Apr
20
2023
phone

Ways to Be a Frugal Traveler

By | Budgeting & Goals, money | No Comments

If you love to travel, chances are, you have your eyes open for good deals. Wouldn’t you like to get a hefty discount off the usual airfare rates? Sure. An upgrade from a standard hotel room to a junior suite with a terrace? But of course! And clever hacks that help your dollars go further whether you’re sipping a cocktail, signing up for a surfing class, or shopping? Yes, yes, and yes.

Being a frugal traveler can deliver those perks and pad your bank account. With a little research and knowledge of some insider tips and tricks, you can have a great experience on vacation and cut costs, too.

Want to be a more frugal traveler? To snag some bargains on your next trip, try these smart tactics.

Time Your Trip Right

One of the first steps in becoming a frugal traveler is picking a place where you want to go and can also afford to go. The good news is that no location is necessarily off-limits, as long as you can be flexible on the timing of your vacation.

While you’re not likely to get a great deal on a hotel on Cape Cod for Fourth of July weekend or a cheap flight to the Caribbean over Christmas, you may be able to score a sweet deal if you decide to go to either of those places during what is referred to as “shoulder season.”

The term “shoulder season” is used by professional travelers and agents around the world to denote the time in between busy seasons in any given destination.

It may be viewed as a less desirable time to visit by some travelers, but to the seasoned voyager, it’s often seen as the ideal time to go. Not only may you find better deals on flights, accommodations, and more, but you can also avoid the intense crowds you may encounter during the high season.

Take Mexico as an example. According to Frommer’s, Mexico’s high season begins around December 20, peaks over New Year’s, then winds down at the end in April.

If you plan a visit during this time, you can expect to pay a premium on just about everything, from your plane ticket to those tacos al pastor, as you’re competing with other travelers for space.

If you opt to visit just prior to this, say in November, or just after, in May or June, you will likely be able to find better deals. Since there will be fewer people around, you might be able to take excursions with smaller groups, get restaurant reservations at highly sought-after spots, and even luck out with a free room upgrade at your hotel.

Recommended: How Families Can Afford to Travel on Vacation

Find Flight Deals

One of the most expensive parts about traveling is the actual act of travel itself. While driving can sometimes be a cheaper mode of transportation, it might not be an option depending on the destination you have in mind.

But there are still ways you can save. Here are a couple of travel hacks that may help you get better deals on airfare.

Use the big travel sites. Sites like Expedia, Booking.com, and Kayak search multiple airlines for the best deals and can often offer you clever ways to lower your costs. For instance, they can tell you whether prices for your itinerary are likely to rise or fall in the near future. They can show you how much you can save if you are flexible with your dates or are willing to fly out of a nearby airport rather than your closest possible hub. For instance, if you’re Paris-bound from the New York City area, you might get a better deal departing from Newark, NJ, vs. JFK airport in the city itself.

What’s more, these sites sometimes offer clever hacks, such as flying outbound on one airline and back on another to save you cash. They can also keep you posted on new deals that become available on your route if you’re not ready to buy right away.

Sign up for email alerts. Some good news for busy travelers: There are other sources for flight pricing alerts beyond the big travel sites. For instance, if you are willing to subscribe to an email newsletter, you might try Next Vacay. It’s a website where users can input their destination, then simply wait for the site to send them daily emails with flight deals. You may also want to check out Skyscanner, which allows users to set alerts for price drops so you can strike when the iron is hot.

Some of these services will send you deals for both your destination and others in case you need a little inspiration. You may also want to download a few travel apps that will send you price alerts as well.

Work that airline credit card. If you have a preferred airline or airline network, you can earn points or miles with an airline credit card that can be applied to the cost of flights or help you snag upgrades.

Book at the right time. There used to be a rule that Tuesdays were the best (cheapest) day to go flight shopping, but a recent Google Flights study found that you won’t really save much that way, maybe just 1.9%.

However, you are likely to get a nice price if you purchase your ticket well in advance of your travel date (around three months for domestic travel and often six to 10 months for international) or else be spontaneous and book your flights last minute. And it is true that you are likely to save if your flights are on a midweek date or a Saturday; that can shave the price versus heading off on vacay on a Friday, along with everyone else.

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

No account or overdraft fees. No minimum balance.

Up to 3.80% APY on savings balances.

Up to 2-day-early paycheck.

Up to $3M of additional
FDIC insurance.


Score Deals on Accommodations

Ready to save on hotel costs on your next vacation? Try these smart tactics:

•   Hotels base prices on supply and demand, so when there is less demand (say, in shoulder season), prices tend to fall. Beyond the season, you can also try looking into checking in and out on less popular days.

If you can check in at a vacation destination on a Monday and out on a Friday, for instance, you may be able to save, since mid-week pricing can be cheaper than weekends.

•   Even if you’re booking at a travel site, it’s also a good idea to frequently check the website of any hotel you’re interested in staying at. There, they may announce different deals and sales. At the very least, you may be able to spot a free room upgrade or free breakfast.

•   It can also be wise to sign up for a travel credit card. These can help you earn points to apply to future travel and offer perks at your favorite hotel chain.

Entertain Yourself on a Frugal Vacation

While you’re traveling, you’re likely going to want to participate in activities. And you can likely find ways to save on those also.

In a new place, try googling a few free walking tours, which can give you a wonderful sense of a place without having to spend a dime (though it may be polite to tip your tour guide afterwards).

For cheap or discounted tickets to local attractions, consider checking out sites like Groupon, Airbnb Experiences, Meetup, and local tourism boards.

You may also want to ask your hotel front desk at check-in for tips on things to do and see. Hotels often have partnerships with area attractions and may be able to provide you with a discount.

For restaurants, it can be a bit harder to save, but if there’s one fancy place you’ve simply been dying to try, you can often save a fair amount by going for lunch rather than dinner.

Recommended: How to Balance the Urge to Travel and the Need to Save

Set a Travel Budget

Establishing a budget, and then starting to save for your vacation, can be a key part of the frugal traveler planning process. That’s because your budget can help determine not only where you can go, but what you can do while you are there.

A travel budget can help you to narrow down your choices and also make sure that you are able to enjoy your trip without having to worry that you are spending more than you can afford.

Below are some categories you may want to include in your budget:

Transportation costs: When budgeting for a trip, you’ll want to decide if you’re going to fly, drive, or take the train. For driving (perhaps you’re going to be touring some national parks), consider costs like gas and wear and tear on your car. If you don’t have a vehicle you can use, look for ways to save on renting a car, such as not picking it up at the airport but at a nearby location. You’ll need to account for taxes, insurance, and other related expenses. For flying, you’ll want to be sure to include ticket price, baggage fees, airport parking, and destination car rental or taxi.

