4 Types of Wills Explained: Which One Is Right for You?

Not all wills are alike. There are actually four main kinds and one of them may be right for you. Sure, writing a will can be an easy task to put off until “someday.” But what if the worst were to happen before “someday?” That could mean a complicated and emotionally draining legal process for your loved ones. Creating a will not only can provide peace of mind for your loved ones after you die — it can also provide peace of mind for you right now.

The simple definition of a will is a document that states your final wishes. This alone was sufficient a century ago, when many people had limited property to pass down. But in the modern era, when “property” encompasses everything from the contents of your long-forgotten storage unit to the crypto you decided to buy on a whim, a simple will may not encompass your complex life.

Not only that, but a will is a document that only takes effect after you die. But what if you were medically unable to make decisions? Modern end-of-life documents encompass your wishes if you were medically or otherwise unable to make decisions on your own. Among these documents is one that also has the world “will” in its name.

Key Points

•   A simple will outlines property distribution and guardianship for minors.

•   A joint will merges two individuals’ wishes, often leaving everything to the surviving partner.

•   Individual wills provide more flexibility compared to joint wills.

•   A testamentary trust will creates a trust upon death with specific stipulations.

•   A living will specifies medical wishes and appoints a healthcare proxy if incapacitated.

4 Kinds of Wills

As you begin estate planning, you’ll likely come across four common types of wills. These are:

•   A simple will

•   A joint will

•   A testamentary trust will

•   A living will

Let’s look at each type of will more closely.

What Is a Simple Will?

A simple will may be the type of will that pops into your mind when you hear the word “will.” This will can:

•   State how you want your property bequeathed upon death

•   Provide guardianship specifications for minors

Upon death, a simple will is likely to go through a legal process known as probate to divide assets. Sometimes, in the case of high-net-worth individuals, probate can be expensive. (For those with complex situations and a positive net worth, a trust can help handle those what-ifs. It can transfer assets out of your estate and into the trust, which can be advantageous in terms of taxes.)

However, in many situations, a simple will can provide peace of mind for people in good health. Later, these individuals may want to take on more complex estate planning, but a will provides a good foundation when it comes to making sure guardians are named and property is divided according to your wishes.

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A simple will can be created through online templates, and the cost can be zero dollars to several hundred dollars. More expensive online options may come with support from an attorney who can help answer questions. Once created, a will then needs to be made legal according to state laws. This may include signing the will in front of witnesses. You may also want to have it notarized. Having a hard copy of the will, as well as people who know how to access it in case of your death, can ensure the will is found in a timely manner.

Recommended: How to Make a Will: 7 Steps

What Is a Joint Will?

A joint will functions in much the same way as a simple will, except it is a will created by two people, usually who are married to each other. It merges their wishes into a single legal document. In many cases, this kind of will dictates that property will be left entirely to the surviving partner. Here’s the catch, though: Upon death, property will be distributed in the manner dictated by the will. The surviving person does not have the ability or authority to make changes to what the will says once the initial spouse has died.

This can sound streamlined, especially if couples were planning to leave everything to each other anyway. But this type of will can cause headaches. For example, if the surviving spouse has more children or gets remarried, it can be almost impossible to provide for additional people not named in the initial, joint will.

There could be problems even if the surviving spouse does not remarry. For example, if the marital home is considered an asset to be given to the couple’s children upon the death of both of the will’s creators, it may be impossible for the surviving spouse to sell a home to downsize.

One alternative that may suit married couples is to create two individual wills. This may provide a greater degree of flexibility and better achieve the desired effect without ruling out all of life’s what-ifs.

What Is a Testamentary Trust Will?

A testamentary trust will is usually part of big-picture estate planning. It is a document that creates a trust that goes into effect when you die. This trust can outline how certain types of property will be divided. A testamentary trust can have certain stipulations (for example, someone only inherits X piece of property when they reach Y age). This can also be used for people with minors or dependents to help ensure that wishes are followed.

What’s more, a testamentary trust can also help provide for pets. Because a pet can’t own property, naming your “fur baby” within a will can set up a legal headache. But a testamentary trust can ensure that your pet will be provided for according to your wishes.

It’s worth noting that a testamentary trust will go through the probate process, and it may not have the same tax benefits for recipients as other types of trusts. Weighing the pros and cons of different trust options can be helpful before settling on the best one for your situation.

What Is a Living Will?

This is a hard topic to think about, but what if you were in an accident and were knocked unconscious? What if you were undergoing treatment for a serious medical condition and couldn’t fully grasp the options offered to you? There’s a way to put a trusted relative or friend in the decision-making role. A living will, which is also known as an advance directive, specifies your wishes if you were medically incapacitated or unable to make or communicate decisions about your medical care. It also stipulates who your healthcare proxy, also known as a medical power of attorney, would be to make medical decisions on your behalf.

If you are creating a living will, you may also want to create a power of attorney document. This designates a person — who may or may not be the same person as your healthcare proxy — who has the right to make financial decisions on your behalf. Having a living will can cover unexpected situations that may occur before death and can be an integral part of end of life planning.

Recommended: How to Write a Will Online: 8 Steps

The Takeaway

While end of life planning can be a challenging or sad endeavor, it’s an important step in making sure your assets are directed where you want them to go and that other important wishes are executed as you want. There are four main types of wills to help you legally record your plans; more than one may suit your needs. And you can decide to use online services or work in person with an attorney.

