How Much Should I Have in My 401k by Age 30?

How Much Should I Have in My 401(k) by Age 30?

A 401(k) can be a great way to save for retirement on a pre-tax basis, while enjoying the added benefit of an employer match. But it can be hard to know if you’re saving enough. You might be wondering, How much should I have in my 401(k) at 30? Generally speaking, it’s a good idea to have at least one year’s salary saved in your 401(k) by the time you turn 30.

Your actual 401(k) balance, however, may be higher or lower depending on when you started saving, how much of your salary you defer into the plan, the amount your employer matches, and the assets you’ve invested in. We’ll break down the average target balance for workers from age 25 to 65, and what to do if you’re not quite hitting that goal.

Check your score with SoFi

Track your credit score for free. Sign up and get $10.*


How Much You Ideally Have Saved for Retirement

It’s never too early to ask, “Am I on track for retirement?” The sooner you do, the more time you’ll have to catch up if you’re falling short. Just know that the answer can be a moving target, depending on a number of variables.

First of all, your retirement savings objective will depend largely on your retirement goals. Someone who wants to retire at 50 is going to need a much larger nest egg by age 30 than someone who plans to wait until age 70 to retire.

Many other factors also come into play. By way of example, let’s calculate the 401(k) savings for one 30-year-old individual. A good rule of thumb is to save 10% to 15% of your income in a workplace retirement plan each year. Following that advice, our hypothetical saver:

•   starts contributing to their plan at age 25.

•   defers 10% of their $60,000 salary annually for five years.

•   benefits from an employer match of 50% of contributions, up to 6% of their salary.

•   earns a 7% annual rate of return investing in mutual funds that contain bonds and stock — a pretty average rate of return on 401(k) investments. Note that the number is a general benchmark. All investments come with risk, and the rate of returns will vary depending on an individual investor’s portfolio.

In this hypothetical scenario, by age 30, our individual would have $46,539 saved in their 401(k). However, keep in mind that this amount can vary based on any number of factors, including a portfolio’s asset allocation and potential market reactions, or brief movements in a stock’s price.

A savings of $46,539 is a great start. However, you can see how their balance might be significantly higher or lower if we changed up one or more details. For instance, by contributing 15% of their pay instead, they’d have $64,439 on their Big 3-0. On the other hand, if they started saving later, earned a lower rate of return, or enjoyed a less generous employer match, their balance could be lower.

Bottom line? How much you should have saved in a 401(k) by age 30 (or any other age) is subjective and varies based on several conditions, including where you’re starting from and how aggressively you’re saving each year.

Recommended: When Can I Retire?

How Much Do You Need to Retire

While you might have heard that you need $1 million or even $2 million to enjoy a comfortable retirement, that’s merely a guideline rather than a set-in-stone number. The amount you’ll need to retire can depend on:

•   How long you plan to continue working

•   When you anticipate taking Social Security benefits

•   Your desired lifestyle in retirement

•   How much you expect to spend on basic living expenses in retirement

•   Whether you have a spouse or partner

•   Whether you anticipate needing long-term care at some point

Assessing your personal retirement goals can help you come up with a realistic number that you should be targeting. It’s also helpful to consider how things like changing health care needs, increases (or cuts) to Social Security and Medicare, and inflation may impact the dollar amount you need to save and invest to avoid falling short in retirement.

Recommended: Does Net Worth Include Home Equity?

Average and Median 401(k) Balance by Age

Each year, Vanguard’s “How America Saves” report analyzes data from nearly 5 million of its retirement plans, including account balances, automatic enrolment, participation and deferral rates, hardship withdrawals, and loan issuances.

Below are findings from its 2024 report. Looking at the average savings by age can give you some idea of whether you’re on track. But keep in mind that your progress and savings will depend on your investments and specific goals.

Age

Average Account Balance

Median Account Balance

Under age 25 $7,351 $2,816
25 to 34 $37,557 $14,933
35 to 44 $91,281 $35,537
45 to 54 $168,646 $60,763
55 to 64 $244,750 $87,571
65+ $272,588 $88,488

Using a chart like this can make it easier to see where you are on the savings spectrum. So if you’re wondering “how much should I have saved by 40?,” for example, you can see at a glance that the average 40-something has close to $100,000 in retirement savings.

Remember that average numbers reflect outlier highs and lows, while the median represents where people in the middle of the pack land. Between them, median can be a more accurate or reliable number to measure yourself against.

Recommended: Is My 401(k) Enough for Retirement?

Tips to Save for Retirement

Enrolling in your 401(k) is one of the easiest ways to begin building retirement savings. Your employer may have enrolled you automatically when you were hired. If you’re not sure, contact your HR department. You can also check your default contribution rate to see how much you’re contributing to the plan.

It’s a good idea to contribute at least enough to get the full company match if one is offered. Otherwise, you’re leaving free money on the table.

If you’re worried you’re not saving enough, consider supplementing your 401(k) with an Individual Retirement Account (IRA).

An IRA is another tax-advantaged retirement plan. You can open a traditional IRA, which offers the benefit of tax-deductible contributions, or a Roth IRA. With a Roth IRA, you can’t deduct contributions, but qualified withdrawals are 100% tax-free.

Not sure how to start a retirement fund? You can likely do it through an online brokerage. You can create an account, choose which type of IRA you want to open, and set up automatic contributions to start saving.

Of course, retirement planning starts with getting to know your spending habits and budget. If you’re not using a budget app yet, consider a money tracker.