Lodging: Accommodation costs can seem clear, but you’ll want to be sure to ask about any resort fees and taxes so you can add it to your budget.

Food: It can be a good idea to come up with a cost for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (including tips) for everyone you’re traveling with. If your hotel offers free breakfasts, you can put that cost towards another meal. Or maybe you’re renting an apartment and can cook while traveling. You’ll still need a grocery budget.

Activities: You’ll want to have a budget for daily activities and entertainment for each participant in your group. Many museums, for instance, can have steep entrance fees, so you may want to search ahead to see what likely costs are. If you’re planning a special outing, like a Jeep tour to see cave paintings in the Southwest, don’t forget to allow for a tip for the driver.

Extras: You never know when an emergency, a fun activity, or an unplanned happy hour will arise. Adding a buffer to your vacation budget can help you prepare for these extra expenses. You might also want to budget for travel insurance or see if your credit card travel insurance offers good coverage.

Once you add up all the costs, you can start saving up for your vacation. You could even create a secondary savings account titled “travel fund” so you’ll be even more excited to save.

The Takeaway

Vacations can be costly, especially if you’re traveling with a family. But with a little bit of research and advance planning, you may be able to significantly reduce the price of your next trip.

Simple frugal traveler tricks, like traveling off-peak, signing up for travel newsletters, booking your flight around two months ahead, and pre-scouting free and discounted local activities, can help you reduce costs without having to skimp on fun.

You can also make traveling more affordable by setting a budget, saving up for your trip in advance, and staying as close as possible to your spending plan while you are away.

SoFi Travel has teamed up with Expedia to bring even more to your one-stop finance app, helping you book reservations — for flights, hotels, car rentals, and more — all in one place. SoFi Members also have exclusive access to premium savings, with 10% or more off on select hotels. Plus, earn unlimited 3%** cash back rewards when you book with your SoFi Unlimited 2% Credit Card through SoFi Travel.

SoFi, your one-stop shop for travel.

**Terms, and conditions apply: This SoFi member benefit is provided by Expedia, not by SoFi or its affiliates. SoFi may be compensated by the benefit provider. Offers are subject to change and may have restrictions, please review the benefit provider's terms: Travel Services Terms & Conditions.
The SoFi Travel Portal is operated by Expedia. To learn more about Expedia, click https://www.expediagroup.com/home/default.aspx.

When you use your SoFi Credit Card to make a purchase on the SoFi Travel Portal, you will earn a number of SoFi Member Rewards points equal to 3% of the total amount you spend on the SoFi Travel Portal. Members can save up to 10% or more on eligible bookings.


Eligibility: You must be a SoFi registered user.
You must agree to SoFi’s privacy consent agreement.
You must book the travel on SoFi’s Travel Portal reached directly through a link on the SoFi website or mobile application. Travel booked directly on Expedia's website or app, or any other site operated or powered by Expedia is not eligible.
You must pay using your SoFi Credit Card.

SoFi Member Rewards: All terms applicable to the use of SoFi Member Rewards apply. To learn more please see: https://www.sofi.com/rewards/ and Terms applicable to Member Rewards.


Additional Terms: Changes to your bookings will affect the Rewards balance for the purchase. Any canceled bookings or fraud will cause Rewards to be rescinded. Rewards can be delayed by up to 7 business days after a transaction posts on Members’ SoFi Credit Card ledger. SoFi reserves the right to withhold Rewards points for suspected fraud, misuse, or suspicious activities.
©2024 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC), (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).


SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2025 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
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.

SoFi members with Eligible Direct Deposit activity can earn 3.80% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. 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 during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below).

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 3.80% APY, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit arrives. If your APY is not showing as 3.80%, 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 3.80% APY from the date you contact SoFi for the rest of the current 30-day Evaluation Period. You will also be eligible for 3.80% APY 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, 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 members with Eligible Direct Deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

As an alternative to Direct Deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant. SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Eligible Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving an Eligible Direct Deposit or receipt of $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Eligible Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

SoFi Bank reserves the right to grant a grace period to account holders following a change in Eligible Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits activity before adjusting rates. If SoFi Bank grants you a grace period, the dates for such grace period will be reflected on the APY Details page of your account. If SoFi Bank determines that you did not have Eligible Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits during the current 30-day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, then you will begin earning the rates earned by account holders without either Eligible Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until SoFi Bank recognizes Eligible Direct Deposit activity or receives $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Eligible Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit.

Separately, SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days can also earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. For additional details, see the SoFi Plus Terms and Conditions at https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus.

Members without either Eligible Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, or who do not enroll in SoFi Plus by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days, will earn 1.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.

Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 1/24/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://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.

SOCC0323049

Read more
Apr
11
2023
woman doing taxes in kitchen

Is Automated Tax-Loss Harvesting a Good Idea?

By | Growing Wealth, invest, Investing | Comments Off on Is Automated Tax-Loss Harvesting a Good Idea?

Automated tax-loss harvesting can be a tool for tax-efficient investing because it involves using an algorithm to sell securities at a loss so as to offset capital gains and potentially lower an investor’s tax bill.

Standard tax-loss harvesting uses the same principle, but the process is complicated and an advisor might only harvest losses once or twice a year versus automated tax-loss harvesting which can be done more frequently.

That said, automated tax-loss harvesting — which is sometimes a feature of robo-advisor accounts — may give investors only limited (or possibly no) tax benefits. Here’s a breakdown of whether an automated tax-loss strategy makes sense.

🛈 Currently, SoFi does not offer automated tax loss harvesting to members.

Tax-Loss Harvesting: The Basics

First, a quick recap of how standard tax-loss harvesting works. Tax-loss harvesting is a way of selling securities at a loss, and then “harvesting” that loss to offset capital gains or other taxable income, thereby reducing federal tax owed.

The reason to consider this strategy is that capital gains are taxed at two different federal tax rates: long-term (when you’ve held an asset for a year or more) and short-term (when you’ve held an asset for under a year).

•   Long-term capital gains are taxed at 0%, 15%, or 20%, depending on the investor’s tax bracket.

•   Short-term capital gains are taxed at a typically higher rate based on the investor’s ordinary income tax rate.

