Getting a credit card refund is usually a straightforward process, whether you’re asking for one because a product is defective or you’ve simply changed your mind. When you get a refund on a credit card, you’ll receive a credit on your account for the amount you paid for returned goods that you’d charged to your card.
Although credit card refunds are routine, there are some important things to know about the process. Read on to learn more about how credit card refunds work.
What Is a Credit Card Refund?
A credit card refund is the money you get back when you return something that you’d paid for with your credit card. Rather than getting cash back for the full amount of the returned item, you’ll receive a credit to your credit card account for that amount. The process of a credit card refund is started when you go to return the item, and it can take a few days or longer to see the money credited to your account.
How Do Refunds on Credit Cards Work?
When using a credit card to make a purchase, there’s a third party involved in your transaction. The store or other merchant at which you swipe or tap your card to buy something requests their payment from the credit card issuer. When your credit card issuer pays the charge, it adds the amount of the purchase to your account balance. Then, you pay your credit card bill to pay back the credit card issuer for the purchase you made.
When you return a purchase, the merchant issues a refund to the credit card issuer, not directly to you. In turn, your credit card company posts the credit to your account. This process is why credit card refunds aren’t immediate like cash refunds.
There are two basic types of credit card refunds. It can be helpful to know the difference between the two and how a refund to a credit card works in each instance. It may not be something that you took note of when applying for a credit card.
Refund at the Point of Sale
This is when you return an item, either by going to the store in person or sending back an online purchase. The retailer then credits you for the return when the item is received.
Disputed Transaction
Disputed transactions are different from straightforward returns. With a disputed transaction, you’re making a complaint about the purchase as opposed to just making a return. For instance, you might dispute a credit card charge for an online purchase that never arrived. Or you might dispute a charge for a canceled event.
In most cases, you must file a dispute within 60 days of the transaction, providing details and perhaps documentation of the problem. From there, your credit card company has 90 days to investigate the issue and resolve the issue.
While it’s best to start with the merchant when you have an issue with the goods or services provided, you do have options if the merchant will not grant you a credit card refund. In this instance, you can request a credit card chargeback, which reverses your original charge after you have filed a claim with your credit card company.
With a chargeback, the refund process is initiated by the credit card company (often automatically once you dispute a charge), whereas with a credit card refund, the merchant initiates the process.
How Long Does a Credit Card Refund Typically Take?
The amount of time it takes to receive a credit card refund depends on the retailer and the type of refund you’re requesting. It typically takes about three to seven business days to see your refund from a routine return you make in person, and sometimes it’s even faster than that.
Online merchants may take a bit longer to issue a credit card refund because you need to allot time for shipping and processing the returned merchandise. As mentioned above, chargeback or disputed charge refunds can take much longer — sometimes as long as 90 days due to the time allowed to file and investigate a disputed charge.
Do Credit Card Refunds Count Toward Payments?
No, credit card refunds are not considered a payment or partial payment, and they do not automatically go toward that month’s minimum payment on your card.
Instead, you’ll see a credit in the amount of the refund in your account statement and, depending on where you are in the billing cycle, this could reduce the total amount you owe by the amount of the refund. You will still need to make your monthly minimum payment while you’re waiting for a refund credit to appear on your account. In fact, one of the cardinal credit card rules is to always make your minimum payment on time.
Keep in mind that interest will continue to accrue on your charge until the refund credit appears. Depending on how much the purchase is for and where you are in the billing cycle, this can affect your overall balance.
How Credit Card Refunds May Affect Your Credit Score
To understand how credit card refunds work when it comes to your credit score, it’s important to understand something called credit utilization ratio. This term refers to the percentage of your total credit limit that you are currently using. Credit utilization can be an important factor in calculating your credit score — the lower your credit utilization ratio, the better. Most financial experts suggest a credit utilization ratio of no more than 30%, with 10% being a good figure to aim for.
In some situations, a refund may build your credit score if the refund reduces your balance and lowers your credit utilization ratio. On the other hand, a delayed refund could lower your credit score if the amount of the purchase pushes your credit utilization higher during a certain billing period.
What to Do With a Negative Account Balance
Sometimes a refund will give you a negative balance on your credit card, meaning your available credit is more than the amount you owe on the card. This can often happen with cardholders who pay their balance in full each month.
