SoFi

When you’re a renter, it can feel like all the transformative DIY projects are reserved for homeowners. But just because you rent doesn’t mean you can’t spruce up your space.

That’s right: Rental-friendly upgrades exist. And the best part? Many improvements can have a major impact on your space without blowing your budget.

1. Create an Accent Wall

Spicing up your walls doesn’t have to cost a fortune, nor must it require gallons of paint. For just a few bucks a roll, you can buy washi tape and create a custom accent wall that won’t ruin the paint job. Or, if you’re able to spend a few extra dollars, you could also invest in removable wallpaper.

2. Update Light Fixtures

Light fixtures in rentals are notoriously drab and tend to provide uneven lighting. Fortunately, there is no shortage of lighting options to help you brighten up your space. A recessed lighting conversion kit, for instance, is fairly inexpensive, easy to install, and allows you to hang a pendant or other light fixture. Not sure your landlord would approve? You can always buy some decorative lamps or even string lights to help amp up the brightness and style of any room.

3. Install Radiator Shelving

In older units, rusty radiators can be a renter’s nightmare. But luckily, there are some rental upgrades — like installing radiator shelving — that can disguise even the most unattractive units. You can DIY a custom shelving unit to work around your radiator, upgrade some shelving from a local thrift store, or even order one online.

4. Buy Matching Bookshelves

Bookshelves are a simple way to upgrade the decor and add much-needed storage space. Placing tall, matching shelves on either side of a TV, couch, or even a bed could bring some serious style (and space) to a small room, plus allow you to display photos or art without putting holes in the wall.

5. Apply Contact Paper

Do you have older appliances you’d like to freshen up? For just a couple bucks, you can invest in some stainless steel contact paper to make them at least look shiny and new again! Contact paper also comes in a wide variety of colors and styles that you can use to liven up your cabinets and refresh your countertops.

6. Replace Pulls & Knobs

This is another budget-savvy, rental-friendly upgrade that can add some flair to your home. Replace your door handles, kitchen cabinet knobs, and any other pulls with something more your style. Affordable, stylish knobs can be found on sites like Etsy and Amazon, and in stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot. Be sure to hang on to the original knobs so you can swap them back in before you move out.

7. Install a Bike Mount

If you own a bike but are short on storage, install a bike mount or other bike storage solution. Just make sure your landlord is okay with the installation since it may require some drilling.

8. Try Large Floor Mirrors

Sometimes more is more. Exhibit A: an oversized leaning mirror, which can serve double-duty as a luxe decoration and a functional mirror.

9. Invest in Houseplants

Want to add some life to your rental — literally? Look no further than a houseplant. If you don’t have a green thumb, explore hardy varieties, like air plants or even artificial plants.

10. Upgrade Your Showerhead

Installing a new showerhead is a quick, effective way to upgrade your bathroom. You could start reaping the rewards the very first time you turn on the faucet. Make sure to hang on to that original showerhead so you can reinstall it when you move out.

Recommended: How Much Does a Shower Remodel Cost?

11. Set up Room Dividers

Need to carve out space for a home office? Or maybe even make room for a closet? Buying or creating stylish room dividers can provide an instant rental update. And when you need a larger space, simply close the dividers.

12. Use a Pantry Organization System

Help bring order to the busiest spot in your home: the kitchen. Pantry organization systems come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and varieties, so you should be able to find one that works for your home and budget.

13. Update Your Blinds

It can be easy to forget about window coverings. But freshening up your blinds or curtains can add a new visual element to the room, frame a window, or help brighten the space.

14. Install Sticker Flooring

When you’re considering places to upgrade, don’t forget to look down. Changing up the flooring — even temporarily — can make a room feel brand-new. One option to consider if you have a tile floor is removable tile stickers, which come in a variety of styles, sizes, and price points.

15. Create a Kitchen Backsplash

You can also use removable stickers to freshen up a kitchen backsplash, which is a much easier and cheaper option than replacing the tiles. New to this type of project? There are online video tutorials you can watch that will show you how to get the job done.