The one-year mark is crucial, because the IRS taxes short-term investments at the higher marginal income tax rate of the investor. For high-income earners that can be 37% plus a 3.8% net investment income tax (NIIT). That means the taxes on those quick gains can be as much as 40.8% — and that’s before state and local taxes are factored in.

Example of Basic Tax-Loss Harvesting

For example, consider an investor in the highest tax bracket who sells security ABC after a year, and realizes a long-term capital gain of $10,000. They would owe 20%, or $2,000.

But if the investor sells XYZ security and harvests a loss of $3,000, that can be applied to the gain from security ABC. So their net capital gain will be $7,000 ($10,000 – $3,000). This means that they would owe $1,400 in capital gains tax.

The differences can be even greater when investors can harvest short-term losses to offset short-term gains, because these are typically taxed at a higher rate. In this case, using the losses to offset the gains can make a big difference in terms of taxes owed.

According to IRS rules, short-term or long-term losses must be used first to offset gains of the same type, unless the losses exceed the gains from the same type. When losses exceed gains, up to $3,000 per year can be used to offset ordinary income or carried over to the following year.

What Is Automated Tax-Loss Harvesting?

Until the advent of robo-advisor services some 15 years ago, tax-loss harvesting was typically carried out by qualified financial advisors or tax professionals in taxable accounts. But as robo-advisors and their automated portfolios became more widely accepted, many of these services began to offer automated tax-loss harvesting as well, though the strategy was executed by a computer program.

Just as the algorithm that underlies an automated portfolio can perform certain basic functions like asset allocation and portfolio rebalancing, some automated programs can execute a tax-loss harvesting strategy as well. SoFi’s automated platform does not offer automated tax-loss harvesting, but others may, for example.

So whereas tax-loss harvesting once made sense only for higher-net-worth investors owing to the complexity of the task, automation has enabled some retail investors to reap the benefits of tax-loss harvesting as well. The idea has been that automated tax-loss harvesting can be conducted more often and with less room for error, thanks to the precision of the underlying algorithm — which can also take into account the effects of the wash-sale rule.

The Wash-Sale Rule

It’s important that investors understand the “wash-sale rule” as it applies to tax-loss harvesting.

What Is the Wash-Sale Rule?

The wash-sale rule prevents investors from selling a security at a loss and buying back the same security, or one that is “substantially identical”, within 30 days. If you sell a security in order to harvest a loss and then replace it with the same or a substantially similar security, the IRS will disallow the loss — and you won’t reap the desired tax benefit.

In the example above, the investor who sells security XYZ in order to apply the loss to the gain from selling security ABC may then want to replace security XYZ because it gives them exposure to a certain market sector. While the investor can’t turn around and buy XYZ again until 30 days have passed, they could buy a similar, but not substantially identical security, to maintain that exposure.

That said, it can be tricky to follow this guidance because the IRS hasn’t established a precise definition of what a “substantially identical security” is. This is another reason why automated tax-loss harvesting may be more efficient: It may be simpler for a computer algorithm to make these choices based on preset parameters.

How ETFs Help With the Wash-Sale Rule

This is how the proliferation of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) has benefited the strategy of tax-loss harvesting. Exchange-traded funds, or ETFs, are baskets of securities that typically track an index of stocks, bonds, commodities or other assets, similar to a mutual fund. Unlike mutual funds, though, ETFs trade on exchanges like stocks.

In some ways, ETFs may make tax-loss harvesting a little easier. For instance, if an investor harvests a loss from an emerging-market stocks ETF, he or she can soon after buy a “similar” but non-identical emerging-market stocks ETF because the fund may have slightly different constituents.

Because most robo-advisors generate automated portfolios comprised of low-cost ETFs, this can also support the process of automated tax-loss harvesting.

Other Important Tax Rules to Know

Tax losses don’t expire. So an investor can apply a portion of losses to offset profits or income in one year and then “save” the remaining losses to offset in another tax year. Investors tend to practice tax-loss harvesting at the end of a calendar year, but it can really be done all year.

As noted above, another potential perk from tax-loss harvesting is that if the losses from an investment exceed any taxable profits from trades, the losses can actually be used to offset up to $3,000 of ordinary income per year.

How Much Does Automated Tax-Loss Harvesting Save?

It’s hard to say whether automated tax-loss harvesting definitively and consistently delivers a reduced tax bill to investors. A myriad of variables — such as the fluctuating nature of both federal tax rates and market price moves — make it difficult to calculate precise figures.

The Upside of Automated Tax-Loss Harvesting

One study of standard (not automated) tax-loss harvesting that was published by the CFA Institute in 2020 found that from 1926 to 2018, a simulated tax-loss harvesting strategy delivered an average annual outperformance of 1.08% versus a passive buy-and-hold portfolio.

Taking into account transaction costs and the wash-sale rule, the outperformance or “alpha” fell to 0.95%.

The study found the strategy did better when the stock market was volatile, such as between 1926 and 1949, a period which includes the Great Depression. The average outperformance was 2.13% a year during that period, as investors found more opportunities to harvest losses. Meanwhile, between 1949 and 1972 — a quieter period in the market as the U.S. underwent economic expansion after World War II — tax-loss harvesting only delivered an alpha of 0.51%.

The Downside of Automated Tax-Loss Harvesting

While the research cited above identifies some benefits of tax-loss harvesting, like many investment studies it’s based on historical data and simulations of a portfolio, not real-world investments.

Another fact to bear in mind: This study does not factor in the impact of automated tax-loss harvesting, which is typically conducted more frequently — and may not deliver a tax benefit.

Indeed, in 2018 the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) charged a robo-advisor for making misleading claims about the benefits of automated tax-loss harvesting in terms of higher portfolio returns. Investors should know that there could be no or little tax savings, or even a bigger tax bill, depending on how different securities perform after they’re sold (or bought back).

For instance, if the underlying algorithm that automates trades in a robo portfolio harvests a loss from one ETF (to offset the gains from a sale of another ETF), it might then purchase a replacement ETF that’s not substantially identical, per the wash-sale rule.

If the second ETF is sold later, the gains realized from this second sale could be so high that they cancel out or be greater than the tax benefits from selling the first fund to harvest the loss.

In that case, the investor could end up paying more taxes down the road — effectively deferring, not eliminating, the tax burden.

Continuously trading assets in automated tax-loss harvesting also means an investor may incur additional costs, such as more transaction fees.

Pros of Automated Tax-Loss Harvesting

1.    Standard tax-loss harvesting is complex and time-consuming, but the benefits are well established. Therefore using automated tax-loss harvesting may be an efficient way to reap the benefits of this strategy because it can be done more automatically and consistently.