If you have a negative balance, it’s usually not a problem. The negative balance will be applied to the next purchase you make on that card, eventually bringing your balance back to $0 or above. A negative balance will likely not affect your credit score because that’s something that credit card companies report to credit bureaus.
However, a negative balance can be problematic if you’re receiving a large refund and don’t often use that credit card. In these instances, you can ask your credit card company to issue a refund via check, money order, or direct deposit. Your credit card issuer may require this request in writing in order to issue the refund.
How Credit Card Refunds Affect Your Rewards
Any credit card rewards you earned on a purchase that was returned, such as cash back rewards or miles, will not be awarded after your refund is processed.
If you decide that it makes more sense to keep the rewards, you can ask the merchant or service to refund you in the form of a merchant credit or store credit. However, that means you will still have to pay for the purchase on your credit card.
The Takeaway
Knowing how credit card refunds work will help you manage both your budget and your credit score. Credit card refunds are usually straightforward transactions. But they can take longer than a purchase made with cash, and they can affect your credit score. Additionally, you usually won’t be able to hang onto the rewards you’d earned from the purchase you returned.
Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.
FAQ
Do credit card refunds affect your credit
Yes, refunds can affect your credit score. A refund can lower your credit utilization — or the total amount of credit you’ve used compared to your overall credit limit. Credit utilization is something credit rating agencies look at closely when determining your credit score. A delayed refund could hurt your credit score because if the charge stays on your account for a while, it may increase your credit utilization ratio, thus negatively impacting your store. On the other hand, when you receive a refund, that may lower your credit utilization, helping to build your credit score.
Do credit card refunds affect the rewards earned from a refunded purchase?
In most cases, you will not receive the rewards that you may have earned from a purchase you’ve returned. You may want to consider getting a store credit for your refund if you want to keep your rewards, but you will then have to pay for the full amount of the purchase on your credit card.
What happens if I have a negative balance after a credit card refund?
Sometimes you’ll get a refund credit, and it will exceed the balance you have on your card. This is usually not an issue, as the amount of the credit will be applied to the next purchase you make on the card. If the refund is quite large and you don’t use the card often, you may want to ask your credit card issuer for a refund via check or direct deposit.
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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.
A deposit and a withdrawal are both common banking transactions, but the way they function is completely different. A deposit is money put into a bank account and held there until you need it. A withdrawal is money taken out of your account.
But that’s not the full story about deposits vs. withdrawals. You have many choices when it comes to getting money into your account and taking it out. Knowing the different methods is important and could even help you manage your finances.
What Is a Deposit?
In banking, a deposit generally means you put your money into a bank account. Deposits add to your funds in the account, and you can use that money to pay your bills, put it toward something like a vacation, or you can keep it there where it may grow over time.
How a Deposit Works
A deposit involves adding cash or check(s) to your bank account. You can do this in person at a bricks-and-mortar branch of your bank, at an ATM in your bank’s network or, in the case of checks, by using a bank’s mobile app.
You can also receive a deposit by electronic transfer from one bank account to another account. For example, if you are paid by direct deposit, the money moves from your employer directly into your account. Or you could receive a government benefit such as Social Security this way. In addition, you might receive funds from someone else, like a friend, via a mobile payment service like Venmo, and you could then move the money into your checking or savings account.
Both bricks-and-mortar and online banks typically offer different kinds of deposit accounts. You could consider a high-yield checking or savings account at a traditional or online bank, or, if you don’t need to access the money often, you may want to look into a money market account or a certificate of deposit (CD).
Types of Deposits
There are a number of methods you can use to put money into your bank account. Here are some of the ways to make a deposit:
• Cash deposit at one of your bank’s ATMs or branches
• Check deposit at one of your bank’s ATMs or branches
• Check deposit electronically via your bank’s mobile phone app
• Payroll direct deposit
• Electronic funds transfer from a linked savings or checking account or via mobile payment services.
What Is a Withdrawal?
A withdrawal is when you take money out of your account. You can do that several ways, including using your debit card at an ATM, requesting the money in person from a bank teller, writing a check, scheduling an electronic bill payment, having the money transferred via a payment app, or wiring the money to someone.
Some of these methods of withdrawing funds can involve fees. If you use an out-of-network ATM, for instance, you can get hit with a charge. And wiring money may come with a fee. Check with your bank to find out.
