SoFi

After months of searching, you’ve found your dream home. There’s just one problem: It’s marked as contingent. Can you still make an offer on a house that is contingent? In a word, yes.

Here’s what you need to know about contingent homes and what they mean for hopeful buyers.

What Does Contingent Mean On a House?

When scrolling through online real estate listings, you’re likely to come across a few different listing classifications. These tell you what stage of the real estate process a property is in.

A listing classified as “active” means the home is currently for sale and potential buyers are welcome to view the home and make an offer. A home listed as “pending” means a closing date has been set and all contingencies have been met. A home listed as “sold” is officially off the market.

In real estate, contingent means an offer has been accepted on a home, but before the sale can go through, certain criteria (specified in the contract) need to be met.

Many buyers don’t fully understand the contingent house meaning when it comes to their options. Unfortunately, this could mean buyers are throwing away real estate opportunities.

💡 Quick Tip: Thinking of using a mortgage broker? That person will try to help you save money by finding the best loan offers you are eligible for. But if you deal directly with an online mortgage lender you won’t have to pay a mortgage broker’s commission, which is usually based on the mortgage amount.

Can a Contingent Home Fall Through?

Yes, the deal on a home that is listed as contingent can definitely fall through.

In 2025, the National Association of Realtors® found that 5% of contracts over a three-month time period were terminated. Reasons for a contract falling through include job loss, unmet contingencies (such as the buyer not being able to sell their home), trouble with financing, home inspection issues, and more.

Financing Falls Through

According to a NAR® report, 74% of homebuyers financed their home. Home loans aren’t finalized until closing, so until a buyer signs on the dotted line on closing day, financing isn’t guaranteed.

Even though buyers may be preapproved for financing, finalizing the process involves diving deeper into their financial matters. Sometimes unanswered debts come up or loan seekers have overestimated their assets.

Whatever the reason, financing can fall through at any time and push a home back on the market.

Appraisal Is Low

An appraisal must be completed when a home is being bought with a mortgage loan. A qualified appraiser determines the value of the home through a variety of measures, including condition and location.

An appraisal that comes in much lower than expected can push a home back on the market. Buyers might decide they are no longer interested, sellers might not agree to a lower price, or the financial institution providing funding could stop the transaction from taking place.

Surprises in the Home Inspection

A home inspection that turns up unexpected issues can void a contingent contract. Unless the buyer and seller can come to an agreement about who will absorb the cost of each necessary fix, it’s unlikely a new offer will be made or accepted.

A home inspection that finds a home to be in severe disrepair could make it difficult or impossible to secure funding, as well.

The Buyer Is Unable to Sell Their Home

One of the most common requirements written into a contingent offer is that the sale can’t go through until the buyer sells their home. Many homeowners can’t afford two mortgages at once, and this is the best way to prevent an overlap.

However, this leaves the seller in an uncomfortable position, not knowing if their home will officially sell in one week or three months. Unless specifics are written into the contingency contract, a seller may back out of the contract or accept another offer if they feel the sale is moving too slowly.

💡 Quick Tip: One answer to rising house prices is a jumbo loan. Apply for a jumbo loan online with SoFi, and you could finance up to $2.5 million with as little as 10% down. Get preapproved and you’ll be prepared to compete in a hot market.

How to Put in an Offer on a Contingent Home

In most cases, putting an offer in on a contingent home is an option to consider. Although it doesn’t guarantee you’ll close on the home, it does mean you could be first in line should the current contract fall through.

Putting an offer in on a contingent home is similar to the home-buying process of any active listing. Here are a few responses you could receive:

•   Crickets. In some cases, a seller and buyer may have already gone through the requirements and are approaching a closing date. If this is the case, you’re likely not to receive a response. Don’t take it personally.

•   We’ll get back to you. If your offer is appealing, you can expect the seller’s agent to want to speak with yours. A quick conversation between the professionals will likely reveal if the deal can take place or not. Keep in mind that if the sellers have accepted a contingent offer without a “kick-out clause,” they may not be able to back out of the contract.

•   Yes! If a motivated seller is not happy with how fast the current buyer is moving, your tantalizing offer could win them over quickly. If your offer is accepted, you’ll move forward with the process required by your lender. If you’ve offered cash, closing may happen rather quickly.

Buying a Contingent Home Is Possible, But Is It Worth It?

The answer to this question really depends on how much you want to own the home in question.

Making an offer on a contingent home can take you on a rollercoaster ride. Before you hop on, consider the benefits and potential pitfalls.

Pros

Fast closing. The sellers may be tired of their current contract and ready to move on. If you can put in a better offer, you could be closing sooner rather than later. Before you make an offer, make sure you’re really ready to buy a home.