2.    To realize the benefits of tax-loss harvesting investors must obey the IRS wash-sale rule, which imposes restrictions that can be tricky to follow. In this way, an automated strategy may limit the potential for human error and may increase the tax benefits for investors.

Cons of Automated Tax-Loss Harvesting

1.    Because an algorithm performs tax-loss harvesting on an automated cadence, investors cannot choose which investments to sell and when and therefore have less control.

2.    An automated tax-loss program may not be able to anticipate a security’s future gains that could reduce or eliminate the tax benefit of harvested losses.

3.    Automated tax-loss harvesting could increase the amount an investor pays in transaction fees, which can lower portfolio returns.

The Takeaway

Automated tax-loss harvesting is a feature primarily offered by robo-advisors, which use a computer algorithm to automatically sell securities at a loss in order to potentially reduce the tax impact of capital gains realized from the sale of other securities.

While this practice can offer tax benefits in some cases, and academic studies have used portfolio simulations to gauge the potential for outperformance, it’s unclear whether automated tax-loss harvesting offers the same benefits. Because the strategy is carried out by an underlying algorithm, a computer program may not be capable of making more nuanced choices about which assets to sell and when.

Investors could potentially end up still owing capital gains taxes or paying more in transaction fees and brokerage fees.

SoFi Invest®

INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE

SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below: Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.
For a full listing of the fees associated with Sofi Invest please view our fee schedule.


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.

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.

Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs): Investors should carefully consider the information contained in the prospectus, which contains the Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other relevant information. You may obtain a prospectus from the Fund company’s website or by email customer service at https://sofi.app.link/investchat. Please read the prospectus carefully prior to investing.
Shares of ETFs must be bought and sold at market price, which can vary significantly from the Fund’s net asset value (NAV). Investment returns are subject to market volatility and shares may be worth more or less their original value when redeemed. The diversification of an ETF will not protect against loss. An ETF may not achieve its stated investment objective. Rebalancing and other activities within the fund may be subject to tax consequences.
SOIN0423001

Read more
Mar
23
2023
Simple IRA vs. Traditional IRA

Is a SIMPLE IRA the Same as a Traditional IRA?

By | Growing Wealth, invest, Investing, Preparing for Retirement | Comments Off on Is a SIMPLE IRA the Same as a Traditional IRA?

One of the most popular retirement accounts is an IRA, or Individual Retirement Account. IRAs allow individuals to put money aside over time to save up for retirement, with tax benefits similar to those of other retirement plans.

Two common IRAs are the SIMPLE IRA and the Traditional IRA, both of which have their own benefits, downsides, and rules around who can open an account. For investors trying to decide which IRA to open, it helps to know the differences between SIMPLE IRAs and Traditional IRAs.

SIMPLE IRA vs Traditional IRA: Side-by-Side Comparison

Although there are many similarities between the two accounts, there are some key differences. This chart details the key attributes of each plan:

SIMPLE IRA Traditional IRA
Offered by employers Yes No
Who it’s for Small-business owners and their employees Individuals
Eligibility Earn at least $5,000 per year Under 70 ½ years old and earned income in the past year
Tax deferred Yes Yes
Tax deductible contributions Yes, for employers and sole proprietors only Yes
Employer contribution Required No
Fee for early withdrawal 10% plus income tax, or 25% if money is withdrawn within two years of an employer making a deposit 10% plus income tax
Contribution limits $15,500 in 2023
$16,000 in 2024		 $6,500 in 2023
$7,000 in 2024
Catch-up contribution $3,500 additional per year for people 50 and over $1,000 additional per year for people 50 and over

SIMPLE IRAs Explained

The SIMPLE IRA, which stands for Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees, is set up to help small-business owners help both themselves and their employees save for retirement. It’s a retirement plan that small businesses with fewer than 100 employees can offer employees who earn at least $5,000 per year.

A SIMPLE IRA is similar to a Traditional IRA, in that a plan participant can make tax-deferred contributions to their account, so that it grows over time with compound interest. When the individual retires and begins withdrawing money, then they must pay income taxes on the funds.

With a SIMPLE IRA, both the employer and the employee contribute to the employee’s account. Employers are required to contribute in one of two ways: either by matching employee contributions up to 3% of their salary, or by contributing a flat rate of 2% of the employee’s salary, even if the employee doesn’t contribute. With the matching option, the employee must contribute money first.

There are yearly employee contribution limits to a SIMPLE IRA: in 2023, the annual limit is $15,500, with an additional $3,500 in catch-up contributions permitted for people over age 50. In 2024, the annual limit is $16,000, with an additional $3,500 in catch-up contributions permitted for people over age 50.

Benefits and Drawbacks of SIMPLE IRAs

It’s important to understand both the benefits and downsides of the SIMPLE IRA to make an informed decision about retirement plans.

SIMPLE IRA Benefits

There are several benefits — for both employers and employees — to choosing a SIMPLE IRA:

•   For employers, it’s easy to set up and manage, with online set-up available through most banks.

•   For employers, management costs are low compared to other retirement plans.

•   For employees, taxes on contributions are deferred until the money is withdrawn.

•   Employers can take tax deductions on contributions. Sole proprietors can deduct both salary and matching contributions.

•   For employees, there is an allowable catch-up contribution for those over 50.

•   For employers, the IRA plan providers send tax information to the IRS, so there is no need to do any reporting.

•   Employers and employees can choose how the money in the account gets invested based on what the plan offers. Options may include mutual funds aimed toward growth or income, international mutual funds, or other assets.

SIMPLE IRA Drawbacks

Although there are multiple benefits to a SIMPLE IRA, there are some downsides as well:

•   Employers must follow strict rules set by the IRS.

•   Other employer-sponsored retirement accounts have higher limits, such as the 401(k), which allows for $22,500 per year in 2023 and $23,000 in 2024. (Check out our IRA calculator to see what you can contribute to each type of IRA.)

•   If account holders withdraw money before they reach age 59 ½, they must pay a 10% fee and income taxes on the withdrawal. That penalty jumps to 25% if money is withdrawn within two years of an employer making a deposit.

•   There is no option for a Roth contribution to a SIMPLE IRA, which would allow account holders to contribute post-tax money and avoid paying taxes later.

Get a 1% IRA match on rollovers and contributions.

Double down on your retirement goals with a 1% match on every dollar you roll over and contribute to a SoFi IRA.1

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.

What Is a Traditional IRA?

