What Is an FSA Debit Card?

Guide to FSA Debit Cards

If you have a flexible spending account, an FSA debit card allows you access these pre-tax dollars you’ve set aside. With an FSA debit card, you can pay for qualifying medical purchases without having to file a reimbursement claim through your employer.

In other words, an FSA debit card can make your healthcare spending that much easier. But it’s important to understand the full story on how these cards work to make sure you get the most out of one.

This guide will coach you through that, including:

•   What is an FSA debit card?

•   How can you get an FSA debit card?

•   How do you use an FSA debit card?

•   What are the pros and cons of an FSA debit card?

•   When should you use your regular debit card instead?

Read on and you’ll learn the best FSA debit card practice so you can benefit from the money in your flexible spending account.

What Is an FSA Debit Card?

An FSA debit card will typically come with your flexible spending account, which is a tax-advantaged account offered through an employer’s benefit package. The funds in your FSA can be used to help cover out-of-pocket medical expenses.

For 2026, once you’re enrolled in an FSA account, you can contribute up to $3,400 (an increase of $100 from the 2025 limit). If you’re married and your spouse has a plan through their employer, your spouse can also contribute up to $3,400 to that plan. This would allow you to jointly contribute up to $6,800 for your household.

An FSA debit card looks and performs like a bank debit card, but it is connected to your flexible savings account, not your checking. You can only use it to pay for qualified medical and dental expenses not covered by your health insurance.

Worth noting: You may wonder what an HSA vs. FSA is. Though they sound alike, a flexible spending account works differently than a health savings account (HSA). You can only get an FSA through an employer; freelancers and self-employed individuals are not eligible. Also, HSAs are only available to those who are enrolled in a high deductible health plan, or HDHP.

Recommended: Benefits of Health Savings Accounts

Ways That You Can Use an FSA Debit Card

There are quite a few FSA rules and regulations dictating what you can spend your untaxed funds on.

The list of FSA-eligible expenses is extensive, covering everything from co-pays to bandages. Here are just some of the things you may be able to use your FSA debit card for:

•   Medical copays and deductibles

•   Prescription medications

•   Approved over-the-counter drugs, such as allergy, cough, and pain medications

•   Testing kits, including those for COVID-19 and cholesterol

•   Crutches, canes, and walkers

•   Dental expenses, including crowns and dentures

•   Vision expenses, including glasses and contact lenses

•   Fertility treatments

•   Hospital and ambulance fees

•   Lab fees

•   Acupuncture, chiropractic treatments, and massage therapy.

Ways That You Cannot Use an FSA Debit Card

An FSA debit card can be a convenient way to pay for medical fees, prescriptions, and other health-related items your health insurance doesn’t cover. But not all wellness-related expenses are covered. Here are some things you cannot use an FSA card for, including:

•   Groceries. Although diet is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, your FSA card won’t pay for, say, organic beef and green beans.

•   Cosmetic procedures. Expenses for electrolysis, face lifts, hair transplants, and the like are typically not covered.

•   Dining out. You can’t use an FSA debit card at a restaurant, even if it’s a vegan or “health food” eatery

•   Vitamins and nutritional supplements, unless you can prove they were prescribed by a physician

•   Getting cash. Unlike with a debit card, you will not be able to use an FSA card to withdraw cash funds from your account.

Recommended: Guide to Practicing Financial Self-Care

Process of Getting an FSA Debit Card

The steps to getting an FSA debit card are pretty straightforward:

•   Sign up for an FSA account offered by your employer. There is typically an “open season,” a window of time during the year when you are eligible to enroll.

•   Make a contribution or set up a contribution commitment for the account. These accounts are typically pre-funded, by the way, which is a nice perk. What that means: If you enroll in an FSA on January 1st and pledge to contribute $2,400 over the year, paying $200 a month, the $2,400 becomes available for you to use right away.

•   Wait for your FSA debit card. Once you enroll and contribute to your FSA account, the debit will be sent to your address. This can take 7 to 10 business days.

Recommended: HSA vs. HRA: What’s the Difference?

Pros and Cons of FSA Debit Cards

If you are someone who anticipates having frequent out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, a flexible spending account and an FSA debit card can be convenient. It can be a good way for you to save pre-tax dollars and put them toward those expenditures.

However, it’s worthwhile to consider both the upsides and downsides to having an FSA debit card:

Pros of having an FSA account and debit card

•   Easy access to tax-free funds to spend on qualifying medical expenses. You can use the FSA card like a debit card to make payments.

•   Online shopping. You can use your FSA debit card for online shopping, as long as it’s with a vendor that accepts the FSA card. Amazon, CVS, and other online shopping sites identify which items are FSA eligible, making shopping even simpler.

•   Avoiding pesky paperwork. Using the FSA debit card means you don’t have to keep track of receipts and file a reimbursement report with your employer.

•   No cash out-of-pocket. With an FSA debit card, you’ll avoid a trip to the ATM or having to use your personal debit card, and you won’t have to wait for a reimbursement. What’s more, you can avoid using a credit card for some health-related expenses, thereby possibly avoiding hefty interest charges, too.

Cons of having an FSA debit card

Here are some potential downsides to using an FSA debit card:

•   Contributions are use-it-or-lose-it. In many cases, if you don’t use your FSA funds by the end of the year, you will forfeit the remaining balance. Some employers may allow for a grace period to spend the money or for certain amounts to be rolled over. But this aspect is probably the biggest drawback of having an FSA account and debit card.

•   If you leave, the money stays. Usually, if you quit or change jobs, the money you contributed to your FSA stays with your employer.

•   No reward perks. You won’t get any bonus miles or other award points from swiping an FSA debit card.

Recommended: Beginner’s Guide to Health Insurance

FSA Debit Card vs Traditional Debit Card

An FSA debit card and personal debit card from your bank or credit union share a number of features. Both provide access to funds for in-person purchases, and you should have no issues using a debit card online nor an FSA debit card.

But there are some distinct differences between an FSA debit card and traditional debit card, including:

FSA Debit Card Traditional Debit Card
FSA debit cards can only be used to purchase qualifying medical expenses Debit cards from a bank can be used to purchase just about anything
With an FSA debit card, it’s a good idea to keep the receipts from your purchases, in case you need them for your employer or the IRS Debit card purchases are personal, and typically don’t require reporting to the IRS
Account funds attached to an FSA debit card can expire at the end of the year There’s no time limit for spending your own personal account money
FSA debit card purchases don’t usually come with any reward perks or bonus points With some debit cards, you can build up reward points and bonus miles with every purchase
You can only use FSA debit cards at stores and medical locations that accept them You can use your debit card at almost any store, venue, or medical facility that accepts card payments
You cannot get cash with your FSA card You can get cash with your traditional debit card, whether at an ATM or other location

Recommended: What Is a Debit Card?