Less competition. It may not be obvious on an online listing, but a contingent home’s contract could be dead in the water. And while other buyers scroll past the listing because they don’t realize they can still make an offer, you might be able to swoop in and get the home without worrying about competing bids.

Cons

Higher price. It’s less likely you’ll get a great deal when making an offer on a contingent home. In most cases, a contingent offer is high to encourage sellers to hold out if the closing process takes longer than anticipated. You may have to cough up a bit extra to get the home, which is why you should only put an offer on a contingent home that you absolutely love.

Wasted time. Think of putting an offer on a contingent home like asking someone out who is already in a committed relationship. Sure, there’s a chance they’ll say yes. But there’s no way to know if your efforts will be worth it.

Recommended: Mortgage Prequalification vs. Preapproval

The Takeaway

Can you still make an offer on a house that is contingent? Yes. But before you do, make sure the house is worth the added effort and be prepared to move forward quickly in the homebuying process.

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.

FAQ

Can a seller accept another offer while a home is contingent?

A seller can typically only accept another offer on a contingent home if the sale contract includes what is known as a “kick-out” clause, which allows the seller to back out of the contract if the buyer doesn’t meet certain conditions. Often, the condition is the sale of the buyer’s current home.

What are common contingencies in a home sale?

When a home is listed as contingent, some of the contingencies the deal may rest on include a mortgage contingency (the sale will go through if the buyer can get a mortgage); an inspection contingency (the sale will be finalized if the home inspection reveals no serious issues); or an appraisal contingency (the home appraises for the sale price).

Should I bid on a contingent home?

Whether or not it’s a good idea to put in an offer on a contingent home depends on how much you love the property and what your agent can learn about the contingencies that the seller and buyer have in their contract — and how likely they are to result in the deal being scuttled. Of course, if their deal has a kick-out clause and you are willing to make a sweet offer, the negotiations could go your way. So your budget is a factor as well. Remember, though, that making an offer on a contingent property could leave you hanging for a while and delay your home search.

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.

SOHL-Q225-053

Shrinking the square footage of the home you live in might not be the right fit for everyone, but it does offer economic, lifestyle, and emotional benefits for many people. Often, downsizing is more accurately described as “right-sizing.” The idea of a smaller home is that it helps people live more compactly and reduce the typical avalanche of stuff.

Undertaking a downsize isn’t about giving up everything, but instead deciding what’s really important and then finding ways to better incorporate those things into one’s lifestyle.

Read on to learn why less is more for the Americans who choose to downsize.

The Rise of Downsizing

Living minimally has always been a lifestyle choice, but in recent years, more and more people have opted to live with less. The minimalist lifestyle went mainstream with Marie Kondo’s The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing, which urges readers to get rid of items that don’t bring joy.

Downsizing as a trend goes hand in hand with minimalism, the urge to have fewer objects and live in a smaller space. It’s part of the cultural shift of valuing doing something over having something. Three-quarters of Americans value experiences more than things, one study showed.

That shift and home building data suggest that it’s not just empty-nesters looking to purchase a home with less square footage. The median home size buyers want has shrunk by 200 square feet in the last two decades, according to a 2024 National Association of Home Builders report.

The choice to downsize a house is personal, but it’s one that many homeowners are taking on.

Signs It’s Time to Downsize

No matter a person’s life stage, there are a few signs that may signal it’s time to downsize.

•   Housing expenses are too high. The traditional notion is that no more than 30% of a person’s gross income should be spent on housing costs. (The number has been debated, but the 50/30/20 rule has wide support: 50% of post-tax income goes to essential needs, including housing, 30% to discretionary spending, and 20% to savings.)

If the cost of the mortgage, upkeep, and additional home-related expenses far exceed a 30% of a person’s budget, it might be time to think about downsizing. This could apply to a retired couple now living on a fixed income or a first-time homebuyer who has a hard time paying the mortgage without roommates.

•   No ties to the location. Remote work is still common, and that could mean employees are no longer tied to their neighborhood, city, or state. Similarly, the kids might be out of school and parents no longer feel the need to stay in the school district. When a homeowner no longer feels committed to their property’s location, it might be time to consider downsizing.

•   A lifestyle change. It could stem from limited mobility or simply fewer people living in the house, but if rooms or even floors aren’t being used weekly, it could be time to try a smaller space.

•   Home equity could be used. Depending on the amount of equity a person has in their home and the value of the market, they could be sitting on a potentially huge payday. The proceeds from the sale of their home could be a significant down payment on a smaller property.