How a Withdrawal Works
The difference between a withdrawal and deposit is that withdrawals take money out of your bank account. You might withdraw cash from your bank account to put in your niece’s birthday card, write a check (or authorize an electronic payment) to pay the electric bill, or use a mobile payment service to pay a friend back.
Any funds removed count as a withdrawal. Depending on your bank’s checking account terms, you may have limited or unlimited withdrawals. Often, there are savings account withdrawal limits. In the past, the number was typically six per month, though these restrictions have typically been eased in recent years.
Types of Withdrawals
Just like there are different types of deposits there are also different methods of withdrawing funds. Here’s how to withdraw funds from your bank account when you need them.
• Cash withdrawal at ATM with a bank or prepaid debit card (though there will likely be ATM limits to the amount you may withdraw)
• Cash withdrawal in person at one of your bank’s branches
Similarities and Differences Between Deposits and Withdrawals
Deposits and withdrawals are two of the most common banking terms and transactions. Here are the differences and similarities you should know.
Differences
Deposits
Withdrawals
Adds to bank account balance
✓
Immediately reflected in bank account balance
✓
Transaction can typically only be done at in-network ATMS
✓
Cashier’s checks can be managed at your bank branch
✓
How Deposits and Withdrawals Are Similar
Here’s what these two kinds of banking transactions have in common.
• Both can be done in person at ATMs or branches in your bank’s network (except for check withdrawals, which can only be completed in person or online).
• Both can involve electronic funds transfer from a linked bricks-and-mortar, an online savings or checking account, or via mobile payment services.
How Deposits and Withdrawals Are Different
These are some of the key ways in which deposits and withdrawals are different.
• A withdrawal leaves you with less money in the bank while a deposit puts more money in your bank account.
• A withdrawal will immediately be reflected in your account balance, while a deposit may take longer to show up, until the funds clear.
• Cash deposits generally have to be made at your bank or bank’s branded ATM network locations, while cash withdrawals can be made at any ATM. (But beware, if the ATM is out of your bank’s network, you could be charged an ATM fee by both the ATM owner as well as your bank.)
• Check deposits often have to be made at your bank or bank’s branded ATM network locations, or via a bank’s mobile phone app. (Banks that allow you to make deposits at out-of-network ATMs may charge you a fee, plus there may be an ATM fee as well.)
• Check withdrawals via cashier’s checks, on the other hand, are likely only available in person at one of the branches of your bank. Alternatively, you could request such a withdrawal online from your brick-and-mortar or online bank or credit union.
The Takeaway
While a deposit adds funds to your bank account and boosts your balance, a withdrawal takes money away, subtracting an amount from the funds you have on balance. There are many ways to conduct each of these transactions. You can do your banking in person or use an array of digital tools to send or receive money. And if you’re looking to set up a bank account, there are many different kinds of accounts to choose from.
Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.
Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 4.00% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.
FAQ
What is a cash withdrawal?
A cash withdrawal involves taking money out of a bank account in the form of cash. This can be done at an ATM or a physical location of your bank.
What is a cash deposit?
A cash deposit is money that you add to your bank account. It could come via an electronic transfer, an ATM deposit, or currency that you hand off to a bank teller.
What is the difference between a deposit and a withdrawal?
The difference between a deposit and a withdrawal is that a deposit adds funds to your bank account while a deposit removes money from the account.
Photo credit: iStock/Eva-Katalin
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.
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.
If you ever see a bank error made in your favor, you might think, “Free money!” but the truth is, you need to report the error ASAP.
An unfortunate fact of life is that people — and sometimes technology — can make mistakes. Every once in a while, your bank might make an error and deposit cash into your account that wasn’t meant for you. A teller at a bank branch could have entered the wrong digit in an account number as a customer tried to deposit a check or transfer funds, for example. Whatever the reason, you’ll notice that your bank account balance is higher than it ought to be.
While this may seem like a cash windfall and you might be tempted to keep the money, failing to report and return the funds could result in legal consequences. You should report the error to your bank as soon as you notice it. That way, the mistake can be corrected as quickly as possible.
Key Points
• If you notice a bank error in your favor, you should report it to your bank as soon as possible.
• You cannot keep money that was mistakenly deposited into your account; it must be returned.
• Failing to report and return the money could result in legal consequences, such as criminal charges.