The Traditional IRA is set up by an individual to contribute to their own retirement. Employers are not involved in Traditional IRAs in any way. The main requirements to open an IRA are that the account holder must have earned some income within the past year, and they must be younger than 70 ½ years old at the end of the year.

Pros and Cons of Traditional IRAs

When it comes to benefits and downsides, there’s not too much of a difference between Traditional vs. SIMPLE IRAs, given what an IRA is. That being said, there are a few that are unique to this type of plan.

Traditional IRA Pros

Some of the upsides of a Traditional IRA include:

•   It allows for catch-up contributions for those over age 50.

•   One can choose how the money in the account gets invested based on what the plan offers. Options may include mutual funds aimed toward growth or income, international mutual funds, or other assets.

•   Contributions are tax-deferred, so taxes aren’t paid until funds are withdrawn. If you’re hoping to pay taxes now instead of later, you might weigh a Traditional vs. Roth IRA.

Traditional IRA Cons

Meanwhile, downsides to a Traditional IRA include:

•   They have much lower contribution limits than a 401(k) or a SIMPLE IRA, at $6,500 in 2023 and $7,000 in 2024.

•   Penalties for early withdrawal are also the same: if you withdraw money before age 59 ½, you’ll pay a 10% fee plus income taxes on the withdrawal.

Is a SIMPLE IRA or Traditional IRA Right for You?

The SIMPLE IRA and Traditional IRA are both individual retirement accounts, but the SIMPLE is set up through one’s employer — typically a small business of 100 people or less. The Traditional IRA is set up by an individual. In other words, whether a SIMPLE IRA is an option for you will depend on if you have an employer that offers it.

There are many similarities in the attributes of the plans, if you’re choosing between a SIMPLE IRA vs. Traditional IRA. However, two major distinctions are that the SIMPLE IRA requires employer contributions (though not necessarily employee contributions) and allows for a higher amount of employee contributions per year.

Can I Have Both a SIMPLE IRA and a Traditional IRA?

Yes, it is possible for an individual to have both a SIMPLE IRA through their employer and also a Traditional IRA on their own — though they may not be able to deduct all of their Traditional IRA contributions. The IRS sets a cap on deductions per calendar year.

In 2023, single people with an AGI (adjusted gross income) of more than $73,000 are restricted to a partial deduction; those with AGI above $83,000 may not take a deduction at all. Married couples filing jointly with an AGI of $116,000 to $136,000 may take a partial deduction; those with AGI above $136,000 may not take a deduction at all.

In 2024, single people with an AGI (adjusted gross income) of more than $77,000 are restricted to a partial deduction; those with AGI above $87,000 may not take a deduction at all. Married couples filing jointly with an AGI of $123,000 to $143,000 may take a partial deduction; those with AGI above $143,000 may not take a deduction at all.

Can You Convert a SIMPLE IRA to a Traditional IRA?

If you’re hoping to convert a SIMPLE IRA to a Traditional IRA, you’re in luck — you can roll over a SIMPLE IRA into a Traditional IRA. However, you can’t roll over the funds from a SIMPLE IRA to a Traditional IRA within the first two years of opening a SIMPLE IRA. Otherwise, you’ll get hit with a 25% penalty in addition to the regular income tax you must pay on your withdrawal.

Once that two-year period is up, however, you can roll over the money from your SIMPLE IRA — even if you’re still working for that employer. Just note that you can only roll over money from a SIMPLE IRA one time within a 12-month period.

Can You Max Out a Traditional and SIMPLE IRA the Same Year?

While you cannot max out a SIMPLE IRA and another employer-sponsored retirement plan like a 401(k), you can max out both a Traditional IRA and a SIMPLE IRA.

The maximum contribution for a SIMPLE IRA in 2023 is $15,500 (plus $3,500 in catch-up contributions), while the maximum for a Traditional IRA is $6,500 (plus $1,000 in catch-up contributions). This means that you could contribute a total of $22,000 across both plans in a year — or $26,500 if you’re 50 or older.

The maximum contribution for a SIMPLE IRA in 2024 is $16,000 (plus $3,500 in catch-up contributions), while the maximum for a Traditional IRA is $7,000 (plus $1,000 in catch-up contributions). This means that you could contribute a total of $23,000 across both plans in a year — or $27,500 if you’re 50 or older.

Are SIMPLE IRAs Most Similar to 401(k) Plans?

There are a lot of similarities between SIMPLE IRAs and 401(k) plans given that they are both employer-sponsored retirement plans. However, while any employer with one or more employees can offer a 401(k), SIMPLE IRAs are reserved for employers with 100 or fewer employees. Additionally, contribution limits are lower with SIMPLE IRAs than with 401(k) plans.

Another key difference between the two is that while employers can opt whether or not to make contributions to employee 401(k), employer contributions are mandatory with SIMPLE IRAs. On the employer side, SIMPLE IRAs generally have fewer account fees and annual tax filing requirements.

Opening an IRA With SoFi

Understanding the differences between retirement accounts like the SIMPLE and Traditional IRA is one more step in creating a personalized retirement plan that works for you and your goals. While a SIMPLE IRA is only an option if your employer offers it, you’ll want to weigh the pros and cons of a SIMPLE IRA vs. Traditional IRA if both are on the table for you. As we’ve covered, the two types of IRAs share many similarities, but a SIMPLE IRA is not the same as a Traditional IRA.

If you’re looking to start saving for retirement now, or add to your investments for the future, SoFi Invest® online retirement accounts offer both Traditional and Roth IRAs that are simple to set up and manage. By opening an IRA with SoFi, you’ll gain access to a broad range of investment options, member services, and a robust suite of planning and investment tools.

Find out how to further your retirement savings goals with SoFi Invest.

FAQ

Do you pay taxes on SIMPLE IRA?

Yes, you will pay taxes on a SIMPLE IRA, but not until you withdraw your funds in retirement. You’ll generally have to pay income tax on any amount you withdraw from your SIMPLE IRA in retirement. However, if you make a withdrawal prior to age 59 ½, or if money is withdrawn within two years of an employer making a deposit, you’ll have to pay income taxes then, alongside an additional tax penalty.

Is a SIMPLE IRA better than a Traditional IRA?

When comparing a SIMPLE IRA vs. traditional IRA, it’s important to understand that each has its pros and cons. If your employer offers a SIMPLE IRA, they require employer contributions, and they have higher contributions. At the end of the day, though, both allow you to save for retirement through tax-deferred contributions.

SoFi Invest®

INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE

SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below: Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.
For a full listing of the fees associated with Sofi Invest please view our fee schedule.