In either case, making a will can give you peace of mind right now — and help smooth things along for your loved ones in the future during a difficult time.

When you want to make things easier on your loved ones in the future, SoFi can help. We partnered with Trust & Will, the leading online estate planning platform, to give our members 20% off their trust, will, or guardianship. The forms are fast, secure, and easy to use.

Create a complete and customized estate plan in as little as 15 minutes.


Photo credit: iStock/LaylaBird

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

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What Is Supplemental Life Insurance?

What Is Supplemental Life Insurance?

Supplemental life insurance is typically an additional policy that you can purchase to augment the group life insurance policy obtained via your employer.

These policies can provide extra peace of mind when it comes to protecting your loved ones, but is more insurance always better? You may wonder whether purchasing this kind of policy is a good idea or not worth the added expense. Let’s take a closer look to see whether supplemental life insurance makes sense for your situation.

Key Points

•   Supplemental life insurance enhances existing coverage, typically from an employer.

•   Policies offer a lump-sum death benefit or cover specific expenses.

•   Health and age impact the premiums for supplemental life insurance.

•   Compare rates to find the most affordable option.

•   Check if the policy is portable and meets total coverage needs.

Understanding Supplemental Life Insurance

Supplemental life insurance is a policy taken out in addition to basic coverage, which might be term or permanent life insurance. You can often purchase a supplemental policy through an employer to augment what they offer as an employee benefit. However, these policies don’t have to be secured through your job. We’ll learn more about that in a minute.

Some of these policies come with a death benefit, a lump sum payment that goes to the beneficiaries you’ve named (the loved ones who will inherit the money). Others may be a different kind of policy; say, one that pays funds that are earmarked to pay for funeral expenses. Depending on the details of your life, these add-ons may be an inexpensive way to boost your protection and sense of security.


💡 Quick Tip: With life insurance, one size does not fit all. Policies can and should be tailored to fit your specific needs.

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*While medical exams may not be required for coverage up to $3M, certain health information is required as part of the application to determine eligibility for coverage.

Do You Need Supplemental Life Insurance?

Deciding whether or not to buy a supplemental policy is a very personal decision. To help figure out the right answer for your situation, it may help to ask yourself and answer a few questions. Let’s consider some of those here.

Does Your Employer Provide Life Insurance?

Because supplemental insurance is meant to enhance the life insurance policies you already have, check to see if your employer offers basic life insurance as a benefit. If so, how much? Many times, employers offering this insurance will provide a multiple of the employee’s current salary. Other times, it’s significantly less — $10,000 to $25,000 worth of coverage is common. Those are figures that many people will find too low to provide the kind of protection they’d like.

If you feel you don’t have enough protection, you may want to look for ways to boost your coverage so that in a worst-case scenario, you know your loved ones will have enough money to cover their expenses. Perhaps your employer offers supplemental policies that will get you to the level of life insurance coverage that you desire. Otherwise, you can also look on the open market for primary or supplemental policies.

Have Your Compared Life Insurance Rates?

If you haven’t compared prices of life insurance rates in a while (or ever), you might want to give it a try. Just because an employer offers life insurance, including supplemental coverage, you may not want to buy it. You may discover that you can get enough life insurance through a standard policy without adding a supplemental one.

You can quickly get quotes by calling an insurance agent or, to save even more time, from a website that provides them from multiple companies. When looking at the quote that gives you the best coverage for the most affordable premiums, would you still need a supplemental policy? The answer may be no. There’s a good deal of competition in the marketplace and great deals to be found.

Recommended: How to Buy Life Insurance in 9 Steps

How Is Your Health?

First, let’s understand that your health rating is a key factor in buying life insurance on the open market. Rates tend to be lower when you are healthier and younger. Health is typically assessed by the insurer asking you questions about your medical status and possibly having you submit to a brief health exam that involves the collection of blood and urine samples.

While plenty of life insurance policies require health exams and/or medical records, many insurers also offer lab-free options that don’t require medical exams (although you’ll almost certainly need to answer health-related questions). These are often the kind employers offer employees. Typically, these policies are for people who fit into certain age groups and other categories in which they’re likely to be healthy. These lab-free policies are often available for up to $1 million.

Now that you know how this works, understand the implications of your health status. If you have an underlying health condition, are a smoker, or have other qualifying factors, you would probably pay more for life insurance if you went shopping on the open market. In these cases, buying a supplemental policy through your job could be a good way to get coverage at a relatively low cost.

Do You Need Portable Coverage?

Before you sign up for a supplemental policy, consider whether it’s portable. “Portability” is your ability to keep certain benefits if you switch your place of employment or leave the workforce entirely — in this case, your life insurance. If you’re thinking about changing jobs or have reason to believe that you may not work at your current employer for much longer, it’s important to know if your life insurance is portable.

How Much Supplemental Life Insurance Should You Buy?

A common recommendation is to carry 10 to 15 times your annual income in life insurance coverage. Your goal is to choose a policy that would replace the income you would have brought in if you weren’t around to provide for your family. So, if you multiply your salary by those numbers and then subtract what you have in your “regular” life insurance policy, that can be a starting point to determine how much supplemental insurance makes sense.