The Takeaway

Using an FSA debit card can be a hassle-free way to pay for qualifying, out-of-pocket medical expenses. These cards function much like a traditional debit card, helping you pay for health-related items with the pre-tax dollars that are in your account. However, if you have one of these cards, it’s wise to know the pros and cons so you can use it most effectively.

3 Money Tips

1.    If you’re saving for a short-term goal — whether it’s a vacation, a wedding, or the down payment on a house — consider opening a high-yield savings account. The higher APY that you’ll earn will help your money grow faster, but the funds stay liquid, so they are easy to access when you reach your goal.

2.    If you’re creating a budget, try the 50/30/20 budget rule. Allocate 50% of your after-tax income to the “needs” of life, like living expenses and debt. Spend 30% on wants, and then save the remaining 20% towards saving for your long-term goals.

3.    When you overdraft your checking account, you’ll likely pay a non-sufficient fund fee of, say, $35. Look into linking a savings account to your checking account as a backup to avoid that, or shop around for a bank that doesn’t charge you for overdrafting.

Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy 3.30% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings with eligible direct deposit.

FAQ

Can you be denied an FSA debit card?

If you qualify for an FSA account through your employer and the account comes with an FSA debit card, there’s little chance you would be denied one, unless you have missed the deadline for the enrollment period.

Is it good to have an FSA debit card and a traditional debit card?

It’s wise to have an FSA debit card and a traditional debit card. You can only use an FSA debit card to pay for qualifying medical expenses at vendors who will accept it.. You will likely need a standard debit card to pay for groceries, clothes, and life’s other expenses.

Can I withdraw cash with an FSA debit card?

Unlike with a traditional debit card, you cannot withdraw cash with an FSA debit card.

Does a bank provide an FSA debit card?

An FSA debit card is not provided by a bank, but rather through a vetted healthcare FSA vendor chosen by your employer.


Photo credit: iStock/praetorianphoto

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

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See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

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

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

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

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Creating an Investment Plan for Your Child

From saving for college to getting a leg up on retirement, creating an investment plan for your child just makes sense. Why? Because when your kids are young, time is on their side in a really big way and it’s only smart to take advantage of it.

In addition, there are several different avenues to consider when setting up an investment plan for your kids. Each one potentially can help set them up for a stronger financial future.

🛈 SoFi currently does not offer custodial banking or investment products.

Why Invest for Your Child?

There’s a reason for the cliché, “Time is money.” The power of time combined with money may help generate growth over time.

The technical name for the advantageous combination of time + money is known as compound interest or compound growth. That means: when money earns a bit of interest or investment gains over time, that additional money also grows and the investment can slowly snowball.

Example of Compounding

Here is a simple example: If you invest $1,000, and it earns 5% per year, that’s $50 ($1,000 x 0.05 = $50). So at the end of one year you’d have $1,050.

That’s when the snowball slowly starts to grow: Now that $1,050 also earns 5%, which means the following year you’d have $1,152.50 ($1,050 x 0.05 = $52.50 + $1,050).

And that $1,152.50 would earn 5% the following year… and so on. You get the idea. It’s money earning more money.

That said, there are no guarantees any investment will grow. It’s also possible an investment can lose money. But given enough time, an investment plan you make for your child has time to recover if there are any losses or volatility over the years.

Benefits of Investing for Your Child Early On

There are other benefits to investing for your kids when they’re young. In addition to the potential snowball effect of compounding, you have the ability to set up different types of investment plans for your child to capture that potential long-term growth.

Each type of investment plan or savings account can help provide resources your child may need down the road.

•   You can fund a college or educational savings plan.

•   You can open an IRA for your child (individual retirement account).

•   You can set up a high-yield savings account, or certificate of deposit (CD).

Even small deposits in these accounts can benefit from potential growth over time, helping to secure your child’s financial future in more than one area. And what parent doesn’t want that?

Are Gifts to Children Taxed?

The IRS does have rules about how much money you can give away before you’re subject to something called the gift tax. But before you start worrying if you’ll have to pay a gift tax on the $100 bill you slipped into your niece’s graduation card, it’s important to know that the gift tax generally only affects large gifts.

This is because there is an “annual exclusion” for the gift tax, which means that gifts up to a certain amount are not subject to the gift tax. For 2025 and 2026, it’s $19,000 per year; if you and your spouse both give money to your child (or anyone), the annual exclusion is $38,000.

That means if you’re married, you can give financial gifts up to $38,000 per recipient in 2025 and 2026 without needing to report that gift to the IRS.

Also, the recipient of the gift, in this case your child, will not owe any tax.

Are There Investment Plans for Children?

Yes, there are a number of investment plans parents can open for kids these days. Depending on your child’s age, you may want to open different accounts at different times. If you have a minor child or children, you would open custodial accounts that you hold in their name until they are legally able to take over the account.

Investing for Younger Kids

One way to seed your child’s investing plan is by opening a custodial brokerage account, established through the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act (UGMA) or the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA).

While the assets belong to the minor child until they come of age (18 to 21, depending on the state), they’re managed by a custodian, often the parent. But opening and funding a custodial account can be a way to teach your child the basics of investing and money management.

There are no limits on how much money parents or other relatives can deposit in a custodial account, though contributions over $19,000 per year ($38,000 for married couples) would exceed the gift tax exclusion and need to be reported to the IRS.

UGMA and UTMA custodial accounts have different rules than, say, 529 plans. Be sure to understand how these accounts work before setting one up.

Investing for Teens

Teenagers who are interested in learning more about money management as well as investing have a couple of options.

•   Some brokerages also offer accounts for minor teens. The money in the account is considered theirs, but these are custodial accounts and the teenager doesn’t take control of the account until they reach the age of majority in their state (either 18 or 21).

These accounts can be supervised by the custodian, who can help the child make trades and learn about investing in a hands-on environment.

•   If your teenager has earned income, from babysitting or lawn mowing, you can also set up a custodial Roth IRA for your child. (If a younger child has earned income, say, from work as a performer, they can also fund a Roth IRA.)

