IRA Withdrawal Rules: All You Need to Know

Traditional and Roth IRA Withdrawal Rules & Penalties

The purpose of an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is to save for retirement. Ideally, you sock away money consistently in an IRA and your investment grows over time.

However, IRAs have strict withdrawal rules both before and after retirement. It’s very important to understand the IRA rules for withdrawals to avoid incurring penalties.

Here’s what you need to know about IRA withdrawal rules.

Key Points

•   Traditional and Roth IRAs have specific withdrawal rules and penalties.

•   Roth IRA withdrawal rules include the five-year rule for penalty-free withdrawals, and required minimum distributions (RMDs) for inherited IRAs.

•   Traditional IRA withdrawals before age 59 ½ incur regular income taxes and a 10% penalty.

•   There are exceptions to the penalty, such as using funds for medical expenses, health insurance, disability, education, and first-time home purchases.

•   Generally speaking, early IRA withdrawals might be thought of as a last resort due to the potential impact on retirement savings and tax implications.

Roth IRA Withdrawal Rules

So when can you withdraw from a Roth IRA? The IRA withdrawal rules are different for Roth IRAs vs traditional IRAs. For instance, qualified withdrawals from a Roth IRA are tax-free, since you make contributions to the account with after-tax funds.

There are some other Roth IRA withdrawal rules to keep in mind as well.

The Five-year Rule

The date you open a Roth IRA and how long the account has been open is a factor in taking your withdrawals.

According to the five-year rule, you can generally withdraw your earnings tax- and penalty-free if you’re at least 59 ½ years old and it’s been at least five years since you opened the Roth IRA. You can withdraw contributions to a Roth IRA anytime without taxes or penalties. (The annual IRA contribution limits for 2024 and 2025 are $7,000, or $8,000 for those age 50 and up.)

Even if you’re 59 ½ or older, you may face a Roth IRA early withdrawal penalty if the retirement account has been open for less than five years when you withdraw earnings from it.

These Roth IRA withdrawal rules also apply to the earnings in a Roth that was a rollover IRA. If you roll over money from a traditional IRA to a Roth and you then make a withdrawal of earnings from the Roth IRA before you’ve owned it for at least five years, you’ll owe a 10% penalty on the earnings.

For inherited Roth IRAs, the five-year rule applies to the age of the account. If your benefactor opened the account more than five years ago, you can withdraw earnings penalty-free. If you tap into the money before that, though, you’ll owe taxes on the earnings.

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) on Inherited Roth IRAs

In most cases, you do not have to pay required minimum distributions (RMDs) on money in a Roth IRA account.

However, according to the SECURE Act, if your loved one passed away in 2020 or later, you don’t have to take RMDs, but you do need to withdraw the entire amount in the Roth IRA within 10 years.

There are two ways to do that without penalty:

•   Withdraw funds by December 31 of the fifth year after the original holder died. You can do this in either partial distributions or a lump sum. If the account is not emptied by that date, you could owe a 50% penalty on whatever is left.

•   Take withdrawals each year, based on your life expectancy.

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1Terms and conditions apply. Roll over a minimum of $20K to receive the 1% match offer. Matches on contributions are made up to the annual limits.

Tax Implications of Roth IRA Withdrawals

Contributions to a Roth IRA can be withdrawn any time without taxes or penalties. However, let’s say an individual did active investing through their account, which generated earnings. Any earnings withdrawn from a Roth before age 59 ½ are subject to a 10% penalty and income taxes.

Recommended: Retirement Planning Guide

Traditional IRA Withdrawal Rules

If you take funds out of a traditional IRA before you turn 59 ½, you’ll owe regular income taxes on the contributions and the earnings, per IRA tax deduction rules, plus a 10% penalty. Brian Walsh, CFP® at SoFi specifies, “When you make contributions to a traditional retirement account, that money is going to grow without paying any taxes. But when you take that money out — say 30 or 40 years from now — you’re going to pay taxes on all of the money you take out.”

RMDs on a Traditional IRA

The rules for withdrawing from an IRA mean that required minimum distributions kick in the year you turn 73 (as long as you turned 72 after December 31, 2022). After that, you have to take distributions each year, based on your life expectancy. If you don’t take the RMD, you’ll owe a 25% penalty on the amount that you did not withdraw. The penalty may be lowered to 10% if you correct the mistake and take the RMD within two years.

Early Withdrawal Penalties for Traditional IRAs

In general, an early withdrawal from a traditional IRA before the account holder is at least age 59 ½ is subject to a 10% penalty and ordinary income taxes. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

Recommended: What Is a SEP IRA?

When Can You Withdraw from an IRA Without Penalties?

As noted, you can make withdrawals from an IRA once you reach age 59 ½ without penalties.

In addition, there are other situations in which you may be able to make withdrawals without having to pay a penalty. These include having medical expenses that aren’t covered by health insurance (as long as you meet certain qualifications), having a permanent disability that means you can no longer work, and paying for qualified education expenses for a child, spouse, or yourself.

Read more about these and other penalty-free exceptions below.


