What Happens if You Overdraft Your Savings Account?

Can You Overdraft Your Savings Account?

It is possible to overdraft a savings account, which is when your balance drops below zero. This could happen if you forgot to deposit a check into the account and then transferred funds out, for instance. Or maybe you moved more money out of the savings account into your checking than you actually had. These and other glitches can leave you with a negative balance in your savings.

Consequences of Overdrawing a Savings Account

An overdraft occurs when there is a withdrawal from your account that results in the balance being below zero — sometimes called a negative balance. There are several ways this can happen. Maybe an automatic withdrawal was processed or you wrote a check against your savings account and you didn’t have enough in the account to cover the transaction.

When the negative balance kicks in, a couple of different things could happen next. Much depends on your particular financial institution and the terms you agreed to when you opened the savings account.

Among the possibilities:

•   You may be charged an overdraft fee: If you signed an agreement to opt into overdraft coverage, your financial institution will allow you to overdraft on your account, typically for a fee. (That is, they will authorize the transaction and allow for it to be completed, extending you a loan.) The amount of the fee will differ depending on your account and your bank. Some financial institutions may even charge you every day and/or for additional withdrawals while your account has a negative balance. Considering that the average overdraft fee is about $35, this cost can really add up.

•   Your transaction is declined: Your financial institution may decline the transaction if you don’t have overdraft protection. In this case, the transaction won’t go through. In addition, you could face a non-sufficient funds fee, or NSF fee. In many cases this amount is similar to an overdraft fee.

•   You have a linked account, and the linked account is used to cover the cost. This usually happens when you overdraw a checking account, and a linked savings account covers the difference. However, you may be able to link your savings account to another account (typically at the same financial institution) as a backup. If an account goes down to zero or below, then money would be withdrawn from the backup account to complete the transaction. In many cases, this service is free, though that depends on your bank.

Understanding Overdraft Protection and Fees

Financial institutions offer overdraft protection programs to help ensure your transactions proceed smoothly in case you reach a negative balance. These programs vary somewhat. Options may include linking a checking and savings account together — funds will be transferred automatically for the negative balance. Or the bank might allow the transaction to go through, and you’ll be charged a fee until you make up for the difference.

Federal regulations require banks to allow account holders to opt into overdraft protection for ATM and debit cards for point-of-sale transactions (or purchases). If you don’t opt in, you won’t be able to overdraft — your bank will deny the transaction. In this case, you won’t be charged any bank fees. However, this may not apply to recurring payments, bank transfers, or checks.

As we mentioned, your financial institution may charge you a fee for each transaction that involves overdraft protection, though banks typically have a maximum amount they’ll charge per day. For example, if you transferred $1,200 for your rent payment out of your savings, and you only had $1,000 in your account, you’ll have a negative balance. This results in a $200 overdraft (if you have coverage), plus you’ll pay about a $35 overdraft fee. If you don’t get paid until a week later to make up the difference, your account will continue to have a negative balance. Let’s say your bank ends up charging you a daily fee which adds up to an extra $10 for that week (this is just an example — it depends on the bank), totaling $45 in fees. And even if your bank denies the transaction, you may still have to pay the NSF fee, which could be about $35.

As you can see, overdrafting on your savings account can get expensive. That’s why it’s a smart idea to rectify the situation as soon as possible and prevent it from happening in the future.

Steps if You Have Overdrawn on Your Account

If you’ve overdrawn on your savings account, here’s how to get out of the negative-balance zone.

•  Deposit funds: Once you’ve overdrafted, make a deposit into that account as soon as possible. Doing so can prevent you from being hit with multiple overdraft fees, especially if you know you need to make more withdrawals in the next day or so.

•  Ask to have the fee waived: If this is the first time you’ve had a negative balance, you can contact your financial institution to request to have the fee waived. If you’ve been a loyal customer and have remained in good standing with your accounts up until now, the bank may not charge you.

•  Pay the overdraft fee: If your bank rejects your request to have the fee waived, it’s best to pay it as soon as possible. You can typically do that by making a deposit into the overdrawn account. While your bank likely won’t take drastic measures like closing your account, be aware that letting a bank account sit with a negative balance could wind up hurting your credit score if the matter gets sent to a collection agency.

•  Settle payment with the payee: If your payment didn’t go through, then you’ll need to contact the person or company you owe and make arrangements for alternative payment. Depending on the type of payment, you could face a late or returned payment fee, which you’ll also need to pay.

Tips for Avoiding Overdraft Fees

There are ways to avoid overdraft fees. Here are some methods that can help.

1. Sign Up for Text or Email Alerts for Low Balance

Many banks allow you to sign up for email or text alerts when your savings account reaches a certain threshold. By doing so, you have time to deposit additional funds so you won’t risk your bank account going to zero or a negative balance.