• Contact your bank immediately when you notice the error and keep records of your interactions.
• Regularly monitor your bank account to catch any errors and avoid potential financial issues.
Can I Keep the Money from a Bank Error in My Favor?
So what happens when money is accidentally deposited into your account? You may wonder if it’s a case of “finders, keepers.” The only time that you can keep funds added to your bank account is when the money deposited was legitimately meant for you.
When a bank error occurs in your favor, you cannot keep the money — even if the error seems small and likely to fly under the radar. The money isn’t legally yours, so you must return it.
What’s more, the customer whose money accidentally landed in your account will probably notice the mistake and ask the bank to track down the money. Or, the bank will catch the mistake in one of the regular audits that it makes on accounts and withdraw the money again. If the money isn’t in your account, they may ask you why you didn’t report the mistake earlier.
What Is the Penalty for Attempting to Spend or Keep the Money?
Even if you are a person who doesn’t pay much attention to your banking details and assume the money is yours, it is still a big problem if you use it. If you spend the money from a bank error in your favor, move it to another account like your checking account, invest it, or give it away, you could wind up in a lot of trouble.
Failing to return the money may be tantamount to theft, and you could face criminal charges, such as theft of property lost by mistake or receiving stolen property. Criminal charges may be made to get a court order to force you to repay the amount, and in some cases, you could even end up with probation or prison time. That’s a very good reason to contact your bank and return the funds to them as soon as you realize there’s been an error.
A few years ago, a Pennsylvania couple went on a spending spree when their bank accidentally deposited $120,000 in their account instead of a business’ account due to a teller error. The couple bought various vehicles with the money and also gave $15,000 away to friends in need.
The bank requested that the couple return the money and then reversed the transfer, causing an overdraft on the couple’s account of over $100,000. The couple was eventually convicted of theft, sentenced to seven years’ probation, 100 hours of community service, and ordered to repay the money they stole. This is a good example of why there’s no such thing as free money in this situation.
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No account or overdraft fees. No minimum balance.
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When Should I Report the Error?
If you discover money in your account and can’t explain where it came from, contact your bank right away, and ask them to figure out the origins of the funds. If it turns out the money really was for you — perhaps a relative deposited it in your account as a gift, for example — your bank will let you know that you are free to access the funds and use them for whatever you’d like.
If the funds weren’t originally meant for you, the bank can start the process of reversing the transaction.
To report the error, first call your bank. Take down the name of the person you talked to and make a note of the time and date. Follow up your call with an email that outlines the details of the error. That way, you’ll have a paper trail of your attempts to correct the issue. The time frame in which to report a bank error varies, so check with your particular account’s fine print to find out the specifics.
What Happens if the Bank Does Not Respond?
Generally speaking, banks have 10 days to complete an investigation into an account error. But it is possible the investigation could take as long as 45 days. You can take a look at your deposit account agreement to find out how long it should take your bank.
If nothing has changed after that period of time, contact your bank again to check in on the progress of the investigation. Do not assume the money has somehow become rightfully yours. You don’t want to make a bad situation worse, cause legal action, and wind up eventually having to hire a lawyer to represent you.
What Should I Do So That I Don’t Get in Trouble?
When an erroneous deposit is made to your account, here are the steps you should take to help ensure that you don’t get into any trouble.
Do Not Touch or Transfer Money
First things first, if you notice money in your account that’s not yours, don’t touch it. Don’t spend, don’t give it to someone else, and don’t move it into a different account. Don’t even spend the money if you plan to repay it and report the mistake later. Anything you do to tamper with the money, no matter how benign it seems, could have big consequences later.
Contact Your Bank
As we mentioned above, contact your bank immediately when you notice the error, and keep records of your interactions.
Monitor Your Account
Get in the habit of scoping out your financial accounts regularly, whether it’s checking your credit report or your bank account. The fact that even your bank can accidentally deposit money into your account illustrates the necessity of reviewing your bank account regularly.
If you don’t look at your account statement frequently, you may not notice small errors, and these can have a big impact on your personal finances. How often should you check your bank account? There’s no precise answer, but between once a week and once a month can be a good place to start.
For example, say a small deposit of just a few hundred dollars is accidentally made to your checking account. Say, too, that you don’t notice the deposit and spend some of the funds. When the bank discovers the mistake, they can withdraw the funds without your permission, freeze your account, or put a hold on your funds.