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


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

SOIN0323009

Read more
Oct
28
2022
Liability vs Full Coverage Car Insurance: What They Cover

Liability vs Full Coverage Car Insurance: What They Cover

By | Insurance | Comments Off on Liability vs Full Coverage Car Insurance: What They Cover

Full coverage car insurance protects you against the most common causes of car damage and bodily injury: not just accidents but also theft, vandalism, fire, and more. Depending on the state you live in, it may also include Uninsured Motorist coverage, and Personal Injury Protection for yourself and your passengers. Liability, on the other hand, only offers financial protection against other drivers’ claims of injury and damage if you’re found at fault.

It can be hard to know how much insurance you need, and how to keep costs down. We’ll review the different types of policies available, pros and cons of each, and the average cost of full coverage vs. liability.

What Is Full Coverage Car Insurance?

Full coverage car insurance refers to a policy with the broadest protections available. Although specifics vary by policy, full coverage usually includes the following:

•   Liability: If you’re involved in an accident and found to be at fault, this type of insurance provides financial protection against other drivers’ claims of bodily injury and property damage.

•   Collision: Helps pay for damages to your own vehicle after an accident with another vehicle or an object like a guardrail.

•   Comprehensive: Protects you against theft or damage unrelated to an accident, such as fire or vandalism.

In some states, full coverage may also include the following:

•   Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM): Covers your losses if the other driver either doesn’t have insurance or not enough.

•   Personal injury protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses for yourself and passengers in your car if injuries occur. It may cover other costs, as well: lost wages, the cost of services that you can’t perform while injured, such as housekeeping, as well as funeral costs.

•   Medical payments (MedPay): This can cover medical expenses but doesn’t offer the fullness of coverage that’s available through PIP.

Check your state laws for specifics. This guide to car insurance terms can also be helpful.

Recommended: Should I Sell My House Now or Wait

Check your score with SoFi Relay

Track your credit score for free. Sign up and get $10.*

Recommended: Insurance Tips for First-Time Drivers

Average Cost of Full Coverage Car Insurance

The average full coverage car insurance cost in 2022 is $1,771 annually. Of course, many factors go into full coverage car insurance quotes, so your price will undoubtedly vary. The cost for a male teenage driver, for example, is $807 more each year on average.

A poor driving record will almost double your premiums. For more details, check out this look at how much insurance goes up after an accident.

Your deductible will also make a big difference in your premiums. In general, the lower the deductible, the higher the premium, and vice versa. So if you’re wondering how to lower your car insurance cost, consider choosing a higher deductible.

The cheapest full coverage car insurance is about $1,000 per year for an individual policy.

Recommended: What Credit Score is Needed to Buy a Car

Why Consider Getting Full Coverage Insurance?

You’ll have the broadest protections with a full coverage policy. Also, if you have a car loan, your lender may require you to have full coverage to protect their investment. The best way to determine how much coverage you need is to sit down for a personal insurance planning session.

Recommended: What is The Difference Between Transunion and Equifax

Pros and Cons of Full Coverage Car Insurance

There are advantages and disadvantages to paying for full coverage car insurance.

Pros of full coverage

•   Provides a broader range of protection:

◦   May cover medical expenses if you’re hurt in a collision

◦   May cover vandalism and theft

◦   Can protect you after an accident if the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough coverage

•   Typically meets all state insurance requirements.

•   Usually satisfies the requirements of your lender or lessor.

Cons of full coverage

•   Cost is higher than baseline liability insurance.

•   Doesn’t provide coverage for commercial driving purposes.

•   Won’t cover the cost of normal wear and tear.

What Full Coverage Insurance Doesn’t Cover

Although full coverage provides a significant amount of protection, it doesn’t cover every situation imaginable. It may or may not, for example, provide UM/UIM, PIP, or MedPay coverage. As noted above, full coverage also doesn’t account for standard wear and tear or maintenance needs on the vehicle — that’s up to you. Learn more about saving on car maintenance costs.

Because full coverage varies from company to company, it’s important to read your agreement carefully and understand what it does and doesn’t include.

What Is Liability Car Insurance?

There are two components to what liability auto insurance covers: bodily injury and property damage. If someone is at fault in an accident, their bodily injury coverage will pay for the medical expenses of injured parties. It may also cover lost income, legal fees, and/or funeral costs.

Property damage coverage helps pay for damage to the other person’s vehicle and to any other property that sustained damage during the accident, such as a fence, home, or bicycle.

Personal liability coverage is something different. It typically covers medical costs for someone injured on your property or because of your negligence. It may cover property damage costs, legal fees, and so forth.

Recommended: Does Net Worth Include Home Equity

Average Cost of Liability Insurance

On average, a liability insurance policy costs $716 in 2022. But again, many factors — including your age, gender, driving record, and type of deductible — can influence the price.

Why Consider Getting Liability Coverage Insurance?

Most states require liability car insurance, although the specifics vary from state to state. do not require it. In New Hampshire and Virginia, you can skip liability insurance if you can prove you can pay for costs out-of-pocket after an accident where you’re at fault.

Pros and Cons of Liability Coverage Car Insurance

While it may be tempting to pay for only liability coverage, you need to keep certain drawbacks in mind.

Pros of liability insurance

•   Costs less than full coverage car insurance.

•   Provides basic coverage in case of an accident.

•   Required by most states.

Cons of liability insurance

•   If an accident occurs, you could still be on the hook for many costs (more on this below).

•   Won’t cover theft or vandalism of your vehicle.

•   If you have a loan or lease, the lender/lessor may require full coverage.

What Liability Insurance Doesn’t Cover

If an accident occurs, liability insurance won’t cover damage to your vehicle. For that, you need collision coverage. Liability may or may not cover your personal injuries. And if you’re not at fault in the accident, it doesn’t cover the other driver’s medical bills or property damage costs.

Differences Between Liability and Full Coverage Insurance

When weighing liability vs. full coverage car insurance, here are a few things to consider:

•   Full coverage car insurance costs more, but it also offers significantly more protection.

•   Liability auto insurance is required in most states, but full coverage is not.

•   If you have a car loan or lease, the lender/lessor will likely require full coverage.

•   With liability insurance, there’s no deductible. With full coverage, deductibles range from $500 to $1,500.

When To Add Optional Coverage

Optional coverage to consider include:

•   Rental car reimbursement: If your car is in the shop or otherwise out of service for more than a day, this pays for a rental vehicle.