How Much Should You Contribute to Your 401(k) Per Year

The amount you should contribute to your 401(k) each year should reflect your retirement savings goal, how many years you have to save, and your expected annual rate of return.

When deciding how much to contribute, first consider your budget and how much of your income you can commit to your 401(k). Next, look at the amount you need to contribute to get the full company match. You can then plug those numbers, along with your salary, into a 401(k) calculator to get an idea of how likely you are to hit your retirement savings goal.

For instance, you might figure out that you need to contribute 15% of your pay each year. But if you’re not making a lot yet, you might only be able to afford contributing 8% each year. So what do you do then? A simple solution is to increase your contribution amount each year and work your way up to the 15% threshold gradually.

Example of Impact of Compounding Returns on Retirement

Does it matter when you start saving for retirement? Yes, and in a big way, thanks to the concept of compounding returns. Compound returns are the returns you earn on both the initial principal you invested as well as the previous returns you earned on that principal. The earlier you can start investing in a 401(k) or other retirement plan, the more time your money has to potentially compound and grow.

In fact, one effective way to build wealth in your 30s is to continue contributing to your retirement plan and choose an asset allocation that fits with your risk tolerance and risk capacity. Risk tolerance is the amount of risk you’re comfortable with and risk capacity is the amount of risk you may need to take to achieve your investment goals without jeopardizing your financial wellbeing. In general, the younger you are, the more time you have to recover from market downturns, so you might opt to be a little more aggressive with your investments. But if your capacity for risk is low, you may want to invest more conservatively.

For example, let’s say a 25-year-old who makes $60,000 a year starts contributing $500 a month and invests entirely in S&P index funds. By the time they’re 65, their nest egg will be worth more than $1.25 million, assuming annual compounding and a 7% average annual return on their investments. (Note that this number doesn’t account for any fees, taxes, or market movements and that the percentage is based on an inflation-adjusted return and this percentage can be even lower based on time in the market.)

Now, assume that same person waits until age 35 to start saving. By age 65, they’d have just $591,838 saved. Note that this number doesn’t account for any fees, taxes, or market movements and that the percentage is based on an inflation-adjusted return and this percentage can be even lower based on time in the market. That’s still a decent chunk of money, but it’s far less than they would have had if they’d gotten an earlier start. This example illustrates how powerful compounding returns can be when determining how much you’ll end up with in retirement.

Don’t Panic If You’re Behind on Saving

Having a lot of money in your 401(k) by age 30 is great, but don’t feel bad if you’re not where you need to be. Instead of fretting over what you haven’t saved, focus on what you can do next to increase your savings efforts.

That can mean:

•   Increasing your 401(k) contribution rate

•   Opening an IRA to go along with your 401(k)

•   Choosing low-cost investments to minimize fees

•   Investing through a taxable brokerage account

What if you have no money to invest? In that case, you might need to go back to basics. Getting on a budget, for example, can help you rein in overspending and find the extra money that you need to save. A free budget app is a simple and effective way to keep tabs on spending and saving.

The Takeaway

How much you should have in your 401(k) at 30 isn’t a simple number that applies to everyone. Your savings goal depends on a number of factors, such as your anticipated retirement age, when you started saving, your rate of return, and so on. A good rule of thumb is to invest 10% to 15% of your salary in a tax-advantaged retirement plan. From there, compounding returns may help your holdings multiply over a longer period of time, though there are no guarantees. The bottom line: Try to save and invest as much as you comfortably can.

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

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

What is the average 401(k) balance for a 35-year-old?

The average 401(k) balance for a 35-year-old is $91,281, according to Vanguard’s How America Saves report. Average 401(k) balances are typically higher than median 401(k) balances across all age groups, as they reflect higher and lower outliers.

How much will a 401(k) grow in 20 years on average?

The amount that a 401(k) will grow over a 20-year period can depend on how much someone contributes to the plan annually, how much of that contribution their employer matches, what assets they invest in, and their average rate of return. Someone who saves consistently, increases their contribution rate annually, and chooses investments that perform well will likely see more growth than someone who saves only the bare minimum or hands back a chunk of their returns in 401(k) fees.

What is a good 401(k) balance at age 30?

A good 401(k) balance by age 30 is at least one year’s worth of salary. So if you make $75,000 a year you’d ideally want to have $75,000 in your retirement account. Whether that number is realistic for you can depend on how much you earn, when you started saving in your 401(k), and your rate of return.


Photo credit: iStock/Burak Kavakci

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

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.

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.

SORL-Q324-046

Read more

How Do High Yield Savings Accounts Work?

Table of Contents

High-yield savings accounts (HYSAs) typically offer significantly higher returns than traditional savings accounts. As of August 2024, the national average interest rate for savings accounts was 0.45% APY as of October 21, 2024 according to the FDIC1, while some HYSAs provided annual percentage yields (APYs) of 3.00% or more.

Whether held at a traditional bank, online bank, or credit union, these accounts can keep your money liquid (meaning it’s nice and accessible), plus they don’t expose you to the risk that may accompany investing. However, you may have to meet a high initial deposit requirement or maintain a significant balance to reap that enticingly high interest rate.

Key Points

•   High-yield savings accounts (HYSA) offer significantly higher interest rates compared to traditional savings accounts, enhancing the growth of deposited funds.

•   These accounts are available at various financial institutions, including online banks which often provide the highest rates.

•   Funds in high-yield savings accounts are typically insured up to $250,000, providing security for depositors.