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9 Exceptions to the 10% Early-Withdrawal Penalty on IRAs

Whether you’re withdrawing from a Roth within the first five years or you want to take money out of an IRA before you turn 59 ½, there are some exceptions to the 10% penalty on IRA withdrawals.

1. Medical Expenses

You can avoid the early withdrawal penalty if you use the funds to pay for unreimbursed medical expenses that total more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI).

2. Health Insurance

If you’re unemployed for at least 12 weeks, IRA withdrawal rules allow you to use funds from an IRA penalty-free to pay health insurance premiums for yourself, your spouse, or your dependents.

3. Disability

If you’re totally and permanently disabled, you can withdraw IRA funds without penalty. In this case, your plan administrator may require you to provide proof of the disability before signing off on a penalty-free withdrawal.

4. Higher Education

IRA withdrawal rules allow you to use IRA funds to pay for qualified education expenses, such as tuition and books for yourself, your spouse, or your child without penalty.

5. Inherited IRAs

IRA withdrawal rules for inherited IRAs state that you don’t have to pay the 10% penalty on withdrawals from an IRA, unless you’re the sole beneficiary of a spouse’s account and roll it into your own, non-inherited IRA. In that case, the IRS treats the IRA as if it were yours from the start, meaning that early withdrawal penalties apply.

6. IRS Levy

If you owe taxes to the IRS, and the IRS levies your account for the money, you will typically not be assessed the 10% penalty.

7. Active Duty

If you’re a qualified reservist, you can take distributions without owing the 10% penalty. This goes for a military reservist or National Guard member called to active duty for at least 180 days.

8. Buying a House

While you can’t take out IRA loans, you can use up to $10,000 from your traditional IRA toward the purchase of your first home — and if you’re purchasing with a spouse, that’s up to $10,000 for each of you. The IRS defines first-time homebuyers as someone who hasn’t owned a principal residence in the last two years. You can also withdraw money to help with a first home purchase for a child or your spouse’s child, grandchild, or parent.

In order to qualify for the penalty-free withdrawals, you’ll need to use the money within 120 days of the distribution.

9. Substantially Equal Periodic Payments

Another way to avoid penalties under IRA withdrawal rules is by starting a series of distributions from your IRA spread equally over your life expectancy. To make this work, you must take at least one distribution each year and you can’t alter the distribution schedule until five years have passed or you’ve reached age 59 ½, whichever is later.

The amount of the distributions must use an IRS-approved calculation that involves your life expectancy, your account balance, and interest rates.

Understanding How Exceptions Are Applied

If you believe that any of the exceptions to early IRA withdrawal penalties apply to your situation, you may need to file IRS form 5329 to claim them. However, it’s wise to consult a tax professional about your specific circumstances.


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Is Early IRA Withdrawal Worth It?

While there may be cases where it makes sense to take an early withdrawal, many financial professionals agree that it should be a last resort. These are disadvantages and advantages to consider.

Pros of IRA Early Withdrawal

•   If you have a major expense and there are no other options, taking an early withdrawal from an IRA could help you cover the cost.

•   An early withdrawal may help you avoid taking out a loan you would then have to repay with interest.

Cons of IRA Early Withdrawal

•   By taking money out of an IRA account early, you’re robbing your own nest egg not only of the current value of the money but also the chance for future years of compound growth.

•   Money taken out of a retirement account now can have a big impact on your financial security in the future when you retire.

•   You may owe taxes and penalties, depending on the specific situation.

Alternatives to Early IRA Withdrawal

Rather than taking an early IRA withdrawal and incurring taxes and possible penalties, as well as impacting your long-term financial goals, you may want to explore other options first, such as:

•   Using emergency savings: Building an emergency fund that you can draw from is one way to cover unplanned expenses, whether it’s car repairs or a medical bill, or to tide you over if you lose your job. Financial professionals often recommend having at least three to six months’ worth of expenses in your emergency fund.

To create your fund, start contributing to it weekly or bi-weekly, or set up automatic transfers for a certain amount to go from your checking account into the fund every time your paycheck is direct-deposited.

•   Taking out a loan: You could consider asking a family member or friend for a loan, or even taking out a personal loan, if you can get a good interest rate and/or favorable loan terms. While you’ll need to repay a loan, you won’t be taking funds from your retirement savings. Instead, they can remain in your IRA where they can potentially continue to earn compound returns.

Opening an IRA With SoFi

IRAs are tax-advantaged accounts you can use to save for retirement. However, it is possible to take money out of an IRA if you need it before retirement age. Just remember, even if you’re able to do so without paying a penalty, the withdrawals could leave you with less money for retirement later.

Ready to invest for your retirement? It’s easy to get started when you open a traditional or Roth IRA with SoFi. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).

Help build your nest egg with a SoFi IRA.

FAQ

Can you withdraw money from a Roth IRA without penalty?

You can withdraw your contributions to a Roth IRA without penalty no matter what your age. However, you generally cannot withdraw the earnings on your contributions before age 59 ½, or before the account has been open for at least five years, without incurring a penalty.

What are the rules for withdrawing from a Roth IRA?

You can withdraw your own contributions to a Roth IRA at any time penalty-free. But to avoid taxes and penalties on your earnings, withdrawals from a Roth IRA must be taken after age 59 ½ and once the account has been open for at least five years.

