Even in a hot real estate market, it’s possible to learn how to buy a house with no money down. The trick is, you need to know where to look. Zero-down home loans aren’t available everywhere and to every borrower, but if you do qualify and can find an area with a zero-down mortgage, homeownership could be much more attainable.
Here’s exactly what you need to know about how to buy a house with no money down.
Can You Buy a House With No Money Down?
You can buy a house with no money down with certain loan programs in certain areas. There are more homeowner resources to help you buy a home than you may realize, and first-time homebuyer qualifications can be more flexible than you know. Here’s where to look for and what to expect on a zero-down mortgage.
Of all the things you need to buy a house, a down payment holds many buyers back. But there are a few avenues you can take to get a mortgage loan and buy a home with no money down.
• Buy a home with a VA or USDA loan. These loans, from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, are no down payment mortgages
• Receive assistance for your down payment or closing costs from a state or local program or a family member
• Receive a lender credit
• Ask for a seller concession
Note: SoFi does not offer USDA loans at this time. However, SoFi does offer FHA, VA, and conventional loan options.
USDA Loan
A USDA loan requires no money down and is intended for buyers in rural areas. There are two ways the U.S. Department of Agriculture loans money:
• Single-family housing direct loans
• Single-family housing guaranteed program
The direct loans are issued by the USDA and come with a 33-year term for low- and very-low-income households. (Very-low-income applicants may stretch the repayment term to 38 years.) The guaranteed program is run through approved lenders with a 30-year fixed rate for low- to moderate-income households.
VA Loan
A VA loan guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is a zero down payment mortgage with low interest rates for qualified veterans, active-duty service members, certain reservists and National Guard members, and surviving spouses. Most borrowers pay a one-time funding fee, which can be rolled into the loan. Lenders can be more flexible with credit scores, mortgage amounts, and debt-to-income ratios.
Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance Programs
Many city and state agencies offer different mortgage types and down payment assistance to buyers, especially low- to moderate-income homebuyers, first-time homebuyers, veterans, and people buying in federally targeted areas.
The terms vary. Sometimes the assistance for a down payment is in the form of a second mortgage that is repaid over time. Other terms include deferred payments that are only due if the property is sold, loans that are forgivable if the property is occupied by an owner for a specified amount of time, and even grants.
A down payment gift from a family member can also help you buy a house with no money down. The main thing to remember about a down payment gift from a family member is that the money must be properly documented with a gift letter. Your lender will likely provide a template to make sure you have all the crucial elements included.
Lender Credits
Lender credits are what you get when you agree to pay a higher interest rate in return for some money that the lender contributes toward your closing costs. The more lender credits you receive, the higher your rate will be. With some lenders, you can cover your closing costs entirely with lender credits. This is a common practice when refinancing a loan.
Seller Concessions
One strategy real estate agents have used is to ask for a credit from the seller, to be contributed toward the buyer’s closing costs. Making an offer above asking price in tandem with the seller concessions makes this option more palatable for sellers in a competitive housing market.
Learning how to buy houses with no money takes some research, but could be well worth your time. With a VA or USDA loan, down payment assistance, gift money, or lender credits, it is possible to obtain a no money down mortgage. Qualifying first-time buyers can also still catch a break with a conventional mortgage loan — some lenders will let you put just 3% down.
Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.
SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.
FAQ
Can cash gifts be used as a down payment?
Yes, but certain rules must be followed for the gift to be documented by the lender, usually in the form of a gift letter.
Are there any homebuyer grants?
Sometimes. They’re usually reserved for first-time buyers, veterans, or people buying homes in federally targeted areas. You might start a search for assistance with your state housing finance agency or HUD and then look for city and county programs.
What are down payment assistance programs?
Down payment assistance programs help homebuyers afford down payments and sometimes closing costs as well. This is done in the form of grants and loans and can vary by location.
What credit score do I need to buy a house with no money down?
For a zero down mortgage backed by the USDA or VA, lenders are advised to look at a borrower’s situation case by case. Approved USDA loan lenders usually require a minimum credit score of 640, though the department itself doesn’t have a credit score requirement.
Most VA loan lenders will want to see a credit score above 620, but again, the VA does not have a minimum credit score. Applicants may qualify with a score below 620 when debt, income, and the ability to shoulder future mortgage payments are given a close look.