Opening a Roth IRA offers a number of potential benefits for kids: top of the list is that the money they save and invest within the IRA has years to grow, and can provide a tax-free income stream in retirement.

Recommended: Paying for College: A Parents’ Guide

Starting a 529 Savings Plan

Saving for a child’s college education is often top of mind when parents think about planning for their kids’ futures.

A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged savings plan that encourages saving for education costs by offering a few key benefits. In some states you can deduct the amount you contribute to a 529 plan. But even if your state doesn’t allow the tax deduction, the money within a 529 plan grows tax free, and qualified withdrawals are also tax free.

That includes money used to pay for tuition, room and board, lab fees, textbooks, and more. Qualified withdrawals can be used to pay for elementary, secondary, and higher education expenses, as well as qualified loan repayments, and some apprenticeship expenses. (Withdrawals that are used for non-qualified expenses may be subject to taxes and a penalty.)

Though all 50 states sponsor 529 plans you’re not required to invest in the plan that’s offered in your home state — you can shop around to find the plan that’s the best fit for you. You and your child will be able to use the funds to pay for education-related expenses in whichever state they choose.

Recommended: Benefits of Using a 529 College Savings Plan

Other Ways to Invest for Education

Given the benefits of investing for your child’s education, there are additional options to consider.

Prepaid Tuition Plans

A prepaid tuition plan allows you to prepay tuition and fees at certain colleges and universities at today’s prices. Such plans are usually available only at public schools and for in-state students, but some can be converted for use at out-of-state or private colleges.

The main benefit of this plan is that you could save big on the price of college by prepaying before prices go up. One of the main disadvantages is that, with some exceptions, these funds only cover tuition costs (not room and board, for example).

Education Savings Plans

An education savings plan or ESA is similar to a 529 plan, in that the money saved grows tax free and can be withdrawn tax free to pay for qualified educational expenses for elementary, secondary, and higher education.

ESAs, however, come with income caps. Single filers with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) over $110,000, and married couples filing jointly who have a MAGI over $220,000 cannot contribute to an ESA.
ESAs also come with contribution limits: You can only contribute up to $2,000 per year, per child, and ESA contributions are only allowed up to the beneficiary’s 18th birthday, unless they’re a special needs student.

And while many states offer a tax deduction for contributing to a 529 plan, that’s not the case with ESA contributions; they are not tax deductible at the federal or the state level.

Investing Your Education Funds

Once you make contributions to an educational account, you can invest your funds. You will likely have a range of investment options to choose from, including mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which vary from state to state.

Many plans also offer the equivalent of age-based target-date funds, which start out with a more aggressive allocation (e.g. more in stocks), and gradually dial back to become more conservative as college approaches.

Depending on your child’s level of interest, this could be an opportunity to have them learn more about the investing process.

Thinking Ahead to Retirement Accounts

It’s worth knowing that as soon as your child is working, you are able to open a custodial Roth IRA, as discussed above. The assets inside the IRA belong to your child, but you have control over investing them until they become an adult.

While it’s possible to open a custodial account for a traditional IRA, most minor children won’t reap the tax benefits of this type of IRA. Most children don’t need tax-deductible contributions to lower their taxable income.

For that reason, it may make more sense to set up a custodial Roth IRA for your child, assuming the child has earned income. A Roth can offer tax-free income in retirement, assuming the withdrawals are qualified.

When to Choose a Savings Account for Your Child

Investing is a long-term proposition. Investing for long periods allows you to take advantage of compounding, and may help you ride out the volatility may occur in the stock market. But sometimes you want a safer place to keep some cash for your child — and that’s when opening a savings account is appropriate.

If you think you’ll need the money you’re saving for your child in the next three to five years, consider putting it in a high-yield savings account, which offers higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts.

You might also want to consider a certificate of deposit (CD), which also offers higher interest rates than traditional saving vehicles. The only catch with CDs is that in exchange for this higher interest rate, you essentially agree to keep your money in the CD for a set amount of time, from a few months to a few years.

While these savings vehicles don’t offer the same high rates of return you might find in the market, they are a less risky option and offer a steady rate of return.

The Takeaway

When considering your long-term goals for your child, having an investing plan might make sense. Whether you want to save for college, help your child get ahead on retirement, or just set up a savings account for your kids, now is the time to start. In fact, the sooner the better, as time can help money grow (just as it helps children grow!).

FAQ

Can a child have an investment account?

A parent or other adult can open a custodial brokerage account for a minor child or a teenager. While the custodian manages the account, the funds belong to the child, who gains control over the account when they reach the age of majority in their state (18 or 21).

What is the best way to invest money for a child?

The best way is to get started sooner rather than later. Perhaps start with one goal — i.e. saving for college — and open a 529 plan. Or, if your child has earned income from a side job, you can open a custodial Roth IRA for them.

What is a good age to start investing as a kid?

When your child shows an interest in investing, or when they have a specific goal, whether that’s at age 7 or 17, that’s when you’ll have a willing participant. Ideally you want to invest when they’re younger, so time can work in your favor.


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A smiling man relaxes on a couch while using a laptop, possibly researching the average American net worth.

Average American Net Worth by Age and Year

The average net worth of Americans is about $1.06 million, according to the Federal Reserve’s most recent Survey of Consumer Finances, released in October 2023. Meanwhile, the median net worth of American households is $192,900, according to the same Federal Reserve Survey.

Net worth measures the difference between assets (what you own) and liabilities (what you owe). Understanding the average American net worth by age can be useful for comparing your own progress in building wealth.

Key Points

•  Average American net worth stands at approximately $1.06 million according to Federal Reserve data, while the median net worth is significantly lower at $192,900.

•  Net worth typically rises throughout working years, starting lowest for those under 35 and peaking between ages 65-74.

•  Historical trends show net worth declined during the 2008 financial crisis years but rebounded sharply between 2013 and 2022.

•  Geographic location significantly impacts net worth, with Hawaii showing the highest median at $692,700 while Arkansas reports among the lowest at $62,500.

•  Calculating net worth involves subtracting total liabilities from total assets.

What the Average American Net Worth Includes

The Federal Reserve collects data on net worth in the U.S. using the Survey of Consumer Finances. This survey is conducted every three years; the most recent undertaking began in March 2022. Findings are typically published in the year following the year the survey was completed.