If you make $50,000 a year and multiply by 10 or 12, that’s $500,000 to $600,000 in coverage you want to purchase. (You might want to bump it up a bit to account for inflation.) So, if you have a term life insurance policy for $500,000, you might decide to get a supplemental policy for $200,000.

Now, factor in your outstanding debt. Life insurance payouts can be used to pay them off, including mortgage loans, car loans, student loans, credit cards, and so forth. So, if you have these debts, you can add their outstanding balances up and consider adding those amounts to your life insurance needs. If, for example, these debts total $300,000, you might bump up the supplement policy example above to $500,000.

Recommended: Life Insurance Definitions

Types of Supplemental Life Insurance

We’ve been focusing on one kind of supplemental insurance, a popular option that lets you increase the overall life insurance coverage you own. This kind of policy would pay a lump-sum death benefit to your beneficiaries. If you purchase this, it’s an employee benefit that can increase the amount of coverage that you own (although you may be responsible for part of all of those premiums albeit at a group rate).

But let’s consider some other possibilities that may be offered:

•   Supplemental spouse life insurance. This kind of insurance provides a death benefit if the employee’s spouse dies and may also be called supplemental family life insurance. Employees may also have the option to buy supplemental child life insurance to cover the death of a child or other dependent who qualifies.

•   Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D). This provides coverage to your beneficiaries if you are killed or lose physical function in a type of accident that’s covered in the policy. Depending on the kind of work you do or the pastimes you pursue, this may or may not suit your needs. With AD&D insurance, you could receive a benefit, say, if you were to lose your eyesight, your hearing, or limb in an accident. But it won’t provide any benefit if you die due to other medical conditions, which are more likely to occur.

•   Final expenses. These policies pay a small benefit (typically between $5,000 and $35,000) to cover end-of-life expenses, such as funeral and burial costs. Some people like to have this kind of coverage, which means your loved ones wouldn’t have to pay out of pocket for these charges.

How Much Coverage Can You Get Through Work?

It’s worthwhile to evaluate what life insurance options are available through your work. Employers may offer lower rates since they get a group insurance rate. Also, it’s also possible that your employer would pay part of your premiums. It’s typically easier to get insured through a group plan. While you may need to answer medical questions, it’s less likely that you’ll need a medical exam for group insurance.

Group plans through your employer, though, are usually not portable. This means that if you leave that employer, the coverage ends and then you’ll need to shop around again — now at an older (although not necessarily old) age and perhaps with new health conditions. Plus, these plans aren’t as customizable as you might get on your own.

How Much Does Supplemental Life Insurance Cost?

If your employer offers this benefit as part of a group policy, the cost may be minimal, especially if the workplace subsidizes the premiums.

Otherwise, it can make sense to get personalized quotes, given that age, gender, health conditions, amount of the policy, term, and more can impact the price. There are online calculators that can help you do the math and see how the numbers add up.

The Takeaway

To recap: What is supplemental life insurance? It’s a policy that enhances a person’s primary life insurance policy. It helps to ensure that they have enough financial benefit to protect their loved ones if they weren’t there to provide for them.

While supplemental policies through your employer can be affordable, they may not deliver the level of coverage you need. Take a close look at your options, and take advantage of the simple online tools that can help you find the kind of policy you need at the right price.

SoFi has partnered with Ladder to offer competitive term life insurance policies that are quick to set up and easy to understand. Apply in just minutes and get an instant decision. As your circumstances change, you can update or cancel your policy with no fees and no hassles.


Explore your life insurance options with SoFi Protect.


Photo credit: iStock/Kemal Yildirim

Coverage and pricing is subject to eligibility and underwriting criteria.
Ladder Insurance Services, LLC (CA license # OK22568; AR license # 3000140372) distributes term life insurance products issued by multiple insurers- for further details see ladderlife.com. All insurance products are governed by the terms set forth in the applicable insurance policy. Each insurer has financial responsibility for its own products.
Ladder, SoFi and SoFi Agency are separate, independent entities and are not responsible for the financial condition, business, or legal obligations of the other, SoFi Technologies, Inc. (SoFi) and SoFi Insurance Agency, LLC (SoFi Agency) do not issue, underwrite insurance or pay claims under LadderlifeTM policies. SoFi is compensated by Ladder for each issued term life policy.
Ladder offers coverage to people who are between the ages of 20 and 60 as of their nearest birthday. Your current age plus the term length cannot exceed 70 years.
All services from Ladder Insurance Services, LLC are their own. Once you reach Ladder, SoFi is not involved and has no control over the products or services involved. The Ladder service is limited to documents and does not provide legal advice. Individual circumstances are unique and using documents provided is not a substitute for obtaining legal 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 Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

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A mother and daughter sitting together looking at a calculator and jotting down notes about Parent PLUS loan repayment options.

Understanding Parent Plus Loan Forgiveness

Parent PLUS loan forgiveness provides financial relief to parents who borrowed money to cover the cost of their children’s college or career school. It isn’t always a quick fix, but there are certain federal and private programs that might offer the financial forgiveness needed.

Keep reading to learn more about the available student loan forgiveness possibilities for Parent PLUS loans.

Key Points

•   Parent PLUS loans may be eligible for forgiveness through programs such as Total and Permanent Disability Discharge (TPD), the Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR) Plan, and Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).

•   The ICR plan is currently available to Parent PLUS borrowers after Direct loan consolidation.

•   PSLF requires 120 qualifying payments and employment of the borrower (the parent, not the child) in a qualifying public service job.