Recommended: Renovation vs. Remodel: What’s the Difference?

16. Replace Light Switch Covers

Don’t sleep on the small details — sometimes, they can have a major impact. One example of this is swapping out basic light switch covers with ones that match the decor of your rental. Plus, new covers are generally affordable and easy to install.

17. Buy a New Kitchen Faucet

There’s something to be said for upgrading the items in your rental that you use every day, such as the kitchen faucet. Installing a new faucet is a fairly simple DIY project, provided you know how to shut off the water to your sink and use a wrench. If you’re unsure how to do either, though, you can enlist the help of a plumber. Just be sure to put the old faucet in storage so you can swap it back before moving.

18. Find a Stylish Toilet Seat

Let’s be honest: Most rentals come with a basic toilet seat. When yours just won’t do anymore, it may be time to upgrade to something more modern and comfy. You can find a wide variety of options online or in stores.

19. Paint the Molding and Trim

Before selecting color swatches, you may want to double-check with your landlord that painting is allowed. Many landlords welcome you painting your molding and trim, since it’s an easy, affordable way to update a rental.

20. Invest in Good Rugs

Quality rugs can run well into the thousands of dollars. But there are less-expensive options that are also durable and stylish. Besides protecting your flooring, a good rug can also visually anchor a room and help absorb sound.

No matter the price of your rug, you may want to consider purchasing renters insurance to protect it and your other valuables against losses.

The Takeaway

When you’re a renter, you may not be able to rip out walls or change out kitchen cabinets. But there are still simple, effective ways to transform your space without breaking the terms of your lease. While these sorts of jobs tend to be affordable, you can easily rack up quite the bill if you plan on tackling several home improvement projects at once.

That said, if you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and get some renter-friendly updates done, see what SoFi can offer. With a SoFi Home Improvement Loan, you can borrow between $5K to $100K as an unsecured personal loan, meaning you don’t use your home as collateral and no appraisal is required. Our rates are competitive, and the whole process is easy and speedy.

Photo credit: iStock/CreativaStudio

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Identity theft happens when someone steals your personal information and uses it to take money out of your bank account, open credit accounts in your name, or receive benefits (such as employment, insurance or housing benefits). Identity theft can have a negative impact on your finances, as well as your credit. And it can happen to anyone, regardless of age or income.

Fortunately, there are many things you can do to protect yourself from identity theft and minimize the fallout if your personal or account information ever does get compromised. Read on to learn what steps you can take if you think your identity has been stolen or notice any fraudulent activity on any of your financial accounts.

Contacting Your Creditors

You’ll want to report any potentially fraudulent credit card activity to the creditor involved as quickly as possible. This can help stop any further fraudulent use of your card and also limit your liability for any unauthorized charges. There may be a phone number printed on the back of the card for this purpose.

You may also want to review the last few months of card statements carefully, identify any transactions you believe to be fraudulent, and write a follow-up letter to the credit card issuer with these details and copies of your statements.

There are federal protections provided to consumers in the case of credit card fraud. A consumer’s liability is limited to the lesser of $50 or the amount of the theft if the actual credit card was used fraudulently. If only the credit card number was used fraudulently, there is no consumer liability.

For debit card or ATM card fraud, the quicker you report the card loss, the less they are potentially liable for. If you report a missing debit or ATM card before any unauthorized charges are made, you’ll have zero liability. The amounts increase the longer the missing card goes unreported.

•  Maximum loss is $50 if the card is reported within two business days of the loss or theft.

•  Maximum loss is $500 if the loss or theft is reported more than two business days, but less than 60 calendar days after the account statement is sent to the account holder.

•  If the loss is reported more than 60 calendar days after the statement is sent, you can be responsible for all the money taken from your account. If money from linked accounts was also stolen, the maximum loss can be more than the account balance.

•  If the ATM or debit card number, but not the physical card, was used to make unauthorized charges, the account holder is not liable for those charges if the fraud is reported within 60 days of the account statement being sent.

