couple having coffee

What Is a Joint Bank Account?

If you’re married or in a committed relationship, you may be wondering whether combining your finances with a joint bank account is the right choice, or if it’s better to keep things separate.

Opening a joint checking account can simplify budgeting and spending, especially if you’re sharing household expenses. In SoFi’s 2024 Love & Money survey (which included 450 adults who live with their partners and plan to marry in the next few years), nearly 30% said they already had a joint account with their significant other, and 39% said they were planning to open one.

But joint accounts also have some drawbacks, including loss of financial privacy and independence. If you are mulling over this decision, read on to learn the pros and the cons of opening a joint bank account, as well as what’s required to open this type of account.

Key Points

•   A joint bank account allows shared access to funds, simplifying bill payments and budgeting.

•   Both account holders are equally responsible for the account’s activities.

•   A joint account can help promote transparency and trust between account holders.

•   Some potential downsides include financial disputes and loss of privacy.

•   To open a joint account, you’ll generally need to provide identification and personal information for all account holders.

 

🛈 At this time, SoFi only offers joint accounts for members 18 years old and above.

What Is a Joint Bank Account?

A joint bank account is an account that is shared between two or more people. It allows all account holders to deposit, withdraw, and manage funds, and is often used by couples, family members, or business partners.

Sharing a checking account comes with a number of benefits, including the convenience of managing household expenses and promoting transparency between couples. However, joint accounts also have some potential downsides, such as increased risk for financial disputes and potential strain on the relationship.

One of the biggest decisions a couple will make is whether they decide to treat their money as a shared asset or as separate entities. As with any discussion about money, every individual or couple will have different goals and experiences, so it’s helpful to take a look at both sides. Considering the pros and cons of joint vs separate accounts may help you decide if this kind of account suits you.

How Does a Joint Account Work?

A joint account functions just like an individual bank account, except that more than one person has access to it.

Everyone named on a joint account has the power to manage it, which includes everything from deposits to withdrawals. Any account holder can also close the account at any time. In addition, all owners of a joint account are jointly liable for any debts incurred in relation to the account.

You can open a joint account with a spouse or partner you live with, but you don’t have to be a married couple or even live at the same address to open a joint checking or savings account. For example, you can open a joint account with an aging parent who needs assistance with paying bills and managing their money. You can also open a joint account with a friend, roommate, sibling, business partner, or (if your bank allows it) a teenage child.

What Are Some Pros of a Joint Bank Account?

Here are some of the benefits of opening a joint account:

•  Ease of paying bills. When you’re sharing expenses, such as rent/mortgage payments, utilities, insurance, and streaming services, it can be a lot simpler to write one check (or make one online payment), rather than splitting bills between two bank accounts. A shared account can simplify and streamline your financial life.

•  Transparency. With a joint checking account, there can’t be any secrets about what’s coming in and in and what’s going out, since you both have access to your online account. This can help a newly married couple understand each other’s spending habits and talk more openly about finances.

•  A sense of togetherness. Opening a joint bank account signals trust and a sense of being on the same team. Instead of “your money” and “my money,” it’s “our money.”

•  Easier budgeting. When all household and entertainment expenses are coming out of the same account, it can be much easier to keep track of spending and stick to a monthly budget. A joint account can help give a couple a clear financial picture.

•  Banking perks. Your combined resources might allow you to open an account where a certain minimum balance is required to keep it free from fees. Or, you might get a higher interest rate or other rewards by pooling your funds. Also, in a joint bank account, each account holder is typically insured by the FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation), which means the total insurance on the account is higher than it is in an individual account.

•  Fewer legal hoops. Equal access to the account can come in handy during illness or another type of crisis. If one account holder gets sick, for example, the other can access funds and pay medical and other bills. If one partner passes away, the other partner will retain access to the funds in a joint account without having to deal with a complicated legal process.

Recommended: Money Management Guide

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*Earn up to 4.00% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on SoFi Savings with a 0.70% APY Boost (added to the 3.30% APY as of 12/23/25) for up to 6 months. Open a new SoFi Checking and Savings account and pay the $10 SoFi Plus subscription every 30 days OR receive eligible direct deposits OR qualifying deposits of $5,000 every 31 days by 3/30/26. Rates variable, subject to change. Terms apply here. SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

🛈 At this time, SoFi only offers joint accounts for members 18 years old and above.

What Are Some Cons of a Joint Bank Account?

Despite the myriad advantages of opening a joint account, there are some potential downsides to a shared account, which include:

•  Lack of privacy. Since both account holders can see everything that goes in and comes out of the account, your partner will know exactly what you’re earning and how much you are spending each month.

•  Potential for arguments. While a joint account can prevent arguments by making it easier to keep track of bills and spending, there is also the potential for it to lead to disagreements if one partner has a very different spending style than the other.

•  No individual protection. As joint owners of the account, you are both responsible for everything that happens in the account. So if your partner overdraws the account, you will both be on the hook for paying back that debt and covering any fees that are charged as a result. If one account holder lets debts go unpaid, creditors can, in some cases, go after money in the joint account.

•  It can complicate a break-up. If you and your partner end up parting ways, you’ll have the added stress of deciding how to divide up the bank account. Each account owner has the right to withdraw money and close the account without the consent of the other.