•   TPD discharge applies if the parent, not the student, has a disability.

•   Parent PLUS loans cannot be directly transferred to the student, but the student could refinance the loan in their own name and assume the financial obligation for it.

Are Parent Plus Loans Eligible for Student Loan Forgiveness?

Parent PLUS loans are eligible for several of the same student loan forgiveness programs as federal student loans for students, including:

•   Borrower Defense Loan Discharge

•   Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) Discharge

•   Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

That said, Parent PLUS loans generally have fewer repayment and forgiveness options. Parent PLUS loans do not directly qualify for most income-driven plans. And guidelines are strict for the programs that parent loans are eligible for.

Refinancing Parent PLUS loans is another option for borrowers. With refinancing, you apply for a new loan from a private lender that ideally has a lower interest rate.

It’s important to note that refinancing a PLUS loan will eliminate it from any federal repayment plans and benefits.



💡 Quick Tip: Some student loan refinance lenders offer a no-required-fees option, saving borrowers money.

Parent Student Loan Forgiveness Program

As mentioned above, a Parent PLUS loan may be eligible for parent student loan forgiveness through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. To qualify, the loan must be repaid under the Income-Contingent Repayment Plan (ICR). Other forgiveness options may also be available through a borrower’s state or in certain situations as outlined below.

Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR)

An Income-Contingent Repayment plan is the only income-driven repayment plan that’s currently available for Parent PLUS borrowers. In order to qualify, parent borrowers must first consolidate their loans into a Direct Consolidation Loan, then repay that loan under the ICR plan. Bear in mind:

Bear in mind:

•   A Parent PLUS loan that’s included in a Direct Consolidation Loan could be eligible for Income-Contingent Repayment.

•   A Parent PLUS loan that’s included in the Federal Direct Loan Program or the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP) is also eligible for ICR if it’s included in the Federal Direct Consolidation Loan.

It’s important to be aware that as of July 1, 2026, the ICR plan will be changing, as a result of the big U.S. domestic policy bill that was passed in the summer of 2025. Parent PLUS loan holders must consolidate their loans before July 1, 2026 and enroll in ICR. Any Parent PLUS loans consolidated after that date will not be eligible for ICR.

The ICR plan is an income-driven repayment plan. Monthly payments are the lesser of what you would pay on a repayment plan with a fixed monthly payment over 12 years, adjusted based on your income, or 20% of your discretionary income. After a payment period of 25 years, any remaining loan balance will be forgiven.

Typically, the IRS considers canceled debt a form of taxable income, but the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 made student loan forgiveness tax-free through 2025 on federal returns. Some states tax student loan forgiveness amounts; you can consult with a tax professional about your situation.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Qualified borrowers with Parent PLUS loans may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. In order to pursue that option, they must first consolidate the Parent PLUS loan into a Direct Consolidation Loan.

Then, after they’ve made 120 qualifying payments, borrowers may become eligible for the PSLF. The parent borrower (not the student) must be employed full-time in a qualifying public service job. PSLF also has strict requirements such as certifying employment, so it’s important to follow instructions closely if pursuing this option.

Student Loan Forgiveness for Death of Parent

Federal student loans qualify for loan “discharge” when the borrower dies. In the case of Parent PLUS loans, they are also discharged if the student who received the borrowed funds dies.

In order to qualify for federal student loan discharge due to death, borrowers must provide a copy of a death certificate to either the U.S. Department of Education or the loan servicer.

Some, but not all, private lenders discharge student loans after the student or loan holder dies.

Recommended: Can Student Loans Be Discharged?

State Parent PLUS Student Loan Forgiveness Programs

Many individual states offer some sort of student loan repayment assistance or student loan forgiveness programs for Parent PLUS loan borrowers.

For an overview of options available in different states, you can take a look at SoFi’s student loan forgiveness guide.

Disability

In the event of the borrower becoming totally and permanently disabled, a Parent PLUS loan may be discharged. To qualify for a Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) discharge, borrowers must complete and submit a TPD discharge application, as well as documentation showing that they meet the requirements for being considered totally and permanently disabled.

Note that in order to qualify for TPD, the parent borrower must be considered disabled. This type of forgiveness does not apply to Parent PLUS loans in the event that the student becomes disabled.

Bankruptcy

If a borrower can demonstrate that repaying a Parent PLUS loan would be an undue financial hardship on them, they might be able to have the loan discharged in bankruptcy. However, the process is complicated. First, the borrower must file an action known as an “adversarial proceeding.” They must also file for bankruptcy and show the bankruptcy court that undue hardship would be the result if they paid the loan.

Having student loans discharged in bankruptcy is challenging. Proving undue hardship varies depending on the court that’s granting it, but many rulings look at these criteria these criteria in order to discharge the student loan:

•  Maintaining a minimal standard of living for the borrower and their dependents is deemed impossible if they’re forced to repay their student loans.

•  The borrower’s current financial situation will likely continue for the majority of the repayment period.

•  The borrower has made a “good faith” effort to repay their student loans.

Closed School Discharge

For parent borrowers whose children attended a school that closed while they were enrolled or who withdrew from the school within 180 days before its closure, a Closed School Discharge is another available form of student loan forgiveness that may be an option.

If you meet the eligibility requirements for a discharge of loans you obtained for your child to attend a school that closed, your loan holder will automatically send you an application you can submit to your loan servicer.

