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A chiropractor is a licensed health care professional who supports spine and nervous system health, providing care and rehabilitation to patients. Those who work in this role are typically experts on causes and treatments of back, neck, and shoulder pain.

To become a chiropractor, you need to get a Doctor of Chiropractic degree, which is usually a four-year program (on top of three years of undergraduate study). However, the investment of time and money in your education can pay off in a job that offers high satisfaction and a good salary. The average annual salary for a chiropractor in the U.S. is $91,830, according to latest figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

If you’re interested in working in the healthcare field and enjoy working with people, a job as a chiropractor may be ideal for you. Read on to learn more about how much money a chiropractor makes, as well as other factors to consider before you decide to jump on this career path.

What Are Chiropractors?

A chiropractor is a type of medical professional who specializes in evaluating and treating a patient’s neuromusculoskeletal system. Their primary duty is to help patients reduce pain and gain greater levels of mobility. They may perform treatments like massage therapy, physical rehabilitation strategies, or spinal adjustments and procedures.

Tasks involved in being a chiropractor typically include:

•   Reviewing a patient’s medical history and listening to their concerns

•   Performing physical examinations to analyze posture, spine, and reflexes

•   Advising patients on health and lifestyle issues, such as exercise and nutrition

•   Providing neuromusculoskeletal therapy, which involves adjusting a patient’s spinal column and other joints

•   Giving additional treatments, such as applying heat or cold to a patient’s injured areas

•   Referring patients to other healthcare professionals if necessary

Chiropractors often work in healthcare clinics, physical therapy centers, yoga studios, massage centers, or gyms. Some open their own private practices. Because the majority of a chiropractor’s day is devoted to patient care, this job is always in-person and is not a good fit for anyone looking for a work-from-home job.

If a chiropractor runs their own practice, they may also have to take on additional responsibilities related to accounting, record keeping, hiring, and managing employees.

How Much Do Chiropractors Make When They Are Starting Out?

Starting salaries for most chiropractors can range anywhere from $74,000 to $98,500, according to ZipRecruiter. However, those in this role can generally expect their income to rise significantly over time.

Starting salaries for chiropractors can range anywhere from $23,000 to $82,000 or higher, per ZipRecruiter. However, those in this role can generally expect their income to rise significantly over time. The highest-earning chiropractors in the U.S. make $110,000 or more a year.

Whether you’re juggling an entry-level salary or one in the six figures, a spending tracker app can help you determine what you can and can’t afford.

What Is the Average Salary for a Chiropractor?

How much you can earn as a chiropractor will vary based on your geographical location, company, years of experience, certifications, and other factors. On average, however, a chiropractor earns an hourly rate of $44. This is the equivalent of around $1,766 per week or $7,652 per month. The average amount a chiropractor earns per year in the U.S. is $91,830.

The Average Chiropractor Salary by State for 2025

How much money a chiropractor makes can vary by location. What follows is a breakdown of how much a chiropractor makes per year, on average, by state (highest to lowest) based on the most recent BLS data.

Chiropractor Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

On top of their average salary of $91,830, chiropractors earn more once you take their employee benefits into account. Chiropractors who work full time for an employer can expect to gain access to standard employee benefits like healthcare and paid vacation. However, many chiropractors choose to work part-time or are self-employed. Those who are self-employed and run their own practice will need to provide themselves and their employees with benefits.

Pros and Cons of Chiropractor Salary

Becoming a chiropractor requires pursuing years of higher education. Before making that time and financial commitment, it’s a good idea to carefully evaluate both the pros and cons of working as a chiropractor.

Pros of Being a Chiropractor

Here’s a look at some reasons why you might consider becoming a chiropractor:

•   A positive job outlook. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of chiropractors is projected to grow 10% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. The government predicts about 5,400 chiropractor job openings a year, on average, over the decade.

•   Ability to help people. Chiropractors help people function better, have less pain, and reach their health goals. This type of work generally comes with high job satisfaction because chiropractors know that what they are doing is meaningful.