Recommended: Different Types of Bank Account Fraud

Reporting Identity Fraud to the FTC

If you think your social security number or other important personal information has been stolen and used fraudulently, you’ll want to report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) online at IdentityTheft.gov.

Once you create an account and file an identity theft report, you’ll receive a personalized recovery plan with tools like form letters to send to credit bureaus. The site also allows you to update your identity theft account and track your progress. If you were affected by a company-specific data breach, you can get advice from the FTC on how to protect yourself.

When you file an identity theft report, you’ll also get an FTC identity theft affidavit that you can print out and retain it for your records. You may need this affidavit if you file a police report. Banks and credit card companies may also request a copy of this FTC report.

Consider Filing a Police Report

If you believe you know who was responsible for the fraudulent activity, or can provide evidence for an investigation, you may want to file a police report. Filing a police report might also be necessary if a creditor requires the report as part of its investigation. Having a police report can also be helpful when requesting an extended fraud alert on your credit reports (more on that below).

Recommended: How Credit Card Frauds Are Investigated and Caught

Notifying Credit Bureaus

You may also want to contact one of the three credit major consumer bureaus, Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax, and ask them to place a fraud alert on your credit report. This notifies lenders that you’ve been a victim of identity theft so they can take extra measures to verify your identity when they get an application for credit in your name. Contacting just one of the credit bureaus is fine — that bureau will contact the other two automatically.

Fraud alerts are free. If you have a police report or a FTC Identity Theft Report, you may be able to get a free extended fraud alert, which lasts seven years.

You can also request a freeze or lock on your credit report by contacting each credit bureau individually. Putting a freeze on a credit report blocks all access to the report, making it more difficult for a bad actor to use information fraudulently. Credit freezes are regulated by state laws, and credit bureaus are required to offer credit freezes at no charge. A credit lock also acts to protect your financial information from potential identity thieves, but is a program offered by an individual company, which may charge a monthly fee for the service. Credit locks are not regulated by state laws.

Disputing Errors Caused by Identity Theft

Whether you’ve been a victim of identity theft or not, it’s a good idea to periodically request copies of your credit report and read them carefully, checking for any errors or evidence of fraud.

Having misinformation on your reports can have a negative impact on your credit, making it harder for you to qualify for credit cards, mortgages, and personal loans with favorable terms.

Federal law allows consumers to request a credit report at no charge from each of the three credit bureaus annually. As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, however, the credit bureaus have been offering free weekly credit reports through AnnualCreditReport.com and will continue to do so until the end of 2023.

If you notice an error on a credit report, you can contact that credit bureau to file a dispute. All three major credit bureaus provide information on their websites for filing a dispute. It can take up to 30 days for the results of any investigation to be made available.

The Takeaway

There’s a lot you can do to keep your personal information and financial accounts safe, such as opting for two-factor (or multi-factor) authentication in order to access your bank and credit accounts online. If you receive a notification from a creditor of a failed login attempt, it’s a good idea to change your password.

If any of your personal or financial account information does get stolen and used fraudulently, however, there’s no reason to panic. If you report the fraudulent transaction to the appropriate financial institution quickly, you likely won’t be responsible for the charge or loss. You can also help stop any further fraud by locking or freezing your credit, filing an identity theft report with the FTC, and filing a police report.

If you’re thinking about applying for an online personal loan but are hesitant to share your information, know that SoFi takes the privacy and security of its members’ financial and personal information very seriously. We maintain industry-standard technical and physical safeguards designed to protect your information’s confidentiality and integrity. Also keep in mind that checking your personal rate won’t affect your credit.

SoFi Loan Products
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.

Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

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

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

SOPL0523013

There’s no doubt that most Americans love their plastic.

When used responsibly, credit cards can be one way to build credit.

However, many people run into issues when it comes to paying off their credit card balance each month. Some 46% of credit card holders carry some sort of debt from month to month, according to a 2023 Bankrate survey. And as of December 2022, the typical American owed around $7,279 in credit card debt.

Although carrying the balance isn’t necessarily an issue, not paying it off every month may cause interest to accrue. That in turn could make a balance more challenging to pay off.

