Reasons for a Denied Personal Loan

There are several reasons why you might be denied a personal loan, ranging from a lower credit score or income than required to incorrect information on your application. No doubt about it, though: Being denied for a denied personal loan can add stress to your life when you expect money to come through.

Follow this guide to understand why personal loans are rejected and how to help improve your approval odds in the future.

Why Was My Personal Loan Rejected?

Here are some common reasons financial institutions reject personal loan applications. Any one of these, or a combination of factors, could lead to a personal loan application being denied.

•   Low income: Lenders may worry about your ability to repay a loan if your income is too low. However, most lenders don’t publish their requirements, nor do they always set specific cutoffs. In other words, it can be hard to know what earnings you need to show to secure a personal loan.

•   Variable income: If you don’t always have a predictable income (as may be the case with entrepreneurs, freelancers, and seasonal workers), a lender might also have concerns about your ability to repay your loan.

•   Unsteady work history: Another reason that lenders may feel you are not a good candidate for a personal loan is if you are in and out of the job market. For instance, a person who has been steadily employed at $60,000 per year could be perceived as more credit-worthy than someone who earned $100,000 for one year, was unemployed for six months, and then employed at $65,000 for nine months.

•   Low credit score: Your credit score can be one of the most important factors on a personal loan application. A poor credit score (below 580) can mean you’ve had difficulty repaying your loans on time (or at all) in the past, so a lender may deny your personal loan application. (Or, if approved, you may wind up with a higher interest rate on your loan than someone with a stellar score.) You can see if a prospective lender shares what credit score you need for a personal loan before applying to save time and energy.

•   High debt-to-income ratio: Your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is the amount of debt you carry relative to your income. You can determine yours by adding up all your monthly debt payments and dividing that by your monthly income. Multiply that number by 100 to see if it comes in at no more than 43%, which many lenders use as a qualification. The lower your number, the better.

•   Incorrect application information: Your application may include erroneous information, such as accidentally mixing up digits on an account number. This might be an easy fix when you reapply for your personal loan.

•   Not meeting lender requirements: It’s a good idea to ensure you meet all lender requirements before you apply for a personal loan, which at the basic level include having U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, government-issued ID, a Social Security number or individual taxpayer identification number, proof of income, and being at least 18 years of age.

•   Requested too much money: You may have requested more than the maximum amount your lender was willing to lend to you. They take into consideration the amount you can comfortably afford to repay based on your income and DTI.

•   Incomplete application: You may get denied simply because you didn’t complete your paperwork when applying for a personal loan. If so, next time around, consider going over your application extra carefully.

•   Loan purpose didn’t match lender criteria: Lenders often impose restrictions on how you use your loan. If you intend to use a personal loan as a student loan, for example, the lender may have restrictions against that and deny your loan application.

By the way, it’s worth noting that even if you were preapproved for a personal loan, you might still ultimately be denied. Here’s why: The preapproval process may not give your lender the full information they need to definitively approve the loan.

Recommended: Personal Loan Guide for Beginners

What to Do After You’ve Been Rejected for a Loan

If your personal loan application has been rejected, the lender must share what’s known as an adverse action notice, which reveals which information was used to make this decision. This can point you in the right direction about what may have triggered the denial and help guide you toward getting a personal loan in the future.

You might also check with your lender directly to find out why. If the rejection was due to an error on your application, you could potentially apply again and correct that mistake. (Check with your lender about any waiting period before reapplying.)

Can You Improve Your Loan Approval Chances?

If you were rejected for a personal loan, here are some ways you can improve the odds of being approved in the future.

Finding a Cosigner

Your lender may suggest you reapply within a short period of time with a cosigner. This would be someone with good credit who agrees to take ownership of the loan if you can’t repay it in full yourself. Keep in mind just what a big commitment this is for a cosigner: They must agree to be responsible for the debt if you default.

Checking Your Credit Report

Your credit report is a statement that contains information about your credit activity and reflects how well you’ve handled debt in the past. However, your credit report may contain erroneous information about your identity, account errors, debt duplication, and more.

You can get a free annual copy of your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com, by calling 877-322-8228, or via mail at Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281. If you do find any mistakes, you can dispute them and potentially build your credit score.

Building Your Credit

If your credit score wasn’t high enough to qualify for a personal loan, you may want to check your lender’s requirements and reapply when you have a better credit score. There are several ways to build your credit:

•   Be meticulous about paying your bills on time.

•   Don’t apply for too many loans or credit lines in a short period of time.

•   Keep your DTI at no more than 43%, preferably lower.

•   Maintain credit accounts in good standing; length of credit history counts toward building your score.

•   Aim for a good credit mix. Having installment loans, say, as well as credit cards can help build your score.

Recommended: What Credit Score Do You Need for a Personal Loan?

When to Reapply for a Personal Loan

How soon you can reapply for a personal loan may vary depending on your lender and the reason why you were rejected. Some lenders may allow you to quickly reapply if you bring a cosigner on board, as noted above. Others may require you to wait up to 90 days before you apply again for a personal loan. Also, you may need to wait a period of time to, say, build your credit score to bring it in line with what a lender requires. That could take months.