•   Job flexibility and autonomy. Compared to other types of healthcare jobs, chiropractors enjoy a high level of autonomy and independence. Many choose to own and operate their own private practices after they graduate. Becoming an entrepreneur gives you the freedom to make your own schedule and work for yourself.

•   Earn a good salary. The national average salary of chiropractors is $91,830 per year, but chiropractors who complete more education and earn special credentials can negotiate for a higher salary, and may earn as much as $100,000 per year. In addition, those in this role may pursue supervisory positions or create their own practice, which can come with higher pay.

Cons of Being a Chiropractor

Being a chiropractor also comes with some downsides. Here are some to keep in mind:

•   A long time in school. Becoming a chiropractor requires completing extensive schooling. Indeed, it can take up to eight years of school and training to become a chiropractor. However, many chiropractic students find the time and effort worth the reward.

•   Working overtime. While some chiropractor positions allow you to work regular, 40-hour weeks, many chiropractors work 50-plus hours per week to see patients, conduct research, and complete paperwork.

•   Risk involved. Some chiropractic procedures involve a patient’s spinal cord and nervous system, such as spinal manipulation and decompression, which can cause pain and involve some risk to the patient. That’s why it’s important that chiropractors have extensive training in conducting these procedures.

•   Salary is lower than other types of doctors. While chiropractors do practice health care, they typically don’t earn as much money as other kinds of doctors. For example, the average national salary for a general physician is $239,200 per year. Keep in mind, though, that it takes more schooling and training to become a general physician.

Recommended: Best Low-Stress Jobs for Introverts

The Takeaway

Chiropractors specialize in the anatomy and physiology of people’s nervous systems and spine, and their primary duty is to help patients reduce pain and gain greater levels of mobility.

Choosing to pursue a career path as a chiropractor can be stable and lucrative, with annual salaries as high as $110,000 or more.

Before you can make that much money, however, you’ll need to invest in going to chiropractic school. This may require saving money up over time and/or taking out student loans. Whatever path you choose, learning how to budget and manage your monthly income and expenses can help you reach both your career and your financial goals.

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.

FAQ

What is the highest paying chiropractor job?

Traveling chiropractors and sports team chiropractors tend to earn higher salaries than other chiropractic roles. You can also earn a higher-than-average income as a chiropractor by owning your own practice and employing professionals from other medical disciplines, such as physical therapy, massage therapy, and acupuncture.

Where you work can also have an impact on how much you earn as a chiropractor. The states with the highest average salaries for chiropractors are California, New Jersey, North Carolina, New York, and Alaska.

Do chiropractors make 100K a year?

It’s possible for chiropractors to make $100K a year. In fact, annual salaries for chiropractors can be as high as $110,000 or more.

How much do chiropractors make starting out?

Starting salaries for chiropractors can range anywhere from $23,000 to $82,000. However, a chiropractor’s income typically increases over time. The highest-earning chiropractors in the U.S. make $110,000 or more a year.

About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.

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.

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

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-Q425-032

As long as people rely on indoor plumbing, we will need experienced, skilled plumbers to install, repair, and maintain the systems we use every day. Being a plumber is not only an in-demand job but one that generally pays well. A plumber’s average annual salary in the U.S. is $69,940, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

A plumber’s expertise spans from diagnosing and repairing leaks in people’s homes to planning commercial piping and municipal sewer systems.

If you enjoy working with both your hands and machinery, have strong attention to detail, and are a good problem-solver, being a plumber might be the right job for you. Read on to learn more about how much plumbers make per hour, how salaries vary by region, and other factors to consider before you decide to pursue a career in plumbing.

What Are Plumbers?

Plumbers are skilled professionals who install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems that supply residential and commercial properties with water and gas and carry away waste. Plumbers play a crucial role in ensuring these systems function properly and efficiently. Their expertise applies both to municipal sewers and single-home septic systems.

Plumbers diagnose and fix various issues related to plumbing systems, such as leaks, clogs, and malfunctions in pipes or fixtures. They also perform routine maintenance to prevent problems and keep plumbing systems in good working order.