•  Reduced benefits eligibility. If you open a joint account with a teenage child who is going to, or is already in, college, the joint funds will count towards their assets, possibly reducing their eligibility for financial aid. The same goes for an elderly co-owner who may rely on Medicaid long-term care.

How to Open a Joint Bank Account

If you decide opening a joint account makes sense for your situation, the process is similar to opening an individual account. You can check your bank’s website to find out if you need to go in person, call, or just fill out forms online to start your joint account.

Typically, you have the option to open any kind of bank account as a joint account, except you’ll select “joint account” when you fill out your application or, after you fill in one person’s information, you can choose to add a co-applicant.

Whether you open your joint account online or in person, you’ll likely both need to provide the bank with personal information, including address, date of birth, and social security numbers, and also provide photo identification. You may also need information for the accounts you plan to use to fund your new account.

Another way to open a joint account is to add one partner to the other partner’s existing account. In this case, you’ll only need personal information for the partner being added.

Before signing on the dotted line, it can be a good idea to make sure you and the co-owner know the terms of the joint account. You will also need to make decisions together about how you want to manage and monitor the account, such as which account alerts you want to set up.

Should I Open a Joint Bank Account or Keep Separate Accounts?

As you consider your options, know that it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You might find that the best solution is to pool some funds in a joint account for specific purposes, from paying for basic living expenses to saving for the down payment on a house or building an emergency fund.

You might keep your own separate accounts as well, where you can spend on what you like without anyone watching (or judging). In SoFi’s Love & Money newlywed survey (which included 600 adults who have been married less than one year), the most popular banking set-up, chosen by 42% of couples, was a hybrid approach — having both joint and individual accounts.

types of bank accounts held by newlyweds

Recommended: Emergency Fund Calculator.

The Takeaway

Opening a joint bank account offers convenience by allowing shared access to funds for bills, savings, or everyday expenses. Joint accounts also promote transparency and can simplify money management for couples who share financial responsibilities.

But joint accounts also come with some downsides and potential risks. All transactions on the joint account are visible to both account holders, which can lead to a lack of privacy regarding personal spending habits and potential conflict. Plus, either holder can withdraw money without the other’s consent. If one person mismanages funds, both may be affected.

Some couples choose to maintain separate accounts alongside a joint one for shared expenses to achieve a balance of independence and collaboration.

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


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.

🛈 At this time, SoFi only offers joint accounts for members 18 years old and above.

FAQ

What are the disadvantages of a joint account?

A joint bank account can create financial complications if one account holder mismanages money or racks up overdraft fees, as both parties are equally responsible. Disagreements over spending habits may also come up, which could strain a relationship. Also, in the event of a breakup or divorce, separating funds can become more complicated.

Are joint bank accounts a good idea?

Joint accounts can be a good idea for couples, family members, and business partners who share financial goals and trust each other fully. They simplify bill payments, budgeting, and managing shared expenses. However, they also require communication and mutual agreement on spending. If that trust breaks down or if one person is less financially responsible, problems can arise. Whether it’s a good idea depends on the relationship and financial compatibility.

Is it better to have joint or separate bank accounts?

Whether to have joint or separate bank accounts depends on the relationship and financial habits of the individuals involved. Joint accounts offer transparency and make shared expenses easier to manage, which can work well for couples or family with aligned goals. Separate accounts allow more financial independence and privacy. Some people prefer a hybrid approach — maintain both joint and individual accounts. The best setup depends on trust, communication, and lifestyle needs

Who owns the money in a joint bank account?

In a joint bank account, both account holders have equal legal ownership of the funds, regardless of who deposits the money. This means either person can withdraw or use all the money at any time without the other’s permission.


About the author

Julia Califano

Julia Califano

Julia Califano is an award-winning journalist who covers banking, small business, personal loans, student loans, and other money issues for SoFi. She has over 20 years of experience writing about personal finance and lifestyle topics. Read full bio.




SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

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

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

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

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

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

*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

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.

We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Bank Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.

1SoFi Bank is a member FDIC and does not provide more than $250,000 of FDIC insurance per depositor per legal category of account ownership, as described in the FDIC’s regulations. Any additional FDIC insurance is provided by the SoFi Insured Deposit Program. Deposits may be insured up to $3M through participation in the program. See full terms at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/sidpterms. See list of participating banks at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/participatingbanks.

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How To Calculate Marginal Propensity to Save

Guide to Marginal Propensity to Save (MPS)

The marginal propensity to save (MPS) is an important concept in economics that describes how much of each additional dollar of income a person (or economy) chooses to save rather than spend. It plays a central role in Keynesian economic theory and helps economists understand how changes in income affect savings, spending, and overall economic activity.

But beyond theory — does MPS matter to you as an individual saver? Absolutely. Understanding MPS can help you become more mindful of how you handle income increases, whether from a raise, bonus, or side gig. What follows is a more in-depth look at marginal propensity to save, including what it means, why it matters, and how it applies to your personal financial life.

Key Points

•   Marginal propensity to save (MPS) measures the proportion of additional income consumers save rather than spend.

•   MPS is calculated as the change in savings divided by the change in income.

•   Lower MPS generally boosts the economy through increased spending.

•   Tips for increasing personal savings including setting goals, budgeting, and using high-yield accounts.