Down payment assistance programs often require a minimum credit score of 620.
Photo credit: iStock/Paperkites
SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.
SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.
*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
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.
External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.
¹FHA loans are subject to unique terms and conditions established by FHA and SoFi. Ask your SoFi loan officer for details about eligibility, documentation, and other requirements. FHA loans require an Upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium (UFMIP), which may be financed or paid at closing, in addition to monthly Mortgage Insurance Premiums (MIP). Maximum loan amounts vary by county. The minimum FHA mortgage down payment is 3.5% for those who qualify financially for a primary purchase. SoFi is not affiliated with any government agency.
†Veterans, Service members, and members of the National Guard or Reserve may be eligible for a loan guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. VA loans are subject to unique terms and conditions established by VA and SoFi. Ask your SoFi loan officer for details about eligibility, documentation, and other requirements. VA loans typically require a one-time funding fee except as may be exempted by VA guidelines. The fee may be financed or paid at closing. The amount of the fee depends on the type of loan, the total amount of the loan, and, depending on loan type, prior use of VA eligibility and down payment amount. The VA funding fee is typically non-refundable. SoFi is not affiliated with any government agency.
If you’re shopping for a new home and traditional single-family houses are out of your price range or the mere idea of lawn mowing and tree trimming makes you sweat, a townhouse could be the answer. Many — but not all — buyers will find that townhouses rise to the occasion.
What Is a Townhouse?
Among the different home types, from condos to modular homes, are townhouses. But what is a townhouse, specifically? It’s a multi floor home with its own entrance that shares at least one wall (not floors or ceilings) with an adjacent townhouse. Townhomes may be part of a community of units with a uniform appearance, but that isn’t always the case.
It’s a bit tricky because some townhouses are sold as condos. If you buy a townhome as a condo, you will own just the inside of your unit. If you buy it as a townhouse, you’ll own the interior and exterior of the structure and the land under and sometimes around your property.
This means fewer restrictions on how you’d use your yard compared with a condo owner. Townhouse owners could, as just one example, have the right to grill in their private outdoor space.
Ownership of the structure and land also means that financing a townhouse is much less complicated than financing a condo. It’s basically the same as getting a mortgage for a detached single-family house.
Affordability
Townhouses are typically less expensive than detached single-family homes, which can be especially important in expensive cities and for first-time homebuyers. Townhouses can serve as space-efficient choices, too, in places where land is scarce.
Note that townhouses may be more expensive than a condo in the same community.
Low Maintenance
Yards are likely smaller and, if the townhouse is part of a homeowners association (HOA), you may benefit from its security protocols and maintenance of shared areas. In some cases, you can enjoy amenities like pools because of HOA membership.
Some home downsizers may appreciate the lack of interior and exterior sprawl to maintain.
First-time homebuyers can
prequalify for a SoFi mortgage loan,
with as little as 3% down.
Disadvantages of Buying a Townhouse
Buying a townhome can also come with disadvantages, including:
• HOA fees and restrictions
• Lack of privacy
• Stairs
Here’s more about each potential disadvantage.
HOA
If the townhouse is part of an HOA, there will be fees to cover shared services and spaces. Plus, HOA rules may limit how you can decorate your townhouse. Who is responsible for exterior repair costs can sometimes cause confusion. So be sure to find out the specifics of a townhome you’re interested in buying.
Lack of Privacy
Shared walls automatically mean less privacy than with a detached home, which can be especially problematic for families with young children. This can also be a consideration for young couples who may want to start a family or for other people for whom privacy is a plus.
Stairs
Because townhouses are multistory dwellings, residents will need to climb stairs, which can be challenging for those with temporary or permanent mobility issues. Plus, if someone is used to a larger yard, having a small lot with neighbors nearby can feel constraining.
How to Buy a Townhouse
When buying a townhome, there are several steps to take.
Find a Real Estate Agent
Very few buyers go it alone, so finding a real estate agent who is experienced in your geographical location can help you to make savvy choices. This agent can guide you through the process of finding the right townhouse and help negotiate the best deal for you.
Know the Market
An experienced real estate agent can look into comps, or recently sold townhomes in the area that are similar in size, condition, and features, and you can also use a real estate website to find asking prices of similar townhouses and other real estate in the area.