2. Check Your Bank Account Regularly and Review Statements

Logging into your bank account online or through your banking app allows you to quickly see your balance and any upcoming transactions. By keeping on top of your account, you’ll typically be able to see if you’ll need to have more funds on hand, and you’ll have time to make those deposits. You may find that checking your account balances a few times a week is a helpful habit.

3. Review and Compare Automatic Payment Dates to Withdraw Dates

Looking at when money actually gets withdrawn from your account will help you plan better. For instance, if you know you’ll have a few withdrawals totaling $600 on the 15th of each month, you can plan to make sure you have that much in the account then. (Having a buffer is nice, too, if you can swing it.)

4. Revisit Your Budget

Reviewing your budget occasionally will help you see whether you’re overspending in certain areas. If so, working to cut back on expenses can prevent overdrafts. This is especially important during times when basic living expenses can creep up and require budget recalibration.

5. Build an Emergency Fund

You’ve probably heard the advice that it’s wise to have a rainy-day fund with enough cash in it to cover a few or several months’ worth of expenses. Having this kind of buffer will help when unexpected circumstances arise. These situations could range from a big medical bill to your laptop dying to being laid off. Aim to keep your emergency fund in a separate account, far from your everyday accounts, so you’re not tempted to spend it.

6. Consider Overdraft Protection and Coverage

Check into what your financial institution offers in terms of overdraft protection or coverage, and see if it makes sense for you. This may involve opening what is essentially a line of credit, so proceed carefully and find out what it will cost you. Make sure you understand what your responsibilities are, including fees and when a withdrawal from a linked account may occur.

The Takeaway

Overdrafting on your savings account can happen, and it can result in fees. There are several smart tactics that you can use to avoid this scenario — and ways to cope if your balance does wind up in negative territory. Planning ahead for these kinds of money-crunch situations is a wise idea as life is full of unexpected expenses.

Choosing a bank account that covers you for a certain amount of overdrafts and/or one low to no monthly or minimum-balance account fees is another option you may want to explore as part of your money management strategy.

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 I overdraft my savings account at the ATM?

It depends on whether or not you have opted into overdraft coverage. Banks are required to allow account holders to opt into overdraft protection for ATM and debit cards for point-of-sale transactions . If you don’t opt in, you won’t be able to overdraft. Your bank will deny the transaction and you won’t be charged a fee. If you do opt in, the bank will allow the transaction and charge you an overdraft fee, which is typically about $35.

Can you go negative in a savings account?

Yes, you can go negative in a savings account. This might happen if you write a check for more than you have in the savings account, for instance. If the bank allows the transaction to go through, you end up with a negative balance in your savings account. In this case, if you’ve signed up for your bank’s overdraft coverage, you will be charged an overdraft fee, which is typically around $35. You may owe additional fees as well if you don’t put money into the account right away.


About the author

Sarah Li Cain

Sarah Li Cain

Sarah Li Cain, AFC is a finance and small business writer with over a decade of experience. Her work has been featured in numerous publications, including Kiplinger, Fortune, CNBC Select, U.S. News & World Report, and Redbook. Read full bio.



Photo credit: iStock/damircudic

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.

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® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2024 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.


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.

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27 Activities to do in Your Free Time That do not Cost Anything

27 Fun Things to Do for Free

Having a good time doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, there are plenty of fun and interesting things to do that don’t cost any money at all.

While it may take a little more research and imagination, it’s possible to find new and entertaining activities to do on your own or with your family and friends without busting your budget.

If you’re looking for some fun ways to save money, read on. We’ve got 27 ideas.

Fun Free Things To Do

If you find that you often spend your free time binge-watching shows or scrolling through social media on your phone, it may be time to work some new activities into your repertoire. Fortunately, that doesn’t have to mean breaking out your wallet.

Consider trying one (or a few) of these fun, free activities.

1. Going on a Hike

If the weather is nice outside, then it could be time to hit the great outdoors and take a hike. You can search for nearby hikes at AllTrails.com . You’ll also be able to check out the length and difficulty of the trail, as well how long it takes to hike.

2. Volunteering with a Local Organization

Volunteering can be a great cost-free activity because it allows you to give back, potentially meet some new people, and feel good about how you spent your day. To find local volunteering opportunities, you can check out VolunteerMatch.org , which matches people with local organizations that need help.

3. Playing Board Games

When looking for fun things to do with the family, consider busting out a game of Monopoly or Life and competing against one another. You might reward the winner with a few days or a week off from their everyday chores.

💡 Quick Tip: Banish bank fees. Open a new bank account with SoFi and you’ll pay no overdraft, minimum balance, or any monthly fees.

4. Decluttering the House

While this might not be the first thing that comes to mind when looking for a fun way to spend your free time, cleaning and being productive can actually be very satisfying, and also help relieve stress. You can declutter alone or get the kids involved. Consider donating your discards to a local charity or thrift store.