•   Understanding MPS can help you manage lifestyle inflation and align your spending and saving with your goals.

The Keynesian Economic Theory, Explained

British economist John Maynard Keynes revolutionized economic thinking with his 1936 book, The General Theory of Employment, Interest, and Money. His core idea was that economic downturns result from insufficient demand for goods and services, and that government spending can help stabilize the economy.

Keynes advocated for an increase in government spending during recessions and depressions, which would boost the production of goods and services to minimize unemployment rates and enhance economic activity. This theory went against the prevailing and long-held view that markets are self-regulating and any interference by the government could be harmful.

There are three main elements of this theory:

•   Aggregate demand: This is the total demand for goods and services in an economy. If demand drops too low (in other words, there is a lull in spending), a recession may follow.

•   Sticky prices and wages: Prices and wages are often slow to respond to changes in supply and demand, which can prolong unemployment or inflation.

•   Government intervention: Keynes advocated for government interventions like increased spending and lowering taxes to stimulate demand and pull the economy out of a downturn.

The Keynesian Multiplier describes the effect of increased government spending/investment as an economic stimulus. According to the multiplier, an increase in government spending leads to a greater-than-proportional increase in total economic output. In other words, the overall gain of government intervention is greater than the dollar amount spent.

The multiplier effect is directly influenced by the marginal propensity to save (MPS) and its counterpart, the marginal propensity to consume (MPC).

💡 Quick Tip: Tired of paying pointless bank fees? When you open a bank account online you often avoid excess charges.

Calculating Marginal Propensity to Save

MPS measures how savings behavior changes in response to a change in disposable income. The lower the MPS, the higher the multiplier effect of government spending or investment on total output, or gross domestic product (GDP). A low MPS supports Keynes’s premise that government spending can have a powerful effect on increasing aggregate demand and reducing unemployment during recessions.

Knowing the MPS helps policymakers estimate how effective spending or tax changes will be in stimulating the economy. A lower MPS (meaning people spend more and save less of their additional income) amplifies the effects of fiscal policy, which is central to Keynes’s approach to managing economic downturns.

Recommended: 7 Tips to Managing Your Money Better

Marginal Propensity to Save Formula

MPS is calculated with a specific formula:

MPS = Change in Savings / Change in Income.

Marginal Propensity to Save Example

Let’s say you receive a $1,000 bonus at the end of the year. Of that $1,000 increase in income, you decide to spend $300 on new clothes, $200 on a fancy dinner out, and save the remaining $500.

•   Change in income = $1,000

•   Change in savings = $500

•   MPS = $500 ÷ $1,000 = 0.5

This means you saved 50% of your additional income.

Marginal Propensity to Consume

Conversely, the marginal propensity to consume (MPC) is the change in the spending, or consuming amount. If someone’s income increases, the MPC measures the amount of income they choose to spend on goods and services instead of putting into different forms of savings.

The MPC formula is:

MPC = Change in Consumption / Change in Income.

By using the example above, the MPC would be 500 ÷1000 = 0.5.

Since income must be either saved or spent, the following must always be true:

MPS + MPC = 1

What MPS Means for You as a Consumer

While MPS is a tool economists use to measure national saving behavior, it also has implications on your personal finances. Understanding your own MPS can help you evaluate your spending vs. savings habits and take better control of your finances.

For example, if you find that you increase spending in line with any increases in income (meaning your MPS is at or near zero), it’s a sign you may be succumbing to lifestyle inflation, also known as lifestyle creep, which is the tendency to increase spending as income increases. It also indicates that you may want to consider increasing your savings rate — especially for emergencies, retirement, or other financial goals.

💡 Quick Tip: 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.

Other Factors That Influence Saving

While MPS looks at changes in savings that result from changes in income, consumer savings behavior is influenced by other factors. Here’s a look at some other things that can affect saving and spending that are unrelated to income.

1. Wealth

Wealth (assets and investments) is separate from income. If your wealth increases — say through an inheritance, stock gains, or home appreciation — you may feel more comfortable saving less and spending more, even if your income hasn’t changed.

Alternatively, a decline in wealth might lead to reduced consumption and increased saving as a precaution.

2. Expectations

Future income expectations are also known to influence consumer spending and saving habits. For example, if you expect to get a raise or bonus, you may spend more now. If you fear a job loss or recession is looming, you might decide to tighten your budget. These shifts affect your saving behavior even without actual changes in income.

Debt

People also tend to adjust their consumption and savings if they’re in debt. For example, if you’re carrying high levels of credit card debt, you might be inclined to cut spending and increase savings to pay it down, even if your income hasn’t changed. Conversely, when debt levels are low and borrowing is easy, you may feel more free to spend.

Recommended: What is the Average Savings by Age?

Why Marginal Propensity to Save Matters

Using the data from MPS and MPC helps businesses and governments determine how funds are allocated. For example, economists can assess this data to determine whether increases in government spending, or investment spending, is having an influence on consumer saving and spending.

But understanding MPS isn’t just for economists and policymakers. Here’s why it may matter to you:

•   It helps you analyze how you use extra income.

•   It shows if your current spending habits align with your savings goals.

•   It can help you adjust behavior to avoid lifestyle inflation.

If you receive a raise or a financial windfall (like a bonus, inheritance, or cash gift), recognizing your personal MPS can help you make more strategic decisions, rather than impulsively spending the entire amount.