Or you can contact your loan servicer for an application.

Borrower Defense

Borrower Defense Loan Discharge is potentially available to Parent PLUS borrowers whose children were misled by their college or university or whose college or university engaged in certain forms of misconduct or violation of state laws.

To make a case for borrower defense, the Parent PLUS borrower must submit a “materially complete” application that contains such information as what the school’s misconduct consisted of and when it occurred, how the misconduct affected your child’s decision to attend the school or your decision to take out the Parent PLUS loan, and a description of the harm experienced because of the misconduct.



💡 Quick Tip: Federal parent PLUS loans might be a good candidate for refinancing to a lower rate.

Alternatives to Parent Plus Student Loan Forgiveness

When it comes to Parent PLUS loans, there are a few ways to get out of student loan debt, including the scenarios outlined below.

Refinance Parent Plus Loans

Refinancing a Parent PLUS loan is another option that could provide some financial relief. However, in doing so, you’ll lose the government benefits associated with your federal loans, as briefly mentioned above, such as:

•   Forbearance options or options to defer your student loans

•   Income-driven repayment options

•   Student loan forgiveness

Refinancing a Parent PLUS loan into your child’s name is another option, which some borrowers opt for once their child has graduated and started working. Some private lenders offer this type of refinancing option to those who qualify, but not all do.

Transfer Parent Plus Student Loan to Student

Transferring Parent PLUS loans to a student can be complicated. There isn’t a federal loan program available that will conduct this exchange, and, as mentioned above, some private lenders don’t offer this option.

However, other private lenders, like SoFi, allow qualifying dependents to take out a refinanced student loan, which pays off the PLUS loan of their parent.

Explore Private Student Loan Options for Parents

Banks, credit unions, and online lenders typically offer private student loans for parents who want to help their children pay for college as well as refinancing options for parents and students.

Refinancing options will vary by lenders and some may be willing to refinance a Parent PLUS loan into a private refinanced loan in the student’s name. In addition to competitive interest rates and flexible terms, SoFi does allow students that qualify to take over their parent’s loan during the refinancing process. Interest rates and terms may vary based on individual criteria such as income, credit score, and history.

The Takeaway

Parent PLUS Loan forgiveness offers financial relief to parents who borrowed money to help their child pay for college. To receive federal relief for Parent PLUS loans, parent borrowers have options such as enrolling in the Income-Contingent Repayment plan, pursuing Public Service Loan Forgiveness, taking advantage of a state Parent PLUS student loan forgiveness program, or opting for student loan refinancing.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.


With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

FAQ

What do I do if I can’t pay my Parent PLUS loans?

If you can’t pay your Parent PLUS loans, you have a few options. You may be able to qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (you’ll need to consolidate the loans first); refinance the loans, which may lower your monthly payments; or consolidate them and repay them through the Income-Contingent Repayment Plan. You can also check to see if your state offers forgiveness programs for Parent PLUS loan borrowers.

Can I transfer my Parent PLUS loans to my child?

You cannot directly transfer your Parent PLUS loans to your child. However, some private lenders may allow you to do something similar through refinancing. Here’s how it works: As long as they meet the eligibility requirements, your child refinances the loan in their name, which pays off the original loan and transfers all financial responsibility to them. Just be aware that refinancing federal student loans makes them ineligible for federal benefits and protections.

Can a Parent PLUS loan be discharged due to disability?

Yes, a Parent PLUS loan may be discharged due to disability if the parent borrower (not the student) becomes totally and permanently disabled. This is called a Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) Discharge, and to qualify, the parent must submit a TPD discharge application along with the appropriate documentation showing they meet the requirements.


SoFi Student Loan Refinance
Terms and conditions apply. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are private loans. When you refinance federal loans with a SoFi loan, YOU FORFEIT YOUR ELIGIBILITY FOR ALL FEDERAL LOAN BENEFITS, including all flexible federal repayment and forgiveness options that are or may become available to federal student loan borrowers including, but not limited to: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, extended repayment plans, PAYE or SAVE. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers.
Learn more at SoFi.com/eligibility. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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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.

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

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Tips for Avoiding the 529 Withdrawal Penalty

A 529 college savings plan is one of the best tools for funding education, but using the money incorrectly can lead to unexpected taxes and penalties. Whether you’re paying for tuition, books, or other college-related expenses, it’s important to understand how withdrawals work. Making even a small mistake — like using the funds on ineligible expenses or exceeding spending limits — can reduce your savings. Here are key tips to help you avoid 529 withdrawal penalties and make the most of your education funds.

Key Points

•   A 529 plan offers tax advantages for saving for college, but using funds for nonqualified expenses can result in penalties.

•   Qualified education expenses include tuition, fees, room/board, books, supplies, computers, internet, and K-12 tuition.

•   Nonqualified expenses include travel, extracurriculars, and health insurance.

•   The 10% penalty may be waived in certain situations, such if the beneficiary receives a scholarship.

•   If your child doesn’t attend college, you can change the beneficiary, use the funds for trade school, or roll funds into a Roth IRA.

What Is a 529 Plan?

A 529 plan offers a tax-advantaged way to save for a child’s future college expenses. You can make contributions to the 529 account, which can then be invested in a variety of assets (such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds), and any earnings grow tax-free. You can make withdrawals from a 529 federal income tax-free if the funds are used for qualified education expenses.