In some cases, plumbers are involved in the initial design and planning stages of construction or renovation projects, ensuring that plumbing systems are installed efficiently and meet local building codes and regulations. Some plumbers may specialize in specific areas, such as commercial plumbing, industrial plumbing, or specific types of systems like hydronic heating.

How Much Does a Plumber Make Per Year Starting Out?

A plumber can make a good entry-level salary that continues to increase over time. For example, plumbers with less than one year of experience earn, on average, $47,096, while the average salary for a plumber with more than 10 years of experience is $68,325 per year, per Indeed.

What Is the Average Salary for a Plumber?

Plumbers can earn either an hourly rate or an annual salary, depending on the type of work they do. How much a plumber makes per hour can range anywhere from around $19 to $55. The average hourly pay for a licensed plumber in the U.S. is $33.63 an hour, per the BLS. As mentioned, the current national average for how much a plumber makes a year is $69,940.

How much money a plumber makes can vary by location. What follows is a breakdown of how much plumbers make a year (on average) by state.

Recommended: 15 Entry-Level Jobs for Antisocial People

Plumber Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

Plumbing has become a popular trade because of the various perks and financial advantages that come along with the job. First, the average starting salary of $47,096 is higher than in many industries. Plus, some plumbers are union members, which means that their salaries are protected by a contract and they may receive attractive health insurance and retirement packages.

Learning to be a plumber is also less demanding than obtaining a four-year bachelor’s degree. You can study to be a plumber by attending trade school or technical college. Usually, it takes anywhere between four and 24 months to complete your schooling.

Furthermore, plumbers-in-training typically can become apprentices while they’re completing their education. Apprenticeships let you work and learn simultaneously, meaning you’ll earn competitive pay while you work toward certification. For these reasons, plumbers can often finish their education with little to no student loans.

Plumbing is also a steady profession that will likely always be in demand. Even during economic downturns, residential and commercial buildings won’t stop needing running water and working toilets.

Lastly, plumbers can advance through the ranks to increase their pay and move into new roles. For example, attaining journeyman status often leads to a significant bump in salary. On average, journeyman plumbers earn $69,723, per ZipRecruiter — a $22,627 increase over the average starting salary.

Likewise, you could become a plumbing engineer or a superintendent to manage municipal jobs. Many plumbers also start their own businesses, which could lead to a job that pays $100,000 or more.

Regardless of how much you make as a plumber, a money tracker app can help you keep tabs of where your income is going.

Pros and Cons of a Plumber Salary

As with any profession, there are both advantages and disadvantages to being a plumber. Carefully considering each can assist you in determining if this is the right career for you.

Pros of Being a Plumber

Becoming a plumber can offer several attractive advantages:

•   Job security Plumbing is an essential service that is always in demand. Even during an economic recession, people will always need plumbing services.

•   Good pay Plumbers are well compensated for their expertise from the get-go. With experience and expertise, plumbers can earn a substantial income. Plus, less need for student loans means debt likely won’t erode your earnings.

•   Daily exercise Plumbing work often involves physical tasks such as lifting, bending, and carrying equipment. This aspect of the job provides plumbers with regular physical activity, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.

•   Promotion and business ownership opportunities As a plumber gains experience and expertise, they can ascend the ranks (such as moving from journeyman to master plumber) to increase their pay and access new projects. Additionally, some plumbers choose to start their own businesses, which can be highly profitable and offer independence.

•   Variety during work Plumbers typically encounter a wide range of challenges and tasks on the job. For example, you might replace piping one day and fix a host of leaky faucets the next. This variety can keep the work exciting and engaging.

Recommended: 30 Low-Stress Jobs for Introverts Without a Degree

Cons of Being a Plumber

However, plumbers also face the following challenges:

•   Physically taxing. Plumbing work often requires physical strength and endurance. Plumbers may need to lift heavy equipment, crawl into tight spaces, and crouch for hours on end. These repeated tasks can lead to strain or fatigue.