But by understanding the effects of carrying a balance, you can start to figure out a strategy to paying off your credit card debt.

The Effects of Carrying a Credit Card Balance

Carrying a balance on a credit card comes with some potential financial consequences. Let’s take a look at them.

Impact on Credit Score

Can your credit score take a hit when you fail to pay off a credit card balance? Possibly. Nearly one-third (30%) of your FICO score is based on how much you owe to creditors, which is often referred to as a credit utilization ratio. This ratio is the amount of revolving credit you’re currently using divided by the total amount of revolving credit available to you.

You may notice that when you carry a balance on a credit card, your credit score could dip by a few points. Often, the drop is temporary and your score may start to go up again once you pay off the balance.

Accrued Interest

If you’re carrying a credit card balance, you may also want to be mindful of accrued interest. This is the amount of interest that builds up in between payments. Most credit cards charge compounding interest, and the majority of credit cards compound interest daily. Therefore, if anything is owed after the payment due date, the balance can easily start climbing.

The amount that accrues will depend on the balance and the interest rate. You can use a credit card interest calculator to get an estimate of how much interest has added to your balance.

If the balance is paid off in full, interest won’t accrue (not until the next charge is made, at least).

Strategies to Help Reduce Credit Card Debt

Depending on how much you owe, paying off credit card debt can seem like an uphill battle. But fortunately, with planning, commitment, and tools, it can be achieved. Here are a few strategies you may want to consider.

Budget to Repay Credit Card Debt

When you’re looking to pay down credit card debt, rethinking or creating a budget can be a natural starting point. You can record this information in a spreadsheet or a spending tracker app, whichever is easier for you.

You may also want to incorporate a debt repayment strategy into your budget to accelerate the process. If you’re someone who is motivated by seeing fast results, you may want to consider the snowball method of repayment. This strategy prioritizes paying off credit cards with the smallest balances first. Once you pay down the smallest balance, you move on to the second smallest balance.

The avalanche approach, on the other hand, calls for prioritizing paying down credit card balances with the highest interest rates. Once you pay off the balance with the highest interest rate, you move on to the next highest interest rate, continuing until all debt is repaid (while making at least minimum payments on all other balances, of course).

Both debt repayment strategies have advantages and disadvantages. It’s a good idea to consider which method you’ll be most able to stick with, or use them as inspiration to create a plan that will work for you.

Open a Balance Transfer Credit Card

Another option to consider is to open a balance transfer credit card. The idea is to open a new credit card with an introductory interest rate that is significantly lower than your current credit card interest rate. This can allow you to pay off your credit card balance at a lower rate as long as you pay it off in the introductory time frame.

You can potentially pay off your balance within a shorter time while saving money on interest. It’s important to note that the low-interest rate on balance transfer credit cards is usually only offered for an introductory period, usually between six and 18 months. Once that period expires, the rates typically increase.

If you plan to repay the balance before the introductory period ends, a balance transfer credit card might be worth pursuing. Make sure to account for a balance transfer fee, which is usually 3% to 5%.

As with any other credit card application, your credit history will determine if you qualify and what rate you’ll receive. If your credit isn’t ideal, this might not be an option.

Make Extra Payments

If you don’t want to open a new credit card, you can make extra payments to reduce interest costs. Again, credit card interest is typically calculated on the account’s daily average balance. Therefore, by making one or more extra payments throughout the month, you can lower the total interest accrued by the time your bill is due.

Even if you can only put a few extra dollars toward each payment, it can help minimize the interest cost.

Use a Personal Loan

If you have high-interest credit card debt, a debt consolidation loan could be an option worth considering. Consolidating your debt into a single loan may help streamline finances and include other benefits, but it isn’t a magic cure-all. A loan will not erase your debt. However, it might help you get to a fixed monthly payment and reduced interest rates.

It’s important to compare rates and understand how a new loan could pay off in the long run. If your monthly payment is lower because the loan term is longer, for example, it might not be a good strategy, because it means you may be making more interest payments and therefore paying more over the life of the loan.

