The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice. See Lexington Law’s editorial disclosure for more information.
Being an authorized user can positively, negatively or minimally impact your credit score, depending on the primary cardholder’s financial actions surrounding monthly payments, credit history and credit utilization.
Whether you’re just starting to build your credit or have made some financial choices that have negatively impacted your credit, you’ve likely noticed that building credit isn’t easy. However, adding yourself as an authorized user on someone else’s credit card account is a useful way to establish new credit.
So, how does being an authorized user affect your credit? Let’s explore the various ways being an authorized user can impact your credit and how to start building credit using this strategy.
Table of contents:
What is an authorized user on a credit card?
An authorized user is an individual who is attached to another person’s credit card account but is not the primary cardholder. Authorized users are not legally responsible for credit card charges or ensuring on-time payments. They typically receive a credit card issued under their name, which is linked to the cardholder’s account.
However, the primary cardholder will receive the monthly statement for the card, not the authorized user. It’s the cardholder’s responsibility to complete payments for that card. Some credit lenders split charges by card so the cardholder can see which charges are being made by the authorized user.
How does being an authorized user affect your credit?
Being an authorized user on someone else’s account can both negatively and positively impact your credit. You’re taking a risk based on trust and communication that the primary cardholder will consistently complete payments on time and maintain a good credit history. Below are a few ways being an authorized user can affect your credit.
1. Help build your credit
If the primary cardholder consistently submits monthly payments on time and maintains a low credit utilization, you should see a positive impact on your credit. Before asking to be added to the account, ensure that the cardholder has a good credit history and that the credit lender they use reports it to the three major credit bureaus—Equifax®, Experian® and TransUnion®. This way, your authorized user account will eventually show up on your credit report.
2. Hurt your credit
Becoming an authorized user on someone else’s account, regardless of their relationship to you, involves taking a risk. Your credit can be negatively impacted if the primary cardholder fails to make timely payments or accumulates a high credit balance. If this happens, it’s best to remove yourself from the account to prevent any further impact on your credit.
3. Minimally impact your credit
If the card’s lender doesn’t report authorized user activity, the account won’t appear on your credit report. As a result, you won’t see any impact, positive or negative, on your credit.
How to build credit as an authorized user
Becoming an authorized user is a great way to start building credit or repairing a bad credit score. Follow the steps below to better your chances of successfully building credit through this method.
1. Choose the right credit card holder
Carefully consider who you want to ask to add you as an authorized user on their credit card account. Choose a relative or close friend who you can trust to make timely payments and who has a good credit history and low credit utilization.
2. Request to be added to the account
Kindly ask the primary cardholder to add you as an authorized user on their account. Keep in mind that not all credit lenders report authorized users to credit bureaus, so research the credit lender before proceeding with the approval process.
3. Monitor account activity and payments
Whether you’re using the credit card account or not, it’s important to communicate with the primary cardholder about payments and spending limits. While you aren’t legally responsible for submitting payments on time, you want to ensure that you’re not overspending on the account and increasing the utilization ratio—this ratio represents the proportion of your total credit limit that you’re using.
4. Regularly check your credit report
Regularly check your credit report to ensure that your authorized user activity is reported accurately and is positively affecting your credit. If you notice a negative impact on your credit, check to see if the primary cardholder is making timely payments and maintaining low credit utilization. If they aren’t, consider removing yourself from the account before your credit health worsens.
Authorized user FAQ
Below are answers to some common questions about how being an authorized user can affect your credit.
Who can be an authorized user?
Anyone can be an authorized user of a credit account. However, typically authorized users are family members, close friends, employees and legal guardians. Most commonly, authorized users are young individuals who want to build credit or have a poor credit history.
Who should you ask to add you as an authorized user?
While anyone can add you as an authorized user on their account, it’s best to ask someone you can trust and are close with. Relatives and close friends who have excellent credit and demonstrate a history of timely payments are good choices, as this behavior can further increase the likelihood of improving your credit.
Will adding someone as an authorized user hurt my credit?
Adding an authorized user to your credit account shouldn’t negatively impact your credit. If you maintain full control of the account and make payments on time, both you and the authorized user will benefit. However, if the authorized user misuses your credit on your account, both you and the authorized user can be negatively impacted.