Recommended: Is Hiring a Maid or Cleaning Service Worth It?

5. Going to a Free Museum Day

Many museums will offer free admission once a week or once a month. You can spend an afternoon browsing through the beautiful works of art without spending a dime.

6. Having a Picnic in the Park

Dining al fresco doesn’t have to be pricey if you head for a local park. A picnic can be a great way to spend a liesurely afternoon with family and friends. All you need is a blanket, lunch, a ball or Frisbee, and a shady spot.

Recommended: 13 Cheap Ways to Live

7. Streaming an Exercise Video

Gym memberships, personal trainers, and exercise classes can be expensive. However, exercise videos on YouTube and Instagram are totally free. Consider breaking out the sweats and burning some calories for free.

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

No account or overdraft fees. No minimum balance.

Up to 4.00% APY on savings balances.

Up to 2-day-early paycheck.

Up to $2M of additional
FDIC insurance.


8. FaceTiming With Friends and Family

Whether you prefer an old-fashioned phone call or a video call, reconnecting with an old friend or a family member you haven’t spoken with in a while can be an enjoyable, no-cost way to spend some free time.

9. Trying Meditation

Meditating can be a relaxing solo activity that helps to clear your mind and reduce stress. You can find free meditations on YouTube, or you might want to check out Headspace, which has guided meditation for beginners and offers a free trial.

💡 Quick Tip: An emergency fund or rainy day fund is an important financial safety net. Aim to have at least three to six months’ worth of basic living expenses saved in case you get a major unexpected bill or lose income.

10. Playing Free Games Online

Playing games online can be a fun way to spend a rainy afternoon with the kids. You can find free educational games for kids on sites like Funbrain.

11. Going to the Beach Off Hours

Hitting the beach in the late afternoon or early morning is often free. At these times you’re also likely to find fewer crowds, as well as beautiful light.

Recommended: 10 Ways to Avoid Paying Full Price for Anything

12. Starting a Journal

Journaling can be a great way to get things off your mind, collect your thoughts, and even come up with solutions to nagging problems. All you need is a pen and an old notebook to get started.

13. Visiting Your Local Library

You can not only find great books to read at your local library, but also pick up DVDs, CDs, and audio books, and possibly also attend a lecture, film screening, or other free community event.

14. Cooking Something New

Consider shopping your cupboard, fridge, and freezer, and then looking for something you can make with what you have on hand. You can find plenty of free recipes at sites like Allrecipes and Food Network.

15. Checking Out a Fire Station

Kids typically love fire trucks. Consider reaching out to your local fire station to see if they offer tours. This is not only a fun, free family activity, but allows kids to learn all about how the fire department works while meeting their local heroes.

💡 Quick Tip: When you feel the urge to buy something that isn’t in your budget, try the 30-day rule. Make a note of the item in your calendar for 30 days into the future. When the date rolls around, there’s a good chance the “gotta have it” feeling will have subsided.

16. Making a Movie

Whether you have a video camera or just a smartphone, you have what you need to make a short film. You can have everyone in the family pitch in to create a storyline, sets, costumes, and props. You can then edit the film and share it online.

17. Learning a New Skill

Whether you want to get better at applying makeup or have always wanted to learn how to juggle or knit a scarf, you can likely find a great tutorial on YouTube.

Recommended: Ways to Control Excessive Spending Habits

18. Going to Local Historical Site

There are likely a number of places around town where you and your family can soak up some local history. Many towns also offer free walking tours.

19. Attending a Free Concert

During the summer, many towns will put on free concerts for everyone to enjoy. You might even bring a blanket and dinner for a nice evening out.

20. Doing a Puzzle

Putting together a large puzzle can be a fun and challenging activity to do alone or with friends and family. If you are tired of the ones you own, consider trading puzzles with a friend or neighbor so you have something new to tackle.

Recommended: How to Stop Spending Money

21. Camping in the Backyard

In warmer weather, camping in the backyard offers an opportunity for fun, free adventure with the kids. If you don’t have a tent, consider borrowing one for the night. You can make a fire (or light up the grill) to roast marshmallows and tell ghost stories before bed.

22. Starting a Book Club

While this can take a little planning, book clubs are relatively easy to set up. You can create a private book club on Facebook or another social media platform. Or, you can recruit a group of book-loving friends to meet once a month at each other’s homes.

23. Washing the Car

You can have fun and accomplish something at the same time by getting your kids involved in washing the car. You could even host a neighborhood car wash so the kiddos can earn some pocket money.

Recommended: How to Be Better With Money

24. Heading to the Dog Park

This can obviously be a great idea if you have a dog, but can also be entertaining if you don’t. You can grab a bench and have fun watching cute dogs run around and play. Dog parks can also be fun for people watching.