•   Accessibility to funds is easy, though withdrawals may be limited to six per month, with potential fees for exceeding this number.

•   High initial deposits and maintaining minimum balances might be required to obtain the higher interest rates offered.

What Is a High-Yield Savings Account (HYSA)?

A high-yield savings account (HYSA) is a savings vehicle similar to a traditional savings account but pays considerably higher interest rates. These accounts almost always offer better returns than traditional checking accounts.

Depending on the financial institution, a high-yield savings account will likely be insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) up to $250,000 per depositor2.

Earn up to 4.00% APY with a high-yield savings account from SoFi.

No account or monthly fees. No minimum balance.

9x the national average savings account rate.

Up to $2M of additional FDIC insurance.

Sort savings into Vaults, auto save with Roundups.


How Are High-Yield Savings Different Than Regular Savings Accounts?

As briefly mentioned above, the average savings account interest rate is currently 0.45% APY as of October 21, 2024. What’s more, many of the nation’s biggest banks pay significantly less than that – only around 0.01%. Yes, it’s better than nothing, but not by much!

Here’s how the math works out: If you had $5,000 in a savings account earning 0.01% per year, you would only earn 50 cents for the entire year it sat in your savings account, assuming no compounding occurred.

How Do High-Yield Savings Accounts Work?

How a high-yield savings account works is very similar to how other savings accounts operate.

•   You make an initial deposit to open the high-interest account, while also sharing identification and other personal information with the bank or credit union.

•   You can then add to your account as you see fit.

•   You can also take money out of the account (there may be a cap on how many times a month you can do this, however), either withdrawing it or transferring it to another account.

Your account may also have minimum balances and monthly fees. This will vary with the institution. While traditional banks and credit unions may offer these accounts, it is common to find them at online banks, which have a lower overhead and can pass the savings on to you. You may find accounts that have no fees, like a SoFi Savings Account.

In many cases, your funds will be protected by either FDIC or NCUA; check with your financial institution to know the coverage limits in place.

Example of Interest Earned in a High-Yield Savings Account

To see how a high-yield savings account works, consider an example of a $5,000 deposit earning 4.00% APY over 5 years, compounded monthly.

Year Account Balance Interest Earned (5%) New Balance
1 $5,000.00 $200.00 $5,200.00
2 $5,200.00 $208.00 $5,408.00
3 $5,408.00 $216.32 $5,624.32
4 $5,624.32 $224.97 $5,849.29
5 $5,849.29 $233.97 $6,083.26

At the end of 5 years, a $5,000 deposit earning 4.00% APY, compounded monthly, would earn you $1,083.26 in interest. In comparison, a traditional savings account with a 0.45% APY would only earn you $113.52 over the same period. That’s a difference of $969.74.

Recommended: To see personalized scenarios, use our High-Yield Savings Account Calculator.

Benefits of a High-Yield Savings Account

There are definitely some big pluses to opening a high-yield savings account. Here are some of the main ones:

•   The interest rate, of course! It is typically many times that of a traditional savings account or a CD.

•   It’s a secure place to deposit funds when you are savings towards a relatively short- or medium-term goal (say, building an emergency fund, or saving for a down payment, a wedding, or another purpose)

•   These accounts often come with no fees, zero! Typically, this is the case with online banks rather than bricks-and-mortar ones or credit unions.

Recommended: How Much Money Should You Have Left After Paying Bills?

Disadvantages of a High-Yield Savings Account

You know the saying, “Nobody’s perfect”? It holds true for high-yield savings accounts, too. These accounts may not suit your needs for a couple of key reasons.

•   While the interest is higher than your standard savings account, it may not be able to compete with other financial products (such as stocks) for long-term savings, like retirement. In fact, it may not even keep pace with inflation. So if you are able to take some time and take on a degree of risk, you may be better off with stocks or mutual funds to reach some financial goals.

•   More restrictions and/or requirements may be part of the package. For instance, you may need to deposit or keep a certain amount of money in the account, especially for those high-yield accounts offered by traditional banks. Or might need to set up direct deposit or automate bill payment.

•   Less access may be an issue. It may take more steps and/or more time (perhaps a couple of days) to transfer funds when you have a high-yield savings account.

Practical Uses for a High-Yield Savings Account

A high-yield savings account can be used for a variety of purposes, just as other types of savings accounts can be.

Building an Emergency Fund

It may be a good place to build an emergency fund that is your safety net in case you have an unexpected car or household repair needed. You typically want to have a three to six months’ worth of living expenses available, but you can certainly start one of these accounts with less and add to it.

Saving for a High Value Purchase

Perhaps you are saving for a car, a cruise, or other big-ticket item. Or maybe you are getting close to having enough money for a down payment on a house. A high-yield savings account can be a secure, interest-bearing place to park those funds until you are ready to use them.

Saving Surplus Money

A high-yield account can also be a great place for any extra cash for which you may be figuring out next steps. Perhaps you received a tax refund or a spot bonus, or you are selling your stuff that’s no longer needed on eBay. That extra cash can go into a high-yield savings account rather than sit in your checking account, potentially earning zero interest.

Separating Your Money

Sometimes, setting up an additional savings account (or two) can help you organize your money. Perhaps you want to have multiple savings accounts to help you achieve different goals, such as an account for future educational expenses and one for paying estimated taxes on your side hustle. As you save money towards each of those aims, you might as well accrue some interest. A high-yield savings account will help you do that, and let you check on how your cash is growing towards each goal.