Your lender can likely give you some suggestions about whether it makes sense to reapply quickly or wait a while.

Alternatives to Personal Loans

If you can’t get approved for a personal loan, here are some other funding sources to consider.

•   Credit cards: Credit cards are a definite alternative to personal loans, but if you don’t pay off your monthly balance, the interest rates are higher for these than personal loans. That could lead to you having significant credit card debt. Credit cards also work differently than personal loans; what you owe is based on the amount of credit you use and the interest charged, versus how a lump-sum personal loan is paid back.

•   Home equity loan: A home equity loan differs from a personal loan because you use your home equity (the difference between the home’s value and what’s owed on the mortgage) to secure the loan. This is critical to note: If you stop making payments, the lender can seize your home. In terms of how it works, you’ll receive the money in one lump sum and pay back principal plus interest monthly over the term of the loan.

•   Home equity line of credit (HELOC): A HELOC, just like a home equity loan, is secured by your home. However, it works like a credit card, allowing you to draw on your loan as much as you want through a withdrawal period. After that period, a HELOC enters the repayment phase.

•   Cash-out refinance: A cash-out refinance is a type of mortgage refinance that allows you to borrow more than you currently owe. You can take that difference in cash. Again, as with a home equity loan or HELOC, your property will serve as collateral. If you can’t make the payments, you could lose your home.

•   Peer-to-peer loan: These loans, which bypass traditional lenders, are also called “crowdfunding loans” or “social lending loans.” They differ from loans from financial institutions because multiple investors fund them. Peer-to-peer loans may offer an alternative to individuals who can’t get loans from traditional lenders. Some peer-to-peer lenders include Prosper and Upstart.

As you consider these options, it’s important to shop around and compare interest rates and repayment terms before you make a decision.

Recommended: Personal Loan Requirements to Get Approved

The Takeaway

If you’re denied for personal loans, it could be due to low or variable income, your credit score, or other factors. It’s important to consider your options, whether reapplying or finding an alternate source of funding, so you can find the best fit for your finances.

Shopping for a personal loan? See what SoFi offers.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.


SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

FAQ

Why do I keep getting denied for a small loan?

The reasons for a personal loan denial can vary. Low income, a poor credit score, and other factors may be to blame. Often, however, you can gain insight about why your application was not approved and then work to secure funding in the future. If you are applying often for various forms of credit, that could be one reason why lenders are wary.

How can I get a loan when I can’t get approved?

If you’ve been turned down for a personal loan, you might be able to bring on a cosigner and get approved. Or you could consider waiting and applying for a personal loan with a stronger application package. You can also seek a different form of funding, such as a home equity loan or a peer-to-peer loan.

How hard is it to get a $30,000 personal loan?

You may qualify for a $30,000 personal loan if you meet the requirements, which often include having a credit score of at least 580 to qualify and above 700 for more favorable terms.


Photo credit: iStock/Milan Markovic

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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


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 .

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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

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

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What Are Banks? Definition and Explanation

You may think of a bank as simply a safe place to put your money. But banks do a lot more than accept deposits. They also extend loans, facilitate payments, exchange currency, set monetary policy, and provide a range of other financial services to individuals, businesses, and governments. Here are key things to know about banks, including how they work, how they make money, and the different products and services they offer.

What Is a Bank?

By definition, a bank is an institution that accepts deposits in checking and savings accounts and makes loans. In serving both functions, banks act as intermediaries between depositors (who essentially lend money to the bank) and borrowers (to whom the bank lends money). The money the bank pays to depositors and charges on loans is called interest.

Banks also offer a range of other financial products and services, including:

•   Credit cards

•   Investment accounts

•   Wealth management services

•   Individual retirement accounts (IRAs)

•   High-yield savings accounts

•   Certificates of deposit (CDs)

•   Money market accounts

•   Currency exchange

•   Safe deposit boxes

Banks also facilitate payments — from employers to employees, buyers to sellers, and taxpayers to the government — and play a major role in the nation’s economy. There are also many different types of banks, including retail banks, corporate banks, and central banks.

How Do Banks Make Money?

Banks typically generate revenue through a variety of channels. These include:

•   Interest on loans: Banks lend money to individuals and businesses at higher interest rates than what they pay on deposits, earning the interest rate spread.

•   Fees: Banks may charge fees for various services, including account maintenance, overdrafts, wire transfers, and out-of-network ATM usage.

•   Investment income: Banks may invest in securities, bonds, and other financial instruments, earning returns on these investments.

•   Interchange fees: When customers use their debit or credit cards, banks earn fees from merchants processing the transactions.

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.

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A Brief History of Banks

The concept of banking dates back to ancient civilizations, when temples were used as safe places to store valuable items and grain, and priests would lend these resources to local farmers and merchants. The temples were also responsible for keeping records of these transactions, laying the groundwork for bookkeeping.