Recommended: Cost of Living by State

The Upside of Downsizing

Downsizing can sound restricting, but there’s a lot to benefit from.

•   Less upkeep. A smaller home means less upkeep overall. A bigger home requires more maintenance, cleaning, and possibly yard work.

•   More affordable. A smaller home may come with a smaller home mortgage loan or none at all. On top of that, the less space, the fewer things that can go wrong in the home. Additionally, a smaller space typically means lower heating and cooling bills.

•   A fresh locale. In general, smaller homes typically cost less, so that could create the opportunity to move into a small place in a more desirable or exciting neighborhood. It could cost more on average per square foot, but with less square footage overall, up and coming neighborhoods might be attainable.

•   Freed-up money. A smaller space with fewer expenses and less upkeep can translate to a bigger budget for travel and experiences.

Recommended: Refinance Your Mortgage and Save

The Downside of Downsizing

Downsizing has its perks, but there are a few potential drawbacks to the life choice as well.

•   Less space. A smaller footprint could mean sacrificing a guest room, having fewer bathrooms, or losing some garden space. Homeowners thinking about downsizing can be forced to make tough decisions about what truly matters to them in their day-to-day living space.

•   Cost of moving. Overall, downsizing is a more affordable lifestyle, but don’t discount the cost of selling a home and the costs of moving. Remember, when selling a home, real estate agent commissions and other fees can eat up to 10% of the sales price of the home. Selling should lead to a payday, but homeowners take on expenses when prepping their property for sale. Additionally, a full-service move can cost thousands, Move.org notes.

•   Stress of sorting through stuff. Moving consistently ranks as the most stressful event in life, ranked above divorce or a breakup. Downsizing can be particularly stressful because not everything can go with you. It could mean parting with keepsakes; paring down heaps of clothes, shoes, books, holiday decorations, and the list goes on; or deciding to go without some beloved items because they simply don’t suit a smaller home.

•   Staying minimalist-minded. Downsizing isn’t just a one-time choice; it’s the conscious decision to live with less. The initial work of downsizing is probably the biggest hurdle to overcome, but there’s the ongoing choice to live with less and resist buying and accumulating more stuff.

How to Downsize: Steps to Get Started

•   Explore alternative housing. Before diving headfirst into downsizing, it’s worth trying out a smaller way of life. That could mean renting a smaller home for a week or two in a new neighborhood. Downsizing can mean a lot of things, from a tiny house or a condo, or moving from a four-bedroom to a two-bedroom. Getting an idea of what downsizing will mean on a personal level begins with understanding how small you’ll go.

•   Start organizing. Sorting through all your worldly possessions and deciding what to get rid of can be exhausting. Getting the organizing process underway sooner rather than later can save downsizers time and energy. Starting to live with less can make the transition a little easier.

•   Research your property’s value. Knowing the value of your current property, as well as the equity you have, can help create a road map to more affordable living. With an idea of the market value and the proceeds, you’ll have a good idea what your down payment could be.

The Takeaway

If you’re asking yourself “Should I downsize my home?” know that downsizing comes with benefits including less stuff, lower costs, and minimized upkeep, freeing up time and money for other pursuits. Done right, downsizing can be a huge step toward making everything simpler, down to the mortgage process and loan.

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.

FAQ

What are signs I should downsize my home?

The strongest sign that you may need to downsize your home is that your housing costs are pinching your monthly budget — including utility costs, which have risen for many people. It may also be time to downsize if you can’t keep up with maintenance on your larger home, whether keeping it clean and tidy or repairing what’s broken. If your house has gained value and you would enjoy a simpler life in a smaller space with money available for other things, such as travel, that is another strong signal that it’s time to move.

Is there a best age to downsize to a smaller home?

There is no one age that is best to downsize to a smaller home, but many people start to think about doing so in their 50s and 60s, after any children have left the home. Financial pressure, mobility challenges, and a desire for a simplified lifestyle are all important motivators. One thing to consider: If downsizing means moving to a different town or neighborhood, it’s smart to do so while you are still young enough to actively engage with your community and make new friends.

Is downsizing a home always cheaper?

Whether or not downsizing your home will actually reduce your costs will depend on the sale price of your larger home and the costs of your new space. It is likely to reduce your heating and cooling costs due to the smaller square footage. But if you sell your larger home and move to a smaller place in a more expensive area, you may find your costs remain the same or even increase.

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.

SOHL-Q225-055

An individual retirement account (IRA) is a savings account with tax advantages that is designed as a long-term investment vehicle. If you are wondering about getting an IRA loan, it’s important to know that it’s not possible to borrow against an IRA. Taking an early withdrawal from an IRA is an option, but that can come with taxes and penalties.