What to Look For in a High-Yield Savings Account

Ready to explore high-yield savings accounts a bit further? Here are a few things to look for (and to look out for) when considering a high-yield account.

Annual Percentage Yield (APY)

One of the most important factors to look for in a savings account, the APY is how much you’ll earn in returns in one year. Some accounts will specify that the currently advertised rate is only available for an initial period of time, so that can be something to keep in mind.

Required Initial Deposit

Many high-yield savings accounts require a minimum opening deposit. If that’s the case, you’ll want to make sure you are comfortable depositing that much at the outset.

Minimum Balance

Some banks require you to maintain a minimum balance to keep your high-yield savings account open. You’ll want to feel comfortable with always meeting the minimum threshold because falling below it can trigger fees or mean you won’t get the interest rate you’re expecting.

Ways to Withdraw or Deposit Funds

Banks all have their own options and rules for withdrawing and transferring funds. Options might include ATM access with an ATM card, online transfers, wire transfers, or mobile check deposits. Withdrawals may be limited to six per month.

Balance Caps

A balance cap puts a limit on the amount of money you can earn interest at the high-yield account rate. So, for example, if an institution offers 3% interest on your savings account, but sets a balance cap at $2,000, you would only grow that interest on the first $2,000 and not on any additional funds you may deposit.

Bank Account Fees

It’s a good idea to understand what, if any, bank fees may be charged — and how you can avoid them, such as by keeping your balance above the minimum threshold or minimizing withdrawals per month.

Links to Other Banks and/or Brokerage Accounts

Make sure you know whether you can link your high-yield savings account and other accounts you may hold. There could be restrictions on connecting your account with other financial institutions or there might be a waiting period.

Withdrawing Your Money

You’ve just read that it may be a bit more complicated or time-consuming to get your funds transferred. You should also check to see how withdrawals can be made. For instance, would it be possible to pull some funds out of your high-yield savings at an ATM? Your financial institution can answer that question.

Compounding Method

It’s up to the bank whether they compound interest daily, monthly, quarterly, or annually — or at some other cadence. Compounding interest more frequently can boost your yield if you look at the APY versus the annual interest rate (the latter takes into account the compounding factor btw).

Recommended: 52 Week Savings Challenge

How to Open a High-Yield Savings Account

Now that you’ve learned about high-yield savings accounts, you may be ready to say, “Sign me up!” If so, a good first step is to take a look at your current bank and see if they have a high-yield savings account available — that could be the quickest, easiest path forward.

If not, look for an account and interest rate that speaks to you, and move ahead. Most high-yield savings accounts can be easily opened online with such basic information on hand, such as your driver’s license, your Social Security number, and other bank account details.

How Do High-Yield Savings Accounts Compare to CDs?

Another option you can use to grow your savings is a certificate of deposit or CD.

A CD is a type of deposit account that can pay a higher interest rate than a standard savings account in exchange for restricting access to your funds during the CD term — often between three months and five years.

Interest rates offered by CDs are typically tied to the length of time you agree to keep your money in the account. Generally, the longer the term, the better interest rate.

When you put your cash in a CD, it isn’t liquid in the way it would be in a savings account. If you want to withdraw money from a CD before it comes due, you will typically have to pay a penalty (ouch). This could mean giving up a portion of the interest you earned, depending on the policy of the bank.

Another key difference between CDs and high-interest savings accounts is that with CDs, the interest rate is guaranteed. With savings accounts, interest rates are not guaranteed and can fluctuate at any point.

A CD can be a good savings option if you’re certain you won’t need to access your cash for several months or years and you can find a CD with a higher rate than what high-yield savings accounts offer.

Make the Most of Your Money With SoFi

If you’re ready to amp up your money, a SoFi Checking and Savings account can help. We make it easy to open an online bank account and — if you sign up for direct deposit — you’ll earn a competitive APY on a qualifying account. Need more incentive? How about this: SoFi has zero account fees and offers Vaults and Roundups to further grow your cash. Plus, you’ll spend and save in one convenient place.

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 you lose money in a high-yield savings account?

In most cases, you likely won’t lose money with a high-yield savings account. If your account is held at a financial institution insured by FDIC or NCUA, you are covered in the rare event of a bank failure for up to $250,000 per account category, per depositor, per insured institution. That said, you might lose money vs. inflation if the rate of inflation exceeds that of the APY on your high-yield savings account.

Is a high-yield savings account a good idea?

A high-yield savings account can be a good idea. It provides significantly higher interest than a standard savings account, but offers the same security and easy access/liquidity.

Can I withdraw all my money from a high-yield savings account?

You can withdraw all your money from a high-yield savings account. One of the benefits of this kind of account is its liquidity. If you are ready to close the account, check with your financial institution about their exact process for doing so.

Are there any downsides to a high-yield savings account?

There are some potential downsides of a high-yield savings account. While these accounts earn more interest than a standard savings account, they may not keep pace with inflation nor how much you might earn from investments. There may be restrictions at some financial institutions, such as a minimum balance requirement and withdrawal limits. While the funds are liquid, access may require some maneuvering. Transfers may take longer, and if you keep your funds at an online bank, you cannot walk into a branch to take out cash.

Article Sources


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.

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.

SOBK0223049

Read more
What Are Wire Transfer Fees & How Much Are They?