Recommended: 19 Tips to Save Money on Pet Care

25. Trying a New Playground

Your kids probably know all the local playgrounds pretty well. For a change of pace, consider checking out a playground you’ve never been to in a town nearby. Pack a lunch to make it feel like a mini-vacation.

26. Writing a Letter

Writing letters may seem old-fashioned, but it can be a nice way to communicate with your loved ones. The letter can be handwritten and sent via snail mail, or you might just want to send an email updating a friend or family member about what’s going on in your life.

27. Building a Fort

Kids typically love building forts. On a cold or rainy day, you can have an indoor adventure by breaking out some chairs and blankets and letting the kids create their own little hideaway filled with their favorite books and toys. They may even wind up sleeping in the fort for the night.

The Takeaway

It can take thinking a little outside the box and a bit of planning, but it’s possible to entertain yourself and your family with fun new activities without busting your budget.

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.


About the author

Kylie Ora Lobell

Kylie Ora Lobell

Kylie Ora Lobell is a personal finance writer who covers topics such as credit cards, loans, investing, and budgeting. She has worked for major brands such as Mastercard and Visa. Read full bio.



SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2024 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 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.

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.

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Trade School Costs Need to Knows

A trade school, often called a vocational or technical school, provides specific job skills to start a career quickly in a given trade, with the requisite certifications and licenses. That career can range from being an electrician to a physician’s assistant to a cook. As opposed to a four-year college, a trade school education is generally completed in just two years and focuses on getting students hands-on experience and securing the job they want.

Trade school costs an average of $12,000 to $20,000+ per year. While trade school can be significantly less costly and require less time than a four year degree, there are still expenses to consider. Continue reading for more information on how expensive trade school is and planning for trade school costs.

Key Points

•   Trade schools offer focused training in specific job skills, allowing students to enter careers quickly, typically completing programs in less than two years.

•   The annual cost of trade school tuition can range from approximately $4,200 to $25,000+, depending on factors like the school and program.

•   Additional expenses for trade school often include costs for books, supplies, and living expenses, which can vary greatly based on individual circumstances.

•   Financial options for attending trade school include federal aid, grants, scholarships, and part-time work, which can help cover educational costs.

•   When selecting a trade school, important considerations include program accreditation, completion time, available on-the-job training opportunities, and employment support services.

What Is Trade School?

College is not for everyone. Trade school can provide a path to a rewarding career, without the time and money required to pursue a four-year degree.

Trade school is a type of education that provides training in a specific job or skill set to allow students to start a given trade or career with the requisite certifications and appropriate licenses. Also known as vocational or technical schools, trade school can be a stepping stone into a career as a plumber, electrician, dental hygienist, pharmacy technician, paralegal, and more.

Trade schools may be private or public institutions, and it can take as little as a few months to two plus years to complete a trade school program. Community colleges may offer vocational programs or more general education classes for students planning to transfer to a four-year institution.

How Much Does Trade School Cost

The cost of trade school varies widely based on factors including the school, the program you are pursuing, and your location. According to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDs), the average cost of trade school was $15,070 for the 2022-23 school year.

Tuition

The cost of tuition for trade school can range dramatically, from $4,200 to $25,000+ per year. Here is the average cost of tuition and fees for popular trade school programs, according to IPEDs:

•   Patient Care Assistant/Aide: $4,280

•   Welder: $11,230

•   HVAC Tech: $11,630

•   Licensed Practical Nurse: $14,700

•   Cosmetologist: $16,230

•   Auto Tech: $25,870

Books and Supplies

The cost of books and supplies will vary based on the vocational program or trade school. According to data from IPEDs, the average cost of books at a two-year public institution was $1,720 for the 2022-23 school year.

Living Expenses

Unsurprisingly, the cost of living expenses can also vary quite dramatically from student to student. Some students who are attending trade school may be able to live at home with family members. This could help them reduce costs because they may have little to no rent, and share meals with family members.

Trade school students who are living on their own may need to budget for more expensive living costs.

Recommended: What Is the Cost of Attendance in College?

Paying for Trade School

When it comes to paying for college, or trade school, there are a few options available to students, including loans, federal aid, grants, and more.

Trade School Loans

The term “trade school loan” is just a way to refer to a student loan, personal loan, or outside funding measure used to pay one’s way through a training or vocational school.

Many trade and vocational schools may qualify for federal student loans and other forms of federal financial aid. To apply for federal loans, students will need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) each year.

There are limits for federal student loans, and some students may consider a private student loan to supplement the cost of tuition and living expenses. Private student loans are available from private institutions, but they may not offer the same benefits or protections as federal student loans.

Working Part-Time

Trade schools generally offer flexible programming — for example, night classes — so students may be able to work part-time to fund their education. Students may consider getting a part-time job in the field they are studying, or working at a gig that is willing to accommodate their school schedule so they have enough time to take classes and study.