The first modern banks emerged in Renaissance Italy, with institutions like the Medici Bank setting the standard for banking operations. Over centuries, banks evolved, expanding their products and services and adopting technological advancements to meet the growing demands of consumers and businesses. Today, banks are integral to the global economy.

Modern Bank Products for Consumers

Modern banks offer a variety of products tailored to meet the financial needs of consumers. Common banking products include:

Loans

Banks provide various types of consumer loans, such as mortgages, personal loans, and auto loans. These loans help individuals finance large purchases and manage their cash flow.

Savings and Checking Accounts

Savings and checking accounts are fundamental banking products. A savings account is designed to hold cash you don’t need right away and allow you to earn interest and grow your money over time.

Checking accounts are set up to offer easy access to funds for everyday transactions. They come with checks and typically a debit card that can be used for purchases or to withdraw funds at an ATM. Checking accounts generally earn little or no interest, though some banks now offer high-yield checking accounts.

Mortgages

Banks offer mortgage loans to help individuals purchase homes. These long-term loans typically come with fixed or variable interest rates and generally require you to use the property being purchased as collateral for the loan. Mortgage terms are typically 15, 20, or 30 years.

Investing Accounts

Many banks offer investment accounts, including IRAs and taxable brokerage accounts. These accounts enable customers to invest in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other financial instruments designed for long-term growth.

Credit Cards

Credit cards provide consumers with a revolving line of credit, allowing them to make purchases and pay for them over time. Banks earn interest and fees from credit card users, making it a significant revenue source.

Certificates of Deposit (CDs)

CDs are time deposits that offer a fixed interest rate for a specified term. You agree to leave your money in the account for a set period of time (which generally range from three months to five years). In return, these accounts typically pay a higher interest rate than a standard savings account.

Money Market Accounts

A money market account is a hybrid account that offers competitive interest on your balance, along with the conveniences of a checking account, such as a debit card and checks. However, you may be limited to a certain number of withdrawals per month. Some money market accounts also have minimum balance requirements.

Useful Bank Features

In addition to products, banks offer various services to help customers manage their money. Here are some features you may want to look out for when exploring different bank options.

Customer Support

Banks typically offer customer support through various channels, including phone, email, online chat, and in-person assistance. Whether you need assistance with your checking account or help choose between two banking products, a customer service rep can generally point you in the right direction.

Credit Score Checkers

Many banks offer tools that allow customers to monitor their credit scores for free. This service allows you to stay informed about your credit health and, if necessary, take steps to build your scores. Having strong credit can help you unlock credit cards, mortgages, and other types of loans with attractive rates and terms.

ATMs

Whether you open an account at a traditional brick-and-mortar institution or an online-only bank, you’ll typically have access to a wide network of fee-free automated teller machines (ATMs). This allows you to withdraw cash or make deposits without needing to visit a branch during business hours.

Online/Mobile Banking

Online banking and mobile banking apps allow you to monitor your accounts, transfer money, pay bills, and deposit checks from your computer or mobile device.

Financial Planning Tools

Many banks offer financial planning tools that help customers budget, save, and invest wisely. These tools can include calculators, goal-setting features, and personalized financial advice.

Bank Regulations

While banks are typically privately owned entities that must answer to their shareholders, banking is a highly regulated industry. Regulatory bodies, such as the Federal Reserve, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), oversee banks’ operations, ensuring they adhere to laws and maintain sufficient capital reserves. This is to minimize disruptions and ensure the U.S. banking system runs smoothly.

The majority of U.S. banks are also insured by the FDIC. This covers deposit accounts up to $250,000 per insured bank, per depositor. Co-owners of joint accounts at the same bank are typically each insured up to $250,000. The agency’s BankFind site can help you identify FDIC-insured banks throughout the country.

Types of Banks

There are several different types of banks, each serving different purposes and customer bases. The large global banks often operate separate arms or divisions for each of these categories.

Retail Banks

Retail banks focus on individual consumers, rather than businesses or other banks. They provide personal banking services, such as checking and savings accounts, personal loans, mortgages, auto loans, short-term loans like overdraft protection, and credit cards. They may also offer access to investment products, such as mutual funds and IRAs.

While some retail banks offer in-person services through brick-and-mortar locations, others operate exclusively online. Due to lower overhead costs, online banks tend to offer higher yields on savings accounts and charge lower (or no) fees.

Recommended: What Is Neobanking and How Does it Work?

Corporate Banks

Corporate banks (also known as commercial banks) cater to large businesses and corporations. They also serve government agencies and institutions like colleges and universities. Along with business checking and savings accounts, these banks offer business loans and lines of credit, letters of credit, payment processing, foreign exchange transactions, and more for their clients.

Investment Banks

Investment banks serve as intermediaries in large, complex financial transactions. They specialize in initial public offerings (IPOs), raising capital, facilitating mergers and acquisitions, and providing advisory services to corporations and governments. Unlike retail banks, they do not take deposits from or provide loans to the general public.

