you take a big step toward achieving financial freedom.

To curb impulse buys and cut back on spending, you might want to set a weekly spending limit for “extras.” (Yes, you are earmarking some money for fun little splurges.) To keep to your limit, consider taking out that amount of cash at the beginning of the week and leaving your credit card at home. That way, when the money’s gone, you can’t spend any more.

10. Allowing Your Credit Score to Drop

A low credit score can keep you from obtaining competitive rates on loans and credit cards. It could block you from housing and employment opportunities. Poor credit can also be costly, since the financing options available to you will be more expensive.

To start building a better credit profile, you may want to put all your bills on autopay, so you never make a late payment. Paying down any credit card debt can also be helpful, since how much of your available credit you are using also factors into your score. If you have an old credit card you rarely use, it can be a good idea to still keep that account open, since the length of your credit history is another factor that impacts credit scores.

11. Not Making Budgeting an Important Priority in Your Life

Budget may sound like a bad word. But in truth, not tracking how much money you’re making versus how much you’re spending can be a bad financial decision with many repercussions, including never getting ahead and having constant money stress.

Making a budget, on the other hand, can mean the difference between staying in debt vs. getting out of it, remaining in your rental vs. becoming a homeowner, and working overtime vs. going on vacation. Convinced? You can start budgeting by assessing what’s currently coming in and out of your bank each month, and making a plan for how you want to allocate your income, making sure that some money goes to savings each month. There are multiple budget methods and apps; take some time to experiment until you find the right fit.

12. Financing Purchases Rather Than Saving for Them

While some purchases, such as a house, usually require financing, many others can be achieved through saving instead of going into debt. Whether you want a new laptop or a high-end refrigerator, financing can make a big purchase more expensive. Plus, the ease of buying on credit can make you think you can afford a lot more than your income allows.

A wiser strategy can be to determine what you want to buy, how much it will cost, and when you, ideally, want to get it. You can then start putting money aside each month and when you meet your goal, buy the item with cash.

13. Using Savings to Pay Off Debt

It may seem counterintuitive, but paying off debt with your savings is not always a good idea. Draining your bank account can leave you vulnerable to financial emergencies, causing you to plunge back into debt.

A better strategy can be to use a debt repayment method such as the snowball method. This involves putting extra money toward the smallest revolving debt balance each month, while continuing to make minimum monthly payments on your other debt. When the smallest balance is paid off, you can move on to the next smallest balance, and so on. This can help you start saving money right away and motivate you to keep going.

14. Withdrawing From Retirement Savings Early

It can be exciting to watch your retirement account grow throughout your career. And, it can be tempting to want to touch that money before you are officially “retired.” However, taking early distributions from your retirement account can be among the worst money mistakes you can make. For one reason, you will likely have to pay penalties and income tax on the amount you withdraw. For another, you will lose the opportunity to continue accruing gains on that money.

Remember: The main benefit of a retirement account is to let your money compound and grow over time. When you withdraw retirement funds early, you lose that opportunity to secure your future and take a big step backward.

15. Not Recognizing and Avoiding Scams

Yes, it’s getting harder to detect scams; they are becoming ever more sophisticated. And they prey upon both young and old consumers. To avoid scams, you’ll want to be suspicious of any text, email, or snail mail offer that seems too good to be true, and avoid clicking on any links in an email or text claiming to be from one of your financial institutions. If you receive this kind of message, a smart move is to call customer service or log onto your online accounts to see if the information in the email or text is correct.

Also beware of appeals with a sense of urgency; say, that you must pay a fee immediately to unlock your account or receive delivery of an important package.

Since scams are constantly evolving, it’s worth your time to search online every six months or a year to see what’s new and make sure you have your guard up as much as possible.

Tips for Recovering From Bad Financial Decisions

If you’ve made some poor financial decisions, you might feel embarrassed or scared. It can help to remember that one accident or blunder doesn’t spell doom for your finances forever. Here are some ways you can start turning things around.

Acknowledging Bad Financial Decisions and Taking Action

Even if you’ve made one of the worst money mistakes, a smart first step is to simply acknowledge your misstep, take a step back, and at first do nothing. A rash attempt to fix a problem can actually make it worse. Once you’ve accepted and assessed the damage, you can put a recovery plan into action.

Taking Steps One at a Time

Building your credit or paying off a mountain of credit card debt won’t happen overnight. And, if you set your sights too high, you might be tempted to give up before you even get started. A better bet is to break your larger goals into a series of small, achievable steps. Each time you accomplish one of these mini-goals, you’ll likely feel a sense of accomplishment. This can motivate you to save money and crush other goals, little by little.

Do Not Shame Yourself, but Forgive Yourself

Everyone makes mistakes. Even if you have been doing your best, it’s possible to have a credit card balance get out of hand or have your identity stolen after you accidentally click on a phishing text link.