The Takeaway

Having a balance on a credit card doesn’t pose an issue, but not paying it off every month can have an impact on your finances. Interest can accrue, which in turn could make a balance more challenging to pay off. And depending on your credit utilization ratio, your credit score could temporarily hit if you carry debt from one month to the next.

If you’re looking to reduce a credit card balance, there are strategies that can help. Examples include creating a budget, making extra payments, or opening a balance transfer credit card. If you have high-interest credit card debt, a debt consolidation loan could help streamline finances into a fixed monthly payment.

If you are thinking about taking out a loan to consolidate your debt, a SoFi personal loan may be a good option for your unique financial situation. SoFi personal loans offer competitive, fixed rates and a variety of terms. Checking your rate won’t affect your credit score, and it takes just one minute.

SoFi Loan Products
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.

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.

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

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.

SOPL0623001

Installing solar panels in your home allows you to do your part for the planet while also reducing your monthly utility bills. However, the cost to purchase panels and have them installed can be a deterrent. Even if you know you’ll save money over the long term, it may be hard to come up with the funds to pay for the project up front.

Fortunately, there are tax incentives as well as financing options that make paying for a solar system a lot more manageable. Solar financing involves using instruments, like loans and leases, to pay for a solar system in installments over time rather than in one lump sum at the time of purchase. Each financing option has different features, advantages, and drawbacks.

Read on to learn more, including how much solar panels cost today, how much they can help you save, plus solar financing options that can help you cover the initial bill.

The Cost of Solar Panels

The cost of solar panels varies by location, the type of solar panels, and the system’s size, but an average-sized residential system currently runs around $16,000. The actual cost of solar panels can run as high as $35,000. However, federal and local tax incentives and rebates can take more than half of the cost off.

There are also different financing options available that allow you to pay for a solar system in installments rather than in one lump sum up front. The monthly amount owed on a solar loan is typically less than an average utility bill.

Recommended: Strategies to Lower Your Energy Bill When Working From Home

Potential Benefits of Solar Panels

One of the benefits of solar panels is the potential to reduce or completely eliminate your energy bills. Depending on how much sunlight there is where you live, how many panels you install, and your energy use, you could potentially receive enough power through solar panels to completely meet your needs.

Even if your solar panels don’t eliminate your electric bills, it can lead to significant savings. Generally, the initial expense of the purchase of a solar system can be recouped in an average of six to 10 years. After recouping installation costs, the amount you’ll save over the life of your panels will continue to add up.

Another benefit of solar panels is the potential to increase the resale value of your home. Research has shown that, on average, homes with solar panels sell for 4% more than those without them.

For some people, one of the biggest benefits of installing solar panels, however, is knowing that they’re using renewable energy and helping to reduce greenhouse gasses. This could especially be important for those living in a state where the majority of the energy generated is through non-renewable power sources.

Recommended: Does Paying Utilities Build Credit?

Potential Drawbacks of Solar Panels

While solar panels have the potential to save homeowners money and do a lot of good for the planet, they come with a high price tag. Solar power financing can help make solar energy possible for more people, but not everyone qualifies.

Another drawback to solar energy is that it is sunlight dependent. If there is a long stretch of overcast weather, or if you live in an area that doesn’t get a lot of sun, you might not be able to generate enough solar energy to take care of your energy needs. However, solar batteries (which store excess energy) can help mitigate this issue.

Solar panels and the wiring they require can also use up a significant amount of space. Depending on how many panels you need for your home, it can be difficult to find adequate space with sufficient sun exposure to install a solar system.

Also keep in mind that uninstalling a solar system and moving it can be difficult and costly. As a result, a solar system is not something you can generally take from house to house. It’s best to consider it as an investment in your home.

Saving Money by Installing Solar Panels

More than 2.5 million homeowners in America currently have solar panels. One reason is the savings it can offer over time. Once installed on your roof, solar panels typically last for at least 25 years. If your solar system eliminates your electric bill and you normally spend about $150 a month on electricity, that would bring in a potential savings of $65,000 over the life of the system.