Read on to learn the impact of an early withdrawal from an IRA and some other ways to find the cash for unexpected expenses.

Can You Borrow From Your IRA?

There are strict rules around withdrawing money from traditional and Roth IRAs. IRA loans are not allowed. However, while you cannot borrow money from these accounts, you can withdraw cash from your IRA. If you are under age 59 ½, however, this is considered an early withdrawal and it comes at a cost.

What Is Possible: Early IRA Withdrawals

Instead of an IRA loan, which is not permitted, IRA account holders can take an early IRA withdrawal. But doing so can result in taxes and a 10% penalty, with some exceptions and depending on the type of IRA you have. Here’s what you need to know about early withdrawals from traditional and Roth IRAs.

Traditional IRAs

With a traditional IRA, you make contributions with pre-tax dollars and pay taxes on the money when you withdraw it.

If you are 59 ½ or older, you can take money out of your traditional IRA with no penalty, but you will owe income taxes on the money.

If you’re under age 59 ½, there are some exceptions that will allow you to avoid the additional 10% penalty, including:

First-time homebuyers can withdraw $10,000 for a down payment.

•  The funds are being used for higher education expenses.

•  The funds are for the birth or adoption of a child.

•  The account holder has become permanently disabled.

Roth IRAs

With a Roth IRA, you make after-tax contributions and withdraw the money tax-free in retirement. If you’re at least 59 ½ and you’ve owned your Roth IRA for five years or more, you can take tax- and penalty-free withdrawals from your Roth IRA.

However, if you are taking an early withdrawal from your Roth (before age 59 ½), you can take out your contributions tax- and penalty free, but not your earnings. If you withdraw earnings, such as dividends or interest, you might have to pay the 10% penalty plus income and state tax on that portion of the withdrawal.

Financial Impact of Early IRA Withdrawals

Taking an early withdrawal from an IRA typically has financial ramifications that it’s important to understand.

Penalties

When you take an early withdrawal from your IRA, you generally incur a penalty of 10% unless the money is for one of the exceptions noted above, or if you are withdrawing contributions (but not earnings) from a Roth IRA that you’ve owned for five years or more.

Taxes

In addition to the penalty you may face for an early withdrawal from your IRA, you will generally also owe taxes on the money you take out. With a Roth IRA, if you take out earnings, you will owe taxes on that money, but not on contributions.

Lack of Growth Potential

By taking money out of your IRA through a withdrawal, and thus lowering the amount in your account, you may lose out on future growth. Less money in your account means you are also decreasing the ability of that sum to generate returns.

This two-fold hit to your savings could impact your financial future. You might not meet your goals for retirement in terms of how much you have saved and what lifestyle you’ll enjoy, for example.

Alternative Funding Sources

There are alternatives to early withdrawals from an IRA. The best choice for you depends on how much cash you need, the taxes and penalties you might incur, and the interest and fees you may pay on the alternative. Here are some options to consider.

401(k) Loan

Unlike an IRA, borrowing from your 401(k) is allowed. (SoFi does not offer 401(k)s at this time, however we do offer a range of IRAs.) Depending on your 401(k) plan, you can take out as much as 50% of your savings, or as much as $50,000, whichever is less, within a 12-month period. You will have to pay back the money, plus interest, within five years. However, the interest is paid back into your own account.

The advantage of a 401(k) loan is that there are no taxes or penalties. The disadvantage is that if you leave your current job, you may have to repay your loan in full at that time. If you cannot, you’ll likely owe both taxes and a 10% penalty if you’re under 59 ½.

Family Loan

A family loan could be the best option if you can negotiate favorable terms. This alternative is also the most flexible, but it can affect family relationships if not handled well. Be sure to set expectations and draw up a contract to protect both parties.

While some people may be lucky enough to score a no-interest loan, most can expect to pay for this privilege of access to cash. However, you can likely avoid closing costs and the like. And, of course, you won’t face the taxes and possible penalties involved when taking an early withdrawal from an IRA.

Credit Card Cash Advance

A credit card cash advance is a quick way to get funds by borrowing against the credit limit on your credit card. No hard credit inquiry is required, so there is no effect on your credit score. You can pay small fixed monthly payments, but there will be interest that accrues daily as well as fees.

However, the potentially high interest charges (often higher than the standard credit card interest rate) and fees will need to be weighed against the cost of an early withdrawal from an IRA. There may be an additional charge of up to 5% for a cash withdrawal, as well as a flat charge for a withdrawal in addition to the percentage charge. Depending on your credit line, the amount you can withdraw may be less than your credit limit.