If more than one buyer is interested in the same townhouse, you’ll need to be clear in your mind about how much you’re willing to pay for the property and strategically make an offer without busting your budget.
Investigate the HOA Fees
If the townhouse is part of an HOA, you’ll want to know what the monthly fees will be and what they’ll cover.
You might ask when the HOA last raised the fee, by how much, and when any new increase might happen. Looking at the HOA’s budget and reserve study could also be a good idea. If the reserves are low, the community is at risk of needing a special assessment.
Shop for a Mortgage and Get Preapproved
If you’re shopping for a mortgage, you’ll benefit from looking at more than advertised interest rates. You can apply with more than one lender and then compare loan estimates.
You may want to compare the APR of different loans: The annual percentage rate reflects the interest rate, lender fees, discount points, and the loan term. If comparing, realize that escrow fees and mortgage insurance can skew the APR.
The loan estimate will also tell you what your monthly payment would be on your home mortgage. To get a sense of what a payment might be with different down payments, you can also use an online mortgage calculator.
By getting mortgage preapproval, you’ll know exactly how much of a townhouse you can afford to buy, which can give you the ability to bid on a property with confidence and compete with other buyers for a property of choice.
Order a Home Inspection
It’s a good idea to get the townhouse inspected inside and out. Also pay attention to how well neighbors are maintaining their properties.
The Takeaway
Buying a townhouse could be a good choice for first-time homebuyers, lawn-mower phobics, downsizers, and people priced out of the larger market. If you decide that buying a townhome is the right choice for you, you’ll probably need to apply for a mortgage.
Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.
SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.
FAQ
Is it worth buying a townhouse?
Townhouses, in general, don’t appreciate in value as quickly as detached single-family homes. But the purchase price is often lower.
Is a townhome a good first home?
A townhouse can be a good first home because of the low maintenance, and amenities may be included. Plus, the price is right for many first-time homebuyers.
Why shouldn’t you buy a townhouse?
Disadvantages can include a lack of privacy and usually a small yard. If an HOA is in place, ongoing fees and rules are involved. Plus, the stairs that come with townhomes may be challenging for some people to navigate.
How do I choose a good townhouse?
When buying a townhome, make sure that it has the features you want and need in a neighborhood where you’d like to live at a price within your budget. If it’s part of an HOA, ensure that the fees are palatable and cover what you expect them to.
Photo credit: iStock/cmart7327
SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.
SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.
*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
A brokered CD is a CD that’s sold by a brokerage firm or a deposit broker (an individual that can place financial deposits in an institution on behalf of a third party), rather than a bank. Brokered CDs may offer higher rates than traditional CDs sold at a bank, but they may also entail greater risk for investors.
Before investing in brokered CDs, it’s important to understand how they work, how they differ from traditional CDs, and the potential pros and cons of these accounts.
What Is a Brokered Certificate of Deposit?
A certificate of deposit is a type of savings account that allows you to deposit money and earn interest over a set time period called the term, which is usually a few months to five years. When a traditional CD reaches maturity, you can withdraw the principal plus interest, or roll it over to another CD. Traditional CDs are generally FDIC insured.
A brokered CD is a CD that’s offered by a broker or brokerage firm that’s authorized to act as a deposit broker on behalf of an issuing bank. These CDs often function more like bonds and they may be sold on the secondary market. Brokered CDs tend to be FDIC insured — as long as the CD was bought by the broker from a federally-insured bank.
What is a brokered CD in simpler terms? It’s a CD you buy from a brokerage. A deposit broker buys the CDs from a bank, then resells them to investors. Brokered CDs are held in a brokerage account. They can earn interest, but instead of only being static investments that you hold until maturity like traditional CDs, you can trade brokered CDs like bonds or other securities on the secondary market.
Compared to a standard CD, a brokered CD may require a higher minimum deposit than for a traditional bank CD. The trade-off, however, is that brokered CDs may potentially offer higher returns than you could get with a regular CD.
💡 Quick Tip: Help your money earn more money! Opening a bank account online often gets you higher-than-average rates.
How Brokered CDs Work
To buy a brokered certificate of deposit, you first need to find a deposit broker that offers them. Banks can issue CDs specifically for the customers of brokerage firms. These CDs may be issued in large denominations, say several million dollars. The brokerage would then break that large CD into smaller CDs to offer to its customers.