Central Banks

Central banks manage a nation’s monetary policy, regulate the banking industry, and act as a lender of last resort. The central bank in the U.S. is the Federal Reserve (a.k.a, “the Fed”). The Fed sets the federal funds rates, which impacts everything from the annual percentage yields (APYs) you earn on savings accounts to the interest rates you pay on credit card balances and loans. Unlike the banks types listed above, central banks do not deal directly with the public.

Pros and Cons of Banks

Retail and commercial banks offer myriad benefits, but they also have some downsides. Here’s a look at how the pros and cons stack up.

Pros

Cons

Safe and secure Potential fees for various services
Easy access to funds Lower interest rates on deposits
Wide range of services Potentially complex fee structures
Highly regulated Potential for poor customer service

Pros

•   Safety: Banks provide a secure place to store money, reducing the risk of theft or loss. Deposits in most banks are federally insured (up to certain limits), which means that even if the bank were to fail, customers will still recover their funds, up to the insured limit.

•   Convenient access to funds: Banks offer easy access to funds through a network of branches, ATMs, and digital banking platforms.

•   One-stop shop: Banks provide a variety of financial services beyond basic checking and savings accounts, allowing you to manage all aspects of your finances under one roof.

•   Regulatory protection: Banks are heavily regulated by government agencies. These regulations protect consumers from fraud, ensure the safety of deposits, and promote ethical banking practices.

Cons

•   Fees: Banks often charge fees for their services, including fees for account maintenance, overdrafts, and wire transfers.

•   Low interest rates: Many banks offer relatively low interest rates on savings accounts and other deposit accounts. These rates often fail to keep pace with inflation, which can diminish the purchasing power of your savings over time.

•   Complex fee structures: The complexity of bank fees can create confusion for customers and result in unexpected expenses.

•   Potential for poor customer service: Large banks may offer impersonal or poor customer service due to their size and scale.

Banks vs Credit Unions

While banks and credit unions offer similar financial services, there are key differences between them. Here’s a closer look:

Ownership

Banks,typically, are owned by shareholders and operate for profit. Credit unions, by contrast, are owned by their members and operate on a not-for-profit basis. The main goal of a credit union is to benefit its members.

Fees and Interest Rates

Credit unions often offer lower fees and better interest rates on loans and savings accounts compared to traditional banks, as they are not driven by maximizing profits.

Membership

Banks are open to the general public. Credit unions require membership, which may be based on specific criteria such as employment, geographic location, or affiliation with a particular organization.

Customer Service

Credit unions tend to provide more personalized customer service due to their smaller size and member-focused approach. While small banks can also offer personalized customer service, larger banks may lack the personal touch.

Getting Started Banking With SoFi

A bank is an excellent resource to help manage your money. You can deposit funds for safekeeping, manage everyday spending, and invest for the future. Understanding the products, services, and perks offered by different banks can help you find the institution for your needs.

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


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

FAQ

How do banks make money?

Banks primarily make money by lending out deposits at higher interest rates than they pay to depositors, earning the interest rate spread. They also earn money from the fees they charge for account maintenance, overdrafts, and transactions. Additionally, banks may invest in securities and earn returns.

Why do they call it a bank?

The term “bank” is thought to originate from the Italian word “banca,” which means bench or counter. In medieval times, moneylenders conducted their business on benches in marketplaces, and the term evolved to represent financial institutions.

What is a bank, simply put?

Simply put, a bank is a financial institution that accepts deposits and makes loans. Banks also play a key role in a nation’s economy, facilitating the management and movement of money for individuals, businesses, and governments.


Photo credit: iStock/Pgiam

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.

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 .

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.

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Individual Retirement Account (IRA) vs Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)

Although an IRA and a TSP are both types of retirement accounts, they are governed by different sets of rules, starting with the fact that anyone with earned income can open an IRA, but only employees of the U.S. government or the armed forces can fund a thrift savings plan.

A TSP effectively functions more like the government version of a 401(k) plan, with similar rules and contribution limits to these private company-sponsored plans.

When considering the advantages of an IRA vs. a TSP, remember that in many cases it’s possible to fund both types of accounts, as long as you understand the rules and restrictions that apply to each.

What Is an IRA?

You may already be familiar with what IRAs are: These are individual retirement accounts that are tax advantaged in different ways. Anyone with earned income can open an IRA, as long as they meet certain criteria.

Retirement savers can generally choose between traditional and Roth IRAs, with some exceptions owing to Roth eligibility rules (more on that below).

Traditional IRAs allow for pre-tax contributions, while Roth IRAs involve after-tax contributions and permit qualified tax-free withdrawals in retirement.

For tax year 2024, the maximum annual amount you can contribute to either type of IRA is $7,000; $8,000 if you’re 50 or older. This is the total annual contribution amount allowed across all ordinary IRA accounts. So, if you contribute $3,000 to a Roth IRA for 2024, then you can only contribute up to $4,000 in another IRA for that year.

Calculate your IRA contributions.

Use SoFi’s IRA contribution calculator to determine how much you can contribute to an IRA in 2024.