Keep in mind, however, that solar panels don’t always eliminate your electricity bill. And, as with any home improvement project, it’s important to consider the upfront costs, how long you plan to live in your home, and if you can find financing options that work with your budget.

Four Options for Solar Panel Financing

While converting to solar can pay for itself over time, it requires a sizable upfront investment. Here are some options that can help make it easier to foot the bill.

1. Tax Credits and Rebates

A smart solar power financing strategy starts with taking advantage of all available tax credits and rebates. The federal government currently offers a 30% tax credit for solar panels installed through 2032.

Unlike a deduction, a tax credit is an amount of money that you can subtract, dollar for dollar, from the income taxes you owe. So, if you pay $30,000 to install a new solar system, you’ll qualify for a roughly $9,000 tax credit, which equates to $9,000 more in your pocket.

In addition, many states offer rebates that further reduce the cost. To help people learn more about state and local incentive programs, North Carolina State University’s N.C. Clean Energy Technology Center offers a nationwide directory of programs .

2. Solar Panel Leases

A unique option for solar panel financing is a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). With both a lease or a PPA, a company installs the solar system on your roof, and you pay that company for your energy each month, which is typically 10% to 30% lower than your usual electric bill. The company owns the panels and remains responsible for any required maintenance.

Since you don’t own the solar system, however, you can’t take advantage of any tax rebates or other incentives that come with purchasing solar panels outright. Also, solar lease and PPA contracts can extend 25 to 30 years. If you want to move before the contract is up, you would need to find a buyer who wants to take over your contract or could end up paying a hefty cancellation fee.

3. Secured Solar Panel Loans

Since you are adding to and improving your home, you might consider using a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC) to finance solar panels. This type of financing is secured by the equity you have in your home. Because the debt is secured (which lowers the risk to the lender), you may qualify for a relatively low interest rate. However, if you are unable to repay the loan or credit line, the lender can take your home to recoup its losses. Also, you need to have equity in your home to qualify for a home equity loan or HELOC.

4. Unsecured Solar Panel Loans

An unsecured solar panel loan is an unsecured personal loan that you can use to purchase solar panels. You don’t have to have any equity in your home, or use your home as collateral, to qualify for an unsecured solar panel loan To get approved, the lender considers your income and your credit rating (among other financial factors that vary from lender to lender).

With an unsecured personal loan, you receive a lump sum up front, which you can use for virtually any type of expense, including solar panels. These loans typically have fixed rates so your monthly repayments stay the same over the term of the loan, which is often five to seven years. Because this type of solar panel financing is unsecured, rates can be higher than you might get with a home equity loan or HELOC.

The Tax Benefits of Solar Panels

Installing solar panels can help reduce your federal income tax due in the year the installation is complete. There is a 30% tax credit currently in place for systems installed in 2022-2032. The tax credit expires starting in 2035 unless Congress renews it.

To qualify for the solar panel tax credit, your solar panels must be installed at your primary or secondary U.S. residence between Jan. 1, 2022, and Dec. 31, 2034. You also must own the solar panel system, i.e. you purchased it with cash or solar panel financing but you are neither leasing nor are in a PPA arrangement.

In addition, the system must be new or being used for the first time, and the credit can only be claimed on the original installation of the solar equipment. There is no maximum amount that can be claimed.

The following expenses can be included:

•  Solar PV panels or PV cells (including those used to power an attic fan, but not the fan itself)

•  Contractor costs, including installation, permitting fees, and inspection fees.

•  Balance-of-system equipment, including wiring, inverters, and mounting equipment

•  Energy storage devices that have a capacity rating of 3 kilowatt-hours (kWh) or greater

•  Sale tax on eligible expenses

In addition to the federal tax credit, there are also state-level solar incentives, which vary widely. Generally, getting a state tax break or rebate won’t limit your ability to get solar credits from the IRS.

Your local utility may also offer clear energy incentives, which can help you save money on solar panels. However, this may impact your federal income tax credit.