However, there are a number of exceptions in which you typically don’t have to pay a penalty for an early withdrawal, including some medical expenses that aren’t covered by health insurance, being permanently disabled and unable to work, or if you’re on qualified active military duty.

What are the 5 year rules for Roth IRA withdrawal?

Under the 5-year rule, if you make a withdrawal from a Roth IRA that’s been open for less than five years, you’ll owe a 10% penalty on the account’s earnings. If your Roth IRA was inherited, the 5-year rule applies to the age of the account. So if you inherited the Roth IRA from a parent, for instance, and they opened the account more than five years ago, you can withdraw the funds penalty-free. If the account has been opened for less than five years, however, you’ll owe taxes on the gains.

How do inherited IRA withdrawal rules differ?

According to inherited IRA withdrawal rules, you don’t have to pay the 10% penalty on withdrawals from an IRA unless you’re the sole beneficiary of a spouse’s account and roll it into your own, non-inherited IRA. In that case, the IRS treats the IRA as if it were yours from the start, meaning that early withdrawal penalties apply.

In addition, for inherited IRAs, the five-year rule applies to the age of the account. If the person you inherited the IRA from opened the account more than five years ago, you can withdraw earnings penalty-free.

Are there penalties for missing RMDs?

Yes, there are penalties for missing RMDs. You are required to start taking RMDs when you turn 73, and then each year after that. If you miss or don’t take RMDs, you’ll typically owe a 25% penalty on the amount that you failed to withdraw. The penalty could be lowered to 10% if you correct the mistake and take the RMD within two years.


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How to Study for the MCATs

So you want to go to medical school and become a doctor? Then you know that the MCAT, a rigorous test, is likely in your future. Since it’s an important qualifying test for medical school and can be challenging, you likely want to arm yourself with info and prepare well for it.

Here, you’ll learn some of the most important information, such as:

•   What are the MCATs

•   How to start studying for the MCATs

•   How to pay for the MCATs and medical school.

Read on, and hey: You’ve got this!

Key Points

•   The MCAT is a challenging, standardized, multiple-choice exam taken to qualify for medical school admission.

•   A competitive MCAT score is 514 or above, which results in a 70% acceptance rate to medical school.

•   Preparing for the MCAT is important. The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) offers free and paid practice tests for MCAT preparation.

•   The registration fee for the MCAT is $335, with extra fees for changes or late registration.

•   The cost of attending medical school is on the rise. The average debt for medical school graduates is $234,597.

What Are the MCATs?

MCAT stands for Medical College Admission Test® (MCAT®). The test, which the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) creates and administers every year, is multiple-choice and standardized. Some important facts:

•   Medical schools have been utilizing it for more than 90 years to determine which students should gain admission.

•   Most medical schools in the United States and many in Canada will require that students take the MCATs. Every year, more than 85,000 prospective medical school students take it.

•   There are four sections to the MCATs:

◦   Critical analysis and reasoning skills

◦   Biological and biochemical functions of living systems

◦   Chemical and physical foundations of biological systems

◦   Psychological, social, and biological foundations of behavior.

•   Students will receive five scores: one for each section, and then one total score.

◦   In each section, they can get a score ranging from 118 to 132, and the total score ranges from 472 to 528.

◦   Generally, a competitive MCAT score is a total of 514 or above, which results in a 70% acceptance rate to medical school.

The average MCAT score for all medical school applicants is currently 506.3. Usually, students will receive scores 30 to 35 days after they take the exam.

Keep in mind that MCAT scores, while important, are just one part of a medical school application. Medical schools often review other factors, including things like:

•   Your GPA

•   Undergraduate coursework

•   Experience related to the medical field, including research and volunteer work

•   Letters of recommendation

•   Extracurricular activities

•   Personal statement.

Because of this array of inputs, If a student has a high GPA from a competitive undergraduate school, for instance, and they don’t score very high on the MCATs, they may still have a chance of getting into a medical school.

Getting a competitive score on the MCAT can give applicants an edge, especially when applying to ultra-competitive medical schools. One way students can help improve their chances of getting a desirable score on the MCAT is to learn how to study for the unique demands of this test.


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Studying for the MCAT

One of the first things a student can do when determining how to prepare for the MCAT is to create a study plan. A well-crafted study plan will review what materials the student should review in order to prepare for the exam.

That said, there’s no one best way to prep for the MCAT. Consider these options; you might use one or a variety of techniques.

The AAMC Website

One great place to get started is the AAMC website, which provides an in-depth outline of the test on their website. Obviously, the same questions students will see on the actual exam won’t be listed, but sample questions that are similar to the real questions are. Students may find helpful tutorials and other content as well.

Online Resources

There are a variety of other online resources students can explore to help them review. For example, the AAMC currently recommends students take a look at Khan Academy’s MCAT Video Collection, where there are more than 1,000 videos as well as thousands of questions that students can use to review.

There are also MCAT study apps like MCAT Prep by MedSchoolCoach and MCAT Prep by Magoosh that students can download and use to study.