Does removing an authorized user hurt their credit score?
Removing yourself as an authorized user on an account may affect your credit score. Removing yourself from an account with a good payment history may cause a slight decrease in your credit score, as you’re no longer benefiting from the credit account.
However, opening your own credit card as soon as you remove yourself from the other account can minimize the impact on your credit history. Additionally, if the primary cardholder isn’t making payments on time or is maxing out the card, removing yourself as an authorized user can benefit your credit. That’s why it’s important to carefully consider whose credit account you add yourself to.
What’s the difference between joint credit cards and authorized users?
Joint credit cards function exactly like a normal credit card, but they are shared by two people rather than one primary cardholder. The biggest difference between joint account holders and authorized users is that with a joint account, both parties are legally responsible for making payments on the account.
Additionally, those who apply for a joint credit card can expect to have their credit history and other financial information considered during the application process, whereas the authorized user’s typically isn’t considered.
How long until an authorized user account shows on your credit report?
The amount of time it takes for an authorized user account to show on your credit report depends on the credit bureau and when it’s reported. However, it’ll typically show up within 30 days of adding the authorized user to the account. Ultimately, being an authorized user can be a valuable tool for building credit, but it’s important to weigh the benefits and risks carefully. Not sure where to start but need help building your credit? Learn more about services offered at Lexington Law Firm and start repairing your credit today.
Note: Articles have only been reviewed by the indicated attorney, not written by them. The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice; instead, it is for general informational purposes only. Use of, and access to, this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client or fiduciary relationship between the reader, user, or browser and website owner, authors, reviewers, contributors, contributing firms, or their respective agents or employers.
Reviewed By
Sarah Raja
Associate Attorney
Sarah Raja was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona.
In 2010 she earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Arizona State University. Sarah then clerked at personal injury firm while she studied for the Law School Admissions Test. In 2016, Sarah graduated from Arizona Summit Law School with a Juris Doctor degree. While in law school Sarah had a passion for mediation and participated in the school’s mediation clinic and mediated cases for the Phoenix Justice Courts. Prior to joining Lexington Law Firm, Sarah practiced in the areas of real property law, HOA law, family law, and disability law in the State of Arizona. In 2020, Sarah opened her own mediation firm with her business partner, where they specialize in assisting couples through divorce in a communicative and civilized manner. In her spare time, Sarah enjoys spending time with family and friends, practicing yoga, and traveling.
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The average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage is 7.68%, and on a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage, it’s 6.94%. The average rate on a 30-year jumbo mortgage is 7.65%.
*Data accurate as of April 19, 2024, the latest data available.
30-year fixed mortgage rates
The average mortgage rate for 30-year fixed loans rose today to 7.68% from 7.59% last week, according to data from Curinos. This is up from last month’s 7.40% and up from a year ago when it was 5.92%.
At the current 30-year fixed rate, you’ll pay about $710 each month for every $100,000 you borrow — up from about $704 last week.
Ready to buy? Compare the best mortgage lenders.
15-year fixed mortgage rates
The mortgage rates for 15-year fixed loans inched up today to 6.94% from 6.82% last week. Today’s rate is up from last month’s 6.64% and up from a year ago when it was 5.33%.
At the current 15-year fixed rate, you’ll pay about $894 each month for every $100,000 you borrow, up from about $887 last week.
30-year jumbo mortgage rates
The mortgage rates for 30-year jumbo loans rose today to 7.65% from 7.32% last week. This is up from last month’s 7.24% and up from 5.77% last year.
At the current 30-year jumbo rate, you’ll pay around $707 each month for every $100,000 you borrow, up from about $703 last week.
Methodology
To determine average mortgage rates, Curinos uses a standardized set of parameters. For conventional mortgages, the calculations are based on an owner-occupied, one-unit property with a loan amount of $350,000. For jumbo mortgages, the loan amount is $766,550. These calculations assume an 80% loan-to-value ratio, a credit score of 740 or higher and a 60-day lock period.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
On May 3, 2023, the Federal Reserve announced a third interest rate hike for the year — this time by 25 basis points. While the Fed doesn’t set mortgage rates, this increase in the federal funds rate could lead individual lenders to raise their home loan rates, too.