If you withdraw money from a 529 and spend it on nonqualified expenses, you’ll pay ordinary income tax on any earnings, plus a 10% penalty. There are some exceptions — such as no penalty if your student receives a scholarship and you withdraw up to that amount from the 529, though you’ll still need to pay tax on the earnings.

💡 Quick Tip: You’ll make no payments on some private student loans for six months after graduation.

What Are Qualified 529 Plan Distributions?

Education expenses that are considered qualified within a 529 plan include:

•   College tuition and fees

•   Room and board (not to exceed the allowance for room and board included in the school’s cost of attendance)

•   Books and supplies

•   Computers and internet

•   K-12 tuition and expenses (up to $10,000 in per year, increasing to $20,000 per year starting on January 1, 2026)

•   Student loan payments (up to $10,000 per beneficiary)

•   Apprenticeship programs registered with the U.S. Department of Labor

What Are Nonqualified 529 Plan Distributions?

Some expenses you’ll encounter when your child goes to college, however, are considered nonqualified distributions. Withdrawing funds from your 529 to cover these expenses can trigger taxes and penalties:

•   Transportation costs

•   Sports expenses or monthly gym dues

•   Electronics and smart phones

•   Health insurance costs

•   Off-campus room and board in excess of what the school housing would cost

•   Costs associated with extracurricular activities

•   Fratnerity/sorority dues

Are Distributions Taxable?

Qualified withdrawals are federal income tax-free (and in some states, state income tax-free) as long as your total withdrawals for the year don’t exceed your child’s higher education expenses.

If distributions are used to cover nonqualified expenses (such as travel to and from college or entertainment expenses), any part of the distribution that is made up of earnings on contributions will be taxed as ordinary income and could also incur a 10% federal penalty.

What Is a 529 Early Withdrawal Penalty?

A 529 withdrawal penalty is an additional 10% federal tax imposed on the earnings portion of a withdrawal from a 529 plan if the funds are used for nonqualified educational expenses. This penalty is levied on top of standard income tax, which is also applied to the earnings. The original contributions to the 529 are made with after-tax dollars and are not subject to the penalty or income tax upon withdrawal.

Keep in mind, however, that there’s no early 529 withdrawal penalty like with retirement accounts. Funds can be withdrawn at any time penalty-free, provided they are used for qualified education expenses. They can also remain in the account indefinitely if not immediately needed, continuing to grow tax-deferred.

Recommended: Benefits of Using a 529 College Savings Plan

Can I Make a Withdrawal From 529 Without Penalty?

Yes, you can make a withdrawal from a 529 without penalty so long as you use the funds for qualified education expenses. In addition, the 10% penalty may be waived in certain situations.

529 Withdrawal Penalty Exceptions

Here are some scenarios where the 10% penalty won’t apply (though taxes still will):

•  The beneficiary dies or becomes disabled.

•  The beneficiary attends a United States military academy

•  The qualified education expenses were only taxed because the student or parents claimed the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) or Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC).

•  The beneficiary received nontaxable educational assistance, including college scholarships, fellowship grants, veterans’ educational assistance, and employer-provided educational assistance.

What if My Child Doesn’t Go to College?

If you’ve been saving for a child’s college education and they decide not to go to college, there are some other ways you use your 529 funds that won’t trigger taxes and penalties. Here are some options to consider:

Change the Beneficiary

When you open a 529 plan, you designate a beneficiary, which is the person whose education you’re saving for. However, that name isn’t set in stone — you can change the beneficiary at any time.

If the child you’re investing for decides not to go to college (or gets a significant scholarship), you can change the beneficiary to a younger child, yourself, or even a future grandchild. Alternatively, you can also simply leave the account, let it grow, and change the beneficiary at a later date.

Trade School or Apprenticeships

If your child decides they want to attend a trade school or apprenticeship program rather than go to a traditional college, you can use 529 funds to cover those costs (without paying any taxes or penalties), provided the institution participates in federal student aid programs or is registered with the Department of Labor.

Repay Student Loans

As a result of the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act of 2019, 529 plan holders can make penalty-free withdrawals to pay off student loan debt (both federal and private) for the designated beneficiary, up to a lifetime maximum of $10,000 per person. You can also change the beneficiary multiple times to help pay down student debt for more than one family member.

Roll the Funds to a Roth IRA

Thanks to SECURE 2.0, passed at the end of 2022, you can make tax- and penalty-free rollovers to a Roth IRA, giving your beneficiary’s retirement savings a substantial head start. However, there are some conditions and limitations to keep in mind:

•  The 529 must have been open for at least 15 years.

•  Contributions made within the last five years aren’t eligible.

•  There is a $35,000 lifetime limit per beneficiary.

•  Rollover amounts are subject to annual Roth IRA contribution limits.

•  The Roth IRA must be in the beneficiary’s name

Other College Financing Options

If you don’t have enough funds in your 529 to fully pay for a child’s college education, there are still many ways to cover the costs. Here are some to explore:

•  Maximize financial aid: The first step is for the student to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) every year they are in school. The FAFSA determines eligibility for grants, work-study programs, and federal loans. Many schools also use FAFSA data to award their own institutional aid.

•  Research scholarships: Many private organizations, nonprofits, and community groups offer college scholarships. They may be awarded based on merit (such as academic, athletic, or artistic abilities) or financial need. Have your child search local community groups and online databases for various scholarship opportunities.