•   Gap insurance: This is intended for cars that have a loan or lease. If the vehicle is totalled and you owe more than the value of the car, gap insurance pays the difference.

•   New car replacement: As the name suggests, if a car is totaled, you get a new car that’s similar to your previous one.

Recommended: The Cheapest Way To Rent a Car

What Are the State Minimum Requirements for Full Coverage?

How to read this table: Alabama’s requirements for car insurance are 25/50/25. This means that the state requires $25,000 of bodily injury liability insurance per person, with $50,000 for all bodily injuries that take place within a single accident, and $25,000 in property damage per accident. Just keep in mind that this is the minimum amount of car insurance you need.

State

 Car Insurance Requirements

 Additional Requirements
Alabama 25/50/25
Alaska 50/100/25
Arizona 25/50/15
Arkansas 25/50/25
California 15/30/5
Colorado 25/50/15
Connecticut 25/50/25 The state also requires uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
Delaware 25/50/10 The state also requires personal injury protection (PIP)
Florida Property damage liability of $10,000 per accident and $10,000 PIP coverage
Georgia 25/50/25
Hawaii 20/40/10 and $10,000 PIP
Idaho 25/50/15
Illinois 25/50/20 Under state law, policies automatically include what’s required for uninsured motorist coverages
Indiana 25/50/25 This state also requires $50,000 in underinsured motorist coverage for bodily injuries
Iowa 20/40/15
Kansas 25/50/25 Along with uninsured/underinsured coverage ($25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident) and personal injury protection (PIP or no-fault)
Kentucky 25/50/25
Louisiana 15/30/25
Maine 50/100/25 Along with $50,000 uninsured coverage per person and $100,000 per accident, and $2,000 in medical payment coverage
Maryland 30/60/15
Massachusetts 20/40/5 and $8,000 PIP
Michigan 20/40/10
Minnesota 30/60/10 Along with $25,000 uninsured/underinsured coverage per person, $50,000 per accident, and $40,000 PIP
Mississippi 25/50/15
Missouri 25/50/25 Plus $25,000 uninsured coverage per person and $50,000 per accident
Montana 25/50/20
Nebraska 25/50/25 Plus $25,000 uninsured/underinsured coverage per person and $50,000 per accident
Nevada 25/50/20
New Jersey 15/30/5 Along with $15,000 PIP
New Mexico 25/50/10
New York 25/50/50 and $50,000 PIP
North Carolina 30/60/25 The state also has detailed specifics about required insurance coverage for uninsured/underinsured motorists
North Dakota 25/50/25
Ohio 25/50/25
Oklahoma 25/50/25
Oregon 25/50/20 Plus $25,000 uninsured coverage per person and $50,000 per accident, and $15,000 PIP
Pennsylvania 15/30/5 Plus $5,000 for medical payments
Rhode Island 25/50/25
South Carolina 25/50/25 Plus $25,000 uninsured coverage per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 in property damage
South Dakota 25/50/25 Plus $25,000 uninsured coverage per person and $50,000 per accident
Tennessee 25/50/15
Texas 30/60/25
Utah 25/65/15
Vermont 25/50/10
Washington 25/50/10
Washington D.C. 25/50/10 $25,000 uninsured coverage per person, $50,000 per accident, and $5,000 property damage
West Virginia 25/50/25 Plus $25,000 uninsured coverage per person and $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 property damage
Wisconsin 25/50/10 Plus $25,000 uninsured coverage per person and $50,000 per accident

The Takeaway

Full coverage car insurance includes several different types of protection, which makes it popular with drivers who can afford it. Full coverage gives you liability protection (used when you’re at fault in an accident), collision (which pays for damage to your vehicle), and comprehensive (which protects against theft and non-accident-related damage). In some states, you’ll also get Uninsured Motorist coverage, Personal Injury Protection, and/or Medical Payment coverage. Liability coverage, on the other hand, only covers property damage and bodily injury in case you’re at fault in an accident. Auto insurance coverage requirements vary by state.

If you’re looking for affordable full coverage car insurance, we invite you to compare auto insurance quotes from top insurers. SoFi makes finding the right deal on car insurance easy.

Get a car insurance quote in just minutes.

FAQ

Is it worth having full coverage on a car?

If you have a loan or lease, you may be required to have full coverage. And you may want to get full coverage on a newer car to protect your investment even if you don’t have to. This can also be true of an older car that’s maintained its value.

What does full coverage come with?

It comes with liability insurance, collision coverage, and comprehensive insurance. It may come with additional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage, personal injury protection, and/or medical payment coverage.

What are the benefits of full coverage?

This kind of policy provides you with a broad range of protections against not just accidents but fire, theft, vandalism, and other common threats. If you have a car loan or lease, full coverage may be required.

Photo credit: iStock/shapecharge

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

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Auto Insurance: Must have a valid driver’s license. Not available in all states.
Home and Renters Insurance: Insurance not available in all states.
Experian is a registered trademark of Experian.
SoFi Insurance Agency, LLC. (“”SoFi””) is compensated by Experian for each customer who purchases a policy through the SoFi-Experian partnership.

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.

SOPT0922003

Read more
Oct
20
2022
How to Apply for Biden's Student Loan Forgiveness

How to Apply for Biden’s Student Loan Forgiveness

By | Fresh Out of School, Student Loans, student_loan | Comments Off on How to Apply for Biden’s Student Loan Forgiveness

Editor's Note: For the latest developments regarding federal student loan debt repayment, check out our student debt guide.


You can now apply for a one-time cancellation of up to $20,000 on your federal student loan debt through an online form posted on the Federal Student Aid website.

The program provides eligible borrowers with full or partial discharge of federal loans up to $20,000 to Federal Pell Grant recipients and up to $10,000 to non-Pell Grant recipients.

Who qualifies? Individuals who made less than $125,000 in 2021 or 2020, and families that made less than $250,000 in 2021 or 2020.

Read on to learn more about applying for student loan forgiveness — and the deadlines you need to know.

Steps to Take to Apply for Student Loan Debt Cancellation

President Joe Biden announced a student loan forgiveness plan in August that would provide one-time debt relief to low- and middle-income families through $10,000 or $20,000 payments.

The form went live on October 17.

Nearly 8 million borrowers may be eligible to receive relief without applying for it because the DOE already has their income information. But if you are uncertain whether you fall into that group, it’s recommended that you fill out the application.

Qualified borrowers are advised to apply by mid-November in order to receive relief before the pause on all federal loan payments expires on December 31, 2022.