Forgiving yourself is crucial to your emotional health and will help you take positive action to undo your mistake. A bad decision doesn’t have to define you; instead, it can be something you learn from and overcome. The mental energy spent beating yourself up can be better used to help address the problem.

Improving Your Money Mindset

If you have a positive money mindset, you will likely make better money decisions. Having a negative view, on the other hand, can keep you from setting goals and taking positive action. For example, if you think you will never get out of debt, you may not feel motivated to even try. However, putting a positive spin on the situation — that, with a plan, you will be able to one day be debt-free — can motivate you to start (and keep) attacking your debt.

The Takeaway

Though everyone tries to do their best with their money, mistakes happen all the time. No one likes losing money, but it’s vital to remember that one or even several financial slipups can be overcome by keeping a positive mindset and taking the recovery process one step at a time.

If you want to gain better control of your finances, help is available, starting with the right banking partner.

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


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

FAQ

What are the consequences of poor financial decisions?

Poor financial decisions can lead to a low credit score, lack of savings, and overreliance on debt. It can also make you vulnerable to financial emergencies and limit your access to loans and credit cards with favorable rates and terms.

Do bad financial decisions lead to bad financial habits?

Yes, if left unaddressed, bad financial decisions can lead to bad financial habits. Not putting money aside for emergencies, for example, can cause you to rely on your credit card to cover a large, unexpected expense, and lead to a cycle of high interest debt that can be hard to get out of.

Can bad financial decisions be overcome?

Yes, you can overcome bad financial decisions by identifying where you went wrong and coming up with a realistic plan to address the problem moving forward. You can also likely benefit from budgeting and managing debt well.

Photo credit: iStock/bob_bosewell

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.

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

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24
2024
Guide to Shared Branch Credit Unions

Guide to Shared Branch Credit Unions

By | Budgeting & Goals, Financial Independence, money | Comments Off on Guide to Shared Branch Credit Unions

Shared branch credit unions allow members to access banking products and services at other credit union branches that belong to a wider network. Joining a shared branch credit union can make managing your financial accounts more convenient if you live, work, or study in an area where your home credit union doesn’t have branches.

The types of transactions that can be carried out via shared branching are typically the same as those allowed by the home branch. There are, however, a few things you may not be able to do, so here’s a closer look.

What Is Shared Branching?

Shared branching is the practice of allowing members of one credit union to carry out financial activities at branches of other credit unions that are all located within the same branch network.

Here’s one example: The Co-Op Shared Branch managed by Co-Op Solutions, for example, offers access to more than 5,600 shared branches in the U.S. and over 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs. This can be very convenient in terms of being able to bank at a variety of locations.

As long as your home credit union, meaning the credit union where you maintain your accounts, is part of a shared branching network, then you can access your accounts at other credit unions within the network. You don’t need to be a member of multiple credit unions to benefit from this sharing system.

Shared branching is a significant departure from traditional banking. If you have checking and savings accounts at Chase Bank, for example, you likely wouldn’t be able to walk into a Bank of America and conduct business.

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How Can I Use a Shared Branch?

To use a shared branch credit union, you first have to determine whether your home credit union belongs to a sharing network. Co-Op Solutions, for instance, simplifies this process. It offers a shared branch and ATM locator tool that you can use to find shared credit union branches near you.

Once you find a shared branch, you can visit in-person to manage your accounts. You’ll need to bring a form of photo identification to verify your identity. You may also need to provide your phone number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. And of course, you’ll need the name and account number for your home credit union.

Generally, you can use a shared branch credit union much the same as your home credit union. That means you can use the ATM to make withdrawals or check account balances. If you need to make a deposit or complete other transactions, you can do those through a teller either inside the branch or at the drive-thru.

What Can Members Do at a Shared Branch?

For the most part, shared branch credit unions allow you to carry out the same range of transactions as you would at your home branch. If you’re not sure what a particular shared branch credit union allows, you may be able to find a list of services on the credit union’s website.

Here are some of the most important transactions you can complete via shared branching.

Deposits and Withdrawals

Credit union members can deposit funds to their accounts and make withdrawals through a shared branch credit union. That’s convenient if you need to deposit cash or withdraw money from your accounts. You may also choose to make deposits in-person if you’re concerned about mobile deposit processing times. (And if you’re wondering about whether mobile deposits are safe, the answer is typically yes.)

Transfer Money Between Accounts

Shared branching also allows members to move money between accounts. For example, you may want to shift some of your savings to checking or to a money market account at your credit union.

Can you move money from one bank to another via shared branching? Yes, if you have accounts at more than one credit union. If you need to transfer money from your credit union to a financial institution that’s not part of a shared branch network, then you’ll need to link the external account to schedule an ACH transfer or wire transfer.

If you need to send funds overseas, keep in mind that not all credit unions participate in the SWIFT banking system, which is used to facilitate international wire transfers.