If you’re still operating unaware of the erroneous deposit, this can wreak havoc on your account. It could cause overdrafts or your checks to bounce. It might also mess up any automated bill pay that you may have set up.
As a result, you may be on the hook for overdraft fees, or you may end up paying some bills late.
Keeping careful tabs on your account can help you catch errors so you can avoid these situations and improve your financial health. Consider setting up alerts for deposits in your account. That way you can spot any mistakes as soon as they happen.
In addition, you may want to consider other automatic ways to monitor your finances, such as credit score monitoring and card security and protection, to help keep your accounts safe.
The Takeaway
If a financial institution makes a mistake in your favor, this isn’t the moment to go on a spending spree. The best thing you can do if money is accidentally deposited into your bank account is act quickly to alert your bank. That way, the error can be corrected, the right person can receive the money they need, and you can continue banking as usual. If you fail to do so, you could wind up with overdrafts and other issues when the bank takes the money back. Worse still, you could face legal consequences with far-reaching effects.
So do the right thing, and keep your financial life on the up and up to help your money rightfully grow.
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
Can I keep money credited in error to me?
No, you cannot keep money that is deposited in your account in error. You should alert your bank immediately and have the funds redirected to their rightful owner.
Do I have to report a bank error?
Yes, you should report the error right away. Contact your bank and report the mistaken deposit as soon as you notice it so the problem can be corrected.
What happens if the bank makes a mistake? Who is responsible and why?
If your bank makes a mistake, you should alert them as soon as you notice it. Your bank will also run regular audits of your accounts, which can help them catch errors. When they do catch a mistake, it must be resolved with the funds going back to the correct account. To do so, the bank can reverse transfers, withdraw funds from your account, freeze your account, or place a hold on the funds without your permission. If the money that was mistakenly put into your account is no longer there, you will be asked to repay it, and you may face criminal charges.
Photo credit: iStock/fizkes
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.
This article is not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for advice.
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.
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 .
A checking account can be a convenient place to store your cash and manage daily transactions, but, like most financial products, it has its pros and cons. On the plus side: You can usually make as many transfers in and out of the account as you like (including by swiping, tapping, and waving your debit card to make purchases). Also, your funds are likely to be insured.
But, on the negative side, you probably won’t earn much or any interest for parking your money in a checking account, and you may be hit with an array of fees that nibble away at your funds.
Here, take a closer look at checking account pros and cons so you can determine how to get the right financial product to suit your needs.
What Is a Checking Account?
Simply put, a checking account is a safe place to stash funds and enable the flow of money in (what you earn and receive) and out (what you spend).
Whether held at a brick-and-mortar bank, an online financial institution, or a credit union, a checking account is often the hub of a person’s financial life. Your pay can be seamlessly direct deposited, if you like.
For your everyday spending, you might schedule automatic payments for your mortgage and utilities, write a check when paying for a doctor’s appointment, and tap your debit card when treating yourself to a wine-tasting with friends on the weekend.
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.
Pros of Checking Accounts
Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of a checking account, starting with the upsides.
Security
Yes, you could stuff your money under the proverbial mattress, but with a checking account, you have a secure spot for it, where it can’t get lost, taken, or damaged. If your bank is insured by the FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) or, in the case of a credit union, the NCUA (National Credit Union Administration), your account will typically be covered up to $250,000 per depositor.
In the very rare event of a bank failure, you would be protected from loss up to those limits. (Note: Some institutions offer even more than $250,000 in insurance.)
Easy Access to Cash
Checking accounts allow you to access your money quickly and easily, whether you need to pay for a meal or something unexpected, like a school donation. Setting up direct deposit allows your paychecks to be transferred directly into your checking or savings account, with some banks offering access to cash up to two days early. That’s significantly simpler than what past generations had to do, such as queuing up at the bank to deposit a paycheck at lunchtime.
You can then tap your funds by using your checking account’s debit card, writing checks, snagging some cash from the ATM, or making a transfer.
Pay Bills Conveniently
Having a checking account means you can get your bills taken care of without much effort. You might set up recurring payments to a car loan, for instance, or use a digital payment app to send money to your roommate, a friend, or your yoga teacher. You can also typically move funds quickly via wire transfer, which can be especially useful for international transactions, and other methods as well.