All You Need to Know About Wire Transfer Fees

Wire transfers are a way to quickly and conveniently send and receive money, both domestically and internationally. Maybe you want to securely send some cash as a security deposit to a landlord across town ASAP. Or perhaps you need to pay for a painting you bought at an auction overseas. Either way, a wire transfer may be a good option.

However, there are often wire transfer fees in exchange for their speed and convenience. The cost to send and receive money via wire transfer varies, but international wires are usually costlier than domestic wires.

However, with the right steps, you can reduce or even eliminate the fees you’ll pay using wire transfers.

Key Points

•   Wire transfers provide a fast and secure method for sending money both domestically and internationally, with same-day processing available for many domestic transactions.

•   Fees for wire transfers vary significantly; domestic transfers typically cost between $0 to $35, while international transfers can range from $35 to $50 or more.

•   International wire transfers are generally more expensive than domestic ones due to additional processing steps, currency conversion fees, and the involvement of third-party institutions.

•   To avoid wire transfer fees, consider sending money in the recipient’s local currency, using digital platforms that offer lower fees, or seeking banks that waive such fees.

•   Alternative methods for sending money without high fees include using payment apps, bank transfers (ACH), or cashier’s checks, each with its own processing times and conditions.

What Are Wire Transfer Fees?

A wire transfer is an electronic funds transfer between financial institutions. Wire transfers can be faster than bank transfers, with same-day processing possible for most domestic wires. Wire transfers can occur domestically or internationally, but most banks charge fees both for sending and receiving funds in this way.

In addition to speed, another reason to use wire transfers is when sending money internationally, as a regular bank transfer isn’t possible in this situation. But international wire transfers can have higher wire transfer fees than domestic wires, and there might be more steps involved. For instance, the transaction might have been processed by the foreign country’s system and also possibly involve a currency conversion.

Recommended: ACH vs. Check: What Are the Differences?

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.


How Much Do Wire Transfer Fees Cost?

As mentioned earlier, how much wire transfer fees cost can vary. Some financial firms waive wire transfer fees in certain situations, and others waive them entirely. When sending and receiving international wires, there can be a fee of $50 or more for each transaction

Typically, you might expect the following fees:

•   For domestic wire transfers, outgoing fees usually range from $0 to $35; incoming fees can range from $0 to $15.

•   For international wire transfers, outgoing fees can often range from $35 to $50; incoming fees are likely to be between $0 and $16.

Wire Fees by Financial Institution

Below is a list of wire transfer fees for large banks in the United States. However, third parties may be involved that charge additional fees, especially for international wires.

Bank Incoming domestic Outgoing Domestic Incoming international Outgoing international
Bank of America $15 $30 $16 $45 or $0 when sent in foreign currency
Capital One Up to $15 Up to $30 Up to $15 $40-$50
Chase $0-$15 $25-$35 $0-$15 $0-$50
Citi Up to $15 Up to $25 Up to $15 Up to $35
Fidelity $0 $0 $0 $0
PNC $15 $25-$30 $15 $40-$45
TD Bank $15 $30 $15 $50/td>
USAA $0 $20 $0 $45
U.S. Bank $20 $30 $25 $50
Wells Fargo $15 $30 $16 $45

Do International Fees Cost More Than Domestic?

On average, international wire transfer fees are higher than domestic ones. But as is often the case, averages don’t tell the whole story. Some financial institutions don’t impose wire transfer fees, even for international transactions.

Still, it’s important to remember that there may be extra fees when dealing with international wire transfers. For instance, there may be a currency conversion fee when sending money between two countries that use different currencies. When sending or receiving money internationally, you’ll need information like an international bank account number (IBAN) or a SWIFT code to move the funds to the right account. Overall, it’s a somewhat more complex transaction than a domestic one.

Why Do Banks Charge Wire Transfer Fees?

Banks charge wire transfer fees because of the work that goes into processing wire transfers. For instance, wire transfers are processed individually as they are received. This differs from automated clearinghouse (ACH) transfers, which are processed in batches.

You also pay a premium for the faster processing speed. Domestic wire transfers can sometimes be completed within a few hours and are usually processed the same day. International wire transfers can be completed within one to two business days.

Another reason banks charge wire transfer fees is their higher transaction limits. Wire transfer limits are usually much higher than bank transfer limits, so they can be worth using if you must send a large amount in a single transaction.

Lastly, the international reach of wire transfers can lead to higher fees. For instance, when large amounts of foreign currency are exchanged, banks charge what is known as a midmarket, or interbank, exchange rate. The bank will often charge a higher markup if that currency must be converted. This results in higher wire transfer fees.

Recommended: How to Earn More Interest on Your Money

Tips to Avoid Wire Transaction Fees

While wire transfer fees are common, they aren’t always a given. Here are some ideas about how to avoid wire transfer fees in some situations:

•   Send money in foreign currency. For outbound international wires, it can be smart to send money in the currency used by the foreign company, if possible. In this scenario, some banks waive wire transaction fees since no currency conversion is necessary.

•   Do it yourself digitally. Some financial institutions allow you to initiate a wire transfer using their website or app, and doing so may reduce the fees or even eliminate them.

•   Look for firms that don’t charge wire transfer fees. Some banks and nonbank providers waive wire transfer fees in some cases, or they don’t charge them at all.

•   Open an account with no wire transaction fees. Shop around: Some of the most popular banks offer accounts that let you wire money with no transaction fees.