How to Start Saving Money

Whether you’ve recently experienced a boost in income, expect a raise or bonus in the future, or simply want to amp up your savings rate, these strategies can help.

Identifying Your Savings Goals

Consider what you’re saving for in the near-, mid- and long-term. For example:

•   Short-term goals: These might include building an emergency fund or saving for a small vacation.

•   Medium-term goals: This could include buying a car, a home improvement project, or a wedding.

•   Long-term: These are goals that are many years, even decades, away, such as retirement, sending a child to college, or achieving financial independence.

Once you’ve set some goals and timelines, you’ll want to figure out how much you need to set aside each month to reach those goals. If your goal is short-term, you might consider keeping your funds in a high-yield savings account. Online banks and credit unions tend to offer the highest rates.

“For money you’ll use in three to seven years, you may be prepared to take slightly more risk than a savings account,” says Brian Walsh, CFP® and Head of Advice & Planning at SoFi. “You might choose to use a brokerage account where you can invest that money in stocks, bonds, cash, or other asset classes. Just be sure to keep your comfort with risk in mind.”

For retirement saving, you’ll want to utilize retirement accounts, such as an employer-sponsored 401(k) or an individual retirement account (IRA).

Recommended: Emergency Fund Calculator

Creating a Budget

To free up funds for saving, it’s important to make a basic budget. You can do this by gathering up the last several months of financial statements and using them to determine your average monthly income and average monthly spending.

If you find that your average monthly cash outflow is the same or close to your average monthly cash inflow (meaning you’re not saving much or anything each month), you’ll want to comb through your expenses and look for places where you can cut back. Any money you free up can be siphoned into savings.

Alternatively, you might look for ways to increase your income, such as asking for a raise, freelancing, or starting a side hustle, then funnel those extra earnings right into savings.

The Takeaway

The marginal propensity to save, or MPS, is more than just an economic formula — it’s a practical tool that can help you reflect on how you manage your money. Whether you’re building an emergency fund, saving for home, or hope to retire some day, consider increasing your savings rate any time you get a raise, bonus, or any other increase in income.

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


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 MPS be greater than 1?

No, the marginal propensity to save (MPS) cannot be greater than one. This is because MPS represents the proportion of an additional dollar of income that is saved, and it’s impossible to save more than the total amount of additional income received. MPS always ranges between 0 and 1.

How do you calculate the marginal propensity to save?

The marginal propensity to save (MPS) shows how much of an increase in income is saved rather than spent. You calculate it by dividing the change in savings by the change in income. The formula is: MPS = Change in Savings / Change in Income.

What is the difference between average and marginal propensity to save?

The average propensity to save (APS) is the proportion of total income that is saved. It’s calculated by dividing total savings by total income. The marginal propensity to save (MPS), on the other hand, indicates how much of an increase in income is saved. It’s calculated by dividing the change in savings by the change in disposable income.


Photo credit: iStock/MarsBars
SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

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

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

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

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

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

*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

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.

We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Bank Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.
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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Is a Rewards Checking Account Right for Me?

Is a Rewards Checking Account Right for Me?

A checking account generally serves as the hub of your daily financial life. It provides a secure and convenient place for your income to enter and for your daily and monthly expenses to leave. While some checking accounts serve only basic functions, some go a step further. Called “rewards checking,” these accounts may offer perks like interest on your balance, cash back on purchases you make with your debit card, or both.

While these accounts can be appealing, they come with some caveats. You might face limits on how much you can earn and be required to meet certain criteria (such as maintaining a high balance or enrolling in direct deposit) to qualify for your rewards.

To help decide if a rewards checking account is right for you, here’s a closer look at what they are, how they work, and their pros and cons.

Key Points

•   A rewards checking account provides incentives for meeting specific banking requirements.

•   Primary benefits include higher interest rates, cash back, and ATM fee reimbursements.

•   Conditions to earn rewards may involve minimum transactions, balance, and direct deposits.

•   Potential drawbacks are reward limits, minimum balance requirements, and possible fees.

•   Consider the rewards, limits, fees, and your ability to meet requirements when choosing this type of account.

🛈 Currently, SoFi does not provide a rewards checking account.

What Is a Rewards Checking Account?

A rewards checking account is a type of checking account that offers incentives or perks to account holders in exchange for meeting certain requirements. These perks can include higher interest rates, cash back on purchases, or other benefits like ATM fee refunds.

To qualify for the rewards, users typically need to meet certain conditions, such as making a set number of debt card transactions per month or having at least one direct deposit or automatic payment per month. If you don’t meet the requirements, you might earn a lower interest rate or earn no rewards for that period.

How Does a Rewards Checking Account Work?

Some checking accounts with rewards have criteria for earning perks each month. For instance, a bank may require you to:

•   Use your debit card for a minimum number of transactions each month.

•   Maintain an average minimum account balance.

•   Receive a set number of direct deposits equal to a specified value.

•   Enroll in services like e-statements or online bill pay.

If the reward is a higher annual percentage yield (APY), you will likely earn that in the form of monthly interest on your bank’s payment schedule, deposited directly into the account. If the checking reward is cash back, the bank may offer multiple ways to redeem the cash within the mobile app. Similar to cash-back credit cards, you can often convert points into airline miles or other perks — or just receive cash in your account.