Personal Loan

If you are looking for a specific sum of money that you would like to repay over time, a personal loan could be a good choice. These usually unsecured loans can be used for almost any purpose (from affording a wedding to paying for home repairs) and are often funded quickly.

Current personal loan interest rates are generally much lower than for a cash advance on your credit and may be a better option than paying taxes and possibly penalties on an IRA withdrawal. Also, you will not be pulling from your retirement nest egg and lessening its opportunities for growth.

Recommended: Personal Loan Glossary

Early IRA Withdrawal vs. Personal Loan

Deciding between an IRA withdrawal vs. a personal loan when you need funds requires careful consideration. Here are the pros and cons of personal loans and early IRA withdrawals to help you weigh the choices and make an informed decision.

thumb_up

Pros of Early IRA Withdrawal

There are several possible advantages to taking an early IRA withdrawal. These include:

•  You can access cash through an IRA withdrawal without paying interest or fees.

•  You may be able to avoid any early withdrawal penalties, depending on how the funds are used.

•  An IRA withdrawal may help you pay off high-interest debt.

•  If you have a Roth IRA, you can withdraw contributions (but not earnings) free of tax and penalties.

thumb_down

Cons of Early IRA Withdrawal

While dipping into your IRA may seem like a good way to get money quickly, consider the downsides before doing so.

•  You will likely owe taxes and possibly an early withdrawal penalty.

•  Withdrawing funds from your IRA can take a chunk out of your retirement savings.

•  If you withdraw earnings from a Roth IRA, you may have to pay taxes and fees.

•  You’ll miss out on earnings from the amount you withdraw from your IRA, which could have a negative impact on your retirement savings.

thumb_up

Pros of a Personal Loan

A personal loan provides flexible borrowing when you need access to cash. Here are some of the other potential benefits:

•  Personal loan funds can be used for virtually any purpose, including home improvement loans.

•  Interest rates on personal loans are typically lower than those of credit cards.

•  You can get funding quickly, typically within days.

•  You may choose from personal loans with fixed or variable interest rates.

thumb_down

Cons of a Personal Loan

Along with their possible advantages, personal loans do have some drawbacks to keep in mind. These are a few to think about:

•  You will likely need to meet certain personal loan credit score requirements to get the best interest rates. The higher your score, the lower your interest rate may be.

•  There may be loan fees to pay on a personal loan, such as an origination fee, which covers the loan processing.

•  Taking out a personal loan can increase the amount of debt you have.

•  Repaying a personal loan could mean that you have less money to devote to savings for other goals, such as buying a house.

The Takeaway

IRA loans are not allowed. You can make an early withdrawal from an IRA instead, but that typically comes with taxes and possibly a 10% early-withdrawal penalty. An IRA withdrawal also subtracts money from your retirement savings.

Alternatives to an early IRA withdrawal include a 401(k) loan, a credit card cash advance, borrowing from family, and a personal loan.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

FAQ

Can I take a loan from my IRA?

There is no such thing as an IRA loan. You can take an early withdrawal from an IRA, but that may involve paying taxes and a penalty, depending on the type of IRA you have, your age, and what you are using the money for. For instance, a first-time homeowner can typically avoid the IRA 10% early withdrawal penalty if they are taking out $10,000 or less for a down payment

How do I get an IRA loan?

You can’t borrow from your IRA. However, if you’re 59 ½ or older, you can take a withdrawal from your traditional IRA without any penalty. Since your original contributions were tax-deductible, you’ll need to pay income tax on the funds you withdraw.

If you have a Roth IRA, you can withdraw both contributions and earnings tax-free and penalty-free if you are 59 ½ or older and have owned your Roth IRA for five years or more. If you withdraw earnings early, you’ll have to pay a 10% penalty and income tax on the amount you withdraw.

How long do you have to pay back an IRA loan?

There is no such thing as an IRA loan. However, one workaround is to do a 60-day rollover. This isn’t a loan, but it may function similarly to a loan as long as you can use the money quickly and then replenish it within the 60 day time frame.

To do a 60-day rollover, you need to withdraw funds from your IRA and roll them over into another IRA or retirement plan, or even back into the same IRA, within 60 days to avoid paying taxes or penalties. If you don’t roll over the funds within 60 days, you will have to pay taxes plus possibly an additional 10% penalty.

Can I borrow from my Roth IRA without penalty?

You can withdraw contributions you’ve made to a Roth IRA at any time without penalty or taxes. Just be sure not to also withdraw any earnings, such as dividends and interest. The reason: You would owe a 10% penalty plus income taxes on the earnings portion of the withdrawal.

How can I get my money out of my IRA without penalty?