Financial Aid for Trade School

As already mentioned, trade schools may qualify for federal financial aid — including student loans, grants, and scholarships. Federal aid can be used for technical schools and some certificate programs as long as the schools are accredited and eligible for federal funds. You can check the Department of Education’s database of qualifying schools to confirm your chosen trade school program qualifies.

Grants

Students at eligible trade schools may qualify for a Pell Grant. A Pell Grant is a type of federal grant that is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional financial need. The maximum amount for the 2024-25 school year is $7,395.

Scholarships

There may also be scholarships available for trade school students. Certain trade schools may offer scholarships, and there are vocational school scholarships available from private organizations, as well. To find trade school scholarships, check with your school’s financial aid office or search online scholarship databases.

Recommended: SoFi’s Scholarship Search Tool

Tips on Selecting a Worthwhile Program

Trade school can make sense for students who are interested in pursuing a specific vocation and are not interested in attending a more traditional four-year school. To evaluate trade schools, consider the following factors:

•   Program accreditation: This can give you an idea of a program’s reputation. Accredited schools may qualify for federal financial aid, as well.

•   Time to complete: This will tell you how long it will take you to complete the program, along with the total cost of the program.

•   Opportunities for paid, on-the-job training: Some programs may offer a combination of in-classroom learning and paid job training. Gaining this real world experience can be valuable.

•   Employment assistance or support: Some trade schools have close connections with local businesses or industries. Find out if there is a career connections office or any job placement assistance from your school.

Private Student Loans for Trade School

SoFi doesn’t offer student loans for trade school programs, but does offer private student loans for eligible graduate certificate programs. If you’re a college student interested in pursuing a certificate program, a SoFi private loan could be a tool to help you finance the program.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

Are trade schools more affordable than four-year universities?

Trade schools are generally more affordable than a college or university. In addition to having a more affordable annual tuition, typically trade school programs can be completed in less than four years.

What are the most high-paying trade jobs?

Some of the highest-paying trade jobs include elevator and escalator installers, radiation therapists, dental hygienists, aircraft mechanics, and construction managers. These roles typically require specialized training or certification from trade schools and offer competitive salaries, job stability, and opportunities for career growth in high-demand industries.

How long is trade school?

The length of trade school can vary based on the program. Some trade school programs can be completed in a few months while others may take two years to complete.


SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and Conditions Apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 04/24/2024 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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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.

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

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SOISL-Q424-043

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What Happens If I Miss the Tax Filing Deadline?

If you miss the annual deadline for filing your income taxes, you don’t necessarily need to panic. Missing that tax filing deadline may not mean a big penalty, and you may have more options than you think. However, it can be wise to take steps to remedy the situation as soon as possible.

For 2024 tax returns, the deadline is set for April 15, 2025. If you’re wondering what might happen if you miss that date, read on.

Key Points

•   Missing the tax filing deadline can result in “failure to file” and “failure to pay” penalties, each with a monthly rate.

•   An extension for tax filing can be requested by submitting IRS Form 4868 by the original deadline, usually April 15.

•   Filing taxes early avoids late penalties, can speed up refund processing, and may reduce stress.

•   No late-filing penalties will usually apply if you are due a refund, but delays in receiving the refund can occur.

•   Typically, unclaimed refunds after three years become property of the U.S. Treasury, and the IRS will no longer issue them.

When Is the Tax Filing Deadline?

Usually, the tax-filing deadline is April 15 for the prior year. So if you are filing your return for tax year 2024, April 15 of 2025 would be the due date.

Worth noting: If April 15 falls on a weekend or holiday, the next business day is used. In the case of 2023, April 15 fell on a Saturday, but on Monday, April 17, the Emancipation Day holiday was observed in Washington, D.C. For this reason, the federal tax-filing date was actually on Tuesday, April 18, that year.

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Reasons Why Someone Might Miss the Tax Filing Deadline

Turning in school papers, paying your credit card bill, applying for rebates: Life is full of deadlines that sometimes are missed. Missing the deadline for taxes is no exception. Here are some common reasons why people don’t file on time:

•   You think you don’t owe any money and figure, why bother to file?

•   You think you do owe money but can’t afford to pay your tax bill, even if you deplete your savings account, so you avoid it entirely.

•   You are missing tax documents and didn’t have time to hunt for them or know where to find them.

•   You ran out of time to get organized and file or simply procrastinated.

•   You had trouble understanding taxes, got stressed out by the process, and didn’t get it finished.

•   You couldn’t afford a tax preparer but realized you didn’t know how to file on your own.

•   You got sick or injured or had a family emergency that interfered with filing.

•   You had a change in status (i.e., were in the middle of a divorce or became widowed) and didn’t know how to file in those new circumstances.

Recommended: 7 Tips to Managing Your Money Better

Are There Penalties for Missed Tax-Filing Deadlines?