Books, Textbooks, and Class Resources

How else to prep for the MCATs? It may also help to buy or borrow books from the library that go into detail on the MCAT. One word of advice: Students should just make sure that the books they’re reading are up to date. Information (and the MCAT) get refreshed often; you don’t want to be studying yesterday’s medical data.

It can also be helpful to review class notes and study guides from courses you’ve taken that are related to MCAT materials. Some schools have study groups and other academic support resources for students who are studying for the MCAT. If you’re currently enrolled in classes, take a look to see what might be offered at your campus. You might luck out with some great ways to learn more.

Practice Tests

AAMC offers official sample MCAT practice exams online. You can access two for free, and others for a cost of $35 each. Taking practice tests can help students familiarize themselves with the exam. Taking practice tests can also be important in helping students understand the timing of each section.

Study Groups and Tutors

Here are other ideas for how to start studying for the MCAT:

•   Getting an MCAT tutor who has taken the test could also be helpful. A tutor will generally be able to provide guidance on what kind of questions a student can expect. Plus, they will likely have hands-on experience with effective methods and tips for studying.

If you decide that how to prep for the MCAT should involve a tutor, ask friends and fellow students who have taken the MCATs recently for recommendations. There are also test preparation companies that provide resources for students to find tutors online or in person. Do check reviews and references.

•   Study groups can also be a tool to help students who are preparing for the MCATs. Students can find others who are on the same path and work together to build proficiency. If possible, find a group where each student has a different strength and weakness. This can maximize students learning from one another.

•   It may help to use a shared calendar or another tool to make sure everyone is on the same page for dates, times, and locations for when the study group will meet.

•   Want to find a study group as part of how to prepare for the MCATs? Search engines, professors’ recommendations, school bulletin boards/online groups, and fellow students are good bets.



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Important Dates to Keep in Mind

Now that you know the ins and outs of preparing for the MCAT, what about taking the test itself? Students can take the MCATs numerous times throughout the year, from January through September. There are hundreds of test locations around the U.S. and Canada as well as select locations around the globe.

If a student’s preferred MCAT test date or location is not available, they can sign up for email notifications to see if it becomes available down the line.

Recommended: Refinancing Student Loans During Medical School

Paying for the MCATs and Medical School

As you explore the best way to prepare for the MCAT and plan your medical school journey, you’ll likely be keeping costs in mind and thinking about ways to pay for college. Here are details to note.

Paying for the MCATs

The registration fee for the MCAT exam is $335, and that includes distribution of scores. There may be additional fees for changes to a registration, a late registration, and for taking the test at international sites.

The AAMC does offer a Fee Assistance Program to students who are struggling to pay for the test and/or medical school applications. To be eligible for the Fee Assistance Program, students must meet the following eligibility requirements:

•   Be a US Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident of the US.

•   Meet specific income guidelines for their family size.

Note that the Fee Assistance Program will review financial information of the student and the student’s parents, even if the student is considered independent.

Keep in mind that along with the MCAT fee, applying to medical school can be quite expensive. Most medical schools in the US utilize the AAMC’s American Medical College Application Service® (AMCAS®). To apply to medical schools, students will generally pay a first-time application fee of $175, as well as $46 for each additional school.

Some medical schools may require a secondary application, and those fees range depending on the school. Students may also need additional money to travel to and tour schools.

Recommended: Cash Course: A Student Guide to Money

Medical School Costs

The application process is just one portion of the expense of med school. After being accepted, there’s the cost of tuition, books, and more, and these medical school costs have been rising steeply lately.

•   The average cost per year of medical school at a public school is $53,845, which includes tuition, fees, and living expenses.

•   The average cost per year at a private medical school is $67,950. The average debt for medical school graduates is currently $234,597. Debt after medical school can go even higher when you add in undergraduate loans.

Obviously, that’s a significant number and can make you wonder how to pay for medical school. First, do remember that medical school is a path to a rewarding and challenging career, as well as potentially a lucrative one. The average medical school graduate earns more than $158,000, with high earners enjoying salaries above the $400K mark, according to ZipRecruiter data.

In addition, be sure to search for scholarships and grants you might be eligible for. This type of gift money generally doesn’t need to be repaid.

Paying for School with the Help of SoFi

Paying for the MCATs and medical school can be a challenge. SoFi understands this, which is why they offer students private student loans and the opportunity to refinance their current student loans.

Keep in mind, however, that if you refinance with an extended term, you may pay more interest over the life of the loan. Also note that refinancing federal student loans means forfeiting their benefits and protections, so it may not be the right choice for everyone.

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


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



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

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

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


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

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What Is Mortgage Forbearance?

Some mortgage servicers allow borrowers with unforeseen financial troubles to trim or pause mortgage payments short term through a process called mortgage forbearance. So if a homeowner hits a snag and can’t pay, a sudden hardship — such as temporary unemployment or health issues — doesn’t necessarily lead to credit damage or foreclosure.

The goal of forbearance is to give the borrower a chance to become more financially stable. If this sounds like something you need — or if you simply want to read up on forbearance so you’ll be prepared if the unexpected happens — this guide is for you.