You can get money out of your IRA without penalty if you’re 59 ½ or older. (If you have a traditional IRA, you will owe taxes on the money you withdraw; if you have a Roth IRA that you’ve owned for at least five years, you won’t owe taxes.)

If you’re under age 59 ½, there are some exceptions that allow you to avoid the 10% penalty for early withdrawal, including if you are a first-time homebuyer, you’re using the funds for higher education expenses, the funds are for the birth or adoption of a child, or you have become permanently disabled.

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.

SOPL-Q225-106

A senior citizen checking account is a type of bank account specifically designed for individuals who are typically aged 55 or older. These accounts often offer benefits such as higher interest rates, lower fees, and additional perks tailored to the needs of seniors, such as discounts on travel or entertainment.

Is it worth getting a senior checking account vs. a regular checking account? Sometimes — but not always. Here’s what you need to know.

How Does a Senior Checking Account Work?

A senior checking account works in the same way as a regular checking account. The only difference is that it may offer benefits and features customized for adults above a certain age, which might be 50, 55, or 62, depending on the bank or credit union. Senior checking accounts are more commonly offered by smaller regional banks or credit unions than by large national banks.

Like a standard checking account, senior checking accounts offer a place to safely store your money and manage day-to-day spending. They typically come with paper checks plus a debit card you can use for purchases or cash withdrawals. Checking accounts may also offer features like overdraft protection and direct deposit.

Recommended: 7 Tips for Managing a Checking Account

What Is the Difference Between a Senior Checking Account and a Normal Checking Account?

Overall, a senior checking account serves the same purpose as a regular checking account. However, a senior checking account may have certain age requirements and can come with unique benefits and senior discounts designed to appeal to older adults. Some of these benefits may include:

•   Free checks

•   No monthly service charges or low minimum balance requirement to waive monthly service fees

•   24/7 access to customer service by phone

•   Interest on checking account balances

•   A certain number of out-of-network ATM fees waived

•   Discounts on safe deposit boxes

•   Free services such as notary, cashier’s checks, money orders, and wire transfers

•   Special interest rates on certificates of deposit (CDs) or loans

•   Rewards points for using your debit card

These types of perks make it easier for senior citizens to manage their financial life.

Pros of a Senior Checking Account

A senior checking account generally offers all the benefits of traditional checking, plus some extras. Here’s a look at some of the advantages of opening a senior checking account.

•   Unique perks: Eligible account holders can often enjoy special perks like free checks, waived monthly service charges and transaction fees, and discounted banking services.

•   Earn interest: It’s not guaranteed everywhere, but some senior checking accounts allow account holders to earn interest on their deposits.

•   Security: Like regular checking accounts, funds stored in a senior checking account (up to a certain amount) are safe and secure, thanks to Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) insurance,

•   Accessibility: As with any checking account, it’s easy to access your money from a senior checking account when you need it. You can usually make withdrawals in a variety of different ways, including at a branch with a teller, using a debit card at an ATM, writing a check, and making an online bank transfer.

•   Debit card: Typically, senior checking accounts come with debit cards which make it easy to pay for purchases without having cash on hand.

•   Direct deposits: Instead of waiting for paper checks in the mail, checking account holders can set up convenient direct deposits.

Cons of a Senior Checking Account

There are also disadvantages associated with senior checking accounts. Here are some to mull over.

•   Age requirements: Senior checking accounts often have age requirements. Depending on the bank or credit union, you may need to be 50-plus, 55-plus, or 62-plus.

•   Minimal interest: Some senior checking accounts offer interest. However, annual percentage yields (APYs) are generally low. You can likely get a significantly better return on your money by storing it in a high-yield savings account.

•   Minimum balance: Some senior checking accounts may require you to keep a minimum balance to avoid monthly maintenance fees or earn interest.

•   May not be better than a regular account: Many of the promoted perks of a senior checking account may also be available with a standard checking account.

•   Fees: While senior checking accounts tend to charge fewer or lower fees, they can come with account management fees, overdraft fees, and other fees

•   May get better perks with a regular checking account: If you keep a large balance in your checking account, you may be better off with a premium checking account, which could offer more perks and services than a senior checking account.

Things to Consider When Looking for a Senior Citizen Checking Account

Before opening a senior checking account, here are a few helpful things to keep in mind.

•   Convenience: Does the bank or credit union have enough branches and ATMs? Is their website easy to use? Do the bank’s customer service options fit your preferences?

•   Special services and features: Compare a few different senior citizen checking account options. What perks do they offer? Do these services and features matter to you? A free safety deposit box and a special rate on a CD won’t be useful if you don’t plan to use those products.