“What happens if I miss the tax deadline?” you may wonder. The answer is: It can cost you. For individuals, the IRS can levy penalties for a few infractions related to the annual tax filing deadline. Here’s a closer look:

The most common punishment for this offense is a late payment penalty that’s equal to 0.5% of the money owed. But it’s important to be aware of these finer points:

•   The IRS can penalize a taxpayer for “failure to file,” which occurs when a person fails to file their tax return by the appropriate April date or by the date specified if the person requests and receives an extension. The IRS can levy a penalty of 5% of the taxes owed per month for each month that the taxes are owed after the April filing deadline passes if you didn’t get an extension. This hits a cap of 25% after five months and can’t go any higher.

•   Another infraction when missing the tax deadline is “failure to pay.” This occurs when a taxpayer doesn’t pay the money they owe on their tax return, even if they file on time. The most common punishment for this offense is a late payment penalty that’s equal to 0.5% of the money owed. That may not sound like much, but it’s due every single month, until the tax is paid in full. And that penalty can be as much as 25% of the overdue taxes.

•   What if both “failure to pay” and “failure to file” penalties are applied in the same month? In this case, the “failure to file” penalty will be lowered by the sum of the “failure to pay” penalty applied that month.

•   The IRS can also penalize taxpayers for failure to pay estimated taxes over the course of a year. The penalty will be calculated based on the amount of the underpayment, how long the taxes were left unpaid, and the interest rate the IRS charges.

•   Another reason the IRS may charge a penalty is if your check to the government bounces. You will likely be assessed an additional 2% on the amount owed to the government.

One last note: You may wonder what happens if you file just a day or two late. It does matter! Even a single day late counts against you; the IRS takes deadlines very seriously.

Recommended: Tax-Deductible or Not? A Guide to Year-End Donations

How Do Extensions Work?

There are years when completing your taxes by the April deadline is just too much to accomplish. Preparing for tax season and completing a return isn’t always simple. As a taxpayer’s financial life evolves, filing can become quite complex and time-consuming. And even if you use a professional tax-preparer, April can be an extremely hectic time for them, and they may not be able to fit you in before the big deadline.

So what happens if you’re missing the tax deadline? Don’t just sit back. This is when an extension may come in handy.

•   The way to get one is to file an IRS Form 4868 , which is an application for permission to take an extra six months (until October) to file your taxes. Taxpayers, however, can’t be late when requesting the extension. You have to submit the form by the April deadline.

•   You can file for an extension online or by mail.

•   An extension only applies to filing your return. It’s important to note that you still have to send the IRS a check for your estimated taxes by April 15 or whatever the due date is in a given year.

•   If you take, say, another month to file the complete return and you owe more than you estimated on Form 4868 in April, you may face penalties for the shortfall.

•   Those penalties will typically grow with each month you take to file, even with the extension.

•   If you overestimate the taxes you owe and pay too much by the April deadline, then you’ll receive a refund after you eventually file.

What Deadlines Mean If You’re Owed Money

All of this discussion about deadlines and penalties ignores one issue: What does all of this mean if you expect to get money back from the government in the form of a tax refund?

A tax refund happens if you overpay your taxes over the course of a year, whether through your regular paycheck deductions, quarterly payments, or other means. When you file your return, it’s a chance to get that money back. Tax refunds are quite common — in terms of 2023 returns filed in 2024, the IRS issued 120.9 million refunds to individuals, totaling about $461.2 billion.

All of the deadlines and penalties described so far apply to anyone who owes money to the IRS in a given year. For taxpayers who are owed money by the government, the rules are different. Some specifics:

•   There is no late-filing fee for taxpayers who file returns requesting a refund from prior years.

•   The annual tax filing deadlines have a different significance for people who will receive a refund check from the IRS. For these taxpayers, there’s a real incentive to file taxes ahead of the deadline. The sooner you file, the sooner you’re likely to receive your refund. The IRS says it issues roughly 90% of its refunds in under three weeks, though it warns that some returns require additional review and may take longer as a result.

•   After a return is three years overdue, the IRS will no longer pay that money. The good news is that there is no late-filing fee for taxpayers who file returns requesting a refund from prior years.

It may seem unlikely that people would leave money unclaimed, but consider this: In 2023, the IRS announced a last call for more than $1.5 billion in unclaimed income tax refunds due to individual taxpayers who never got around to filing their federal income tax returns in a past year. Those unclaimed funds eventually become property of the U.S. Treasury.

So, as you see, it could definitely pay to file that return.

Tips for Filing a Late Tax Return

If you missed the tax filing deadline or know that’s going to happen, here’s advice:

•   You can file the IRS Form 4868 requesting an extension by the tax filing deadline. Even if you do file for a tax extension, however, know that any funds owed are still due by the April date, but you may be able to send in the actual return later.