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What Is a TSP?

The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is an employer-sponsored plan that is open to members of the military and civilian employees of the federal government. TSPs are tax-advantaged plans that share many similarities to 401(k) plans offered by private employers.

Like 401(k) plans, you can contribute to a traditional TSP or a designated Roth TSP, both of which come with the types of tax advantages that are similar to traditional and Roth IRAs, as described above. In other words, many different types of retirement accounts may also offer a Roth-style option, for after-tax contributions. Be sure to check the rules and restrictions on contributing to both sides of a plan.

Perhaps the biggest difference with a TSP vs. an IRA is the annual contribution limit. You can contribute up to $23,000 for tax year 2024; for those 50 and older there is also an annual catch-up contribution of $7,500 per year, for a total of $30,500.

But contribution limits for IRAs are $7,000 for tax year 2024, and $8,000 for those 50 and up.

Get a 1% IRA match on rollovers and contributions.

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


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

TSP vs. IRA

In addition, there are other similarities and differences between a TSP and an IRA.

Similarities

Both the TSP and IRAs provide tax-advantaged ways to save for retirement. With both TSPs and IRAs you can choose between a traditional (tax-deferred) account or a Roth (tax-free) account.

•   With a traditional-style TSP or IRA, funds are deposited pre-tax, and you owe ordinary income tax on the withdrawals.

•   With a Roth-style TSP or IRA, you deposit after-tax money, and qualified withdrawals are tax-free starting at age 59 ½, as long as you’ve held the account for at least five years.

•   With both types of accounts, you may face tax consequences and/or a penalty if you withdraw your funds before age 59 ½.

Differences

There are far more differences between TSPs and IRAs, as you’ll see in the table below.

IRAs

TSP

Anyone with earned income can open an IRA Only members of the military and government employees are eligible
Annual contribution limits for 2024 are $7,000; $8,000 with the catch-up provision Annual contribution limits for 2024 are $23,000; $30,500 with the catch-up provision
A wide range of investment choices Investment choices are limited to the funds the TSP provides
You have some control over the investment fees you pay, so be sure to check your all-in costs. You have little control over the investment fees you pay, though TSP account and investment fees tend to be low.
You cannot take a loan from your IRA TSP loans may be available
You are solely responsible for contributions The government typically provides matching contributions of up to 5%
Traditional IRAs are subject to RMD rules; Roth IRAs are not RMD rules apply to TSPs, but there are different distribution options: e.g. an installment plan or a lifetime annuity, among other choices

Pros and Cons of IRAs

As the name suggests, an IRA is an account that you manage individually. As such, it comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Pros

•   You can open an IRA at most brokerage firms, and manage it yourself, as long as you have earned income.

•   An IRA account typically offers access to a wide range of investment options.

•   Traditional and Roth IRAs offer different tax treatments; you can choose whatever works best for your financial plan.

Cons

•   Annual contribution limits are lower than many other types of retirement plans.

•   Eligibility rules for Roth IRAs are complicated and can be limiting.

•   Only you can fund an IRA; there is no employer match for a traditional IRA or Roth.

•   You cannot take a loan from any type of IRA (but you may be able to take early withdrawals under some circumstances without owing a penalty; see IRS.gov).

Pros and Cons of TSPs

Remember that you can only participate in a TSP if you are an employee of the federal government or a member of the armed forces. Here are some other considerations.

Pros

•   The annual contribution limits are higher than IRAs, and the same as 401(k) plans.

•   TSPs include an employer match up to 5%.

•   When setting up your income plan in retirement, TSPs offer a range of options for taking withdrawals, including fixed installments and a lifetime annuity option.

•   You can take a loan from a TSP.

•   TSP accounts have lower fees, generally, than IRA accounts

Cons

•   Investment options within a TSP can be limited.

•   If you leave your government job, you can no longer contribute to your TSP.

•   TSP plan participants have less control, and cannot opt for lower-fee or investment options.

Can You Roll a TSP Into an IRA?

Yes, you can rollover your TSP funds into a qualified trust or eligible retirement plan. Eligible retirement plans include IRAs as well as qualified employer-sponsored plans.

Keep in mind that generally you generally need to rollover funds from a traditional TSP account into a traditional IRA and funds from a Roth TSP account into a Roth IRA in order to avoid taxes on the amount you rollover.

You may want to consult with a professional.

The Takeaway

The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is a government program intended to help government employees and members of the military save for retirement. It is an employer-sponsored plan similar to a 401(k). An individual retirement account (IRA) is also a way to save for retirement, but is an account you open and manage yourself.

While there are advantages and disadvantages to each, a TSP allows you to invest more of your savings over time; contribution limits are lower for traditional and Roth IRAs.

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

Help grow your nest egg with a SoFi IRA.

FAQ

Is a TSP or IRA better?

A TSP and an IRA are two different ways to save for retirement, and may suit different people for different reasons. Contributing to an IRA may provide you with more investment options, while you can save more in a TSP and the government may match some of your contributions — but not everyone has access to a TSP.