•   Minimum balance requirements: Does the account have a minimum balance requirement? Will this threshold be easy to meet? If not, you might end up paying a monthly maintenance charge.

•   Fees: Senior citizen checking accounts tend to have fewer fees than typical checking accounts. Still, it’s worth comparing the different fees each account charges. Consider overdraft fees, ATM fees, nonsufficient funds fees, as well as fees for services you may use, such as money orders or wire transfers.

Is a Senior Checking Account Worth It Over a Normal Checking Account?

It depends. Since there are numerous banking choices these days, including traditional banks and credit unions and online-only institutions, it generally pays to shop around and compare benefits and perks of different checking accounts.

As you shop around, keep an eye out for minimum balance requirements and monthly (and any other) fees. If a senior checking account will actually save you money, it could be worth it. If you could do better with a regular checking account, then you may want to skip the senior account.

How Can I Apply for a Senior Citizen Checking Account?

The process of opening a checking account for senior citizens is generally the same as opening a regular checking account. Here’s a look at the steps that are typically involved.

1.    Complete the application. You can generally do this either online or in person at a branch and will need all your basic information (including a government-issued photo ID, proof of address, and Social Security number).

2.    Designate beneficiaries. Once your application is approved, you can choose a beneficiary for your account.

3.    Deposit funds. If an opening deposit is required, you can typically do this by transferring funds from another account (either at the same or a different bank) or using a check, cash, or a debit card.

If you plan to close your other checking account, you’ll want to wait until all outstanding payments and deposits going in or coming out of that account have cleared. Also be sure to change any online bill payments and direct deposits from your prior checking account to your new checking account.

Recommended: How To Switch Banks in 3 Easy Steps

The Takeaway

Senior checking accounts generally come with benefits tailored to older adults, such as lower fees, higher interest rates, and additional perks like free checks or discounts on services.

If you’re over a certain age, prefer traditional banking services, and value these benefits, a senior checking account could be worth it. However, if you’re looking to switch your bank account, it’s wise to compare the features and fees of different accounts to determine which one offers the best value. Depending on your needs and goals, you might find that a checking account with no age requirements is a better fit.

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

FAQ

What is senior banking?

Senior banking refers to banking services and accounts specifically designed for older individuals, typically aged 55 or older. These accounts often come with features and benefits tailored to the needs of seniors, such as lower fees, higher interest rates, and additional perks like free checks or discounts on services. Senior banking may also include financial planning and retirement services to help seniors manage their finances more effectively.

What is the age restriction for senior checking accounts?

Depending on the bank or credit union, the age restriction for a senior checking account may be age 50, 55, or 62.

What is the age limit for a senior citizen bank account?

The age limit for a senior bank account can vary depending on the financial institution. In general, senior bank accounts are available to individuals who are aged 55 or older. However, some banks may offer senior accounts to individuals as young as 50, while others may set the age limit at 62 or older. It’s best to check with the specific bank or credit union to determine the age requirements for their senior banking products.

About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

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

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.
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.

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.

SOBK-Q224-1874427-V1

If someone is applying for disability benefits, they may be relieved to learn that, yes, you can have a savings account while on Social Security disability. While there are certain financial factors that can disqualify someone from Social Security eligibility, having a savings account is not one of those factors.

But of course, there are some subtleties to be aware of with any benefits matter, so it’s important to take a closer look. Among the points to learn are the difference between SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) and SSI (Supplemental Security Income), who is eligible for Social Security disability benefits, and what the guidelines are for having a savings account while receiving benefits.

What Is Social Security?

There’s a reason the Social Security program is so well known: It has been providing financial support to Americans for many decades. Social Security benefits are designed to help maintain the basic well-being and protection of the American people. These benefits have been around since the 1930’s in response to the economic crisis caused by the Great Depression.

Today, one in five Americans currently receive some form of Social Security benefits — one third of those are disabled, dependents, or survivors of deceased workers. More than 10 million Americans are either disabled workers or their dependents.

💡 Quick Tip: Help your money earn more money! Opening a bank account online often gets you higher-than-average rates.

Can I Get Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income with a Savings Account?

You may be thinking you can’t have that kind of asset if you want to qualify for Social Security Disability funds. However, it is indeed possible to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or supplemental security income if you have a checking or a savings account.

Even better, it doesn’t matter how much money is held in that account. There are other program requirements that must be met to qualify for SSDI, but how much money someone has or doesn’t have in the bank isn’t one of them.

Eligibility for SSDI

In order to be eligible for SSDI benefits, the individual must have worked in a job or jobs that were covered by Social Security and have a current medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability. Generally, this program can benefit those who are unable to work for a year or more due to a disability.