Identifying Your Loan Servicer

If you want to ask if mortgage forbearance is an option, you’ll first need to determine your mortgage servicer, which may not be the lender that originally provided the loan. The name of the servicer typically appears on the bill that arrives in the mail or on the website where mortgage payments are made. You could also try looking up your servicer on the MERS® website. Those who think they may have Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac-owned loans can check online as well.


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What Does Mortgage Forbearance Really Mean and How Does It Work?

During forbearance, interest is not paid but accrues and is later added to the loan balance. All suspended payments also will need to be paid back. If rough seas are rising around you, it doesn’t make much sense to wait to ask for a lifeline. Similarly, if you’re experiencing a hardship, before missing even one mortgage payment, it would be smart to contact your servicer to ask about options, go over the details, and formalize an agreement.

It’s important to ask whether skipped payments are expected to be paid in a lump sum when the forbearance ends, paid in installments, or added to the end of the loan term. Forbearance is often only granted after a financial review to gauge the likelihood that you can resume regular payments at the end of the forbearance period.

Do You Have to Pay Extra Interest for Forbearance?

Typically no. The interest rate and amount of interest follow the loan agreement.

The loan interest might change only if the lender extends the loan term or increases the loan interest rate.

Pros and Cons of Mortgage Forbearance

Pros

Cons

It’s a chance to avoid foreclosure Often higher monthly payments after forbearance
Usually has no impact on credit You normally have to prove hardship
Good for short-term hardships Interest accrues
Missed payments must be repaid

Federally Backed and Private Mortgage Options

Thanks to the CARES Act, both conventional and government-backed mortgages were eligible for forbearance due to Covid-related hardships. But these programs wound down in the fall of 2023. This means forbearance programs are specific to your lender, as they were prior to the pandemic. So whether you have a conventional home loan or government-insured home loan (an FHA, USDA, or VA loan), if you’re experiencing hardship it’s important to contact your loan servicer as soon as possible to discuss options and the exact terms.

Lenders typically ask for documentation to prove the hardship, including current monthly income and expenses. They also will want to know whether your hardship is expected to last six months or less (short term) or 12 months (long term). Depending on the lender, you may need to call to discuss options or might be able to start the forbearance request process online.

Coming Out of Forbearance

When a forbearance period ends, how will the amount that was paused be repaid? The answer depends on the lender and type of loan.

•   It’s possible that the sum unpaid during the forbearance period will be due in full once a loan is out of forbearance.

•   That is not true with a Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA, USDA, or VA loan. With these loans, the amount that was suspended will not be required to be paid back in a lump sum.

•   Other lenders may extend the loan period, adding the forbearance dollars to the end of the loan.

•   Yet other lenders may raise monthly payments once a loan is out of forbearance to make up the amount that wasn’t being paid during the mortgage forbearance period.

Deferred Mortgage Payments and Credit Scores

Even one missed mortgage payment will dent your credit scores, and late payments will stay on your credit history for seven years. Forbearance, on the other hand, usually does not show up on credit reports as negative activity.

Alternatives to Mortgage Forbearance

For those who can’t afford to pay their mortgage, mortgage relief options like these may be available.

Mortgage Loan Modification

If you cannot refinance your loan, loan modification is an option. Loan modification changes the original terms of your mortgage long term or permanently. The point is to make your payments more manageable, usually with a lower interest rate, a longer loan term, or both. If the length of the loan is extended, you’ll probably pay less per month than before but pay more interest over the life of the loan.

When reaching out to your loan servicer to discuss loan modification, it’s wise to ask about any fees for the modification; what the new repayment term, rate, and payments will be; and whether the modification is temporary or permanent. As with forbearance, evidence of financial hardship and a letter will be required.

Mortgage Refinancing

Refinancing a mortgage is altogether different from modifying a home loan. When refinancing a mortgage loan, you’re applying for a brand-new loan that would then be used to pay off outstanding home debt. You might qualify for a lower interest rate or get a longer loan term. Closing costs apply.

If you’re struggling financially, it might be difficult to qualify for refinancing, but it doesn’t hurt to get prequalified, which takes mere minutes. You may find that you’re eligible for a refinance during or after forbearance, according to Fannie Mae. (If you do this, make sure you seek mortgage prequalification vs. preapproval and that you understand the difference.)

Draw on Savings

In an emergency, you may want to consider tapping your emergency fund or retirement account. If you have a Roth IRA, remember that you can withdraw contributions at any time tax- and penalty-free. (If you withdraw the earnings on the account, however, you may be subject to taxes, a 10% penalty, or both.)

You may qualify for a hardship distribution from a 401(k) and permanently withdraw money if your plan allows it. Your employer will likely deduct 20% upfront for taxes. The 10% penalty tax is waived if the hardship withdrawal is for a handful of specific reasons.

Sell Your Home

If the weight of mortgage payments becomes too much, you could sell your house and pay off the mortgage.

If the proceeds would fall short, an option is a short sale. Your lender decides whether or not to OK the sale or whether to work out a plan, like allowing you to make interest-only payments for a set amount of time or extending the loan term.

Declare Bankruptcy

Another option to stave off foreclosure is filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Chapter 13 allows a borrower up to five years to pay missed mortgage payments. So instead of having to make one giant payment, if that’s what is being asked for, a homeowner could break up the payments over 60 months.