To understand wealth and economic well-being in the U.S., the Federal Reserve looks at several specific factors:

•  Income

•  Homeownership status and home value

•  Debt (including mortgage debt, credit card debt, vehicle loan debt, and student debt)

•  Assets (including investment accounts, deposit accounts held at banks, vehicles, and business equity)

The Federal Reserve uses net worth as a gauge to measure increases or decreases in overall wealth levels. The survey also takes into account demographic factors, such as age, race, ethnicity, and level of education.

If you’re interested in calculating your net worth, you’d use similar metrics. For example, you could use an online net worth calculator to enter in your total debts and assets to determine your net worth. When calculating net worth home equity may or may not be included, depending on your preferences. It’s possible to get a positive or negative number, depending on how your liabilities compare to your assets.

You can also use a budget planner app to track net worth as well as your spending, credit scores, and savings. This type of money management tool can deliver a snapshot of your finances to your mobile device.

Recommended: Does Net Worth Include Home Equity?

How the Average American Net Worth Varies By Age

Using the Survey of Consumer Finances as a guide, net worth typically rises over the average American’s lifetime before gradually beginning to decline. Average net worth is lowest for Americans under age 35; between the ages of 35 and 44, the average net worth makes a sizable leap.

There’s another significant bump that happens between the ages of 45 and 54, then the pace at which net worth increases begin to slow. Once Americans turn 75, their average net worth begins to decline.

This pattern makes sense, however, if you consider what the typical person’s working career and retirement might look like. Someone in their 20s likely isn’t making much money yet. They probably don’t own a home and a lot of what they do make might go to repaying student loans, car loans, or credit cards.

In their 30s and 40s, they may move into higher-paying jobs. Their debts may be mostly paid down or paid off so they can afford to buy a home. By the time they reach their mid-40s, they may be in their peak earning years and their home might have appreciated in value since they purchased it.

Net worth growth begins to gradually slow down once they’re in their 50s and 60s. That could be chalked up to moving some of their portfolio into safer investments or beginning to draw down their savings if they’re retired. Once they reach their 70s, they may be spending more of their assets on health care, including long-term care. Or they might have downsized into a home with a lower value.

Age Range Average Net Worth
Less than 35 $183,380
35-44 $548,070
45-54 $971,270
55-64 $1,564,070
65-74 $1,780,720
75+ $1,620,100

Source: The Federal Reserve’s 2022 Survey of Consumer Finances

How the Average American Net Worth Varies Over Time

The Survey of Consumer Finances provides a snapshot of how the average American net worth has changed over time. From 1998 to 2007, for instance, there’s a steady increase in net worth among American households. But between 2007 and 2013, the average American net worth declined. This makes sense, given that the 2008 financial crisis had an impact on millions of American households. Between 2013 and 2019, net worth rebounded sharply, and it continued to rise between 2019 and 2022.

This begs the question of how much net worth might change again if the economy were to experience another downturn. If home values were to drop or a bear market caused stock prices to dip, it stands to reason that Americans’ might see their net worth fall. There is a silver lining, as economies do recover over time and the impacts may be less for younger investors. But a drop in net worth might not be as welcome for someone who’s close to retirement.

Survey of Consumer Finances Year Average American Net Worth
2019 – 2022 $1.06 million
2016 – 2019 $748,800
2013 – 2016 $692,100
2010 – 2013 $534,600
2007 – 2010 $498,800
2004 – 2007 $556,300
2001 – 2003 $448,200
1998 – 2001 $395,500

How the Average American Net Worth Varies by State

The Survey of Consumer Finances does not track net worth data by state. But the Census Bureau does compile information on household wealth and debt at the state level.

In terms of what influences the average net worth by state, there are a number of factors that come into play. Some of the things that can influence net worth include:

•  Homeownership rates

•  Property values

•  Employment opportunities

•  Average incomes

•  Access to education and job training

According to the most recent data available from the Census Bureau, the median net worth across all states was $191,100 as of 2023. “Median” represents households in the middle of the pack, so to speak, for net worth calculations. Here’s what the median net worth looks like in each state.

State Median Net Worth State Median Net Worth
Alabama $103,500 Montana $258,100
Alaska (B)* Nebraska $285,800
Arizona $204,300 Nevada $173,700
Arkansas $62,500 New Hampshire $412,600
California $273,800 New Jersey $312,400
Colorado $370,000 New Mexico $77,500
Connecticut $253,100 New York $132,800
Delaware (B)* North Carolina $170,400
District of Columbia (B)* North Dakota (B)*
Florida $255,100 Ohio $154,400
Georgia $167,000 Oklahoma $78,510
Hawaii $692,700 Oregon $248,900
Idaho $313,400 Pennsylvania $207,700
Illinois $209,500 Rhode Island (B)*
Indiana $141,300 South Carolina $129,900
Iowa $177,100 South Dakota (B)*
Kansas $144,200 Tennessee $172,000
Kentucky $81,900 Texas $149,500
Louisiana $85,230 Utah $282,800
Maine $303,700 Vermont (B)*
Maryland $330,500 Virginia $219,100
Massachusetts $394,900 Washington $456,500
Michigan $167,000 West Virginia $115,000
Minnesota $271,300 Wisconsin $188,000
Mississippi $87,280 Wyoming (B)*
Missouri $118,700

*Note: Where a (B) is entered, that means the base was less than 200,000 households or a sample size of less than 50 so the Census Bureau did not record net worth information for those states.

Recommended: What Is The Difference Between Transunion and Equifax?

The Takeaway

As discussed, net worth captures the difference between an individual’s assets and their debts. In the U.S. the average net worth varies by location and age. Tracking net worth is something you may want to do monthly if you’re paying off debt. You can use a money tracker app to figure out how long it will take you to become debt-free based on what you can afford to pay. As your income increases you may be able to pay down debt in larger amounts to increase your net worth faster.

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

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

FAQ

What is the average net worth by age for California?

The median net worth for Californians is $273,800, according to the Census Bureau. This figure represents the middle ground between California residents of all ages from the highest net worth to the lowest.

What is the average net worth by age for New York?

The median net worth for New Yorkers of all ages is $132,800, according to the Census Bureau. This figure represents the middle ground between New York residents whose net worth is at the highest and lowest end of the spectrum.

What is the average net worth by age for Florida?

The median net worth for Florida residents of all ages is $255,100, according to the Census Bureau. This amount represents the middle ground between Floridians with the highest and lowest net worth.


About the author

Rebecca Lake

Rebecca Lake

Rebecca Lake has been a finance writer for nearly a decade, specializing in personal finance, investing, and small business. She is a contributor at Forbes Advisor, SmartAsset, Investopedia, The Balance, MyBankTracker, MoneyRates and CreditCards.com. Read full bio.