•   Lack of routine. Plumbing work can be less predictable than some office jobs that follow a set schedule. The unpredictability can be stressful for those who want the same pattern in their work every day or week.

•   Working at all hours. Plumbing issues can arise at any time, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Plumbers may need to be on-call or work during off-hours to address urgent situations. These situations impact work-life balance and require a degree of flexibility in one’s schedule.

•   Risk of injury. Working with plumbing systems and tools can pose certain risks. Plumbers may be exposed to sharp objects, hot surfaces, chemicals, and falling pipes. Additionally, working in confined spaces or at heights can increase the risk of accidents or injuries.

•   High-pressure environment. Addressing leaking sewage and malfunctioning water systems can be stressful and clients may be stressed and difficult to work with. Furthermore, plumbers must navigate unpredictable environments and situations, necessitating the ability to remain composed even in hazardous conditions.

Recommended: 11 Work-From-Home Jobs Great for Retirees

The Takeaway

Plumbers make a desirable starting salary with plenty of room to advance their careers. They can enjoy the satisfaction of helping others with an essential aspect of life and rest in the fact that the profession isn’t going anywhere.

However, plumbing can impose physical wear and tear, cause injuries, and require work in extreme conditions. The tradeoff for low or no student debt and consistent, lucrative work is the tough physical labor and the possibility of working late hours.

Even after weighing the potential cons, however, you may decide that a trade profession such as plumbing can help you further your professional and financial goals.

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.

FAQ

What is the highest paying plumber job?

The highest paying plumber job is a plumbing engineer, which requires engineering knowledge and project management skills. This position can pay as much as $129,500 annually, according to ZipRecruiter.

Do plumbers make 100K a year?

Plumbers at the highest levels of the profession can make $100,000 per year. Specifically, plumbing engineers (who design plumbing systems for private, public, or commercial buildings) and plumbers who own their own companies can potentially earn six figures a year.

How much do plumbers make starting out?

Plumbers with less than one year of experience earn, on average, $47,096 per year.

About the author

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy is a seasoned personal finance writer with 15 years of experience simplifying complex concepts for individuals seeking financial security. Her expertise has shined through in well-known publications like Rolling Stone, Forbes, SmartAsset, and Money Talks News. Read full bio.

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.

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

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.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

SORL-Q425-030

The average annual salary for a personal trainer is $51,360 a year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which groups them with exercise trainers and group fitness instructors. However, salaries typically fall somewhere between $27,580 (10th percentile) and $82,050 (90th percentile).

How much you can make as a personal trainer depends on several factors, including where you live, who you work for, your training experience, and your areas of expertise. Let’s unpack this.

What Are Personal Trainers?

A personal trainer develops customized exercise programs for clients based on individual skill levels, health goals, physical limitations, and other considerations. These professionals work with clients of all ages and skill levels to improve their strength, flexibility, and endurance; complete workouts safely and without injury; support them on their weight loss journey; and more.

Trainers are often paid hourly, but they may earn a yearly salary if they work for a gym or high-end client. How much money a personal trainer makes depends on the range of services and level of attention they provide — in general, the more, the better.

In addition to exercise and training skills, it also helps if you have good people skills, as you’ll be working closely with clients. (Not much of a people person? You may want to look into jobs for introverts instead.)

💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.


💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

How Much Do Starting Personal Trainers Make an Hour?

The average entry-level wage for a personal trainer in the United States is approximately $21 per hour, or $43,677 a year, according to the International Personal Trainer Academy. But depending on a host of factors, personal trainers with more experience can earn anywhere from $13.26 to $39.45 or more an hour, according to the BLS.

So is it possible to make $100,000 a year or more as a personal trainer? Short answer: yes. A six-figure income may be attainable once you gain enough experience and establish a steady client base. But keep in mind that those things often take time to develop.

Recommended: What Is Competitive Pay?

What Is a Personal Trainer’s Yearly Salary by State?

Location can play a major factor in a personal trainer’s income. A professional who’s established in their career may earn an average of $51,380, but as the chart below shows, take-home pay can vary significantly from state to state.