Perks of a Rewards Checking Account

The perks of a rewards checking account will vary by bank but might include:

Cash Back

Cash back is usually expressed as a percentage of the transactions made with a debit card; this might also be structured as points or even airline miles.

Interest

While basic checking accounts generally don’t pay much or any interest, a rewards account may be an interest-bearing checking account. If so, it will typically offer an APY that is higher than the zero or the very low rate usually offered by traditional checking accounts.

Signup Bonus

A rewards checking account may pay a one-time bonus for signing up for a new checking account and meeting specific criteria.

ATM Fee Reimbursement

A rewards account may offer refunds for expenses incurred for using out-of-network ATMs.

Other Perks

Among the other rewards you may see offered are ways to earn airline miles, shopping discounts, cell phone insurance, and identity theft protection, among other options.

Some rewards checking accounts may offer a combination of these perks.

Who Should Use a Rewards Checking Account?

A rewards checking account can be a good option if you regularly use your debit card for purchases and keep a substantial amount of money in your checking account. If you do not have a rewards credit card, a rewards checking account can serve as an alternative way to earn money for spending money.

As mentioned, some banks have special requirements for members to earn rewards. Read terms and conditions carefully. If you cannot meet account requirements for the reward, the account might not be right for you, especially if there are monthly maintenance fees.

How to Qualify for a Rewards Checking Account

Qualifying for a rewards checking account may vary depending on the bank, but, as mentioned, there tend to be common core requirements for earning rewards, such as:

•   A minimum number of debit card transactions in a month

•   An average daily minimum account balance

•   A minimum number (or value) of monthly direct deposits

If an account comes with a signup bonus, the bank likely has a set of requirements you’ll need to meet to snag that cash. This may include enrolling in direct deposit to get you started.

When considering a rewards checking account, it’s wise to read the fine print before opening to ensure you fully understand the requirements.

Pros of Rewards Checking Accounts

Here are some of the benefits of opening a rewards checking account:

•   Earning potential: Whether through a higher-than-average APY or through cash back on debit card purchases, the main draw of a rewards checking account is often earning money (or more money) for doing the banking you would do anyway.

•   No annual fee: Unlike some rewards credit cards, rewards checking accounts generally do not charge an annual fee.

•   ATM fee reimbursements: Many rewards checking accounts will refund all or some of the fee you may be charged when using an out-of-network ATM. This can be valuable if you frequently travel outside your bank’s network.

Recommended: How to Manage Your Money Better

Cons of Rewards Checking Accounts

Rewards checking accounts also come with some potential downsides. Here are some to keep in mind:

•   Limits on rewards: Some bank programs cap the rewards at a set amount each month, meaning there could be a limit to the amount of cash back you can earn.

•   Better rewards elsewhere: Rewards credit cards may offer more cash back than a rewards checking account.

•   Minimum balance requirements: Some banks have minimum initial deposit requirements and/or ongoing balance requirements to earn the reward. If you cannot meet the requirement or do not wish to keep that much money in a checking account, the account might not be the right fit.

•   Fees: While some rewards checking accounts have no fees, others do charge monthly maintenance fees that can make the rewards less attractive or possibly even negate them.

Cashback Checking Accounts vs Credit Cards

You may be wondering whether a cashback checking account or credit card is the better fit for you. See how they stack up here:

Cashback Checking Account

Cashback Credit Cards

Provides a secure hub for daily finances Provides a line of credit for purchases
May charge fees Charges interest; may charge annual fee
Earn cashback typically through debit card use Earn cashback typically through spending with credit card

Is a Rewards Checking Account Worth It?

A rewards checking account with cash back can be a good fit if the conditions to earn the perks are no problem for you. You might consider going with this type of checking account if:

•   You’re already in the habit of swiping your debit card for everyday purchases (or this prospect doesn’t faze you). If so, it might be easy for you to manage a checking account like this and make your money work harder for you.

•   You tend to keep a large sum of funds in your checking account. If that’s the case, you might enjoy the earning potential provided by a high-interest checking account even if it has a higher-than-usual balance requirement.

•   You’re willing to have your paycheck directly deposited into the account. Some rewards checking accounts require that you have a recurring direct deposit, such as your paycheck, to qualify for the rewards.

The Takeaway

A rewards checking account could be a good deal if you want to earn interest (or more interest) on cash you have sitting in your checking account and/or there are perks that you could reap for behaviors you already engage in (like swiping your debit card or receiving direct deposit), or don’t mind adopting. It can also be a good alternative to a rewards credit card, since there are typically no annual fees.

Before you dive in, however, you’ll want to weigh the rewards against any costs or requirements. If the account charges fees, for example, it could eat into your rewards. And if you don’t consistently meet the requirements to earn rewards, you may not get any.

As with all decisions concerning your financial life, it pays to shop around to make sure you’re finding the best fit for your lifestyle and goals.

FAQ

What are rewards in banking?

Rewards in banking refer to incentives and perks that account holders receive. They might be a signup bonus for a new account, a higher-than-average interest rate, or cash back on debit card purchases. Customers may need to meet certain requirements, such as maintaining a certain balance or spending a certain amount on their debit cards each month, to receive the rewards.