Photo credit: iStock/Prostock-Studio

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.

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-Q425-060

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A couple on a couch reviews a document and laptop, discussing their finances and the tax benefits of marriage.

What Are the Tax Benefits of Marriage?

The tax benefits of marriage may not be a top consideration when someone is deciding whether to get hitched or stay single. Still, married couples can sometimes qualify for extra savings when it comes to their income tax rate and certain credits, exemptions, exclusions, and deductions.

It isn’t all roses and rainbows, however. Couples may also lose some tax breaks when they change their filing status. But with careful planning, spouses may find there are tax benefits to being married vs. staying single.

Here’s a look at some of the tax bonuses (and penalties) couples can expect when they wed.

Key Points

•   Married couples filing jointly may benefit from equalized tax brackets, potentially landing in the same or lower bracket than when single.

•   Estate and gift tax exemptions double for married couples, allowing protection of up to $27.98 million in 2025 compared to $13.99 million for individuals.

•   Principal residence exclusion permits married homeowners to shield up to $500,000 in profit from capital gains tax when selling, double the single filer limit.

•   Spousal IRA contributions enable working spouses to fund retirement accounts for non-working partners.

•   Joint filing creates both advantages and potential downsides, including shared tax liability and higher thresholds for certain surtaxes.

Tax Benefits of Marriage, Explained

Spouses have two basic options when filing their income tax returns: They can combine all their information on one return with the status of “married filing jointly,” or they can file two returns as “married filing separately.” (Even couples who were married at the very end of the tax year can no longer file as single.)

The decision to file separately can make more sense sometimes, depending on each spouse’s income and other factors. But the IRS says that when it comes to money and marriage, the joint filing status usually has more benefits for couples.

Advantages of filing jointly can include:

Your Tax Bracket as a Couple Could Be Lower

In the past, combining incomes on a joint tax return often bumped one or both spouses into a higher tax bracket with a higher tax rate than when they were single.

Changes to the tax code, however, have lessened the impact of this so-called “marriage penalty” on some couples. When the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) took effect in 2018, the income levels for joint filers in all but the highest tax brackets were doubled, reducing the chances that married couples would be penalized.

Some high-income couples still may land in a higher bracket after marriage. But with the TCJA’s equalized brackets, more spouses can expect to find themselves in the same or even a lower tax bracket than they had when they were single.

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Recommended: Money Tracker App

Federal Estate and Gift Tax Limits Are Higher

Although people generally are referring to higher or lower tax brackets when discussing the pros and cons of filing jointly, marriage also can affect couples who plan to gift assets to their heirs.

Couples who wish to transfer wealth to loved ones during their lifetime or upon their death may be able to give twice as much as single filers without being taxed. Here’s what that looks like for 2025:

•   The IRS set the annual gift tax exclusion for individuals at $19,000 per recipient (children, grandchildren, etc.) for 2025. That means this year, married couples can give $38,000 per recipient tax-free without using a portion of their lifetime gift tax exemption.

•   The lifetime estate and gift tax exemption for individuals was set at $13.99 million for 2025. So while a single person can protect $13.99 million for 2025 without having to pay federal estate or gift tax, a married couple can shield a total of $27.98 million.

Other Gift and Estate Tax Advantages

Besides the tax advantages mentioned above, marriage also can allow spouses who are both U.S. citizens to transfer or leave unlimited amounts of money to each other without paying taxes. Any assets exceeding the couple’s estate tax exemption won’t be taxed until the surviving spouse dies.

Taxes on Social Security Benefits

Many people aren’t aware that a portion of their Social Security benefits can be taxed if their income is above a certain threshold. This is true whether you’re single or married, but the IRS thresholds are a bit higher (although not doubled) for married couples.

Here’s how it breaks down based on what the IRS refers to as “combined income.” (Your adjustable gross income + nontaxable interest + ½ of your Social Security benefits = your combined income.):

•   If you file as single and your combined income is between $25,000 and $34,000, you may have to pay income tax on up to 50% of your Social Security benefits.

•   If you’re married filing jointly and your combined income is between $32,000 and $44,000, up to 50% of your Social Security benefits may be taxable.

•   If you file as single and your combined income is more than $34,000, up to 85% percent of your benefits may be taxable.

•   If you’re married filing jointly and your combined income is more than $44,000, you may have to pay taxes on up to 85% of your Social Security benefits.

•   You don’t have to pay any taxes on your benefits if you fall below these thresholds.

If you’re married or expect to marry someday, you may want to keep taxes on Social Security in mind as you and your spouse plan your retirement together.

Earned Income Credit and Other Credits

When you’re married, you must file jointly to qualify for the Earned Income Credit (EIC). You generally can’t file separately and claim the credit. And that can be good news and bad news for couples.

The EIC is meant to help low- to moderate-income workers and families save on their income taxes. To be eligible for the credit, you must have earned income. But there are limits on how much you can earn and still qualify based on family size.

Here are a couple of examples of how marriage can result in a penalty or bonus when it comes to the EIC.

•   Penalty: The income thresholds are higher for joint filers than they are for single filers, but they aren’t doubled. If both spouses are working and both earn a moderate income, together they might exceed the limit for their family size before a single filer earning a moderate income would.

•   Bonus: On the other hand, if one spouse works and the other doesn’t, as a couple they might qualify for the EIC based on the working spouse’s earned income. A single person who doesn’t have any income can’t take the credit.

Other credits and deductions that can be affected by a change in your filing status include the child and dependent care credit, the student loan payment interest deduction, the Saver’s Credit, and the American Opportunity Tax Credit. Generally, married couples who file separately can’t claim these on a return.

Personal Residence Exclusion

The principal residence exclusion allows homeowners who meet certain criteria to shield all or a portion of the profit they make on the sale of their home from capital gains tax. Single filers can exclude up to $250,000, but couples who are married filing jointly can exclude twice that — up to $500,000.

While those numbers may have seemed generous just a few years ago, with the recent rapid rise in what homes are worth, tax consequences from a home sale may be more likely these days. The $500,000 exclusion married homeowners are allowed still may not be enough to protect their entire profit when they sell a home, but it can give them a little more breathing room than singles can count on.

Recommended: Does Net Worth Include Home Equity?

IRA for Jobless Spouse

Usually, under IRS rules, you can’t contribute to an individual retirement account (IRA) unless you earn an income in that year. But there’s a work-around that can benefit some married couples who file jointly.