Following these steps will help the application process go smoothly:

Figure Out if You’re Eligible

People with federal student loans may qualify for up to $10,000 in debt relief, and Pell Grant recipients may get up to $20,000. Borrowers are eligible for this relief if their 2020 or 2021 individual income is less than $125,000 or $250,000 for households.

Federal Pell Grants are typically awarded to undergraduate students with low or moderate income. Most borrowers can log in to StudentAid.gov to see if they received a Pell Grant.

Submit Your Application

The application “is simple, easy, and you don’t need to log in or provide supporting documents to apply,” the White House tweeted on October 17.

“We’ll determine your eligibility and will contact you if we need more information,” says the FSA site. “Your loan servicer will notify you when your relief has been processed.”

A beta version of the application was released less than a week before the official application went live. Those who applied during that stage do not need to apply again, according to the White House. The form they submitted will be processed.

You’ll have until Dec. 31, 2023, to submit your application.

Refresh Your Contact Information

You do not need to log in with your student loan servicer to apply for debt relief, but it’s recommended that you make sure your contact information is up to date for notifications. If you don’t know who your federal student loan servicer is, find out now. These companies work with the DOE on the administration of your loans.

If you don’t have a StudentAid.gov account (an FSA ID), you should create an account to help you manage your loans.

A New Deadline for Loan Debt Payments

Everyone who is paying down their federal student loans got a pause in payments starting in March 2020. The deadline to resume payments has been extended more than five times.

“To ensure a smooth transition to repayment and prevent unnecessary defaults,” President Biden said he will extend the pause one more time, through Dec. 31, 2022, with payments resuming in January 2023.

Biden said this past August that there will be no more extensions after his final one.

Recommended: How to Prepare for the End of Federal Student Loan Relief

Changes in Eligibility for Public Service Forgiveness

Along with extending the deadline for loan repayments and creating a one-time federal loan relief payment, President Biden made changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

Borrowers who are employed by nonprofits, the military, or federal, state, tribal, or local government may be eligible to have all of their student loans forgiven through the existing Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. This is because of time-limited changes that waive certain eligibility criteria in the PSLF program.

Anyone interested in this opportunity needs to take action immediately. These temporary changes expire on October 31, 2022. For more information on eligibility and requirements, and to apply, go to PSLF.gov .

What About Opposition to the Biden Loan Forgiveness Program?

Biden’s federal student loan forgiveness plan has not met with universal approval. Some say that Biden does not have the authority to institute the plan; others criticize the cost to the economy. The White House said in August that canceling the federal debt will cost the government $240 billion over the next decade. Other estimates have put the price higher.

In late September, six states — Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and South Carolina — filed a lawsuit to stop the plan, saying the Biden administration overstepped its regulatory authority.

Various court challenges and politicians’ petitions are moving forward. However, as of October 18, the opposition did not appear to have the legal authority to stop the debt cancellation plan from going forward.

Recommended: What Biden’s Student Loan Forgiveness Means for Your Taxes

The Takeaway

While federal student loan cancellation of up to $20,000 will be sent to about 8 million people automatically, there is now an online application for anyone who wants to apply and meets the income eligibility requirements.

You may want to take steps to get on top of all your student loan debt. Only federal student loans are eligible for cancellation, and only for those who meet certain income requirements. Refinancing your student loans — or what’s left of your student loans after forgiveness — might lead to lower payments, especially as interest rates are rising from historic lows. Explore student loan refinancing with SoFi to find out your options. Just be aware that after you refinance, that amount is no longer eligible for forgiveness.

Find out your rate for student loan refinancing

FAQ

Do you need to apply for the student loan forgiveness?

Nearly 8 million borrowers may be eligible to receive relief without applying — unless they choose to opt-out — because the necessary income data is already available to the DOE.

You may receive the one-time debt cancellation on your federal student loan if you filed the necessary income data through a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in the last two years or an income-driven repayment application that uses income data from tax years 2021 or 2020.

But if you are at all unsure whether this applies to you, it’s recommended that you fill out an application
online .

How will I know if I qualify for student loan forgiveness?

You will either automatically receive forgiveness on your federal student loan or you’ll receive it after you fill out an application online. You will be notified through an email or text if you qualify and, later, you will be informed by your loan servicer once the money is deducted from what you owe.

What types of student loans will be forgiven?

Only federal loans are eligible for these forgiveness programs, not private student loans. Subsidized loans, unsubsidized loans, parent PLUS loans, and graduate PLUS loans held by the DOE are eligible.

Consolidation loans are also eligible for relief, as long as all of the underlying loans that were consolidated were DOE-held loans and were disbursed on or before June 30, 2022. Additionally, consolidation loans comprised of any FFEL or Perkins loans not held by DOE are also eligible, as long as the borrower applied for consolidation before Sept. 29, 2022.

Do parents get student loan forgiveness?

All DOE-held loans, including PLUS loans for parents and graduate students, are eligible for relief, according to the Biden Forgiveness Plan.

Photo credit: iStock/SDI Productions


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.

In our efforts to bring you the latest updates on things that might impact your financial life, we may occasionally enter the political fray, covering candidates, bills, laws and more. Please note: SoFi does not endorse or take official positions on any candidates and the bills they may be sponsoring or proposing. We may occasionally support legislation that we believe would be beneficial to our members, and will make sure to call it out when we do. Our reporting otherwise is for informational purposes only, and shouldn’t be construed as an endorsement.

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.

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

SOSL0922011

Read more
Close modal

See what SoFi can do for you and your finances.

Select a product below and get your rate in just minutes.

Student Loan
Refinancing

Personal
Loans

Online
Investments

Other

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. To qualify, a borrower must be a U.S. citizen or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., and meet SoFi's underwriting requirements. Not all borrowers receive the lowest rate. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. If approved, your actual rate will be within the range of rates at the time of application and will depend on a variety of factors, including term of loan, evaluation of your creditworthiness, income, and other factors. If SoFi is unable to offer you a loan but matches you for a loan with a participating bank, then your rate may be outside the range of rates listed above. Rates and Terms are subject to change at any time without notice. SoFi Personal Loans can be used for any lawful personal, family, or household purposes and may not be used for post-secondary education expenses. Minimum loan amount is $5,000. The average of SoFi Personal Loans funded in 2023 was around $33K. Information current as of 2/26/24. SoFi Personal Loans originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). See SoFi.com/legal for state-specific license details. See SoFi.com/eligibility for details and state restrictions.

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

©2025 Social Finance, LLC All rights reserved.
TLS 1.2 Encrypted
Equal Housing Lender