If, for example, a homeowner accepted a 12-month forbearance on monthly payments of $2,400, a Chapter 13 plan could allow the $28,800 in arrears to be paid over 60 months. Other debts can also be restructured and possibly discharged under Chapter 13.


💡 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

Mortgage forbearance allows paused or reduced payments for borrowers experiencing a sudden hardship that is expected to last six months or less. It’s one way to ward off foreclosure. It’s not the only way, however, so it’s worth consider forbearance as well as other options such as a loan modification or mortgage refinance.

SoFi can help you save money when you refinance your mortgage. Plus, we make sure the process is as stress-free and transparent as possible. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates on a traditional mortgage refinance or cash-out refinance.


A new mortgage refinance could be a game changer for your finances.

FAQ

Does forbearance hurt credit?

No, if you abide by all the terms of the agreement. Skipped payments during a forbearance period are typically not reported to the credit bureaus.

Is mortgage forbearance a good idea?

If the financial hardship is short term, forbearance could provide a welcome respite until you get back on your feet. And it sure beats foreclosure.

Does forbearance affect getting a new mortgage?

It depends. For Fannie Mae- and Freddie Mac-backed loans, if you paid everything back in a lump sum after forbearance, you can proceed. If not, you will need to make three consecutive payments under your repayment plan or payment deferral option.

FHA loans have a waiting period that varies by loan type if you’ve missed any payment in forbearance, even if you paid everything back in a lump sum.


SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.


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


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


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.


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

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What Is a VA Loan and How Does It Work?

VA loans are available to active-duty military members, veterans, reservists, National Guard members, and certain surviving spouses. They require no down payment or mortgage insurance and typically come with lower interest rates than other types of mortgages. If you think you might qualify for a VA loan, it’s worth comparing the costs to those of a conventional loan.

What Is a VA Home Loan?

VA loans were created in 1944 as part of the G.I. Bill, and they have grown in popularity since. They are one way to buy a house with no money down.

Most VA loans are VA-backed loans. Approved private lenders issue the loans, part of which the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs agrees to repay if the borrower stops making the payments. That guarantee incentivizes lenders to offer VA loans with attractive terms.

The VA issues direct loans to Native American veterans or non-Native American veterans married to Native Americans. The agency also refinances VA and other mortgages.

First-time homebuyers can
prequalify for a SoFi mortgage loan,
with as little as 3% down.

Questions? Call (888)-541-0398.


How Does a VA Home Loan Work?

To receive a VA loan, a veteran, service member, reservist, National Guard member, or surviving spouse first has to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility. Once you have your COE and have decided what you wish to spend on a home, you’ll seek out a lender. Most lenders charge a flat 1% fee for VA loans but there may be other fees as well.

Once you have a lender and find a home to purchase, you’ll need to have the home appraised by a VA-approved appraiser to ensure it meets the minimum qualifications for a VA loan. If it does, you’re on your way to moving day.

Types of VA Home Loans

VA loans are available to help eligible borrowers buy, build, renovate, or refinance. Here are the main programs.

VA-Backed Loans

VA-backed home loans are full of advantages. They require no down payment or mortgage insurance, and have fairly loose rules about qualifying.

The home must be a primary residence, but up to a four-unit multifamily property may be purchased if one unit will be owner-occupied.

Approved condos and manufactured homes classified as real property are eligible.

VA Direct Home Loans

If either a veteran or their spouse is Native American, they may qualify for a Native American Direct Loan (NADL) to purchase, construct, or improve a home on federal trust land.

The VA issues these loans directly to borrowers who meet credit standards and whose tribal government has an agreement with the VA.

VA Refinancing

The VA offers an interest rate reduction refinance loan (IRRRL) and a cash-out refinance.

An IRRRL, or VA Streamline Refinance, refinances an existing VA-backed home loan. No verification of credit, income, or employment is required, and you might not need a home appraisal.

The VA-backed cash-out refinance can be used to convert any type of home loan to a VA mortgage with cash back at closing. (Cash back is optional: You can also use a VA cash-out refi to switch to a VA loan, shed mortgage insurance, and possibly lower your mortgage rate.)

VA Renovation and Construction Loans

The VA renovation loan is Veterans Affairs’ answer to the FHA 203(k) loan. It allows eligible borrowers to purchase and repair a property using a single VA loan with no down payment.

VA construction loans can help borrowers finance land and the construction of a home without a down payment. The hitch is, few lenders offer these loans.

Some states also administer their own loan programs for qualified veterans. California, for example, may have a high cost of living but it does offer its own home loan program to veterans.

Who Should Apply for a VA Home Loan

Eligible applicants for a VA loan are:

•   Current service members who have served for 90 consecutive days.

•   Veterans who served after 1990 for 24 continuous months or for the full period (at least 90 days) when called or ordered to active duty. (Those who served prior to 1990 may also be eligible; check VA.gov for detailed requirements.)

•   Service members who served at least 90 days of active duty in the Reserves or the National Guard after 1990. (Those who served prior to 1990 may also be eligible; visit VA.gov for details.)

•   Spouses of service members who died in the line of duty or from a service-connected disability, or who are missing or are prisoners of war.