The Takeaway

There’s no question that solar panels are environmentally friendly. Over time they can also be economically friendly, saving you money on your electricity bill. Doing some research about residential solar panels and general home improvement financing are good steps to take to see if it’s the right choice for your home.

If you are interested in getting a loan to finance a solar system, a SoFi unsecured personal loan could be a good option. SoFi personal loans offer competitive, fixed rates and a variety of terms. Checking your rate won’t affect your credit score, and it takes just one minute.

SoFi Loan Products
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.

​​Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

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.

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.

SOPL0623017

Whether you’ve been a single mom since day one or are in the process of becoming a solo parent, raising a child on your own can be expensive. Housing, essentials, and extracurriculars add up. Add in unplanned days off for childcare, major expenses like dental work and medical insurance, or expenses like legal bills during a separation, and you may find yourself with your finances stretched thinner than you’d like.

One option to consider is a personal loan. This type of loan provides a lump sum of money up front you then pay back (plus interest) in monthly installments over time. You can use the funds from a personal loan for virtually any purpose, whether it’s making a large purchase, covering living expenses, or paying down other, higher-interest debt.

Read on for a closer look at personal loans for single moms, including their pros and cons, how to qualify, plus other funding options you may want to explore.

Why Might a Single Mom Need a Personal Loan?

There are many reasons why a single mother — or any parent — might consider applying for a personal loan. These include:

1.    Consolidating debt

2.    Covering the cost a move

3.    Paying tuition or extracurricular expenses for children

4.    Stopgap during times of unemployment

5.    Covering housing costs, such as rent or a mortgage

6.    Paying for a home remodeling project

7.    Buying a car

8.    Purchasing major appliances

Recommended: What Is a Personal Loan? How Do Personal Loans Work?

Are Personal Loans for Single Mothers Special?

In a word, no. The process of applying for a personal loan is the same for everyone. However, there may be particular approval hurdles to overcome as a single parent.

One is income. If you’re newly single, you may not have a steady income, which can make it more difficult to get approved for a personal loan. Another is your credit. If you’ve had to rely on credit cards to cover the cost of divorce or the transition to single parenting, your credit may not be what it used to be. The amount of debt you owe on your credit cards is one of the biggest factors affecting your credit score.

However, these obstacles aren’t insurmountable (more on that below).

Benefits and Risks of Personal Loans for a Single Mother

A personal loan can offer a single mom a valuable lifeline to meet immediate needs, such as unexpected expenses, education costs, or debt consolidation. However, taking on any type of debt generally comes with costs, as well as risks. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of getting a loan as a single mom.

Pros of Personal Loans for Single Mothers

•  Flexibility Personal loans provide flexibility in how you can use the borrowed funds. Whether it’s covering medical bills, home repairs, or summer camp tuition, personal loans can be used for a wide range of purposes.

•  Quick access to funds Personal loans often come with a streamlined application process and relatively quick approval. You may be able to access the funds quickly, enabling you to address urgent financial needs promptly.

•  Fixed repayment schedule Personal loans usually come with fixed monthly payments over a specified term. This predictability can make it easier for you to budget and plan your finances effectively.

•  Potential for lower interest rates Depending on the borrower’s creditworthiness, personal loans can offer competitive interest rates compared to other types of borrowing, such as credit cards or payday loans. Single mothers with a good credit history may benefit from more affordable repayment terms.

Cons of Personal Loans for Single Mothers

•  Interest and fees On top of interest, some lenders charge fees for personal loans, which increase the overall cost of borrowing. It’s important to carefully evaluate the terms and conditions to make sure you can comfortably manage the repayments without straining your budget.

•  Risk of overborrowing As a single mom, you likely want to avoid overborrowing or taking on more debt than they can reasonably repay. Overcommitting to loan payments may lead to a cycle of financial stress and difficulty in meeting other essential expenses.

•  Impact on credit score Taking out a personal loan creates a new line of credit, and if not managed properly, it could negatively affect your credit profile. Late or missed payments can damage creditworthiness, potentially impacting future borrowing opportunities.