Why do banks offer points or rewards?

Banks offer points or rewards to entice consumers to choose their accounts or cards over competitors. Once you become a customer, rewards ensure you continue to engage with the bank’s product, either by depositing more funds into your account or using your debit or credit card for more daily purchases.

Are bank rewards interest?

Bank rewards are generally not considered interest. Interest is the money you earn from keeping your funds in a savings or other interest-bearing account. By contrast, rewards are promotional incentives given for specific actions like spending or meeting account requirements. That said, in some cases, a reward will come in the form of a higher-than-average interest rate.

Can you earn points on a checking account?

Yes, some banks offer rewards checking accounts that let you earn points for everyday activities like using your debit card. These points can often be redeemed for cash back, travel, gift cards, or merchandise. Not all checking accounts offer this feature, however, so it’s important to compare options and read the terms to make sure the rewards align with your spending habits.

Are bank rewards worth it?

Whether or not bank rewards are worth it depends on your financial situation and preferences. Do you meet the criteria for a rewards checking account (such as swiping your debit card often enough or receiving a certain dollar amount of direct deposits)? Can you handle any requirements such as monthly minimum balance or account fees, if assessed? If so, earning interest or receiving other perks could be a smart, money-wise move.


Photo credit: iStock/Feodora Chiosea

SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

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

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

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

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

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

*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

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.

We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Bank Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.
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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Questions to Ask Before You Buy Something

9 Questions To Ask Yourself To Prevent Impulse Purchase

You’ve likely made some impulse purchases in your life and later regretted spending your hard-earned cash that way. One way to avoid making impulsive or bad buying decisions is to hit pause just before you make a purchase to ask yourself a series of simple questions.

This extra step forces you to step back and honestly consider how the potential purchase fits into your life. You might ultimately decide you don’t want the item after all. And, if you do decide to buy it, you can feel confident that you’re doing it for the right reasons.

Key Points

•   To avoid impulse purchases, determine if the purchase is a need or a want.

•   Before buying, ask yourself to consider the benefits of the purchase.

•   Question if the item will genuinely improve your life.

•   Before buying, assess if the item will sell out and, if not, take your time to make a purchase.

•   Check if you own something similar before making a discretionary purchase you’ve “got to have.”

9 Questions To Ask Yourself Before Buying Something

Knowing some key questions to ask yourself before you buy something can help ensure that you spend according to your values and cut down on purchases you’ll regret later. After all, the last thing you want is to spend money on things that don’t really enhance your life — and may add to your debt (especially if you’re already paying off some debt).

Here are some key pre-purchase questions to consider.

1. Is This a Want or a Need?

A great first question to ask is whether your prospective purchase fulfills a need or is just something you want, or a discretionary expense. If it’s an item you need — and you can afford it — then you might just go ahead and buy it. If, on the other hand, it only fills a want, it’s a good idea to continue vetting the purchase with the questions that follow.

2. What Do You Gain From Buying This?

Consider what you hope to gain from making the purchase. Is it the admiration or approval from other people? Does someone you know or follow on social media have it? Is this something that will genuinely improve your quality of life?

Research suggests that people feel more satisfied when they spend money on things or experiences that mean something to them and reflect their values.

Recommended: What Is FOMO Spending?

3. Is This Something That Will Actually Sell Out?

Though retailers will often make you think you need to act quickly (due to low stock), there’s a good chance that the items that you’re thinking of buying will still be available at a later date. If you’re feeling pressured to buy due to a limited-time sale, keep in mind that sales pop up all the time. Waiting for the next one could save you even more money, as you may decide you don’t really want it that much. This can help you avoid making an impulse buy.

Increase your savings
with a limited-time APY boost.*


*Earn up to 4.00% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on SoFi Savings with a 0.70% APY Boost (added to the 3.30% APY as of 12/23/25) for up to 6 months. Open a new SoFi Checking and Savings account and pay the $10 SoFi Plus subscription every 30 days OR receive eligible direct deposits OR qualifying deposits of $5,000 every 31 days by 3/30/26. Rates variable, subject to change. Terms apply here. SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

4. Can You Get It Used or for a Better Price

If you’re thinking of pulling the trigger on a full-price item you don’t need right away, consider whether you may be able to find a better deal. For example, you might:

Buy Used

If you’re looking at a piece of equipment (like sports, exercise, or baby gear) or furniture, keep in mind that you may be able to find it in great condition on a second-hand marketplace online or even a yard sale.

Find Discounts

While buying used is not everyone’s cup of tea, buying on sale should be. These days, there are websites and apps that can help you do quick price comparisons to find the best deals. Some apps will even alert you when the price for a wanted item drops.

5. Do You Own Something Similar?

If you were to look at what you already own, you might be surprised to find how often you purchase nearly the same items over and over again. Buying similar items is totally understandable. We all know what makes us comfortable and what we tend to wear or like, so we gravitate to similar-looking clothes, shoes, home decor, and so on.

If you already have several coffee mugs, jean jackets, baskets, whatever that are similar to your prospective purchase, you may want to pass.

Recommended: How to Stop Spending Money

6. Why Do You Want to Buy This Now?

Sometimes there is a clearcut reason to make a purchase, even an impulse purchase. You might be at a store and remember you need hand soap or a certain tool to make a repair. But if there isn’t a clear reason for making this purchase right now, you may want to pass.