Should you move your TSP to an IRA?

If you leave government service, you can’t contribute to your TSP anymore — but you may be able to open an IRA and rollover the TSP funds. Doing a TSP-to-IRA rollover within the standard 60-day window can help ensure that you don’t have to pay any taxes or penalties, and this may help your retirement plan.

Is a TSP the same as an IRA?

No, a TSP is not the same as an IRA. A TSP is for employees of the government or the armed forces, and it’s comparable to an employer-sponsored plan like a 401(k) or 403(b). By contrast, anyone can open an IRA, as long as they have earned income and qualify.


Photo credit: iStock/Dilok Klaisataporn

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SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below: Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
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For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

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.

Disclaimer: The projections or other information regarding the likelihood of various investment outcomes are hypothetical in nature, do not reflect actual investment results, and are not guarantees of future results.

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What Does Unlimited Cash Back Mean? Is It Worth It?

What Does Unlimited Cash Back Mean? Is It Worth It?

What unlimited cash-back means is you can earn uncapped rewards using the card — in other words, your earning potential isn’t limited to a certain amount. While this might sound too good to pass up, there are both pros and cons to consider to determine whether unlimited cash back is worth it for you.

What Is Cash Back?

Cash back is a type of reward that a credit card issuer may offer through its rewards credit cards. Depending on the terms, cardholders can earn a certain percentage back on qualifying purchases (cash advances typically don’t qualify). For instance, you may be able to earn 2% cash back on purchases at gas stations, or 3% back at grocery stores.

Some cards may put caps on how much cash back you can earn. As an example, a card may limit cardholders to 2% cash back for up to $5,000 in purchases in a calendar year. While cardholders may still be able to earn cash back after they’ve hit their certain earnings threshold, they may earn rewards at a lower rate thereafter.

What Is Unlimited Cash Back?

Unlimited cash back means that your credit card offers cash-back rewards with no caps or limits on how much you can earn. In most cases, you can earn cash back on all of your purchases, though some cards may only offer unlimited cash back on certain spending categories.

For most credit cards, your cash-back rewards don’t expire as long as you keep your card open. This means that if you continue racking up rewards, you may be able to redeem your accumulated cash-back rewards for a sizable statement credit or other perk.

How Unlimited Cash Back Credit Cards Work

How credit cards work that offer unlimited cash back is that they allow cardholders to earn cash back on their purchases with no earning cap. In other words, there is no limit as to how much you can earn on qualifying purchases with these types of credit cards.

As you earn these rewards, you can redeem them in several ways. This includes as a statement credit or actual cash via a check or bank transfer.

In general, you’ll need good or excellent credit (meaning a score of 670 or above) to qualify for an unlimited cash back card. That being said, there are also cash back credit cards with less stringent credit card requirements, meaning you may be able to qualify even if you have a fair credit score or limited credit history. In general, however, the higher your score, the better the rewards tend to be.

Recommended: Does Applying For a Credit Card Hurt Your Credit Score?

Pros and Cons of Unlimited Cash Back

Before signing up for an unlimited cash back credit card, consider the advantages and disadvantages first.

Pros

Cons

Can earn money back on purchases, with no caps on earnable rewards Generally need at least good credit to qualify for top rewards programs
Don’t have to worry about hitting spending thresholds or other caps May need to pay an annual fee
Simple and straightforward to earn and redeem rewards Like other rewards credit cards, may have a higher APR (annual percentage rate) than standard credit cards
Can help to build credit with responsible usage Not as lucrative of a rewards option for frequent travelers

Is Unlimited Cash Back Worth It?

Getting an unlimited cash back credit card might be worth it if you’re confident you can maximize its rewards. For instance, if you continually make purchases in higher rewards categories, you can save some serious cash due to the rewards earnings. Ideally, you’d be able to earn enough rewards to entirely offset the annual fee, if your card has one.

An unlimited cash back card may not be a great fit if you continually carry a balance on your credit card, given what a credit card is and how you’ll accrue interest. Your interest rate will likely be higher than the cash back rate you’ll earn, which means carrying a balance could cancel out rewards earnings.

Another reason to think twice about an unlimited cash back card is if you’re a frequent traveler. A travel rewards program may be a better choice since you can earn free flights, hotel rooms, and even cash back. Plus, you might earn more lucrative rewards on travel-related spending than a cash back card would offer.

Recommended: How to Avoid Interest On A Credit Card

Categories of Unlimited Cash Back Credit Cards You Can Choose From

There are several ways credit cards give you cash back, including flat rate and through different spending categories.

Flat Rate

Flat-rate rewards allow you to earn the same cash-back rate across all purchases made using a credit card. For instance, you might earn 3% cash back on all purchases made with the card. Some may issue you a certain percentage cash back when you make a purchase, and then another amount you pay off your credit card bill. Regardless, your specific spending category won’t matter for earning with a flat-rate rewards card.

Rotating Categories

Your credit card may offer several spending categories each quarter that you can select from to earn cash back. For instance, you might be able to choose to get 5% cash back on purchases at gas stations or office supply stores for the first quarter. After the quarter is over, you can choose a different spending category.