If one spouse earns income and the other does not, and the couple files jointly on their taxes, the spouse who works can contribute to a “spousal IRA” that’s in the name of the spouse who isn’t working.

This allows couples to maximize their retirement savings — even if one spouse takes some time away from work, perhaps to care for their small children or elderly parents. And depending on what works better for your circumstances, you can use a Roth or traditional IRA as a spousal IRA.

“Traditional IRAs can help you lower your tax bill and are great for individuals who earn too much money to contribute directly to a Roth IRA,” says Brian Walsh, CFP® and Head of Advice & Planning at SoFi. “Higher-income earners might not get to deduct contributions from their taxes now, but they can take advantage of tax-deferred growth between now and retirement.”

The rules regarding annual contributions and tax deductions are the same for spousal IRAs as they are for traditional IRAs. If you have questions, you can ask your financial advisor or tax preparer, or go to the IRS website for information.

You Can Use Your Spouse as a Tax Shelter

If you or your spouse owns a business, you’re both probably hoping it’s a success. But if it isn’t, it could end up being a tax benefit — if you can claim those losses as a write-off on your joint return.

If it looks as though this strategy might be useful — especially in the first year or so of the business — you may want to ensure personal and business transactions stay separate by opening a business bank account. Or you can just keep better track of your income and spending with a free budget app.

Higher Deduction for Charitable Contributions

These days, nearly 9 out of 10 taxpayers take the higher standard deduction put in place by the TCJA — and that means they can’t claim a tax break for charitable contributions on their federal return.

But if you do end up itemizing on your return, being married could help you maximize the tax deduction you get for charitable giving. Although your maximum deduction is limited to a certain percentage of your adjusted gross income (usually no more than 60%), if you file jointly, the deduction is based on your combined AGI. That means you may be able to donate more in a particular year than a single filer.

Couples Can “Shop” for Tax-Friendly Benefits

Unless they’re both with the same company, a working couple may be able to pick and choose from their employers’ different benefits packages to take advantage of certain tax breaks. A couple of those benefit options might include:

Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

If one spouse’s employer offers an FSA, you may be able to use it to pay for qualifying medical, vision, and dental costs for your family, or for qualifying dependent-care programs. The amount you contribute to the account will be deducted from your salary pre-tax, which can help cut your income tax bill.

Health Spending Account (HSA)

If one employer offers a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) and you choose that health insurance option, your family can benefit from opening an HSA to save for future medical expenses.

Contributions to an HSA are tax-deductible, and distributions are tax-free when used for qualified medical expenses. Unlike the use-it-or-lose-it funds in an FSA, you can keep the money in the account as long as you like. And any growth in your HSA from interest and/or investment returns is also tax-free.

Filing One Return Instead of Two

Spouses who file jointly have to worry about completing only one income tax return. And if your financial lives already are intertwined (you do your budgeting as a couple and have a joint bank account vs. separate accounts), it may be easier to file jointly than to separate everything for two returns.

It also could make it easier to get your return done by the tax deadline — or maybe even early, so you can get your tax refund faster. And if you hire a professional to prepare one return instead of two, it could save you some money.

How the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Could Affect Future Taxes

The clock was ticking on several of the tax benefits and penalties married couples could experience under the TCJA (some of which are listed above). However, the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill in July 2025 made certain key provisions permanent. They include:

•   Income tax brackets and rates

•   Standard deduction

•   Personal exemptions

•   Limits on deductions for mortgage and home equity loan interest

•   Estate and gift tax exemption

Recommended: Should I Sell My House Now or Wait?

Tax Downsides to Marriage to Consider

Besides the potential penalties already mentioned throughout this post, there can be other downsides to marriage when it comes to taxes, including:

•   When you sign a joint return, the IRS holds both spouses responsible for the validity of everything that’s on it. Even if one spouse manages the money in your marriage (paying the bills, investing, and doing the taxes), it’s a good idea to go over the return carefully together before you both sign.

•   If one spouse defaults on a federal student loan after you marry or owes back child support, your joint refund could be delayed or garnished to pay the debt.

•   If you’re a high-earning couple, you might have to pay the net investment income tax and/or the Medicare surtax. The threshold on these taxes is $200,000 for single filers, and only goes up to $250,000 for married couples filing jointly.

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The Takeaway

Marriage can impact just about every aspect of your life — including the taxes you pay. There are tax benefits and penalties to consider as you plan your future and your finances together. Some potential benefits include a lower tax bracket, estate tax advantages, the Earned Income Credit, and the Personal Residence Exemption, among others. But watch out for the net investment income tax and the Medicare surtax. According to the IRS, overall most couples benefit from filing jointly.

Keeping track of your combined spending, saving, and investing can make it easier to manage your money throughout the year, and to work on your taxes when it’s time. And a money tracker app can help you do it all in one place — with credit score monitoring, spending breakdowns, financial insights, and more.

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

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

FAQ

Is there a tax advantage to marriage?

While every couple’s situation is different, spouses who file jointly may enjoy some advantages when it comes to certain tax exclusions, exemptions, deductions, and credits.

Do you get a bigger refund if you’re married?

If your filing status is married filing jointly and you make the most of the many credits and deductions available to you as a couple, you may see a bigger refund.

Do you pay less taxes if you are married?

You won’t automatically pay less taxes because you’re married. But with careful planning, you may be able to take advantage of your marital status to save money on your income taxes.


Photo credit: iStock/simpson33

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

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

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.

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 woman in an apricot-colored sweater sits in a softly lit room holding a tablet computer and smiling down at a piece of paper.

How Much Will a $350,000 Mortgage Cost You?

Over the life of a $350,000 mortgage with a 6.00% interest rate, borrowers could expect to pay from $155,682 to $347,515 in total interest, depending on whether they opt for a 15-year or 30-year loan term. But the actual cost of a mortgage depends on several factors, including the interest rate, and whether you have to pay private mortgage insurance.

Besides interest, homebuyers need to account for a down payment, closing costs, and the long-term costs of taxes and insurance policies that are included in a $350,000 mortgage payment.

Key Points

•   The total cost of a $350,000 mortgage can range from $2,000 to over $3,500 monthly, depending on the loan term and interest rate; the payment includes principal and interest, and possibly property taxes, mortgage insurance, and homeowners insurance.

•   A longer 30-year term results in a lower monthly payment but more interest paid, while a shorter 15-year term results in a higher monthly payment but less than half the total interest paid.