VA Home Loan Requirements for Buying a House

If you apply and meet the requirements for a VA loan, you’ll receive a certificate of eligibility. Approved lenders can check eligibility quickly, or potential borrowers can contact va.gov.

The document indicates “full entitlement.” For full entitlement, at least one of these must be true:

•   You’ve never used your home loan benefit

•   You’ve paid a previous VA loan in full and sold the property

•   You’ve used your home loan benefit but had a foreclosure or short sale and repaid the VA in full

Credit, Income, Debt

For a VA loan, the lender will determine how much of a mortgage you can afford based on your credit history, income, debts, and assets.

The VA does not have a minimum credit score, but most mortgage lenders will want to see a FICO credit score above 620. Some may go lower.

According to VA residual-income guidelines, borrowers should have a certain amount of discretionary income left over each month after paying major expenses.

The VA does not name a maximum debt-to-income ratio, but it does suggest placing more financial scrutiny on borrowers with a DTI of more than 41%, which includes the projected mortgage payments.

VA Loan Rates

For VA-backed loans, approved private lenders set their own VA loan rates and fees. It’s smart to contact more than one lender when shopping for a mortgage and compare offers.

VA Funding Fee

There will be no mortgage insurance on a VA loan, but most borrowers will pay a one-time funding fee for a VA-backed or VA direct home loan. The fee can be rolled into the loan.

For the first use of a VA-backed purchase or construction loan, the funding fee is 2.3% of the loan amount if the borrower is putting less than 5% down.

The NADL funding fee for a home purchase is 1.25%.

A few borrowers, including those who are receiving VA compensation for a service-connected disability, do not have to pay the funding fee.

Benefits of VA Home Loans

Here are the main selling points of VA loans:

•   No down payment.

•   More attractive interest rates and terms than loans from some mortgage lenders.

•   Possibly lower closing costs. The VA allows lenders to charge up to 1% of the loan amount to cover origination, processing, and underwriting costs. Sellers can pay all of your loan-related closing costs, but yes, that’s a big ask. VA loans have an appraisal fee that is set by area. Buyers may purchase mortgage points to reduce the interest rate.

•   There’s no limit to the amount that can be borrowed with a VA home loan. However, there is a limit to the amount of the loan that the VA will guarantee.

•   No minimum credit score requirement (although some lenders may still not lend to those with lower credit scores).

•   A VA home loan can be for first-time homebuyers or repeat buyers.

•   VA loans are assumable, meaning the loan could be taken over by the home’s next purchaser.

Downsides of VA Home Loans

Although there are many benefits to VA loans, there are a few potential pitfalls to keep in mind.

The main one is the funding fee. If rolled into the loan, this increases monthly payments as well as total interest paid over the life of a loan.

Others:

•   VA loans can’t be used to purchase investment properties or vacation homes.

•   Some approved condos are eligible, but co-op properties are not.

•   Zero down payment is a nice option, but if the housing market falters, borrowers may be paying more on their home than it’s worth.

What Is the VA Loan Limit?

As of 2020, if you have full entitlement, you don’t have a VA loan limit.

If you have a remaining entitlement (e.g., you have a VA loan you’re still paying back), you can use your remaining entitlement — on its own or with a down payment — to take out another VA loan.

In that case, the VA loan limit is based on the county conforming loan limit where you live. (In most of the country, the 2023 conforming loan limit for one-unit properties is $726,200.)

VA Loan vs Traditional Mortgage

After comparing the pros and cons of VA loans, some borrowers may find that a conventional loan with a low down payment is a better fit for their long-term financial goals. Even if they save money upfront, in the long term, VA loan borrowers often end up paying more.

Conventional loans can be used for vacation homes or investment properties. They don’t include the VA funding fee.

And some borrowers who put less than 20% down may be able to avoid PMI.

The Takeaway

VA loan requirements are more flexible than some others, and VA loan rates may be slightly lower. VA loans have benefits, but it might pay to get loan estimates for conventional loans, too, and compare. For one thing, nothing down means starting out with no equity.

Applying for a home mortgage loan with SoFi requires as little as 3% down for qualifying first-time homebuyers. The fixed rates are competitive. SoFi finances primary homes, second homes, and investment properties.

Check out SoFi Mortgages and get your rate with no obligation.

FAQ

What are the disadvantages of a VA loan?

The main downside of a VA loan is its funding fee. VA loans also can’t be used to purchase investment or vacation properties, or co-ops (although some condos are eligible).

What is the difference between a VA loan and a regular loan?

The main difference between a VA loan and a conventional loan is that VA loans do not require a down payment or mortgage insurance. And, of course, VA loans are only available to qualified service members, veterans, and certain spouses.

Do you pay a VA loan back?

Yes. A VA loan is a loan, not a gift, and It must be repaid. A homeowner who doesn’t make payments could lose their home and any equity they had built up in it.


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


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

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What Are Mortgagors, What Do They Do, and How Do They Differ From Mortgagees?

What Are Mortgagors, What Do They Do, and How Do They Differ From Mortgagees?