Recommended: The Highest-Paying Jobs in Every State

Personal Trainer Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

When you’re just starting out as a personal trainer, there are many factors that may influence the direction of your career. For instance, working at an established commercial gym can offer an opportunity to gain experience, build up a client network, and receive job benefits.

If you’re a self-starter and prefer more independence, working as a self-employed personal trainer might be the better fit. You’ll have the ability to set your own hours and hourly rate. However, you’ll also have to pay for health benefits and set money aside for retirement.

Here are some questions to ask yourself when starting a career as a personal trainer:

•   How many hours are you willing to work?

•   Would you rather work for someone else or be your own boss?

•   Do you need health insurance benefits?

•   Where do you see yourself in five to 10 years?

•   What type of clients do you want (for example, senior citizens, athletes, or some other group)?

•   Are you willing to commute or relocate?

•   What additional certifications might you need?

•   What are your financial goals?

Establish what you need to earn as a personal trainer in order to cover your expenses and maintain the lifestyle you want. It can help to sit down and create a budget.

As your personal trainer career gets going, you can lean on financial tools like a money tracker app to help you monitor your spending and saving.

Tips to Increase a Personal Trainer’s Salary

Clients can come and go for a number of reasons, but there are some things you can do as a personal trainer to keep the ones you have and attract new ones. Here are some strategies to consider:

•   Listen to your clients, and be willing to adapt to their needs.

•   Sharpen your motivational skills. Learn from other successful trainers and how they inspire their clients.

•   Be empathetic. Many clients may struggle during their workouts, both physically and psychologically.

Empathy can go a long way toward maintaining healthy client relations.

•   Go where you’re needed. Investigate niches where your expertise can be of use, be it an elderly care center, a health center, or a new neighborhood gym.

•   Network and market yourself. Chat up members at your gym and discuss their fitness goals.

You can also promote your own fitness journey and methods on social media.

•   Earn new certifications. Get certified in CPR, yoga, Pilates, and nutrition, for example.

The more you know, the more in-demand you may be.

Pros and Cons of Being a Personal Trainer

As with any job, there are pluses and minuses to working as a personal trainer. Here are some of the benefits and challenges of the field:

Pros:

•   Flexible hours. You can often schedule clients when you want to.

•   Professional control. You’re able to build up your business through marketing and networking, adding clients as you raise your earning goals.

•   Staying physically fit. You’ll be able to practice what you preach. Staying in shape is a job requirement.

•   Personal satisfaction, especially when you help a client meet their goals.

Cons:

•   Fluctuating income/job security. There’s no way to predict how many clients you may have month-to-month or year-to-year.

•   Lack of benefits. Many personal trainers work for themselves and have to pay for their own health and dental insurance, plus save for retirement.

•   Nontraditional work hours. Although you have the ability to make your own schedule, most of your working clients will likely request early morning, evening, or weekend sessions.

•   Shorter career lifespan. Even the most in-shape trainer ages, and there may come a day where you struggle physically to keep up with your clients.


💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

The Takeaway

A personal trainer’s earnings can rise and fall with the ebb and flow of clients, but there is also no limit to the amount of money you can make. Whether you’re working with a few dedicated clients or creating your own global fitness brand, being a personal trainer can be a great way to earn a salary while keeping yourself and your finances in shape.

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.

FAQ

What is the highest-paying personal trainer job?

Personal trainers who work for wealthy clients and celebrities typically command lucrative salaries. The most popular fitness influencers on TikTok and Instagram, for example, may be able to make more than $1 million a year.

Do personal trainers make $100k a year?

A well-established personal trainer may be able to make $100,000 a year with experience, marketing savvy, good time management skills, and a loyal client base.

How much do personal trainers make starting out?

The average starting wage for a personal trainer in the United States is $21 per hour, or $43,677 a year.

Photo credit: iStock/Drazen Zigic

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.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.