Alternative Ways to Send and Receive Money

Some methods of sending money may allow you to reduce or eliminate transaction fees. You can do so by using one of the following methods to conduct the transfer:

•   Use a payment app. Payment apps like Venmo, Zelle, and PayPal generally let you send money electronically to friends and relatives without paying a fee. However, sending money to those who are not “friends and family” may incur fees.

•   Send money with a bank transfer. A bank transfer, or ACH transfer, might be preferable if you send money domestically. In 2022, the same-day transfer limit was increased to $1 million, enabling large funds transfers in a single day.

However, note that limits on single transactions might be lower, and there might be ACH fees.

•   Use a cashier’s check. A cashier’s check is an alternative to wire transfers because it can be suitable for large transactions. This type of check draws the funds from the bank’s reserves rather than your account. However, the check must be delivered to you, so this method can take longer than a wire transfer. In addition, there might still be fees involved.

The Takeaway

Wire transfers can be a quick, secure way to send money domestically or internationally. These transfers have several benefits, such as shorter processing times and larger transaction limits than ACH transfers. But wire transfers can also have significant transaction fees, especially when dealing with international transfers.

If you prefer to avoid costly wire transfer fees, look for firms that don’t charge them or offer accounts that don’t charge for wire transfers. You can also consider alternative methods of sending money, like using a payment app or sending a cashier’s check.

If you’re looking for other ways to save on your banking costs, consider opening an online bank account. With SoFi Checking and Savings, for instance, you won’t pay any account fees, and your money will earn a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), both of which can help your cash grow faster. You’ll also spend and save in one convenient place, have a suite of tools (like Vaults and Roundups) that can amp up your savings, and, for qualifying accounts with direct deposit, you can get paycheck access 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

Do you pay a fee to receive a wire transfer?

It depends, but most banks do charge a fee for income wire transfers. However, the fee for incoming wires is usually considerably less (maybe 50% lower) than the fee for outgoing wires.

Why are wire transfers so expensive?

Wiring money can be expensive for several reasons, such as their shorter processing times and higher transaction limits than bank transfers. Also, international wire transfers have more processing steps, which can increase their cost.

Do all banks charge wire transfer fees?

The majority of banks charge wire transfer fees in at least some situations. Some waive them in certain situations, while nonbank providers are more likely to waive them entirely.


Photo credit: iStock/Ridofranz

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.

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.


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.

SOBK1222027

Read more
How to Stop or Reverse ACH Payments: All You Need to Know

All About Retail Banking: What It Is and How It Works

Retail banking involves offering financial services to individual consumers rather than businesses or other banks. It encompasses a range of products and services, such as checking and savings accounts, mortgages, personal loans, credit cards, certificates of deposit (CDs), and more.

Retail banking is different from corporate banking, which is the part of the banking industry that serves large companies and corporate customers. Retail banks can be local community banks, online banks, or the divisions of large commercial banks. Credit unions also offer retail banking.

Read on for a closer look at what retail banking is and how it differs from corporate banking.

Key Points

•   Retail banking provides financial services directly to individual consumers, including checking and savings accounts, personal loans, and credit cards, rather than to businesses or corporations.

•   Various forms of retail banks exist, such as commercial banks, credit unions, online banks, and community banks, each catering to different customer needs.

•   Retail banks focus on accessible services, offering features like online banking, investment products, and personalized customer assistance to help individuals manage their finances.

•   The distinction between retail and corporate banking lies in their client bases, with retail serving individual consumers and corporate banking focusing on businesses and institutions.

•   Retail banking plays a vital role in the economy by facilitating transactions and helping individuals save, manage money, and access credit for their personal financial goals.

What Is Retail Banking?

Retail banking, also known as personal or consumer banking, refers to financial services provided to individuals. This type of banking is designed to serve the general public and to help people and families manage their money, obtain credit, and save for the future.

Retail banks focus on making banking services easily accessible, either through physical branches, ATMs, and/or online platforms. These banks play a crucial role in the economy by offering checking accounts, high-yield savings accounts, certificates of deposit, loans, and other financial products that help individuals safely store, manage, and grow their money.

Though some retail banks also work with small businesses, retail banking is different from corporate (also known as commercial) banking, which involves working with commercial entities, such as large businesses, governments, and institutions.

Most large-scale banks have retail banking divisions. Credit unions and smaller banks, on the other hand, may be exclusively focused on retail banking.

Recommended: 12 Things To Consider When Choosing A Bank

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.


How Does Retail Banking Work?

Retail banking works by offering financial products and services tailored to consumers. These services are designed to help individuals and families manage their finances efficiently, save for the future, and access credit cards and loans. Retail banks make money primarily through interest on loans, fees for services, and charges for various banking products.

Features of Retail Banking

Retail banking offers a hub for all of your basic financial transactions. Here’s a look at some of the products and services they provide.

•   Savings and checking accounts: Retail banks offer savings and checking accounts to help individuals manage their money. Savings accounts typically earn interest, while checking accounts provide easy access to funds for day-to-day transactions.

•   Consumer loans: Retail banks commonly offer personal loans, auto loans, and home mortgages. These loans can help people finance significant purchases or investments, such as buying a home or car.

•   Credit Cards: Retail banks issue credit cards that allow consumers to borrow money up to a certain limit for purchases. These cards often come with rewards, cash back, and other incentives.

•   Online and mobile banking: Retail banks typically provide online and mobile banking services, allowing you to manage your accounts, transfer money, pay bills, and access other banking services from your computer or smartphone.

•   Investment services: Some retail banks offer investment products like mutual funds, retirement accounts, and brokerage services to help customers build wealth over time.