You could buy a brokered CD, depositing the minimum amount required or more. The brokered CD then earns interest, with the APY typically corresponding to the length of the maturity term. While longer terms typically earn higher interest rates, currently, short term CDs are offering higher rates because banks believe the Federal Reserve may cut the interest rate in the future. For example, you might be offered a 12-month brokered CD earning 5.40% or a 24-month brokered CD that yields 5.25%.
Ordinarily, you’d have to keep the money in your CD until the CD matures (if you withdraw the funds before the CD matures, you could face an early-withdrawal penalty). You could then roll the original deposit and interest into a new CD or withdraw the total amount.
With brokered CDs, on the other hand, you have the option to sell the CD on the secondary market before it matures.
Examples of Brokered CDs
Many online brokerages offer brokered CDs, including Fidelity, Vanguard and Charles Schwab, to name just a few. Here are the rates on some brokered CDs, as of late May 2024.
Vanguard: Up to 5.50% APY for a 10- to 12-month brokered CD
Fidelity: Up to 5.40% APY for a 6-month brokered CD
Charles Schawb: Up to 5.51% APY for a 3-month brokered CD
Advantages of a Brokered CD
Brokered CDs can offer several advantages, though they may not be the best option for every investor. Here are some of the potential benefits of a brokered certificate of deposit.
More Flexibility Than Traditional CDs
Brokered CDs can offer more flexibility than investing in bank CDs in the sense that they can have a variety of maturity terms, so you can choose ones that fit your needs and goals. You might select a 90-day brokered CD, for example, if you’re looking for a short-term investment or choose one with a 2-year maturity if you’d prefer something with a longer term. It’s also possible to purchase multiple brokered CDs issued by different banks and hold them all in the same brokerage account for added convenience.
Easier to Get Money Out Early on the Secondary Market
With a standard CD, you’re more or less locked in to the account until it matures. (While you could take money out early if your bank allows it, it’s likely you’ll pay an early withdrawal penalty to do so. This penalty can reduce the amount of interest earned.) Brokered CDs don’t have those restrictions; if you need to get money fast then you could sell them on the secondary market, effectively cashing out your principal and interest gains — without a penalty.
Higher Yields Than Standard Bank CDs
Deposit brokers that offer brokered certificates of deposit can use the promise of higher interest rates to attract investors. Rather than earning 1.00% on a CD as you might at a bank, you could potentially earn 5.00% or more with a brokered CD. If you’re seeking higher returns in your portfolio with investments that offer greater liquidity, brokered CDs could hit the mark.
You may also get a higher yield from a brokered CD versus a bond, with greater liquidity to boot.
Potential to Make Profit Once It Reaches Maturity Even If Interest Rates Fall
Interest rates for brokered CDs are locked until maturity. So even if rates fall during the maturity period, you could still profit when you sell the brokered CD later. As a general rule, shorter-term brokered CDs are less susceptible to interest rate risk than ones with longer terms.
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Disadvantages of a Brokered CD
Brokered CDs can have some drawbacks that investors need to know about.
Long-Term Brokered CDs Expose Investors to Interest Rate Risk
As mentioned, the longer the CD term the more exposure you have to interest rate risk. Brokered CD prices are subject to fluctuations on the secondary market. If interest rates rise, this usually has an inverse effect on the market price of existing brokered CDs. That means if you were to sell those CDs before maturity, you run the risk of getting less than what you paid for them.
Different Risk When Interest Rates Fall
You can also run into a different type of risk when rates are dropping if your brokered CDs are callable. A callable CD means the issuing bank can terminate or call the CD prior to maturity, similar to a callable bond. Callable brokered CDs can be problematic when rates drop because you’re forced to cash in your investment. In doing so, you’ll miss out on the full amount of interest you could have earned if you’d been able to hold the CD to maturity.
Temptation to Sell May Be Costly
The early withdrawal penalty associated with bank CDs actually serves an important purpose: It keeps you from taking money out of your CD early. Since brokered CDs don’t have this penalty, there’s nothing stopping you from selling your CDs on the secondary market whenever you like. That means it’s easier to cash out your investment, rather than sticking with it, which could cost you interest earnings.