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

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.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

SORL-Q425-019

Technically, once a check clears, it can’t be reversed, meaning the payer cannot get the funds back. The only exception to this is if the check payer can prove that identity theft or fraud has occurred, in which case they may indeed get their money back.

When discussing the ins and outs of check clearing and potential reversals, it can be helpful to understand how checking accounts work, typical clearance times, and exceptions to the rule. Read on to learn more.

What Is a Check Deposit Reversal?

A check deposit reversal can refer to several ways that a bank takes back money that was previously deposited into a checking and savings account. This can happen when a check is returned due to a stop payment notification, insufficient funds, or bank fraud.

When a check reversal takes place, it can result in a negative bank account balance, which can trigger overdraft or NSF fees. The account holder needs to take steps to resolve a check deposit reversal and see if they can secure the funds they were expecting and, if necessary, bring their account back from a negative balance.

reverses the original deposit, often resulting in a negative balance or a returned check fee, and leaves the account holder to resolve the issue with the check’s maker or the bank.

How Long Does It Take for a Check to Clear?

It typically takes between two and five business days for a check to clear once it’s deposited in a checking and savings account, but some banks will process it more quickly. In general, the first $275 is made available in one’s account the next business day after a check is deposited, and then the rest of the check will be made available in the next four days.

If one or more checks total more than $6,725 for deposit in a single day, it could take up to seven to nine business days (or sometimes longer) for the full amount to clear because the bank will want to ensure the check will clear before processing it.

The time it takes for a check to clear can depend on several factors, including the relationship the account holder has with the bank, the amount of money already in their account, and the amount that the check is for. Also, if you, say, mobile deposit a check after the cutoff time on a Friday night, it may not begin processing until the next Monday morning, slowing the process down a bit.

Note that check clearance rules apply to paper checks only. If you receive money or pay bills electronically by an ACH payment, a different set of guidelines will apply.

How to Know If Your Check Cleared

In order to know for certain that a check has cleared, look at your bank account information on your financial institution’s website or app to see if the funds are pending or available. You might also contact the bank and ask them to see if the check bounced.

You might also inquire about whether your financial institution offers tools that can help you track checks and alert you when they clear. You may also benefit from other options, including a budget planner app, debt payoff planner, and credit monitoring.

Recommended: What Is an Outstanding Check?

Understanding the Check Clearing Process

When a check gets deposited, there are a few steps involved in processing and clearing it. First, the bank makes a request to take the funds out of the check payer’s account. Typically, the bank actually deposits funds into the payee’s account first as pending, as long as the check is not flagged as risky or there’s another reason that it might not clear.

In the event that the funds aren’t available in the payer’s account, the check “bounces.” In that case, the funds are then withdrawn from the payee’s account, and, if the account winds up with a negative balance, fees can be applied.

How Long Can a Bank Hold a Check?

The length of time that a bank will hold a check depends on a few factors, including the amount of the check, the bank the check is coming from, the relationship of the payee to the bank, and more. If both the payer and the payee use the same bank, the clearing time will be shorter. Usually it takes two business days for a check to clear, but it may take up to seven days or possibly longer.

The time that it takes for a check to bounce varies depending on the bank’s size and technology. Larger banks with more technological capabilities will know more quickly if a check has bounced. It will take longer for a smaller bank to process bounced checks.

Incidentally, the amount of time a check is good for is typically six months, or 180 days, after it’s written.

Factors That Affect Hold Times

In certain cases, a “risky” check may take up to seven business days (or sometimes longer) to clear. The following reasons can cause this to happen:

•   Insufficient funds in the account

•   Checks larger than $6,725 or multiple checks totaling more than $6,725 deposited in a single day

•   Accounts younger than 30 days

•   Repeated overdrafts associated with the account

•   Checks from international banks

Personal Checks vs Government-Issued Checks

While it takes between two and five business days for personal checks to clear, banks are required by law to make funds available from government checks and U.S. Treasury checks within one business day (meaning by the next business day).