While rotating categories can allow you to maximize your rewards-earning potential, this setup does require some strategizing. You’ll need to stay on top of choosing a new category each quarter. Plus, you’ll then have to make sure you adequately take advantage of spending within that category.

Fixed Spending Categories

Instead of choosing different categories every quarter, some credit cards offer fixed cash-back earnings for various spending categories. For instance, a card may allow you to earn 3% cash back for purchases at grocery stores, and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

While fixed spending categories require much less planning ahead for, you will want to ensure the card you sign up for credit card rewards you in a category you regularly spend in. Otherwise, you could end up forgoing valuable rewards.

Maximizing Unlimited Cash Back Earnings

If you want to make the most of earning unlimited cash back, here are some general credit card rules to keep in mind:

Select the Right Card

It’s a good idea to do your research and find a card that matches your spending habits. For example, if you use your credit card a lot at gas stations, it might not be the best choice to sign up for a card that doesn’t offer cash back rewards for this category.

Time Your Spending

If you sign up for a credit card with a sign up bonus, consider timing your card opening with a major purchase you’d been planning. Doing so will help ensure that you meet the minimum spend requirements in order to earn the bonus.

Or, if your credit card is about to have extra earnings for a rotating category, you might think about waiting until that time to make a planned purchase.

Note Spending Categories

After signing up for a card, pay attention to how much cash back you’ll earn in different categories if it’s not a flat rate card. That way, you can be sure to use that card exclusively for certain spending categories, or make sure you sign up for rotating categories well within the deadline.

Review Credit Card Terms

Looking over your credit card terms can help to ensure that you know what does and doesn’t count toward earnings. You might also discover through your card’s terms that you can earn enhanced rewards by taking certain actions, such as holding a certain amount of money in an associated bank account.

The Takeaway

A cash-back credit card is a great way to earn rewards that doesn’t necessarily require a complicated redemption process. Even better is when the card doesn’t place limits on the amount of cash-back rewards you can earn, which is the meaning of unlimited cash back.

Still, you’ll need to make sure you avoid carrying a balance and take steps to maximize your rewards to ensure you don’t negate your cash-back rewards earnings.

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

How does unlimited cash back work?

If you have a credit card with unlimited cash back, that means there are no limits on the amount of rewards you can earn through qualifying purchases.

Is unlimited cash back better than points?

Whether cash back or points is better really depends on your preferences. Cash back is straightforward to track and redeem. Meanwhile, points may translate to a greater range of redemption opportunities, including for travel-related purchases. However, the value of points can vary depending on the card and the way the points are redeemed.


Photo credit: iStock/AsiaVision

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

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Guide to Buying Real Estate With a Credit Card

Guide to Buying Real Estate With a Credit Card

Investing in real estate can be a lucrative endeavor. But if you don’t have hundreds of thousands of dollars saved in cash to put toward a property, using a credit card to secure a real estate investment might be an option.

There are ways to execute this investment approach. However, there are also serious caveats to consider before moving forward with using a credit card to invest in real estate.

Can You Buy Real Estate With a Credit Card?

You can’t purchase a physical real estate property outright with a credit card the way you would when using a credit card to buy lunch or a new television. One reason for this is because a typical consumer credit card likely doesn’t offer a credit line large enough to cover the entire home price.

Even if you do qualify for a credit line to cover all or a significant portion of the home price, you’ll face another challenge. The title company or real estate agency that’s facilitating the deal requires that payment is provided using bank-certified funds — such as a cashier’s check, certified bank check, or wire transfer — to finalize your investment transaction. Given what a credit card is, it won’t meet those standards.

Recommended: Does Applying For a Credit Card Hurt Your Credit Score?

How to Finance Real Estate Investments With a Credit Card

While you can’t swipe your credit card to purchase real estate, there are ways that you can leverage your credit card to help fund your real estate investments.

Through a Cash Advance

If you have a high enough credit limit, a viable way to buy real estate with a credit card is by getting a cash advance against your card. By doing this, the funds you borrow from your credit card will become quickly available for use on a real estate investment, which might be helpful if you’re buying real estate in a hot market.

Keep in mind that fees typically apply for cash advances. Typically, you’ll pay a fee in the range 3% to 5% of the transaction amount, depending on your particular card.

Also know that cash advances typically come with interest rates that are higher than the card’s standard annual percentage rate (APR). Plus, interest begins to accrue immediately rather than at the end of the grace period like it does on regular credit card purchases.

Recommended: What Is the Average Credit Card Limit?

For Related Real Estate Costs

Some investors also use credit cards to invest in real estate by using their card for renovation project expenses. If you purchased a low-cost investment property and want to update it for passive rental income, for example, you might be able to invest in your property by putting charges for contractors and materials on your credit card.

By Using Credit Card Rewards

Another unconventional approach to buying real estate with credit cards is directly redeeming earned rewards as cash. Cash redemption values are typically lower compared to redeeming rewards toward travel, for example, but this approach can still unearth the capital you need to invest in your next property.