7. How Often Will You Use It, Really?

If you will only use or wear the item you’re thinking about buying once, or even a handful of times, you may want to rethink the purchase. It’s possible you can get by with something you have, can rent the item, or can borrow it from a friend or neighbor. This can end up saving you buyer’s remorse as well as money that you could stash in a high-yield savings account.

8. If the Item Was Full Price, Would You Still Buy It?

A sale price can make an item look particularly appealing. You might even think you’d be a fool to pass it by. But it’s important to put the price tag to the side for a moment and consider whether or not you really want and love the item. Would you even be considering it if it were full price? If the answer is no, it’s likely you can forgo it.

9. Would It Be Better To Put the Money Elsewhere?

If you can ask yourself this question, then you’ve arrived. You’re thinking of the big picture and wondering whether there may be other things that are more important than what’s in front of you. This involves delaying gratification and knowing how to spend money wisely.

You might decide that rather than buying that new pair of shoes, the money could better be put in, say, an online bank account where it can earn interest with lower or no fees.

The Psychology Behind Reflecting Before Purchasing

One common reason why people shop for new (and often similar) things is because they don’t fully appreciate the things they already possess. But there is a way you can turn this psychology around.

Before you make a purchase, consider whether or not you already own something that can fulfill the same purpose. If you do, next think about whether there is a reason you need something similar. If you can’t, you can probably easily pass on the purchase. The process of reflection not only avoids an unneeded expense but allows you to refocus on the item you already have and appreciate it more.

How Budgeting Can Curb Compulsive Spending

Creating a budget involves looking at where your money is currently going and making sure that your spending aligns with your priorities. There are many different kinds of budgets but one simple framework is the 50/30/20 rule.

The idea is to divide your monthly take-home income into three categories, spending 50% on needs, 30% on wants, and 20% on savings (and debt payments beyond the minimum). This set-up helps curb compulsive spending because you only have so much “fun” money to spend each month. It also allows you to spend money without feeling guilty, since it’s baked into the budget.

Recommended: Savings Calculator

The Takeaway

If you are considering making a discretionary purchase, you can ask yourself a few questions that can help you avoid buying something that you later regret. For instance, asking if you already have something similar or whether you’d buy it even if it wasn’t on sale can help you determine your motivations. By reconsidering the purchase, you might wind up saving money that could be better spent paying down debt or going into your bank account.

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


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

How do you determine if you should buy something?

A good first step is to determine whether a prospective purchase fulfills a need or is simply something you want. If it fills a need, you can go ahead buy it, as long as you can afford it. If it’s a want, you might next consider why you want to buy it. Also think about whether you may already have something similar, and whether the money might be better spent on something else.

Should a budget include flexibility for impulse purchases?

Yes. A budget will typically allot a certain amount of money just for “fun” each month. This frees you up to make the occasional impulse purchase without feeling guilty or worrying that it will hurt your long-term financial health. In fact, building in flexibility to your spending plan can help you stick with it.

What questions should you ask yourself before buying something?

Some key questions to ask yourself before you make a purchase include:

•  Do I need it?

•  What do I gain from buying this?

•  Do I own something similar?

•  If the item was full price would I still buy it?

•  How often will I use it, really?

•  Could I get it used or for a better price elsewhere?

•  Is there a better way I could use this money?

How do you stop impulse buying psychology?

One effective strategy is to establish a waiting time before you make any discretionary purchases. If you see something you want to buy, put the purchase on pause for a week (or more). Tell yourself that if, at the end of the waiting period, you still want the item and can afford it, then you can go ahead and buy it. You may find, however, that by delaying gratification (and the purchase), you lose interest in the item and opt not to buy it after all.


Photo credit: iStock/Talaj

SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

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

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

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

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

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

*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

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®

SOBNK-Q325-089

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Understanding Funds Availability Rules

Understanding Funds Availability Rules

When you deposit money into your bank account, you can’t necessarily use the money right away. Your financial institution may put a hold on a portion of your funds as they process the transaction and make sure it clears.

Whether or not all your cash is available can depend on a variety of factors, such as the form of the deposit; the amount of money involved; and when and where the deposit was made. Your money might be ready to use almost immediately, or it could take a few days or even longer. The timing can depend on both federal regulations and a bank or credit union’s internal guidelines for processing deposits. Here’s what you need to know.

Key Points

•   Banks place holds on deposits to verify funds and prevent financial losses.

•   Federal regulations limit hold durations, ensuring quick access to initial deposit amounts.

•   Cash and electronic payments generally clear faster than checks.

•   Exceptions to standard hold times include large deposits, new accounts, and suspicious transactions.

•   Review bank policies and manage funds carefully to avoid overdraft fees.

Why Do Banks Put a Hold on Deposits?

Banks hold deposits to protect themselves, as well as their customers, from losing money. If a check you deposit bounces or some other complication arises, the bank will have an opportunity to fix the problem before you have the opportunity to spend the funds.

While a delay in being able to access your own money may seem like a nuisance, holds can actually help protect you from fraud and fees.

If your bank allows you to spend funds from a check that later bounces, you would have to repay the bank the amount that they gave you, and likely also get hit with a hefty overdraft fee. This is the case regardless of who is at fault.