Debit Card for Purchases
When you open a checking account, you’re usually provided with a debit card that’s linked to the account. Similar to a credit card, you can typically use your debit card to pay in person or online for anything from this week’s groceries to a cool new pair of shades to a matcha latte.
Unlike a credit card, however, debit cards pull funds directly from your checking account. They usually only let you dip into funds you actually have on deposit, which can help you keep spending in check and stay on budget, not to mention avoid credit card debt.
Rewards
Some checking accounts come with rewards that can be a nice perk. For example, when you open an account, you might get a sign-up bonus. Who doesn’t like free money? Or your debit card may carry rewards, similar to those of a credit card, such as cash back.
Cons of Checking Accounts
Given that checking accounts are designed for customers’ everyday, short-term money needs, they have some limitations, as well. Here are a few potential downsides to consider.
Low or No Interest Earned
While your money is sitting in your checking account, it is probably earning very low, if any, interest. For instance, as of mid-April 2024, the average checking account interest rate was a meager 0.08% (that’s eight-hundredths of a percent). Translated into dollars and cents, that means that if you kept $5,000 in your checking account for a year, you would only earn $4 in simple interest.
That said, there are high-yield and premium checking accounts available that pay heftier interest rates. These may come with minimum deposit and balance requirements. Online-only banks frequently offer these accounts without those barriers, however, and with interest rates that are several times higher than the national average.
Potential Overdraft and Other Fees
Sooner or later, many people will try to transfer more money out of their checking account than they actually have on deposit. It could be a simple math error, or they might have forgotten about that on-the-fly payment they made to contribute to a friend’s baby shower gift.
Not having enough money in your checking account can lead to overdraft fees. The average charge currently stands at a steep $25 to $35. (Worth noting: There are signs of this decreasing due to government and consumer advocacy pressure.) Also, even if you have overdraft protection — meaning you have linked accounts so that money can be pulled from savings into checking to cover payments, if needed — you may still be charged a fee. However, it’s likely to be lower than an overdraft charge.
Also, check the fine print when signing up for a new checking account: There can be other fees, such as account maintenance and out-of-network ATM fees.
Security Risks
While banks are extremely safe overall, there is always a small possibility of a security risk (such as a hack), though these would typically be covered by the FDIC or NCUA, as mentioned above. Losing or having your debit card stolen and used without your authorization is another concern— and it can be a common one. A card thief could potentially gain access to the funds in your checking account. It’s vital to report the issue within two days of noticing the card is missing. Otherwise, you could be liable up to $500 or more depending on the circumstances.
When a Checking Account Makes Sense
Quite simply, checking accounts make sense for the vast majority of Americans. It typically serves as the hub of one’s daily financial life.
Some people, though, are unbanked, meaning they have not (or are not able) to access the usual banking services. If you are seeking a checking account and haven’t been able to secure one, you can try a few other options:
• It might be easier to get an account at a credit union, if you qualify for one based on where you live, your profession, or other factors.
• Your banking history may reveal some issues, such as multiple overdrafts, as tracked by ChexSystems (a kind of reporting agency for the banking industry). In this situation, you might qualify for a second-chance account. This kind of account may have higher fees and/or minimum balance requirements, but it can be a good way to show that you can handle an account responsibly. In some cases, a second-chance account can be a stepping stone to a standard checking account.
When Other Accounts May Be Better
There are some situations in which another kind of account could be better than a checking account. A few scenarios to consider:
• If you are hoping to park your money for a while and earn interest vs. spend it, a savings account can be a good bet. Some savings accounts have limits on how many transactions can occur per month (check the fine print). Whether or not that applies, you will likely earn a higher interest rate than you would with a checking account. For instance, the current average interest rate for a savings account is 0.46% vs. 0.08% for checking.
• For those who want their money to earn still more money, a high-yield savings account can offer still more earning potential. At the time of publication, some online-only banks were offering rates in the range of 4.5%.
• A CD (or certificate of deposit) can be another way to earn a higher return on money you keep in a bank. However, these don’t offer the accessibility of a checking account. You agree to keep your funds on deposit in return for the bank guaranteeing a certain interest rate.
• For those who want spending power without a checking account, prepaid debit cards can deliver. You load funds onto them and can then spend or pay bills with them. They are typically backed by a major network, like Visa or Mastercard.