It provides monthly benefits until the individual is able to work again on a regular basis. If someone reaches full retirement age while receiving SSDI benefits, those benefits will automatically convert to retirement benefits maintaining the same amount of financial support.

Eligibility for SSI

If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), however, there is a limit on how much you can have in savings. SSI is a federal support program that receives funding from the type of taxes known as general tax revenue, not Social Security taxes.

This program provides financial support to help recipients cover basic needs such as clothing, shelter, and food. It provides aid to those who are aged (65 or older), blind, and disabled people who have little or no income (or limited resources). To qualify, participants must be a U.S. citizen or national, or qualify as one of certain categories of noncitizens.

What You Have to Tell SS about Your Assets if You Want Benefits

There are certain assets (in this case, they’re known as resources) that must be disclosed in order to qualify for benefits through the SSI program. Typically, to receive benefits, one can’t own more than $2,000 as an individual or $3,000 as a couple in what the SSA deems “countable resources.” However, there aren’t any such limits in place for the SSDI program.

The value of someone’s resources (aka their financial assets) can help determine if they are eligible for Social Security benefits. If a recipient has more resources than allowed by the limit at the beginning of the month (when resources are counted), they won’t receive benefits for that month. They can be eligible again the next month if they use up or sell enough resources to fall below the limit.

Eligible resources can include:

•   Cash

•   Bank accounts (checking account, regular savings account, growth savings account; whatever you have)

•   Stocks, mutual funds, and U.S. savings bonds

•   Land

•   Life insurance

•   Personal property

•   Vehicles

•   Anything that can be changed to cash (and can be used for food and shelter)

•   Deemed resources

The term “deemed resources” refers to the resources of a spouse, parent, parent’s spouse, sponsor of a noncitizen, or sponsor’s spouse of the Social Security benefits applicant.

A certain amount of these deemed resources are subtracted from the overall limit. For example, if a child under 18 lives with only one parent, $2,000 worth of deemed resources won’t count towards the limit. If they live with two parents, that amount rises to $3,000.

Recommended: What are the Different Types of Savings Accounts?

How Much Can I Have in My Savings Account and Receive SSI or SSDI?

For the SSI program, the total resource limit (which includes what’s in a checking account) can not be more than $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple. Again, there are no asset limits when it comes to the SSDI program. If someone is applying for the SSDI program, they can surpass that $3,000 limit, and it won’t matter as it doesn’t apply to them.

SSA Exceptions and Programs

Not every asset someone owns will count towards the SSI resource limit (remember, there is no such limit for the SSDI program). For the SSI program, there are some exceptions regarding what counts as a resource. The following assets aren’t taken into consideration:

•   The home the applicant lives in and the land they live on

•   One vehicle—regardless of value—if the applicant or a member of their household use it for transportation

•   Household goods and personal effects

•   Life insurance policies (with a combined face value of $1,500 or less)

•   Burial spaces for them or their immediate family

•   Burial funds for them and their spouse (each valued at $1,500 or less)

•   Property they or their spouse use in a trade or business or to do their job

•   If blind or disabled, any money they set aside under a Plan to Achieve Self-Support

•   Up to $100,000 of funds in an Achieving a Better Life Experience account established through a State ABLE program

The Takeaway

When applying for Social Security benefits, having a savings account may or may not impact your eligibility. It depends on which program you are applying for. It is possible to have a savings account while receiving SSDI benefits. It’s also possible to have a savings account while receiving SSI, but there are limits regarding how much the value of the applicant’s assets (including what’s in their savings accounts) can be worth to qualify for support.

If you happen to be in the market for a savings account, take a look at your options.

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

FAQ

How much money can I have in a savings account while on Social Security?

Personal assets aren’t taken into account, including savings, when applying for the SSDI program. For SSI, however, countable resources (including savings accounts) are capped at $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples.

Does Social Security look at your bank account?

That depends. If someone is applying for Supplemental Social Security Income (SSI) benefits, their personal assets are taken into consideration when it comes to eligibility. With Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), applicant assets aren’t taken into consideration.

What happens if you have more than $2,000 in the bank on SSI?

If you have more than $2,000 in the bank and are on SSI as an individual (more than $3,000 if you are part of a couple), you will not receive benefits for that month. Your finances will be evaluated the following month to see if your assets have fallen and you therefore qualify.

Does Social Security check your bank account every month?

Money in the bank doesn’t affect Social Security disability benefits. However, there is a $2,000 to $3,000 limit (varies by household) for the SSI program.

About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

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

SoFi 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.
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.

This article is not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for advice.

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.

SOBK-Q224-1862157-V1