This strategy is particularly effective if you’ve already amassed years of rewards through a business credit card, and are willing to pool earned rewards from your personal credit card rewards programs, too.

Recommended: Can You Buy Crypto With a Credit Card?

Advantages of Using a Credit Card to Invest in Real Estate

Although buying real estate with a credit card is an unconventional approach, there are some benefits in doing so. In particular, the advantages include that:

•   You can invest faster: If you don’t have a lump sum of cash savings ready, it might take years to save up enough capital to get your foot into real estate investing. Using a credit card to invest in real estate can help you realize your investment goals faster.

•   You’ll have fewer costs at closing: Since you’re not financing through a mortgage lender, there are fewer fees to worry about. Unlike when buying a home as your primary residence through a mortgage loan, costs like origination fees, appraisals, and escrow fees aren’t a required part of a real estate investment transaction done in cash.

•   You might earn rewards in the process: Most card issuers don’t let you earn credit card rewards from cash advances. However, you can accelerate your rewards earnings by using your card for spending associated with your property investment. For example, materials and contractor costs for renovation projects, like a kitchen update or a room addition, can help you rack up rewards faster.

Downsides of Using a Credit Card to Buy Real Estate

There are major disadvantages to using a credit card to invest in real estate. If you’re considering how to buy rental property with credit cards, keep in mind the following drawbacks:

•   You’ll have a hard time using credit cards directly to invest in real estate: A notable downside to buying real estate with credit cards is that you’ll likely be unable to throw a credit card onto the table to close a real estate transaction. You’ll have to undergo the extra step of getting a credit card cash advance. But be aware that card issuers might set a lower available limit for cash advances and will impose a higher APR. Plus, you’ll pay cash advance fees.

•   You’ll face high interest rates: If you have to draw a cash advance against your credit card to buy real estate, you’ll face expensive APRs, compared to other financing sources, like a personal loan. According to the latest Federal Reserve data, the average credit card rate across all accounts with balances is currently 22.76%. By comparison, the average personal loan rate is 12.36%.

•   You’re taking on a lot of risk: How credit cards work is that they let you purchase goods and services, even if you don’t have the cash to cover the full amount, immediately. The caveat, however, is that you’ll need to repay the amount either in a lump sum when your statement is due or over time.

   If you successfully buy real estate with a credit card, you’re legally liable for that debt and must repay it based on the rate and terms of your credit card agreement. This holds true regardless of whether your investment turns a profit. Plus, if you choose to pay back the funds you borrowed over many months, you’ll incur exorbitant interest charges in addition to the principal balance.

Recommended: How to Avoid Interest On a Credit Card

Factors to Consider Before Using Your Credit Card to Invest in Real Estate

After assessing the pros and cons of investing in real estate using a credit card, also consider the following factors that might impact your investment:

•   Whether you’ll need additional funding sources: If your credit card doesn’t provide a sufficient amount for your real estate investment, you’ll need to seek funds elsewhere.

•   What the local real estate market is like: Whether your goal is buying a property to flip and sell or buying rental real estate, do your homework. This includes finding a desirable neighborhood and a suitable property, as well as assessing renovation projects and other repairs necessary to set your investment up for profitability.

•   If you can repay your credit card bill: At best, consider your credit card as a short-term loan tool. Plan to put profits you’ve earned toward paying down your debt ASAP.

Alternatives to Buying Real Estate With Credit Cards

If you don’t have hard cash stowed away for your next real estate investment, but aren’t ready to leverage your credit cards for the investment, you have a couple of other options:

•   Personal loans: A personal loan is another financing option, particularly if you have strong credit. It offers a higher borrowing limit and longer repayment timeline compared to a credit card. Also, as mentioned earlier, personal loan interest rates are generally lower than credit card APRs.

•   Personal savings: Another option is using cash and avoiding credit cards and other methods of borrowing altogether. If you have personal savings that you can tap into or are willing to hold off on investing in real estate until you’ve built up enough savings, you can potentially avoid costly finance charges.

The Takeaway

Tread carefully when using a credit card (i.e. borrowed money) to fund any investment, including real estate. Adhering to important credit card rules — like staying on top of your credit utilization and paying your credit card statements in full — can help you avoid going into debt for your investment.

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

How can I buy rental property with a credit card?

If done strategically, you can use a credit card to finance a rental property either through a credit card cash advance or by using the credit card to pay for renovations on an investment property flip.

Can I use a business credit card to buy real estate?

Yes, you may be able to use a business credit card to invest in real estate. Doing so separates the debt from your personal credit profile, so the high credit utilization on the business credit card doesn’t affect your personal credit score.

Is it a good idea to buy real estate with a credit card?

Whether buying real estate with credit cards is a good idea depends on your investment risk tolerance. A credit card might work as a short-term funding option, but plan on repaying the debt with your profits quickly to avoid an underwater investment.


Photo credit: iStock/SDI Productions

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

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