Certified checks and cashier’s checks are both types of checks that are typically made available within one day of deposit. A certified check is a check where the money is taken out of a checking account, ensuring that the funds are available in the payer’s account. Generally a certified check is required for making larger transfers. With a cashier’s check, the money is taken out of the bank’s account, also ensuring that the funds are available.

Note: If depositing a certified or cashier’s check, determine whether you need to use a special deposit slip for next-day availability. Some banks follow this procedure.

Cases of Fraud

Scams and fraud involving checks can occur. With scams, like overpayment scams, the account holder is responsible for repaying any funds owed and fees if they have deposited a check that didn’t clear. And if an account holder writes a check to a scammer and it has cleared, that money likely cannot be recouped.

Worth noting: If a person knowingly deposits a bad check, there can be legal consequences.

But with fraudulent checks, there’s hope: If, say, your checks were stolen from you and/or identity theft is involved in their use, alert your bank immediately, request a stop payment, dispute any transactions that have taken place, and request a credit. You may have to file additional paperwork relating to the incident, but you may be able to get your money back. The same holds true if you believe you received a fake or counterfeit check: Contact your bank and appropriate authorities.

Recommended: Finding Your Bank Routing Number

What to Do If a Deposited Check Is Reversed?

If a deposited check is reversed, contact your bank to find out what happened, and reach out to the check issuer to request a new form of payment.

Also stay alert to your account balance. If you have written checks against the amount you thought was available and/or have autopay set up, you could wind up with unpaid bills and penalties. Overdraft protection may help you avoid this scenario.

The Takeaway

Check deposits can be reversed in some situations (such as a check that bounces or one that is suspected of being fraudulent). That’s why it’s important to understand the process for depositing checks and having them clear. Many checks clear in a day or two, but some can take up to seven days or longer, so it can be wise to pay attention to when funds actually become available to stay in control of your finances.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible 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.

FAQ

How can a check clear and then bounce?

If a bank doesn’t see any red flags that a check might bounce, they may go ahead and transfer funds into the payee’s account. However, it may turn out during their processing that funds weren’t available from the payer, so then the check bounces.

Can a bank reverse a check deposit?

Technically, a cleared check cannot be reversed. But if a check bounces, the bank can remove funds they had deposited into the payee’s account.

Can you dispute a cleared check?

If identity theft has occurred or if a check is fraudulent, then a cleared check can be disputed. If the bank finds the evidence to be believable, the funds may be returned to the account.

Can I redeposit a check that was returned?

You can redeposit a check that was returned for non-sufficient funds if you feel reassured that the check will now clear.

How can I protect myself from fraudulent checks?

A fake check can be poorly printed, use thin or shiny paper, have smooth instead of perforated edges, and have mismatched or incorrect bank name and address information. Also be wary of checks that overpay you or ones you were not expecting.

Photo credit: iStock/sturti

SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. 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.

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

Eligible 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 (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, 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 Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Bank Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.
^Early access to direct deposit funds is based on the timing in which we receive notice of impending payment from the Federal Reserve, which is typically up to two days before the scheduled payment date, but may vary.

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.

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.

SOBNK-Q425-035

The average annual pay for a therapist in the U.S. is $63,780, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

But there are many factors that can influence this number, including experience, specialty, and location. If you’re interested in starting a career as a therapist, employment demand is expected to be strong.

Here’s a closer look at what a therapist does and how much money they can make in a year.

What Is a Therapist?

If you like talking with people and helping them work through issues to improve their lives, a career as a therapist might be a good fit.

Therapists generally specialize in working with specific groups of people or in certain areas. For instance, some might concentrate on working with children, older adults, or married couples, or with people who need help with issues like eating disorders or drug abuse. Therapists can work in different settings, including health practitioner offices, hospitals, schools, private practices, and home health care services.

It can be a long path to becoming a therapist. Therapists need an undergraduate degree and typically have a master’s degree in psychology or in a related field or specialty. There are also hands-on experience requirements through supervised clinical work. States have different requirements when it comes to obtaining a license, but the process usually involves filling out an application and passing an exam.