Comparing Brokered CDs to Other CDs
When deciding whether or not to invest in a brokered CD, it can be helpful to compare them to other types of CDs to see how they stack up.
Brokered CD vs Bank CD
Bank CDs are typically purchased from a bank. They are purchased for a set period of time and must be held until maturity. If you want to cash out the CD early you will generally have to pay an early withdrawal penalty.
Brokered CDs are purchased from a deposit broker or brokerage house. They don’t have early withdrawal penalties so you can sell them on the secondary market if you choose to do so.
Brokered CD vs Bull CD
A bull CD is a CD that offers investors an interest rate that’s tied to an index or benchmark like the S&P 500 Index. Investors are also guaranteed a minimum rate of return. Bull CDs can also be referred to as equity-linked or market-linked CDs.
Brokered CDs earn interest but the rate is not tied to a market index. Instead, the rate is fixed for the maturity term.
Brokered CD vs Bear CD
Bear CDs are the opposite of bull CDs. With this type of CD, interest is earned based on declines in the underlying market index. So in other words, you make money when the market falls.
Again, brokered CDs don’t work this way. There is no index correlation; returns are based on the interest rate assigned at the time the CD is issued.
Brokered CD vs Yankee CD
Yankee CDs are CDs issued by foreign banks in the U.S. market. For example, a Canadian bank that has a branch in New York might offer Yankee CDs to its U.S. customers. Yankee CDs are typically suited to higher net worth investors, as they may require $100,000 or more to open. Unlike brokered CDs, which have fixed rates, a Yankee CD may offer a fixed or floating rate.
This chart offers an at-a-glance comparison of the CDs mentioned above and how they work.
Brokered CD
Bank CD
Bull CD
Bear CD
Yankee CD
Issued by a bank, sold by a brokerage
Issued and sold by a bank
Issued by a bank, sold by a brokerage
Issued by a bank, sold by a brokerage
Issued by a foreign bank and sold in the U.S.
Earns a fixed interest rate
Earns a fixed interest rate
Earns an interest rate that correlates to an underlying index
Returns are tied to an underlying market index
May offer a fixed or floating rate
Maturity terms are fixed; however, brokered CDs can be sold on the secondary market before maturity
Maturity terms are fixed
Investors are guaranteed a minimum rate of return
Interest is earned based on declines in the market
Maturity rates can be fixed or variable
May be FDIC-insured when issued by a qualifying bank
FDIC-insured
Not FDIC-insured
Not FDIC-insured
Not FDIC-insured
How to Buy a Brokered CD
If you’d like to buy a brokered CD, you’ll first need to find a brokerage that offers them. You can then open a brokerage account, which typically requires filling out some paperwork and verifying your ID. Most brokerages let you do this online to save time.
Once your account is open, you should be able to review the selection of brokered CDs available to decide which ones you want to purchase. When comparing brokered CDs, pay attention to:
• Minimum deposit requirements
• Maturity terms
• Interest rates
• Fees
Also, consider whether the CD is callable or non-callable as that could potentially affect your returns.
Are Brokered CDs FDIC Insured?
Brokered CDs are generally FDIC-insured if the bank issuing them is an FDIC member. The standard FDIC coverage limits apply. Currently, the FDIC insures banking customers up to $250,000 per depositor, per account ownership type, per financial institution. You have to be listed as the CD’s owner in order for the FDIC protection to kick in.
There is an exception if brokered CDs function more like an investment account. In that case, you would have no FDIC protection. The FDIC does not consider money held in securities to be deposits and encourages consumers to understand where they’re putting their money so they know if they’re covered or not.
However, it’s possible that you may be covered by the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) if a member brokerage or bank brokerage subsidiary you have accounts with fails.
Are Brokered CDs Better Than Bank CDs?
Brokered CDs do offer some advantages over bank CDs, in terms of flexibility, liquidity, and returns. You’re also free from withdrawal penalties with brokered certificates of deposit. You could, however, avoid this with a no-penalty CD.
What is a no-penalty CD? Simply put, it’s a CD that allows you to withdraw money before maturity without an early withdrawal fee. Some banks offer no-penalty CDs, along with Raise Your Rate CDs and Add-On CDs to savers who want more than just a standard certificate of deposit account.
Here’s something else to keep in mind. You’ll typically need more money to invest in brokered CDs vs. bank CDs. And you’re taking more risk with your money, since brokered CDs are more susceptible to market risk and interest rate risk.