•   Always file your return as soon as possible. You may want to contact a tax professional to assist you with this, or you can reach out to the IRS for help. You might want to call the IRS Tax Help Line at 1-800-829-1040 or visit your local IRS office.

•   If you owe money but can’t pay it all at once, pay as much as you can, as soon as you can, and look into available options, such as payment plans with the IRS. These can give you an extended timeframe in which to pay what you owe. You may want to consult the IRS’ online Payment Plan tool.

Tips for Getting Your Taxes in on Time

Now that you’ve read about how complicated it can be if you miss the tax filing deadline, here are a few tips to help you get those returns in on time:

•   Get organized early. Gather all the records you’ll need to file (such as a W-2) as they become available.

•   Check against last year’s return to see if there were any forms you had then (say, a Form 1099 reflecting interest on a bank account) that you don’t have now. Track down anything that’s missing.

•   Create or log into an account at IRS.gov to make tracking your progress easier. You can make payments there, too.

•   Make sure you’ve withheld enough money so that you don’t owe too much when you file. If you do wind up having to pay a significant amount, develop a plan early to pay it on time or as close to on time as possible.

•   Know your banking details or open a bank account so that you can use direct deposit, which is usually the fastest way to get a refund.

The Takeaway

Life happens: Sometimes, despite your best intentions, deadlines get missed. When that happens with tax filing, though, there can be some very real financial penalties involved. That’s why it’s important to know when your tax returns are due and then do everything in your power to file on time.

If you can’t get your return finished by Tax Day in mid-April, know the right moves to request an extension and possibly look into a payment plan for money owed that you can’t pay all at once. Having your bank account information handy, especially when you are due a refund, can be valuable.

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

When is the tax deadline?

The deadline for tax-filing is usually April 15 for the previous year’s taxes. However, if that date falls on a weekend or holiday, it will move forward by up to a few days.

How long are the tax extensions given if I miss the tax deadline?

The usual tax extension is six months. However, this is a longer timeline to file your return. Funds owed are still due in April. It can be wise to pay as much as possible towards your total debt to the IRS by Tax Day, and then send the remainder as soon as possible, perhaps via a payment plan with the IRS.

What happens if you miss the tax deadline by one day?

The IRS takes deadlines seriously. For every month that you are late filing your return, you will be assessed a penalty on the total amount owed. That wording of “a month” does not mean the first 30 days after the deadline are a kind of freebie during which you can send in your return and any payment due without penalty. Rather, being even a single day late puts you into that “one month” late category.


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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.

We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Checking & Savings Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.
*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

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

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.

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.

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

SOBNK-Q424-074

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How to File a Tax Extension

How to File a Tax Extension

You can file a tax extension in a few different ways, such as online or by mail. This process can help people who may need more time to finalize their return, whether they are missing documents, dealing with a personal emergency, or have other reasons for being behind schedule.

While a six-month extension can be a good safety net, it’s important to learn the facts. For instance, an extension doesn’t mean you have more time to pay any taxes you may owe.

Read on to learn the facts and important considerations to know when filing a tax extension.

Key Points

•   Tax extensions provide a six-month extension to file but not to pay owed taxes.

•   Filing Form 4868 electronically or by mail is typically required to request an extension.

•   Paying taxes on time usually avoids penalties and interest, even with an extension filed.

•   Common reasons for needing an extension include missing documents, life events, and complex business dealings.

•   Filing for a tax extension does not incur a fee but requires timely payment of estimated taxes.

What Is a Tax Extension?

A tax extension extends the deadline for filing your federal tax return by six months. All you have to do to get an extension is request one by April 15, 2025. Here are important points to know:

•   A tax extension does not give you extra time to pay any taxes owed. If you can’t afford to pay your full tax bill, it’s a good idea to pay as much as you can by Tax Day and then apply for an individual payment plan on IRS.gov or call the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) at 800-829-1040 to discuss payment options.

•   The agency may waive the late-payment penalty in a few cases, but it will not waive interest charges on unpaid tax bills. The interest rate is the federal short-term rate plus three percentage points. In early 2025, for individuals, the rate was 7%, compounded daily.

•   The late-payment penalty, aka failure-to-pay penalty (you filed for an extension on time but still owe taxes), is much less severe than the failure-to-file penalty (you didn’t file your tax return by the due date and did not request an extension). The failure-to-file penalty is usually 5% of the tax owed for each month or part of a month that your return is late, up to 25% of the total owed.

Either way, a penalty plus interest on taxes owed past the deadline might be a good incentive for many taxpayers to try to cough up most of their bill on time.

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How Do Tax Extensions Work?

There are three ways to request an automatic extension of time to file your return:

1.    File IRS Form 4868 electronically using your personal computer or through a tax professional who uses e-file. You’ll be asked to provide your prior year’s adjusted gross income for verification purposes. (If you do not know your prior year’s AGI and do not have a copy of that tax return, you can find the information by signing in to your IRS online account.)