•  Debt burden A personal loan will add to your existing financial obligations as a single mother. Before opting for a loan, you’ll want to be certain to assess the long-term implications and consider whether the loan repayments align with your income and financial goals.

Is Getting a Personal Loan With No Income Possible?

If you’re a single mother with no job or you’ve been a stay-at-home-mother with little or no income of your own, it may be difficult, though not impossible, to qualify for a personal loan.

Lenders typically want to see proof of a regular income. However, that does not necessarily have to be job-related income. You may be able to count these other sources of income:

•  Unemployment

•  Alimony

•  Child support

•  Investment income

•  Rental income

•  Pension or annuity income

•  Freelance work

•  Gig work

If you don’t have much income to speak of, then you might consider a cosigner or co-applicant for your loan. This a person who agrees to make the loan payments if the main borrower cannot or does not. For some borrowers, family members have the financial flexibility to cosign on a loan, but it can be a good idea to have a conversation about expectations and potential hypotheticals if you were no longer able to pay back the loan.

Another option is to secure a personal loan with collateral. This is an asset of value, such as a vehicle or money in a savings account, you use to back the loan in case you default. Should you become unable to repay the loan, the lender can seize your collateral to recover their losses. This lowers risk for the lender, making steady income (or less-than-stellar credit) less critical.

Also keep in mind that if you have no income but excellent credit, you may still find a lender who is willing to offer you an unsecured personal loan.

You’ll also want to be wary, however, of lenders who advertise “No-Income Loans,” as these loans may come with sky-high interest rates, short repayment terms, and low loan amounts.

Alternatives to Personal Loans for Single Mothers

There are other alternatives to personal loans, depending on your financial circumstances and your needs. Here are some you might consider.

Home Loans for Single Mothers

If you own your home, using your home as a financial asset may be one way to borrow funds at a reasonable cost. If you have built up equity in your home, you may be able to tap that equity by getting a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC). Just keep in mind that the loan is backed by your home. Should you have difficulty repaying the loan or credit line, you could potentially lose your home.

Government Resources for Single Parents

If your income is low, you may be eligible for one or more government assistance programs. Some options you may want to explore include:

•  Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

•  National School Lunch Program

•  Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

•  Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

•  The Emergency Food Assistance Program

You can find more resources at enefits.gov.

Educational Aid for Single Mothers

If you’re considering going back to school, below are some programs that can help make it more affordable (or even free):

•  Pell Grants

•  Teach Grants

•  Women’s Independence Scholarship Program (WISP)

There also may be private scholarships and grants for single parents available from the institutions you’re interested in. Speaking with the financial aid office may help you see the breadth of options available to you.

Other Financial Help For Single Mothers

Becoming a single mother, either by choice or circumstance, can feel overwhelming. But there is support out there. It can help to talk to other single parents in your community — you may be surprised by all the resources that are available. Other opportunities may include:

•   Financial aid or tuition assistance If your children are in private school or extracurricular programs, there may be financial aid available to help lower the cost. Even if there’s not a formal program, it can’t hurt to explain your situation and ask what may be available.

•   Employer-based programs Your human resources department may have certain programs, such as childcare coverage, free legal consultations, and access to financial planning and debt counseling, for eligible workers. Talk to your HR representative or look through their materials to assess what’s available.

•   Family and friends People close to you may be willing to provide support, or there may be creative ways to trade services, such as babysitting, to get more financial help. If a friend or family member offers to loan you money, it can be helpful to put an agreement in writing, including any interest you will pay and the terms of repayment, so there is no confusion that can cause a rift in your relationship.

Recommended: Options for When You Can’t Afford Your Child’s College

The Takeaway

As a single mother, there are avenues that can help you manage your finances and achieve your financial goals, including taking out a personal loan. This type of financing can provide financial relief and flexibility, but it is important to weigh the pros and cons, compare options from different lenders, and assess your ability to manage repayments responsibly.

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.

Photo credit: iStock/RyanJLane

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