You might choose a brokered CD over bank CDs if brokered certificates of deposit are offering competitive rates and you plan to hold the CD until maturity. Even if rates were to rise during the maturity period, you could still realize a gain when it’s time to cash the CD out.
Paying attention to interest rates can help you decide on the right time to invest in a brokered certificate of deposit. Also, consider the minimum investment and any fees you might pay to purchase the CD.
When to Consider Bank CDs Over Brokered CDs
You might consider bank CDs over brokered CDs if you’d prefer to take less risk with your money. CDs are designed so that you get back the money you put into them, along with the interest earned. Typically, the only time you might lose money from a bank CD is if you cash it out early and have to pay an early withdrawal penalty.
Bank CDs may also be more attractive if you don’t want to tie up your money in a single brokered CD. For example, instead of putting $10,000 into a single brokered certificate of deposit you might spread that out across five or six bank CDs with different maturity dates instead.
This is called CD laddering. Creating a CD ladder can provide some flexibility, since it may be easier to avoid early withdrawal fees if a maturity date is always on the horizon. You could also use a CD ladder to capitalize on rising rates by rolling CDs over once they mature.
Finally, keep in mind that buying CDs is not the only way to save money and potentially help it grow. For instance, if you’re committed to saving, and you want to earn more interest than you’d get with the standard savings account, you might also want to consider opening a high-yield savings account. Taking some time to explore your options can help you determine the best savings vehicles for your needs.
Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.
Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 4.00% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.
FAQ
Can you lose money on a brokered CD?
It’s possible to lose money on a brokered CD if you sell it prior to maturity after interest rates have risen. Higher rates can cause the market price of brokered CDs to decline, meaning you could end up selling them for less than what you paid.
Are brokered CDs a good idea?
While it depends on your specific situation, a brokered CD might be a good idea if you understand the risks involved. Brokered certificates of deposit can offer the potential to earn higher interest rates than regular CDs. But it’s also possible to lose money with this type of CD. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons.
What is the difference between a brokered CD and a bank CD?
A brokered CD is issued by a bank and sold by a brokerage. Bank CDs are issued by banks and offered directly to their customers. Brokered CDs may have higher minimum deposit requirements and offer higher interest rates. They are also typically more flexible than bank CDs because you can sell them on the secondary market, while you are required to hold onto bank CDs for the full term or risk paying an early withdrawal penalty.
Photo credit: iStock/Anchiy
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.
External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.
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.
4.00% APY SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.00% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. 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 (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer 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 Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with direct deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.
As an alternative to direct deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.00% 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 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 a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.00% 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 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 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 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 Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until you have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Direct Deposit.
Members without either Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, will earn 1.20% 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 12/3/24. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.
In most cases, it isn’t possible to overdraft a credit card, or spend above your credit limit. If you opt in to over-the-limit charges, it may be possible to exceed your limit. However, “overdraft” usually refers to overdrawing a bank account, not a credit card.
It’s more likely that your purchase will be denied rather than your account “overdrawn.” If the charge does go over the limit, you might get hit with additional fees, and your credit could suffer as a result.
What Does It Mean to Overdraft a Credit Card?
Each time you use your credit card, your balance increases, which is part of how credit cards work. If you aren’t making payments against that balance, it will move closer and closer to your credit limit. Eventually, your balance could get high enough that you run up against that limit.
Usually, though, you won’t be able to go beyond your credit card spending limit. Instead, your card will be declined if you attempt to make a purchase that would put you over the limit. This is the result of the CARD Act of 2009.
Since the CARD Act, you can’t go over your card’s limit unless you specifically opt in to allow overages. In that case, it may be possible to go beyond your credit card’s limit.
What happens when you try to overdraft your credit card depends on whether you have opted in to over-limit charges. If you haven’t, your card will likely be declined; otherwise, you could incur fees and a hit to your credit.
Declined Transactions
By default, most credit cards today should not allow you to go over your credit limit. Instead, your card will probably be declined.
For example, imagine you have a credit limit of $5,000 with a current balance of $4,800. If you try to spend $250, in most cases it will not result in a $5,050 balance on your card. Because your limit is $5,000, your card will probably be declined when you attempt to complete the transaction for the $250 purchase.