• One other option is to use digital payment services, such as Venmo and PayPal. These can allow you to move funds to shop and otherwise spend, without a bank account.
Checking Account Features To Consider
If you are looking for a checking account, you may want to focus on these three considerations:
ATM Access and Fees
Since accessibility is a key selling point of checking accounts, you likely want your money to be within easy and affordable reach. Check out a financial institution’s network of ATMs and make sure they are near your usual haunts. Also see what the charges are for using an out-of-network bank: Certain banks (especially online-only ones) may waive those usual out-of-network fees that can ding you for an average of $4.73 a pop as of 2023.
Online/Mobile Banking
Today, it’s par for the course for financial institutions to provide online banking features, but some provide more robust, user-friendly digital services and offer them for free. As you consider your options, you might look for a bank that helps you save automatically. A round-up function that nudges purchases up to the next whole dollar amount and adds the extra money to your savings can be valuable.
Also helpful are dashboards that allow you to see your money (earnings, spending, and savings) and credit score at a glance, for no extra charge. This feature can help you budget better.
Overdraft Protection
As mentioned above, many people have those “oops” moments and overdraw their accounts. Some banks will give you free overdraft protection up to a certain sum. For instance, they might cover up to $50 of your overdraft without charging you the standard fees. This can be a valuable feature when you are deciding which financial partner is right for you.
The Takeaway
For many people, a checking account can be a reliable hub for their personal finance needs. You can store your earnings securely and still easily access your money to pay bills and fund daily purchases. However, there can be fees involved, and these accounts typically earn little or no interest. So, when shopping around for a checking account, it can be wise to look for one that offers a minimum of surcharges and a competitive interest rate.
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
Are checking accounts free?
Some are. You can often find free checking accounts from traditional and online-only banks as well as credit unions. While these accounts may be billed as “free,” keep in mind that some fees may apply, say, if you overdraft your account.
What happens if my checking is overdrawn?
If your checking account is overdrawn, that means you have drawn more money than you have in your account. By linking a checking and savings account, you may be able to have funds automatically transferred from savings into checking to cover the shortfall. Your bank may charge you a fee, whether they cover the shortfall through overdraft protection or not.
Can I have multiple checking accounts?
There is usually no limit on how many checking accounts you can have. It can be convenient to have one for, say, your salary and your living expenses and another for a side hustle and related expenses.
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.
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.
1SoFi Bank is a member FDIC and does not provide more than $250,000 of FDIC insurance per depositor per legal category of account ownership, as described in the FDIC’s regulations. Any additional FDIC insurance is provided by banks in the SoFi Insured Deposit Program. Deposits may be insured up to $2M through participation in the program. See full terms at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/terms. See list of participating banks at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/receivingbanks.
You can count on your credit bill arriving every month, thanks to your billing cycle, or the length of time between one statement’s closing date and the next. But how does a billing cycle for a credit card work and does it impact your credit score? Many of us aren’t exactly sure, even if we regularly swipe and tap our cards in daily life.
Understanding the ins and outs of a credit card billing cycle can help you manage your money, make sure you have enough set aside to pay your bills, and avoid unnecessary fees.
Definition of a Billing Cycle
A billing cycle on a credit card is the length of time from one billing statement closing date to the next. The exact number of days in a billing cycle may vary, but they usually last from 28 to 31 days.
Credit cards usually have monthly billing cycles and require cardholders to make payments every month. Billing periods must end on the same day of every month, such as on the last calendar day.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau states that each billing cycle should be equal. “Equal” in this case means each billing period must not vary more than four days from its usual length. So your credit card bill has a rhythm to it; you can depend upon it being ready at pretty much the same time (give or take a few days) every month. That way you can plan ahead to have enough money in your checking account to cover it.
How Does a Credit Card Billing Cycle Work?
Credit card billing cycles coincide with a certain day of the month. During each billing cycle, new transactions are added to your billing statement. Your swipes, taps, online purchases, and credits are all being tracked and compiled.
Then, at the end of the billing cycle, the card issuer will send you a credit card statement, either electronically or by mail. Whether you receive a paper or electronic statement depends upon whether you opt into paperless billing. It’s important to note the due date and make a payment of at least the minimum amount due by that date to avoid incurring late fees on top of those typically high credit card interest rates.