There are other skills that go beyond education that help make a good therapist. Soft skills like strong communication and organization skills, being a good listener, and having empathy and patience are also important to being successful in the profession.

💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

Therapist vs. Psychologist

The title “therapist” is often used broadly to include various professions. It’s sometimes used interchangeably with “psychologist,” but there are differences between the two.

The educational requirements are heftier for those interested in pursuing a career as a psychologist. Psychologists typically need a doctoral degree in psychology and to pass certain exams to be able to secure a license.

There is strong demand for psychologists. The Labor Department forecasts employment of psychologists to grow 6% from 2024 to 2034. Over that decade, there’s projected to be about 11,800 openings a year.

How Much Do Therapists Make Starting Out?

When you’re just starting out as an entry-level mental health therapist after all those years of education and clinical work, you can expect to earn an average total pay of around $53,236 a year, according to ZipRecruiter. As you grow in your career and gain experience, though, your salary will increase. The top 10% of therapists earn more than $111,610 per year.

But keep in mind that there are many considerations when it comes to determining a good entry-level salary, including location, experience, skill level, specialty, and demand.

What Is the Average Salary for a Therapist

The average median pay for a therapist is $63,780, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That breaks down to $30.66 per hour.

The growth rate for therapists is expected to grow 13% from 2024-34 — much faster than the average.

There’s a large range in how much a therapist can make. The lowest 10% earned less than $42,610, while the highest 10% earned more than $111,610 per year.

Note that while some therapists will choose to bill by the hour, when it comes to compensation, there’s a difference between being paid salaried vs paid hourly.

Recommended: What Is Competitive Pay?

What Is the Average Therapist Salary by State?

Wondering how a therapist’s salary compares to the highest-paying jobs in your state? Here’s a breakdown of what the average therapist makes by state.

Therapist Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

Helping people better themselves and overcome problems can be a very fulfilling line of work. And there’s a need for more people to work in the mental health field.

For example, employment growth for substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors is expected to increase 17% from 2024 to 2034, according to the Department of Labor. Because of these strong employment growth projections, being a therapist likely comes with job security.

Becoming a therapist can also bring scheduling flexibility, especially if you run your own practice. Being able to set your own hours can result in a better work-life balance. However, some therapists might have to offer after-hour sessions to work around clients’ schedules.

Working one-on-one with people and forging relationships can also be a satisfying perk, but it can also be emotionally stressful. That’s why this profession might not be the best fit if you tend to be more introverted.

Recommended: 10 Entry-Level Jobs with Little Human Interaction

Pros and Cons of Therapist Salary

The educational requirements for a therapist are higher than other professions, which could mean you graduate with a hefty debt load that can put pressure on future earnings.

However, your earnings potential increases as you gain more experience. Experienced therapists can earn six figures per year; and for those that open their own practices, earnings could be even higher.

The pay and benefits can differ depending on where a therapist works. For instance, joining a bigger practice or hospital could bring about additional benefits like retirement savings plans and health care benefits compared to a smaller or solo practice.

The licensure requirements to become a therapist can be time consuming. Each state has its own licensing requirements that you’ll have to navigate. There can also be continuing education requirements in order to maintain your license.

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

The Takeaway

Becoming a therapist can be very rewarding on a personal, professional, and financial level. Be prepared for the path it takes to get to this career: an undergraduate degree, a master’s degree in a specialized area, clinical experience, the state license and exam process, and continuing education.

Take the time to evaluate your budget. The education requirements could mean taking out student loans, which can put strain on your budget. Online tools like a money tracker app can help you create a spending plan that’s right for you.

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.

FAQ

What is the highest-paying therapist job?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a therapist can earn upwards of $111,610 a year.

Do therapists make $100K a year?

While a typical mental health therapist makes around $63,780 a year, it is possible to earn $100,000 or more a year. Salaries often vary depending on experience, specialization, and location.

How much do therapists make starting out?

Early in their career, a therapist earns an average of $53,236 a year. But with more experience, compensation can increase to the average of $63,780 or more.

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.

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.

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

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.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

SORL-Q425-018