If you already have a mortgage, how this could affect your monthly payment will depend on if your loan has a fixed or adjustable rate. A fixed rate stays the same over the life of the loan, meaning your payments will never change. An adjustable rate, however, can fluctuate according to market conditions — which means you could see a rise in your monthly payments.
For example, if you take out an ARM for $250,000 with an interest rate of 5.5%, your initial monthly payments would be $1,719. But after the initial period is over, and the ARM switches to a variable rate, your payments could increase if the rate rises. If the rate rose just 25 basis points (5.75%), for instance, your payments would increase to $1,750.
If you’re not planning on keeping a home for a long time, an ARM could be the better option — especially if fixed-rate loans have much higher rates at the time. This is because ARMs tend to have lower rates to start than fixed-rate mortgages, though your rate can increase over time.
While a fixed-rate loan will have the same rate throughout the entire term, an ARM will start with a fixed rate for a set amount of time and then switch to a variable rate that can change for the remainder of your loan term. For example, a 5/1 ARM will have a fixed rate for five years (the “5” in 5/1), then switch to a variable rate that can change once a year (the “1” in 5/1).
Whether a mortgage rate buydown is the right choice for you will depend on your individual circumstances and financial goals. If you plan to stay in the home for a long period of time and can afford to pay for the buydown, it could make sense. But if you know you’ll move or refinance your mortgage before you break even on the cost of the buydown versus the lower monthly payments, then buying down your rate might not be worth it.
Buying down your rate can be permanent or temporary, which will impact the overall cost. A permanent buydown is also known as purchasing mortgage discount points — for each point, you’ll typically pay 1% of the loan amount in return for 0.25% off your rate.
Temporary buydowns, on the other hand, will reduce your interest rate to a certain point, and it will then increase each year until you hit the original rate. Some common temporary options are 2-1 and 1-0 terms, with the first number being how much your rate is reduced in the first year and the second number being the reduction for the following year. Unlike discount points that are paid for by the buyer, this type of buydown can be paid for by the lender, seller or homebuilder.
Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.
Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.
Jamie Young is Lead Editor of loans and mortgages at USA TODAY Blueprint. She has been writing and editing professionally for 12 years. Previously, she worked for Forbes Advisor, Credible, LendingTree, Student Loan Hero, and GOBankingRates. Her work has also appeared on some of the best-known media outlets including Yahoo, Fox Business, Time, CBS News, AOL, MSN, and more. Jamie is passionate about finance, technology, and the Oxford comma. In her free time, she likes to game, play with her two crazy cats (Detective Snoop and his girl Friday), and try to keep up with her ever-growing plant collection.
Megan Horner is editorial director at USA TODAY Blueprint. She has over 10 years of experience in online publishing, mostly focused on credit cards and banking. Previously, she was the head of publishing at Finder.com where she led the team to publish personal finance content on credit cards, banking, loans, mortgages and more. Prior to that, she was an editor at Credit Karma. Megan has been featured in CreditCards.com, American Banker, Lifehacker and news broadcasts across the country. She has a bachelor’s degree in English and editing.
Ashley is a USA TODAY Blueprint loans and mortgages deputy editor who has worked in the online finance space since 2017. She’s passionate about creating helpful content that makes complicated financial topics easy to understand. She has previously worked at Forbes Advisor, Credible, LendingTree and Student Loan Hero. Her work has appeared on Fox Business and Yahoo. Ashley is also an artist and massive horror fan who had her short story “The Box” produced by the award-winning NoSleep Podcast. In her free time, she likes to draw, play video games, and hang out with her black cats, Salem and Binx.
Buying your first home can be tedious and overwhelming.
While it’s exciting to visit properties and daydream about your dream home, getting over the financing hurdles is another story. But don’t fret.
This comprehensive guide for first-time homebuyers will walk you through the entire process from start to finish.
Benefits of Being a First-Time Homebuyer
As a first-time homebuyer, you may feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. While the home buying process can seem overwhelming, it’s important to recognize the numerous benefits that come with this milestone.
Financial Assistance
First-time homebuyers have access to several financial assistance programs that can make homeownership more affordable. These include down payment assistance programs, low-interest mortgage loans, and grants specifically designed for first-time buyers. Some of these programs are offered by state and local governments, while others are provided by non-profit organizations or private lenders.