Fortunately, credit card billing cycles often come with a grace period, which is a time between the end of the billing period and the due date. You won’t be charged interest during this time. By law, credit card companies must deliver your statement to you at least 21 days before the payment due date.
If your credit card is paid in full between the time you receive your statement and the due date, no interest will be charged. However, if there is still a remaining balance after the due date, interest may start to accrue.
How Long Is a Billing Cycle?
The length of a credit card billing cycle can vary, but the length is usually between 28 and 31 days, just like the months of the year.
Credit card billing cycles must be as close to the same length as possible from one month to the next. But they can vary by up to four days to take into account things like weekends, holidays, and months that are different lengths.
Check your statement to find out the exact length of each billing cycle. The first page of the statement usually shows such information as opening and closing date. All of the transactions on the statement fall within that date range.
Can I Change My Billing Cycle?
Your card issuer probably won’t allow you to change some things related to your billing cycle, such as the billing period length. However, one of the things you may be able to change is the date when your credit card payment is due. You may find that helpful because a different due date might suit your situation better.
For instance, you might be able to sync up your payment due date to fall after you get paid, so you know there’s money in your bank account.
Keep in mind that not all card issuers will be flexible with this, and many will only allow you to change your due date within a certain time frame. And if you do request a due date change, it may take one to two billing cycles to take effect. Hence, you should monitor your statement to watch for the change.
Also, note that your card issuer has the right to change the terms and conditions of your credit card agreement at any time. However, if they do so, they generally must notify you 45 days in advance.
How Does A Billing Cycle Affect Your Credit Score?
Your credit card billing cycle can impact your credit score if you aren’t able to pay at least the minimum due on time. Most credit card issuers send monthly updates to credit reporting bureaus about your credit usage. The three main credit reporting bureaus are Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. These updates usually coincide with your billing cycle date.
On your billing cycle date, reporting bureaus may receive information about your credit usage, including any instances of late payments on your credit cards. Late payments can have a negative impact on your credit score, so be sure you are aware of the due date on your statement at the end of your billing cycle.
It’s also important to be aware that paying your bills on time, all the time, can be one potential way to help build your credit.
Why Understanding Your Billing Cycle Is Important
Understanding your billing cycle and how it works is key to your financial health. Here’s why:
• Your billing cycle lets you know when your next payment is due and the minimum amount due. Paying the minimum can help you avoid penalties and possible hits to your credit score. Paying the full amount due will avoid accruing interest.
• Understanding your billing cycle may help you budget more effectively. Because you know when you have to pay your credit card bill, you can set money aside to make your payments on time. You can request your due date be moved a bit to better suit your cash flow, if needed.
• It will help you monitor your credit card balance more efficiently. That purchase you made today might not appear on the last statement issued, but it will appear on the next one. You may use your cycle’s timing to schedule purchases for the optimal time in terms of keeping your balance due in check.
The Takeaway
Your credit card billing cycle is the period of time between one billing statement’s closing date to the next. This period usually lasts between 28 and 31 days and should be as close as possible to the same length every month. Be sure to pay at least the minimum by the due date to avoid penalties and fees as well as possibly hurting your credit score.
You can request that your due date be moved, if that would help you better manage your budget, and you will likely have a few days’ grace period in which to pay your bill without getting hit with additional charges. Given how high credit card interest rates can be, knowing and following your billing cycle is an important part of being financially responsible.
Another way to help reach your financial goals is to make sure you have enough money in savings. And choosing the right savings vehicle can potentially help your money grow. You may want to explore such options as a high-yield savings account, for instance. Paying your bills and saving for the future are important tools for securing your financial future.
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 a billing cycle important?
A billing cycle is important because it keeps you informed of your credit card activity for the month. Plus, your payment is due at the end of each cycle (after the grace period), and you want to respect that to avoid accruing additional interest and fees.
How long is a billing cycle for a debit card?
Your checking account or debit card may issue regular statements, and the billing cycle length is approximately 30 days. In other words, the length is similar to your credit card billing cycle, but with a debit card, the funds are automatically deducted from your bank account. You don’t get a bill to pay.
What is two-cycle billing?
Two-cycle billing or double-cycle billing is a credit interest calculation. The interest is applied to the average of the prior two months’ outstanding balance. However, the practice was outlawed with the passing of the Credit CARD Act of 2009.
Photo credit: iStock/RichVintage
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.
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.
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 .