•   Homebuyers who make a down payment less than 20% usually have to pay for private mortgage insurance as part of their loan payment.

•   Borrowers must account for upfront costs, including a down payment (typically 3% to 20%) and closing costs (2% to 5% of the loan principal).

•   To afford a $350,000 mortgage with a $2,328 monthly payment, the 28/36 rule suggests a minimum gross annual income of about $96,600.

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Cost of a $350,000 Mortgage

When you finance a home purchase, you have to pay back more than the borrowed amount, known as the loan principal. The total cost of taking out a $350,000 mortgage is about $757,000 with a 30-year term at a 6.00% interest rate. This comes out to around $405,900 worth of interest, assuming there aren’t any late monthly mortgage payments or pre-payments.

When you buy a home, there are usually some upfront costs you’ll have to pay, too. Mortgages often require a down payment, calculated as a percentage of home purchase price, that’s paid out of pocket to secure financing from a lender. The required amount varies by loan type and lender, but average down payments range from 3% to 20%.

Closing costs, including home inspections, appraisals, and attorney fees, represent another upfront cost for real estate transactions. They typically sum up to 2% to 5% of the loan principal, or $10,500 to $21,000 on a $350,000 mortgage.

The total down payment on $350,000 mortgages also impacts the total cost of taking out a home loan. Unless buyers put 20% or more down on a home purchase, they’ll have to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI) with their monthly mortgage payment. The annual cost of PMI is generally between 0.5% – 1.5% of the loan principal. Borrowers can get out of paying PMI with a mortgage refinance or when they reach 20% equity in their home. If this is your first time in the housing market, consider reading up on tips to qualify for a mortgage.

💡 Quick Tip: When house hunting, don’t forget to lock in your home mortgage loan rate so there are no surprises if your offer is accepted.

Monthly Payments for a $350,000 Mortgage

The monthly payment on a $350K mortgage won’t be the same amount for every homeowner. You’ll need to factor in your down payment, interest rate, and loan term to estimate your $350,000 mortgage monthly payment.

With a 30-year loan term and 6.00% interest rate, borrowers can expect to pay around $2,100 a month. Whereas a 15-year term at the same rate would have a monthly payment of approximately $2,956. However, these estimates only account for the loan principal and interest. Monthly mortgage payments also include taxes and insurances, but these costs can differ considerably by location and based on a home’s assessed value.

There are also different types of mortgages to consider. Whether you opt for a fixed vs. adjustable-rate mortgage, for instance, will affect your monthly payment.

To get a clearer idea of what your monthly payment might be with different down payments and loan terms, try using a mortgage calculator.

Recommended: Best Affordable Places to Live in the U.S.

Where to Get a $350,000 Mortgage

Homebuyers have many options in terms of lenders, including banks, credit unions, mortgage brokers, and online lenders.

The homebuying process can be stressful, so it may be tempting to go with the first mortgage offer you receive. However, shopping around and getting loan estimates from multiple lenders lets you choose the one that’s the most competitive and cost-effective.

Even a fraction of a percentage point difference on an interest rate can add up to thousands in savings over the life of a mortgage. Besides the interest rate, assess the fees, terms, and closing costs when comparing mortgage offers.


Get matched with a local
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What to Consider Before Applying for a $350,000 Mortgage

When taking out a mortgage, it’s important to consider the total cost of the loan. You’ll need cash on hand for a down payment and closing costs, plus sufficient income and funds to cover the monthly payment and other homeownership costs.

Before applying for a $350,000 mortgage, crunching the numbers in a housing affordability calculator can give a better understanding of how these costs will work with your finances.

It’s also helpful to see how $350,000 mortgage monthly payments are applied to the loan interest and principal over the life of the loan. The majority of the monthly mortgage payment goes toward interest rather than paying off the loan principal, as demonstrated by the amortization schedules below.

Here’s the mortgage amortization schedule for a 30-year $350,000 mortgage with a 7.00% interest rate — which would amount to $488,233 in interest. For comparison, we’ve also included the mortgage amortization schedule for a 15-year $350,000 mortgage with a 7.00% interest rate. A $350,000 mortgage payment, 15 years’ out, would add up to $216,229 in interest. When weighing a 30-year vs 15-year loan term, the shorter loan term carries a higher monthly payment but less than half the total interest over the life of the loan.

Amortization Schedule, 30-year Mortgage at 7.00%

Year Beginning Balance Total Interest Paid Total Principal Paid Remaining Balance
1 $350,000 $24,386 $3,555 $346,425
2 $346,425 $24,129 $3,812 $342,613
3 $342,613 $23,853 $4,088 $338,525
4 $338,525 $23,558 $4,383 $334,142
5 $334,142 $23,241 $4,700 $329,442
6 $329,442 $22,901 $5,040 $324,402
7 $324,402 $22,537 $5,404 $318,998
8 $318,998 $22,146 $5,795 $313,203
9 $313,203 $21,717 $6,214 $306,989
10 $306,989 $21,278 $6,663 $300,326
11 $300,326 $20,796 $7,145 $293,182
12 $293,182 $20,280 $7,661 $285,520
13 $285,520 $19,726 $8,215 $277,306
14 $277,306 $19,132 $8,809 $268,497
15 $268,497 $18,496 $9,446 $259,051
16 $259,051 $17,813 $10,128 $248,923
17 $248,923 $17,081 $10,861 $238,062
18 $238,062 $16,295 $11,646 $226,417
19 $226,417 $15,454 $12,488 $213,929
20 $213,929 $14,551 $13,390 $200,539
21 $200,539 $13,583 $14,358 $186,181
22 $186,181 $12,545 $15,396 $170,784
23 $170,784 $11,432 $16,509 $154,275
24 $154,275 $10,238 $17,703 $136,573
25 $136,573 $8,959 $18,982 $117,590
26 $117,590 $7,586 $20,355 $97,236
27 $97,236 $6,115 $21,826 $75,409
28 $75,409 $4,537 $23,404 $52,006
29 $52,006 $2,845 $25,096 $26,910
30 $26,910 $1,031 $26,910 $0

Amortization Schedule, 15-year Mortgage at 7.00%

Year Beginning Balance Total Interest Paid Total Principal Paid Remaining Balance
1 $350,000 $24,065 $13,684 $336,296
2 $336,296 $23,076 $14,673 $321,624
3 $321,624 $22,015 $15,733 $305,890
4 $305,890 $20,878 $16,871 $289,020
5 $289,020 $19,658 $18,090 $270,929
6 $270,929 $18,351 $19,398 $251,531
7 $251,531 $16,948 $20,800 $230,731
8 $230,731 $15,445 $22,304 $208,427
9 $208,427 $13,832 $23,916 $184,510
10 $184,510 $12,103 $25,645 $158,865
11 $158,865 $10,249 $27,499 $131,366
12 $131,366 $8,261 $29,487 $101,879
13 $101,879 $6,130 $31,619 $70,260
14 $70,260 $3,844 $33,904 $36,355
15 $36,355 $1,393 $36,355 $0

Recommended: The Cost of Living By State

How to Get a $350,000 Mortgage

To qualify for a $350,000 mortgage, borrowers will need to meet the income, credit, and down payment requirements. It’s also important to have an adequate budget for long-term housing costs and other financial goals and obligations like savings and debt.