“Mortgagor” is just another word for someone who is borrowing money from a mortgage lender (the “mortgagee”) to purchase real estate. It’s not every day that you see the term “mortgagor” and it doesn’t roll off the tongue easily. You might even think perhaps it’s misspelled. But when it comes to financial matters, half the battle is understanding the jargon. In this case, the good news is that even if you have never heard of a mortgagor, it’s just another word for being the borrower on a home loan.

The Function of a Mortgagor

The mortgage universe can be a bit complex and it’s helpful to understand the basics of mortgages. So let’s take a closer look at the mortgagor’s role. The mortgagor makes monthly payments to the mortgagee as specified in the loan agreement. The terms of a mortgage can vary widely. For example, depending on the applicant’s credit history, the interest rate may be higher or lower than the average.

A mortgagor may choose from different types of mortgage loans. Some loans have a fixed interest rate and a term of 30 years, though many lenders offer loan lengths of 20, 15, or 10 years. A fixed-rate mortgage has an interest rate that remains the same during the life of the loan. A variable-rate mortgage is one in which the interest rate moves up and down with the market.

The bottom line: Mortgagors must pay back the loan in a timely fashion. If not, mortgagees can force foreclosure of the home or other real estate — the collateral for the loan.


💡 Quick Tip: Buying a home shouldn’t be aggravating. SoFi’s online mortgage application is quick and simple, with dedicated Mortgage Loan Officers to guide you through the process.

First-time homebuyers can
prequalify for a SoFi mortgage loan,
with as little as 3% down.

Questions? Call (888)-541-0398.


How a Mortgagor Gets a Mortgage Loan

A mortgagor applies to a mortgagee for a mortgage. Conventional mortgage loans are originated by private lenders like banks, credit unions, and mortgage companies. Certain private lenders also originate FHA, VA, and USDA loans; those loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Government-backed loans are often easier to qualify for and may have more lenient terms and lower interest rates.

No matter what kind of mortgage loan you seek, expect to jump through some hoops and produce much documentation to prove you are creditworthy and have the means to pay back what you borrow. A prospective lender will do a hard credit inquiry into your credit scores and credit history. So it’s helpful to understand what makes up your credit scores. Important factors include your credit history, how long you’ve had your lines of credit open, your payment history, and debt-to-income ratio, which is the total amount of your monthly debt payments divided by your gross monthly income. If your debt-to-income ratio is high, that may be a no-go in the eyes of a lender, who may see you as tapped out with no real wiggle room to take on a mortgage.

To purchase a home, buyers often take on a mortgage loan for the price minus any money they put forth as a down payment. While you may be able to get an FHA loan with 3.5% down, or a VA loan with no down payment at all, the median down payment is around 13% of the value of the home.

Contractual Obligations of Mortgagors

A deal is a deal is a legally binding deal. Once the ink dries on that mortgage, you’re locked into your commitment to pay as you said you would. If you veer off course, you’re at risk of losing the home, as there is a lien on the real property as collateral for the loan. At the very least, late or missed payments will cause your credit score to dip, which could be problematic the next time you need to show your credit score, be it for a car loan or maybe even to a potential employer.

Equity of Redemption

If this phrase sounds important, it is. You’ll be thankful for it if you have gotten behind on your mortgage. Equity of redemption, also called right of redemption, will give you a chance to get caught up and keep your home before a foreclosure sale.

When you miss payments, the mortgagee can start the foreclosure process. The lender can take back the house and sell it at auction to pay off the debts. If this process has begun, you may be able to redeem the mortgage using equity of redemption. Understand that you’ll need to come up with the money to pay off the principal, interest, and expenses under equity of redemption. Realistically, if you’re in financial trouble, a funding source to pay off the loan is unlikely.

Some states have a law that gives mortgagors the right to redeem the home for a period of time after the foreclosure sale. With the statutory right of redemption, usually the borrower must pay the bid price, plus interest and fees, to the buyer of the property at the foreclosure sale.

Rights of Mortgagors

While it doesn’t have to be a battle royal, when it comes to mortgagee vs. mortgagor, the mortgagee holds the keys to the kingdom. The lender puts up the money, and if the borrower can’t make the mortgage payments, the lender has the right to take the house. That’s not to say you are without a few good things in your back pocket, like the aforementioned rights of redemption. You can also ask that your mortgage be transferred to a third party, but only if the mortgagee is not in possession of the property.


💡 Quick Tip: Not to be confused with prequalification, preapproval involves a longer application, documentation, and hard credit pulls. Ideally, you want to keep your applications for preapproval to within the same 14- to 45-day period, since many hard credit pulls outside the given time period can adversely affect your credit score, which in turn affects the mortgage terms you’ll be offered.

Mortgagors vs Mortgagees

To lessen any confusion, here’s a quick look at who does what.

Mortgagor

Mortgagee

Makes monthly payments Receives payments
Meet all terms of the mortgage Sets loan terms, including length of loan, payment due dates, and interest rate, and communicates them clearly
When the loan is paid in full, gets the deed Can seize property if mortgagor stops paying

The Takeaway

Understanding the lingo can help you be more confident as you embark on your homebuying journey. Do your research, pull together your financial documents, find a home you love and soon you, too, could become a mortgagor.

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.


Photo credit: iStock/fizkes

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.



*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.

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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