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Make Loan Payments

Credit union members can make payments to auto loans, personal loans, mortgages, and other loans through shared branches. You’ll need the loan number to make your payment. Being able to pay through a shared branch credit union could help you to avoid missed due dates.

What Can Members Not Do at a Shared Branch?

While shared branch credit unions allow for flexibility, there are some things members cannot do. If you belong to a shared branch credit union network, here are some of the things that are typically prohibited.

Open a Bank Account

If you’re visiting a co-op shared branch credit union, you can’t open a new account with your home credit union. Instead, you’d need to go to one of your home credit union’s branches or visit the credit union’s website to open the accounts. Of course, you could ask how to open a business bank account or personal bank account options at the shared branch if you’re interested in being a member of that credit union.

Access Deposited Funds Immediately

Just like banks, credit unions process transactions according to a set schedule. When you deposit money at a shared branch credit union, you can’t expect to be able to withdraw it right away. The deposit hold time or processing time can vary by the credit union. You may be able to expedite processing if the credit union allows it, but you may pay a fee for that.

Withdraw an Unlimited Amount of Money

Shared branch credit unions can impose limits on the amount of money members can withdraw each day. For example, members of the Co-Op Solutions Shared Branch Network are typically limited to no more than $620 per day in withdrawals from their ATM network. That limit may be higher or lower than the limit imposed by your home credit union.

Open an Individual Retirement Account

Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) offer a tax-advantaged way to save money for retirement. Credit unions can offer IRAs to savers, though you typically cannot open one through a shared branch. Instead, you’ll need to go to your home credit union to open an IRA either in-person or online.

Benefits of Shared Branching

If you prefer credit unions to traditional banks, then belonging to a shared branch credit union can offer some advantages. Remember, you don’t have to do anything special to enjoy the benefits of shared branching, other than belonging to a credit union that’s part of a sharing network. You don’t have to open multiple bank accounts to have privileges at more locations.

Convenience

Shared branch credit unions make it convenient to access your money wherever you are, as long as there’s a shared branch location nearby. So whether you’re traveling for business, taking a family vacation, or planning a move, you don’t have to worry about leaving your credit union accounts behind.

Flexibility

Doing business at a shared branch credit union allows for flexibility since you can do most of the things you’d be able to do at your home branch. Again, the main things you wouldn’t be able to do include opening new checking or savings accounts, opening an IRA, or applying for a loan. You’d only be able to do those things if you also choose to become a member of the shared branch credit union.

Avoid Fees

Banks make revenue by charging fees for the services they provide. Being part of a shared credit union may help you avoid some fees. If you use a shared-branch credit-union ATM network while you’re traveling, you may be able to avoid out-of-network ATM surcharges. While shared branch credit unions may charge fees for certain services, others may be provided free of charge.

Drawbacks of Shared Branching

While shared branching does have some advantages, there are some potential downsides to consider. Here are some of the main cons of using shared branch credit unions.

Availability

Credit unions are not obligated to join a shared branch network. If your home credit union isn’t part of a sharing network, then you’ll be limited to using only that credit union’s branches. That could make managing your accounts more challenging if you regularly travel for business, school, or pleasure.

(However, many people today are used to banking without brick-and-mortar locations, which is a key difference between online banking versus traditional banking. This availability issue may not be a big concern to some who do their money management online or via an app.)

Withdrawal Limits

As mentioned, credit unions that are part of the Co-Op Solutions network can limit your withdrawals. If you need to withdraw a larger amount in cash than is permitted, you’d need to find a branch of your credit union to do so, assuming your credit union has a higher daily cash withdrawal limit.

Use Limitations

Shared branch credit unions can be used to do quite a few things, but they’re not all-encompassing. There are some transactions that you’ll only be able to do at your credit union’s branch or via the credit union’s website or mobile app.

The Takeaway

Deciding where to keep your money matters. Shared branch credit unions can make banking easier. With shared branches, you don’t have to be limited to a certain geographic area when managing bank accounts in person or via ATM. You can avoid fees by being part of a large network of connected credit unions. While there are some drawbacks, the benefits of convenience and cheaper banking costs can be very appealing to some consumers.

Of course, there’s a lot to be said for online banking and its associated benefits.

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FAQ

Should I join a credit union or a bank branch?

It depends on your needs. Joining a credit union could make sense if you’re looking for lower interest rates on loans and fewer fees, provided you meet the credit union’s requirements to join. If you do choose to join a credit union for those benefits, you can still open an account at a traditional or online bank and enjoy the benefits those offer.

Is it good to be part of a credit union?

Credit union membership can offer certain perks that you may not always get at a bank. For example, credit unions may charge lower interest rates for loans while offering higher interest rates on deposit accounts. You may also be able to get access to discount programs and other special incentives for being a member.

Can I withdraw money from any bank branch?

You can withdraw money from any branch of your bank, either by seeing a teller or using the ATM to access your accounts. However, you wouldn’t be able to walk into a branch of Bank A to withdraw cash from accounts held at Bank B.

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