•   Customer service: Retail banks typically emphasize customer service. Many provide personalized financial assistance through branch staff, call centers, and online support.

Types of Retail Banks

Retail banks come in various forms, each catering to different customer needs and preferences. Here’s a look at some of the main types of retail banks.

•   Commercial banks: Many people access retail banking through one of the large, commercial banks, which generally offer a retail banking division along with corporate banking services.

•   Credit unions: Credit unions are nonprofit financial institutions owned by their members. They often provide similar services to commercial banks but with a focus on serving the financial needs of their members, usually offering lower fees and better interest rates.

•   Online banks: Online banks operate exclusively online, without physical branches, though you typically have access to a partner network of ATMs. They often offer higher interest rates on savings accounts and lower fees due to reduced overhead costs.

•   Community Banks: Community banks are smaller, locally-focused institutions that prioritize serving the needs of their local communities. They offer personalized customer service and often have a strong understanding of their local markets.

Recommended: Big Banks vs Small Banks: Key Differences?

How Is Retail Banking Different From Corporate Banking?

Retail banking and corporate banking represent two different sectors of the banking industry, each serving different customer bases and offering different services.

Retail banking focuses on individual consumers, providing them with products like bank accounts, personal loans, and credit cards. Corporate banking, on the other hand, serves businesses and corporations, offering services like business bank accounts, commercial loans, trade finance, and employer services.

Transactions in retail banking are typically smaller in size and higher in volume compared to corporate banking, which tends to focus on larger, more complex transactions.

If you’re wondering whether you would be better served by retail vs. corporate banking, here’s a snapshot how the two compare.

Retail Banking Corporate Banking
Client base Individual consumers Businesses, institutions, banks, government entities
Products and services Personal checking/savings accounts, mortgages, personal loans, credit cards Business checking/saving accounts, business loans, merchant services, global trade services, employee benefits plans
Loan amounts Lower Higher
Transaction frequency and amounts High number of transactions for low amounts Low volume of transactions for more significant amounts

The Takeaway

Retail banking is the public face of banking that provides banking services directly to individual consumers rather than businesses or other banks. Most of us bank at a retail bank or retail division of a large commercial bank whether we realize it or not.

Whether you use a brick-and-mortar bank, online bank, or credit union, retail banking offers products and services that allow you to manage your money, access credit, save for the future, and work toward your financial goals.

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


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

FAQ

What is an example of retail banking?

An example of retail banking, also known as consumer banking, is when an individual opens a savings account at a local bank. The bank then allows them to deposit funds, withdraw money, and earn interest on their deposits. The same bank might also offer them a checking account for daily transactions, a mortgage to buy a home, and a credit card for everyday purchases. These services are all examples of retail banking, which is aimed at meeting the personal financial needs of individual consumers.

What are the largest retail banks?

The largest banks in the U.S. that offer retail banking include:

•   Chase

•   Bank of America

•   Wells Fargo

•   Citibank

•   U.S. Bank

•   PNC Bank

•   Goldman Sachs Bank

•   Truist Bank

•   Capital One

•   TD Bank

Who uses retail banking?

Retail banking is used by individual consumers to manage their personal finances. This includes:

•   Students

•   Young adults

•   Working professionals

•   Couples

•   Families

•   Retirees and seniors

•   Small business owners

What are the retail banking products?

Retail banking offers a variety of products and services tailored to the financial needs of individual consumers. These include:

•   Savings accounts

•   Checking accounts

•   Personal loans

•   Mortgages

•   Credit cards

•   Certificates of deposit (CDs)

•   Investment products

•   Online and mobile banking services

•   Debit cards


Photo credit: iStock/Passakorn Prothien

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.

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.


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.

SOBK-Q224-1885621-V1

Read more

What Is an ATM Card?

An ATM card is a type of bank card that allows you to access your bank account at an automated teller machine (ATM). You can use the card to withdraw cash, check your balance, and perform other banking transactions at ATMs. Unlike a debit card, however, you can’t use an ATM card to make purchases or get cash back in a grocery store.

Here’s a closer look at what ATM cards are, how they work, and how they differ from debit cards.

Key Points

•   An ATM card provides access to bank accounts for transactions such as cash withdrawals and balance inquiries, but cannot be used for purchases like a debit card.

•   Introduced in the late 1960s, ATM cards have largely been replaced by debit cards, which offer additional functionalities, including the ability to make purchases.

•   Using an ATM card allows for convenient banking outside of regular hours and helps limit spending since it can’t be used for purchases.

•   Security measures for ATM cards include keeping the card secure, protecting the PIN, and regularly monitoring account activity for unauthorized transactions.

•   Alternatives to ATM cards include debit cards, credit cards, prepaid cards, and mobile payment apps, each offering varying levels of functionality and convenience.

How ATM Cards Work

ATM cards first came out in the late 1960s as a way to enable account holders to withdraw funds from a checking account at an ATM. While they’ve largely been replaced by debit cards, banks still issue ATM-only cards for some checking and savings accounts.

To use an ATM card, you simply insert your card into an ATM. The machine then reads the magnetic stripe or embedded chip on the card and prompts you to enter your personal identification number (PIN), which verifies your identity as the account holder. Once authenticated, you can perform a number of different transactions, such as withdrawing cash, transferring funds between accounts, and checking your account balance. Some banks also allow you to use an ATM card to deposit cash or checks into an account.