•  Borrow wisely: Federal student loans are often the best option for borrowing, as they typically offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans. If additional funding is needed, private student loans are an option, but your student may need a cosigner to get approved or secure a better interest rate.

💡 Quick Tip: Parents and sponsors with strong credit and income may find more-competitive rates on no-fees-required private parent student loans than federal parent PLUS loans. Federal PLUS loans also come with an origination fee.

The Takeaway

A 529 plan can be an excellent way to save for college, offering tax advantages for qualified educational expenses. However, it’s important to understand what constitutes a qualified withdrawal to avoid penalties and taxes on the earnings. If your child’s plans change, options like changing the beneficiary, using funds for trade schools or apprenticeships, and repaying student loans can help you utilize your savings without incurring penalties. By being aware of the rules and exceptions, you can maximize the benefits of your 529 plan and use your educational savings effectively.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.


Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

How do I withdraw from a 529 without paying a penalty?

You can withdraw from a 529 plan without paying a penalty by using the funds for qualified education expenses. These include tuition, fees, room and board (up to the school’s allowance), books, supplies, computers, internet, and K-12 tuition.

The 10% federal penalty may also be waived in specific situations, such as the death or disability of the beneficiary, attendance at a U.S. military academy, or if the beneficiary received nontaxable educational assistance, such as scholarships or fellowship grants, and you withdraw up to that amount. In these cases, however, you may still owe ordinary income tax on the earnings portion of the withdrawal.

What is the 529 loophole?

The “529 loophole” typically refers to the “grandparent loophole.” As a result of changes to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) in 2024–2025, studentsno longer need to report distributions from a grandparent-owned 529. As a result, grandparent support won’t impact a student’s eligibility for financial aid. Another popular 529 “loophole” (made possible by the SECURE 2.0 Act) allows unused 529 plan funds to be rolled over into a Roth IRA for the beneficiary, though restrictions and limitations apply.

What are the exceptions to the 529 withdrawal penalty?

The 10% federal penalty for nonqualified 529 withdrawals can be waived in several situations. These include the death or disability of the beneficiary and the beneficiary attending a U.S. military academy. Also, if the beneficiary received nontaxable educational assistance (such as scholarships, grants, or employer-provided educational assistance) and you withdraw up to that amount, the penalty will not apply. However, in these cases, ordinary income tax on the earnings portion of the withdrawal may still be owed.


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SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.

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

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.

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What Types of Scholarships Are There?

There are many types of scholarships, from academic and athletic to need-based and identity-specific scholarship programs. Recipients typically don’t need to repay the funds they receive in the form of scholarships, which makes this type of funding particularly appealing.

According to Sallie Mae’s annual “How America Pays for College” survey, 60% of U.S. families relied on scholarships to help pay for college in the 2024-25 academic year. The average scholarship award amount was $8,004.

Among those who didn’t tap scholarships, the leading reasons included lack of awareness (34%) and a belief that the student wouldn’t be able to win a scholarship (28%). However, with so many different types of scholarships available, you might find one that can help you pay for school.

Key Points

•  Various scholarships are available, including academic, athletic, and scholarships based on extracurricular activities.

•  Scholarships tailored to specific student characteristics or situations, such as religious affiliation or heritage, are also offered.

•  Need-based scholarships are awarded based on financial need and may require proof such as income documentation.

•  Employer scholarships are available for employees or their children, often requiring an affiliation with the company.

•  Military scholarships are available to eligible service members, veterans, and their families to help pay for educational expenses.

1. Academic Scholarships

Academic scholarships, also referred to as merit scholarships, are awarded to students who’ve demonstrated academic excellence or exceptional skill in an area. For example, a merit-based scholarship might be based on an applicant’s cumulative GPA.

This kind of scholarship is provided by two main sources:

Colleges

Many schools offer merit-based scholarships in order to attract competitive applicants. To be considered for one of these awards, often all you have to do is apply to the school. Criteria varies by school, but colleges will often look at high school GPA, standardized test scores, and/or class rank.

Private Organizations

Various organizations, foundations, and companies offer merit-based scholarships to students with strong academic performance, leadership skills, and community involvement. Some programs also consider factors like perseverance or commitment to specific fields.

💡 Quick Tip: You can fund your education with a competitive-rate, no-fees-required private student loan that covers up to 100% of school-certified costs.

2. Athletic Scholarships

Athletic scholarships are offered to student-athletes by their college. These full- and partial-scholarship programs are offered to a select few students who have shown exceptional skill in their sport.

Typically, when participating in an athletic scholarship you’re expected to maintain satisfactory academic performance to continue receiving funding. Note that fewer than 2% of high school athletes are awarded athletics scholarships for college.

Recommended: Balancing Being a Student Athlete & Academics in College

3. Scholarships for Extracurriculars

Students who participate in extracurricular activities might be able to find scholarship opportunities for their unique interests. For example, scholarships for students who dance, act, draw, or participate in Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts), Key Club, and more exist.

4. Student Specific Scholarships

There are many types of scholarships that are based on the student’s personal situation or affiliation. Some of these kinds of scholarships include:

Religious Scholarships

These scholarships are generally available to students who are actively involved in a faith-based community, or who are pursuing religion-based college courses.