Over-Limit Fees
Since the CARD Act of 2009, you can’t be charged over-limit fees unless you opt in to them. In that case, you will be charged an over-the-limit fee that is usually up to $35. However, the fee is limited to the amount you exceed your limit. For example, if you go $15 over your credit limit, the over-limit fee can’t be more than $15.
The CARD Act also says that banks must disclose over-limit fees in your credit card contract. If for some reason you have opted into over-limit fees, you should be able to opt out of these fees at any time.
Impact on Credit Score
If you go over the limit for your credit card, your credit score might take a hit. While there’s no magic number for credit utilization, the rule of thumb is usually that you should limit your utilization to 30%. Many financial experts suggest keeping it closer to 10%.
Your utilization is your outstanding balances divided by your credit limit. Because your balance for the credit card in question is greater than the limit, your ratio would exceed 100%. That might negatively impact your credit score until you lower the ratio.
One thing to keep in mind is that credit utilization is calculated using all of your outstanding credit. In other words, if you have five different credit cards, your utilization takes all of their balances and credit limits into account. If you have many credit cards and most of them have no balances, going over the limit on one credit card won’t necessarily hurt your credit score significantly.
Either way, it’s best to avoid this situation due to the over-limit fees. This is also why it’s important to discuss spending habits with any authorized users on a credit card to avoid hitting your limit.
If you go over the limit on your credit card, there are several steps you can take to rectify the situation.
Make Additional Repayments
One of the most important credit card rules is that you should pay more than the minimum amount due each month. Indeed, paying more than you normally pay might be a good idea, especially if the credit card that’s over its limit is a significant part of your total credit picture.
Perhaps you have a minimum payment of $40, and you might normally pay that amount each month. In that case, consider upping your payment to $50 instead. Anything you can pay above the minimum will help you reduce your credit utilization; the more you can pay, the better.
This can also help you from falling into credit card debt, which can be a hard situation to get out of.
Request a Credit Limit Increase
Another way to reduce your credit utilization is to request a credit limit increase. For instance, if you have a total credit balance of $5,000 and a total credit limit of $10,000, your utilization is 50%. If you currently have a credit card you don’t use often with a limit of $3,000 and no balance, your utilization there is 0%. Your total credit utilization is therefore $5,000 out of $13,000, or 38.5%.
You could request an increase to that unused card’s limit to $5,000. In this case, your total credit limit becomes $15,000, and $5,000 out of the new combined $15,000 limit brings your utilization down to 30%. Hence, even if your balances stay the same, your credit utilization ratio will drop.
Contact Your Provider
Sometimes, credit card issuers will increase your credit limit automatically, such as you if you’ve used your credit card responsibly over time. If not, you can call your card issuer and ask them to increase your credit limit. Usually, it’s best to do this after you’ve had the card for at least a few months.
When you make the request, the credit card issuer may review one or more of your credit reports. Keep in mind that this could result in a hard inquiry into your credit history; these checks cause a temporary dip in your credit score. The card issuer may also request proof of income, employment status, or monthly rent or mortgage payments.
It usually isn’t possible to overdraft a credit card. Your card is typically declined if you try to charge above your credit limit. You may be able to go over the credit limit, but only if you opt in to over-limit fees. If you do opt in, your credit could take a hit, and you might have to pay additional fees if you exceed your credit card’s limit.
Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.
FAQ
Do credit cards allow overdrafts?
Credit cards usually do not allow overdrafts. In fact, “overdraft” is usually a banking term that refers to your checking or savings account balance dropping below $0. With credit cards, it may be possible to go over the limit if you opt in to over-limit fees.
Can you overdraft with no money on your card?
With credit cards, your balance increases as you make purchases. Hence, in this scenario, it would only be possible to overdraft a credit card if a single purchase would put you over the limit. And even then, you must have opted in to over-limit charges; otherwise, the transaction will simply be declined.
Can you overdraft a credit card at an ATM?
In most cases, you won’t overdraft a credit card at an ATM. You might be able to overdraft when requesting a cash advance, but even then, it may not be possible unless you have opted in to overdraft protection.
How can you ask for a credit limit increase?
Sometimes, credit card companies will increase your limit automatically. If that doesn’t happen and you want an increase, you can call your credit card issuer directly and ask for an increase.
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Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