ATM Cards vs Debit Cards

The terms “ATM card” and “debit card” are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. While most debit cards can also be used as ATM cards, ATM cards can’t be used in all the same ways as debit cards.

Along with offering all the functionality of an ATM card, a debit card also allows you to make purchases both in-store and online, just as you would with a credit card. Unlike using a credit card, however, the payment immediately gets deducted from the linked checking account.

While some debit cards allow you to choose “credit” at the payment terminal when you shop, this doesn’t turn it into a credit card. The only difference between selecting “credit” instead of “debit” when making a purchase with a debit card is that there will be a short delay in the processing of the transaction — anywhere from a few hours to three days.

Another difference between debit and ATM cards is that debit cards have the word “Debit” printed on the front.

Because debit cards offer more functionality than ATM cards, these days you will typically receive a debit (not an ATM-only) card when you open a new bank account.

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.


Benefits of Using an ATM Card

Here’s a look at some of the advantages of ATM cards.

•   Convenience: ATM cards allow you to access your funds at an ATM rather than through a teller. As a result, you don’t have to stand in line at the bank, and you can manage your account at any time (not only during the bank’s business hours).

•   No spending temptation: Since ATM cards cannot be used for purchases, they can help you avoid impulse spending and better manage your finances.

•   No fees (when used correctly). As long as you use your ATM card at in-network ATMs, you can avoid getting hit with any ATM fees.

Drawbacks of Using an ATM Card

•   You can still overdraft: If you opt into overdraft services, you may be able to withdraw more money that you have in your account. The bank may view this as a loan and charge transfer fees and interest.

•   Limited functionality: ATM cards can only be used to manage your account at an ATM. You can’t use this type of card for purchases, making it less convenient than a debit card.

•   Withdrawal limits: Some ATM cards come with relatively low daily withdrawal limits, which can be a challenge at moments when you want access to higher amounts of cash.

Keeping ATM Cards Secure

Your ATM card allows you to get your hands on your money, so you don’t want it (or your PIN) to fall into the wrong hands. Some safeguards to keep in mind:

•   Keep your ATM card securely stored. No one should have access to the card but you, so be sure to keep it in a safe place, just like you would cash, checks, or credit cards. If your card gets lost or stolen, it’s important to immediately notify your bank.

•   Protect your PIN. Try to avoid writing your pin down, especially on or near your ATM card. Also be careful to never give any information about your PIN (or ATM card) over the phone. For example, if you get a call from someone claiming to be from your bank or the police asking to verify your PIN, don’t offer the information. Hang up and call your bank directly.

•   Monitor your account. Another type of bank fraud, called ATM skimming, can occur where criminals put a hidden electronic device on an ATM card reader that gets information from a bank card whenever a customer uses the machine. Though rare, it’s wise to regularly check your bank statements and account activity to ensure there aren’t any unauthorized withdrawals from your bank account. If you notice anything suspicious, contact your bank immediately.

Recommended: Bank Scams and How to Avoid Them

Alternatives to ATM Cards

ATM cards are a valuable money management tool but they’re not the only option. Here are some alternatives to ATM cards to consider.

•   Debit cards: A debit card allows you to make ATM withdrawals like ATM cards do, but can also be used to make purchases wherever debit cards are accepted.

•   Credit cards: These cards allow you to borrow funds up to a certain limit for purchases, with the added benefit of building credit history. However, they require responsible use to avoid debt.

•   Prepaid Cards: Prepaid cards work like debit cards but are not linked to a bank account. You load funds onto the card and can use it for purchases and ATM withdrawals.

•   Mobile payment apps: Apps like PayPal, Venmo, and Apple Pay allow you to make transactions and manage money electronically without needing a physical card.

The Takeaway

An ATM card allows you to utilize an ATM and perform basic account management functions without talking to — or waiting for — a teller. They can be an ideal tool for those who primarily need cash and basic banking services. However, ATM cards offer limited functionality compared to debit and credit cards, which can be a drawback in an increasingly digital economy.

When deciding whether to use an ATM card, you’ll want to consider your financial habits, needs, and the level of convenience you’re looking for. Exploring alternatives such as debit cards, credit cards, and mobile payment apps can help you find the best solution for managing your finances effectively.

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

Do I need a PIN for my ATM card?

Yes, you need a personal identification number (PIN) to use your ATM card. You’ll set your PIN when you receive your card. You’ll then need to enter it any time you access your account at an ATM, whether you’re withdrawing cash or simply checking your balance. This creates an added layer of protection to prevent unauthorized access to your funds.

Can I use my ATM card like a credit card?

No, you cannot use an ATM or debit card like a credit card. A true ATM card can only be used to manage your account at an ATM. A debit card functions like an ATM card but also allows purchases. When you make purchases with a debit card, however, the money is directly debited from your checking account. By contrast, a credit card allows you to borrow funds up to a limit and repay them later, typically with interest.

What if my ATM card is lost or stolen?

If your ATM or debit card is lost or stolen, you’ll want to immediately report the loss to your bank in order to prevent unauthorized transactions. Your bank will freeze or cancel the card and issue a replacement, usually with a new card number and PIN. After that, you’ll want to monitor your account closely for any suspicious activity. If the lost card was a debit card, you’ll also need to update any automatic payments linked to that card with the new card information to ensure continuity.


Photo credit: iStock/Milan Markovic

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.

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.


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

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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

SOBK-Q224-1883065-V1

Read more
TLS 1.2 Encrypted
Equal Housing Lender