How Long Can a Bank Hold a Deposit?

The amount of time it takes for funds to become available can depend on a number of factors, including how long you’ve held your account, your financial history, the type of deposit (e.g., cash, check, direct deposit), and the amount of the deposit.

•   Generally, a bank or credit union has until at least the next business day (a business day is a weekday that is not a holiday) to make most deposits (or a portion thereof) available.

•   Electronic deposits are typically available on the same day. So, one way to make sure your paycheck is available to you quickly is to sign up for direct deposit into your checking account.

•   Cash deposits may clear immediately or the next business day.

•   The longest a bank can hold funds is usually five business days for money deposited at an ATM of a different bank.

•   While each bank or credit union has its own rules as to when it will let you access the money you deposit, federal law establishes the maximum length of time a bank or credit union can make you wait.

The amount of money deposited can also matter, with the current guideline specifying that the first $275 of a check must be made available according to schedule.

Here are the rules set by the Federal Reserve for making funds available the next day or longer.

Cash deposited to your bank account in person or to an in-network ATM.

The first $275 of a check deposited in person or at an in-network ATM.

Electronic payments, like a domestic wire transfer

U.S. Treasury checks deposited in person or at an in-network ATM.

U.S. Postal Service money orders deposited in person to one of your employees and into an account held by a payee of the check.

Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank checks deposited in person.

State or local government checks deposited in person.

Cashier’s, certified, or teller’s checks deposited in person.

Checks drawn on an account held by the same institution as your account, deposited in person or at an in-network ATM.

For cash, USPS money orders, Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank checks, state or local government checks, and cashier’s, certified, and teller’s checks that are deposited to out-of-network ATMs, the funds must be made available by the second business day. Deposits made by cash, non-USPS money order, or check at out-of-network ATMs must be made available by the fifth business day.

You may want to keep in mind that the hold times listed above are the maximum allowed. It’s possible that your funds will be available sooner.

You can typically find specifics about your bank’s funds availability policy in the account agreement you received when you opened your account, or you can ask the bank for a copy of their holding policies.

Understanding Cut-Off Times

When you deposit a check to your checking account, you may think you did it “today.” However, you may have missed the cut-off for starting the deposit process on that calendar day.

If you make a deposit after the cut-off time, your financial institution can treat your deposit as if it was made on the next business day. If the deposit was made late in the day on a Friday, it could actually take three or more days for the money to show up in your account.

By law, a bank or credit union’s cut-off time for receiving deposits is generally no earlier than 2 pm at physical locations and no earlier than noon at an ATM or elsewhere. Sometimes banks have later deposit times for mobile deposits (made via the bank’s phone app), such as 5 pm.

Deposits That May Take Longer to Become Available

There are certain circumstances under which banks are allowed to hold deposited funds for longer than the times listed above.

When these exceptions apply, there isn’t always a clearly defined limit to the amount of time the bank can hold funds. The bank can generally hold funds for a “reasonable” amount of time.

Exceptions to standard holding times include:

Large Deposits

If a customer deposits more than $6,725, the bank will typically need to make the first $275 of the funds available on the next business day, then a total of $6,725 the business day after that, but they are allowed to put a longer hold on the remaining amount.

Redeposited Checks

If a check bounces and then is redeposited, banks may hold the funds for longer than one business day. (You may want to be cautious about accepting future checks from a person or business that has already bounced a check.)

Recommended: How to Deposit a Check

Accounts That Have Been Repeatedly Overdrawn

If a customer has a history of overdrawing their account, the bank may go beyond charging overdraft fees and also hold funds for more time before making them available for use.

Repeatedly overdrawn means that the account has had a negative balance on at least six business days within the past six months, or the account was $6,725 overdrawn more than twice within the past six months. (One note: If you are in this situation, you may want to consider the pros and cons of overdraft protection.)

Reasonable Doubt

If a customer deposits a check that seems suspicious, the bank may hold funds for a longer period of time. A check may seem suspicious if it’s postdated or it’s more than 60 days old. (Typically, how long a check is good for is about six months, but it may cause concern after two months has passed.)

New Bank Accounts

If you recently opened a bank account and your account is less than 30 days old, you may experience hold times of up to nine days. Official checks and electronic payments, however, may be partially available the next day.

Emergency Conditions

If there is a communications outage, a natural disaster, or another circumstance that impedes normal bank functions, banks can hold funds until they are able to provide the funds.

The Takeaway

When you deposit a check, you naturally expect the money to show up in your bank account. Banks generally make funds available on the business day after you make a deposit, but there are exceptions that keep funds on hold for several days. Knowing the federal and your financial institution’s policies about holding times can help ensure that you’re able to pay your bills on time, have access to cash when you need it, and don’t get hit with overdraft fees.

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


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

What is the $275 availability rule?

This rule states that the first $275 of a given day’s deposit must be made available on the next business day.

How long can a bank hold onto a large check?

When you deposit a large check, the first $275 is typically available the next business day. The rest of it, up to a total value of $6,725, is usually accessible within two business days, and the remainder potentially held for several more days as the bank verifies the check’s validity.

How long does it take for a $30,000 check to clear?

It will typically take about two to five days for a $30,000 check to clear.


Photo credit: iStock/solidcolours

SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

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

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

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

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

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

*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

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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