First-Generation Scholarships

Students who are the first in their family to attend college may qualify for specific scholarships.

Legacy Scholarships

These scholarships are exclusively for students whose parents or close family members are alumni of the same institution.

Identity-Based Scholarships

Identity-based scholarships are designed to provide financial support to students from backgrounds that have been historically underrepresented or marginalized. Here are some examples:

Hispanic Heritage

Students of Hispanic or Latine heritage may be able to qualify for specific heritage-based scholarships like those offered by the Hispanic Scholarship Fund.

African American

Specific scholarships are available for Black students, including programs like the Ron Brown Scholar Program, the 5 Strong Scholarship Foundation, and the Blacks at Microsoft Scholarship.

Women

Scholarships for women are another subset of options.

LGBTQIA+

Numerous national and local organizations offer scholarships specifically for LGBTQIA+ students, recognizing the unique barriers they can face in higher education.

Learning Disabilities

These scholarships are available to select students who have diagnosed learning and attention issues. For example, the National Center for Learning Disabilities offers scholarships.

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5. Need-Based Scholarships

Need-based scholarships, also known as grants, are financial aid awards based on a student’s and their family’s demonstrated financial need, rather than on academic, athletic, or other merits. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is the primary application for federal, state, and institutional need-based aid, and it must be completed annually.

Need-based scholarships are also available through nonprofit and community organizations. Using an online scholarship search tool can help you find additional options.

💡 Quick Tip: Even if you don’t think you qualify for financial aid, you should fill out the FAFSA form. Many schools require it for merit-based scholarships, too.

6. Employer Scholarships

Employer scholarships are offered to employees of a company or an employee’s college bound student. Aside from having an affiliation with the employer, students might need to meet other eligibility criteria to be selected for an award.

7. Military Scholarships

There are many types of military scholarships available for service members, veterans, and their families, provided by Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs, the Department of Defense, veteran service organizations, and military aid societies.

8. STEM Scholarships

STEM scholarships may be accessible to students who are pursuing a college education in a science, technology, engineering, or math discipline. Some scholarship programs are offered specifically to students who identify with a particular group; for example, STEM scholarships for minority students.

9. Scholarships Based on Major

Regardless of what you’ve chosen as your college major, there may be a scholarship suited for you. These scholarships are provided by government agencies and private organizations that want to encourage students to pursue a particular area of study.

10. No Essay Scholarships

This kind of scholarship explicitly doesn’t include a written essay or personal statement component. You might prefer this type of scholarship if writing isn’t your forte, but there might be another required component in its place, such as a video or other creative submission.

Applying for Scholarships

There are various types of scholarships for college, which means there are just as many different requirements and deadlines to stay on top of. When applying to a scholarship, double check that you meet the basic eligibility criteria as a student.

Depending on the type of scholarship, it might require a minimum GPA, or it might ask for proof that you have financial needs, for example. After confirming that you meet the applicant requirements, review the steps needed to apply.

Some scholarship programs might ask for a personal statement or other academic or creative submissions. Similarly, some might request additional paperwork as part of your application, like a copy of your school transcripts.

Finally, make sure you note each scholarship’s deadline and submit your application on time. The last thing you want is to have done all of the work only to be denied because of a missed deadline.

Alternatives to Scholarships

If scholarships and other forms of financial aid aren’t enough to cover the cost of your education, you may also want to look into different types of student loans.

Federal Student Loans

Federal student loans are available to undergraduate and graduate students, as well as parents of dependent undergrads. They’re funded by the U.S. government, and most federal loans don’t require a credit check. In addition to offering fixed rates, they provide access to income-driven repayment and loan forgiveness programs.

Subsidized loans are federal loans available to undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need (as determined by the FAFSA). With this type of loan, the government pays the interest while you’re enrolled in school at least part-time and during the six-month grace period after you leave school.

Private Student Loans

When scholarships, grants, and federal student loans aren’t enough to cover the total cost of college, a private student loan could help. These loans are funded by private lenders and offer fixed or variable rates at different terms. These loans typically require a credit check or the addition of a creditworthy cosigner. Keep in mind that private student loans aren’t required to offer the same benefits, like income-driven repayment, as federal student loans.

💡 Quick Tip: New to private student loans? Visit the Private Student Loans Glossary to get familiar with key terms you will see during the process.

The Takeaway

Many scholarships are available to help students pay for college, from academic and athletic awards to those based on financial need, field of study, or cultural heritage. If scholarships and other types of financial aid don’t cover all your educational expenses, federal and private student loans can provide additional funding. Carefully research all your options to find the best way to finance your education.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.


Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

What are the three most common types of scholarships?

The most common types of scholarships include academic, athletic, and need-based scholarships. Academic scholarships reward students for their grades, test scores, or other academic achievements. Athletic scholarships are given to students who demonstrate exceptional skill in a particular sport. Need-based scholarships are awarded to students who have a demonstrated financial need to help cover college costs.

How many different scholarships are there?

There are millions of scholarships being offered each year. According to Educationdata.org, more than 1.8 million scholarships are awarded annually.

What are competitive scholarships?

Competitive scholarships are awards that typically have a rigorous selection process and a large pool of applicants. These scholarships often require strong academic records, compelling essays, letters of recommendation, and demonstrated leadership or community involvement. They are highly sought after due to their prestige and often substantial award amounts.


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SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.

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.


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.

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