Using the 28/36 rule, a monthly mortgage payment shouldn’t be more than 28% of your monthly gross income and 36% of your total debt to be considered affordable. With a $2,328 monthly mortgage payment, you’d need a minimum gross monthly income of at least $8,300, or annual income of $96,600, to follow the 28% rule. Similarly, your total debt could not exceed $660 to keep housing and debt costs from surpassing 36%.

Home mortgage loans, with the exception of certain government-backed loans, require a minimum credit score of 620 to qualify. However, a higher credit score can help secure more competitive rates. If you qualify as a first-time homebuyer, you could get a FHA loan with a credit score of 500 or higher, though borrowers with a credit score below 580 will have to make a 10% down payment.

As mentioned above, it’s a good idea to compare lenders and loan types to find the most favorable rate and loan terms. From there, getting preapproved for a home loan is a logical next step to determine the loan amount and interest rate you qualify for. It also puts you in a better position to demonstrate you’re a serious buyer when making an offer on a property.

After putting in an offer, completing the mortgage application requires many of the same forms used for preapproval, plus an earnest money deposit.

💡 Quick Tip: Generally, the lower your debt-to-income ratio, the better loan terms you’ll be offered. One way to improve your ratio is to increase your income (hello, side hustle!). Another way is to consolidate your debt and lower your monthly debt payments.

The Takeaway

Buying a home is the largest purchase many Americans make in their lifetime. How much you’ll end up paying for a $350,000 mortgage depends on the interest rate and loan term. On a $350,000 mortgage, the monthly payment can range from around $2,000 to $3,500 based on these factors.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

FAQ

How much is a $350K mortgage a month?

The cost of a $350,000 monthly mortgage payment is influenced by the loan term and interest rate. On a $350K mortgage with 7.00% interest, the monthly payment ranges from $2,328 to $3,146 depending on the loan term. The same loan with a 6.00% interest rate would cost around $2,100 to $3,000 per month.

How much income is required for a $350,000 mortgage?

Income requirements can vary by lender. But using the 28/36 rule, a borrower who isn’t burdened by lots of other debts should make $99,600 a year to afford the monthly payment on a $350,000 mortgage.

How much is a down payment on a $350,000 mortgage?

The down payment amount depends on the loan type and lender terms. FHA loans require down payments of 3.50% or 10.00%, while buyers could qualify for a conventional loan with as little as 3.00% down.

Can I afford a $350K house with a $70K salary?

It may be possible to afford a $350,000 house with a $70,000 salary, but only if you are able to make a sizable down payment to lessen the amount of money you need to borrow. Having a good credit score and minimal debt would also better your chances.


Photo credit: iStock/sturti

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*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

Up to $9,500 cash back: HomeStory Rewards is offered by HomeStory Real Estate Services, a licensed real estate broker. HomeStory Real Estate Services is not affiliated with SoFi Bank, N.A. (SoFi). SoFi is not responsible for the program provided by HomeStory Real Estate Services. Obtaining a mortgage from SoFi is optional and not required to participate in the program offered by HomeStory Real Estate Services. The borrower may arrange for financing with any lender. Rebate amount based on home sale price, see table for details.

Qualifying for the reward requires using a real estate agent that participates in HomeStory’s broker to broker agreement to complete the real estate buy and/or sell transaction. You retain the right to negotiate buyer and or seller representation agreements. Upon successful close of the transaction, the Real Estate Agent pays a fee to HomeStory Real Estate Services. All Agents have been independently vetted by HomeStory to meet performance expectations required to participate in the program. If you are currently working with a REALTOR, please disregard this notice. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other REALTORS. A reward is not available where prohibited by state law, including Alaska, Iowa, Louisiana and Missouri. A reduced agent commission may be available for sellers in lieu of the reward in Mississippi, New Jersey, Oklahoma, and Oregon and should be discussed with the agent upon enrollment. No reward will be available for buyers in Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Oregon. A commission credit may be available for buyers in lieu of the reward in New Jersey and must be discussed with the agent upon enrollment and included in a Buyer Agency Agreement with Rebate Provision. Rewards in Kansas and Tennessee are required to be delivered by gift card.

HomeStory will issue the reward using the payment option you select and will be sent to the client enrolled in the program within 45 days of HomeStory Real Estate Services receipt of settlement statements and any other documentation reasonably required to calculate the applicable reward amount. Real estate agent fees and commissions still apply. Short sale transactions do not qualify for the reward. Depending on state regulations highlighted above, reward amount is based on sale price of the home purchased and/or sold and cannot exceed $9,500 per buy or sell transaction. Employer-sponsored relocations may preclude participation in the reward program offering. SoFi is not responsible for the reward.

SoFi Bank, N.A. (NMLS #696891) does not perform any activity that is or could be construed as unlicensed real estate activity, and SoFi is not licensed as a real estate broker. Agents of SoFi are not authorized to perform real estate activity.

If your property is currently listed with a REALTOR, please disregard this notice. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other REALTORS.

Reward is valid for 18 months from date of enrollment. After 18 months, you must re-enroll to be eligible for a reward.

SoFi loans subject to credit approval. Offer subject to change or cancellation without notice.

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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.

¹FHA loans are subject to unique terms and conditions established by FHA and SoFi. Ask your SoFi loan officer for details about eligibility, documentation, and other requirements. FHA loans require an Upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium (UFMIP), which may be financed or paid at closing, in addition to monthly Mortgage Insurance Premiums (MIP). Maximum loan amounts vary by county. The minimum FHA mortgage down payment is 3.5% for those who qualify financially for a primary purchase. SoFi is not affiliated with any government agency.
Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

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

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

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