2.    Mail a paper Form 4868. (The IRS says, though, not to mail in Form 4868 if you file electronically unless you’re making a payment with a check or money order.)

3.    Pay all or part of your estimated income tax due, and indicate that the payment is for an extension, using IRS Direct Pay or the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System. You can also pay taxes with a credit card or debit card.

Special rules about filing extensions may apply to those serving in a combat zone or a qualified hazardous duty area or living outside the United States.

Recommended: Tax Season 2024 Help Center

Reasons to File for a Tax Extension

Many high earners routinely seek tax extensions because their business dealings and investments can take longer to sort out. Other people might seek a tax extension for different reasons, such as:

•   Needing extra time to track down missing tax documents, especially if you’re dealing with an extenuating circumstance (for instance, the closure of a place of employment shortly before tax documents were due to be issued).

•   A major unplanned life event interrupts your plans and makes it hard to get things together on time.

•   You’re still figuring out how to do taxes as a freelancer and want to take all the deductions you can.

•   You’re going to take the home office tax deduction as a self-employed person and want to carefully crunch the numbers because you’re skipping the simplified deduction of up to $1,500.

•   General life busyness led to the deadline sneaking up on you.

•   Maybe you’re filing taxes for the first time and you simply procrastinated.

•   You have a primary and second home and are still unsure whether to itemize and take the mortgage interest deduction.

Filing for a Tax Extension Online

Remember, you don’t need to file Form 4868 if you make a payment using IRS electronic payment options or by phone and indicate that you want an extension.

If you do need to file Form 4868, you can do so electronically by accessing the IRS e-file with your tax software or by using a tax professional who uses e-file.

IRS e-file options include Free File, which lets you prepare and file your federal income tax online using guided tax preparation at an IRS partner site (for filers with AGI of $79,000 or less) or Free File fillable forms (for any income level).

Filing for a Tax Extension by Mail

You can simply download and print Form 4868 from IRS.gov, fill it out, and mail it in, along with a check for estimated income taxes owed.

The form itself includes information about where to send the document, depending on where you live.

Recommended: High-Yield Savings Account Calculator

Can I File for a Tax Extension If I Owe Money?

Yes, you can still file for a tax return extension if you owe the government money — but the money itself is still due on the original due date.

Unfortunately, there’s no way to file for an extension of taxes owed. Rather, your best bet is to pay as much of your estimated taxes as you can when you file for the extension. Then apply for a payment plan online or call the IRS to learn about your options for complete repayment if you don’t have enough money in your bank account to cover what you owe.

Can Someone Be Denied a Tax Extension?

Yes, but it’s uncommon. If your tax extension was denied, it was probably because of a mistake in your personal information on Form 4868.

You can resubmit your request and make sure to enter your current address, name, and Social Security number correctly.

How to Know If You Owe Taxes

While self-employed individuals must estimate their taxes and pay on a quarterly basis, those who file using W-2 wage reports may not do this kind of taxation math.

There are several easy ways to find out if you owe Uncle Sam.

•   You may receive a notice in the mail from the IRS, but ensure that it’s official correspondence and not a note from a scammer. The IRS will never email, text, or reach out to individuals via social media.

•   “Your Online Account” on IRS.gov allows you to see how much you owe in taxes. This user profile also allows you to pay any owed taxes directly.

•   You can always call the IRS at 800-829-1040 to confirm any amount of back taxes you might owe.

The Takeaway

Is it hard to file a tax extension? Not really. What may prove difficult is paying all taxes owed by the filing deadline (aka Tax Day) or paying a balance still owed plus a penalty and interest after the April date to file taxes.

It’s important to have a handle on your tax status and tax bill as April 15th arrives. It’s also wise to have a good banking partner and accounts that allow easy payment of any money you owe or refunds you receive.

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

How do I know if I’ve been approved for a tax extension?

Extension requests are rarely denied, but news of a denial would come by email. In the event of an error in an address or name, a taxpayer will be given a few days to remedy the error and file a tax extension again. Usually, you can get an automatic extension of time to file your tax return by filing Form 4868 electronically. You’ll receive an electronic acknowledgment of your request.

Is there a fee to file for a tax extension?

No. Filing for a tax extension is free.

Is the process for filing a tax extension easy?

Yes. You simply submit Form 4868 electronically or by mail before the filing deadline, or make a tax payment through approved methods and indicate you want an extension of time to file your federal return.

What happens if I file my taxes late and without an extension?

If you don’t pay your tax balance by the filing deadline and you did not file for an extension, you’ll get hit with a failure-to-file penalty (in most cases) and interest. Interest also compounds daily on any unpaid tax from the due date of the return until the date of payment in full.


Photo credit: iStock/Delmaine Donson

SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2024 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 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.

We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Checking & Savings Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.
*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

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

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.

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

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