Lower Down Payments
Several loan programs offer lower down payment requirements for first-time homebuyers. The FHA loan, for example, requires as little as 3.5% down if your credit score is 580 or higher. The USDA and VA loans even offer zero down payment options in some cases.
Access to Educational Resources
There’s a lot to learn when you’re buying a home for the first time, but fortunately, there are plenty of resources available. Many organizations offer homebuyer education courses that can help you understand the process and make informed decisions. Some lenders and assistance programs require you to take one of these courses, but even if it’s not mandatory, it can still be a valuable resource.
Before Starting Your Home Search
Check Your Credit
Not only will your credit score play a considerable factor in whether you’re approved for a mortgage, but it will also determine your interest rate.
A small increase or decrease in interest rates may not seem like a big deal. However, mortgage loans are for a hefty sum and for an extended period of time. So, a slight increase or decrease equates to thousands of dollars more spent or saved over the life of the loan.
To have the best chance of being approved for a home loan, you should aim for a credit score of at least 620. It’s possible to get approved for select home loan programs with a score as low as 580, but you may have fewer lenders to choose from.
Run the Numbers
It’s tempting for first-time homebuyers to start searching for homes when they know their credit score is up to par. But that’s probably not a good move until you determine how much home you can afford. Yes, the loan officer will give you a figure when you obtain a preapproval, but that amount isn’t always indicative of what you can afford.
Why so? Well, they focus on the debt-to-income (DTI) ratio to get an idea of a loan amount you qualify for. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, lenders prefer a DTI ratio of 43% or lower with your new mortgage payment. To illustrate:
CURRENT MONTHLY DEBT
GROSS INCOME
DEBT-TO-INCOME RATIO
MAXIMUM MORTGAGE PAYMENT (USING 43% RECOMMENDATION)
$1,000
$4,000
25%
$720
$2,000
$6,000
33%
$580
$3,000
$10,000
30%
$1,300
Note: Debt-to-Income Ratio = Aggregate Amount of Monthly Debt / Gross Income
The problem is that it fails to consider any expenses unrelated to debt. And if you have hefty insurance, childcare, or even grocery bills, that could be a major concern.
So, your best bet is to look at your current budget and come up with a realistic figure for your new mortgage payment. But don’t forget to keep the recommended DTI ratio in mind.
Explore Mortgage Options
There are several mortgage options on the market for first-time homebuyers, but the most prevalent are:
Conventional Loans
A conventional mortgage is a type of home loan that is not insured or guaranteed by the government. It’s typically offered by a private lender, such as a bank or credit union, and is the most common type of mortgage used to purchase a home.
Conventional mortgages typically require a down payment of at least 3% of the purchase price of the home. Borrowers typically must have a credit score of 620 or higher and a DTI ratio of 36% or lower to qualify. If you have bad credit or are unable to make a large down payment may have a harder time qualifying for a conventional mortgage.
If the loan amount is over $726,200, it becomes a jumbo loan and requires a higher down payment.
FHA Loans
An FHA loan is a type of home loan insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), a government agency within the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
FHA loans are designed to make it easier for people to buy homes, especially for first-time homebuyers. They offer lower down payment requirements and more flexible credit guidelines than conventional mortgages.
The minimum credit score required for an FHA loan is 500. If your credit score is between 500 -579, the down payment is 10%. However, if you have a credit score of 580 or above, the down payment is 3.5% of the purchase price.
VA Loans
VA Loans are insured by the Department of Veterans Affairs. They don’t require a down payment and are easier to qualify for than conventional loan products. However, you must be an active-duty member of the armed forces. Surviving spouses also qualify.
USDA Loans
A USDA loan is a type of mortgage offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to low- and moderate-income borrowers who are looking to buy a home in a rural or suburban area.
See also: 14 First-Time Home Buyer Grants and Programs
Check Out Our Top Picks for 2024:
Best Mortgage Lenders
Most mortgages have a 30 or 15-year term. The latter will cost you more per month, but you’ll save a load of cash on interest.
You can also choose from a fixed or adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM). Fixed-rate mortgages have the same interest rate for the duration of the loan. But ARMs typically start with a lower interest rate for a set amount of time. In fact, they usually span from five to ten years and then adjust depending on the housing market.
Some first-time homebuyers choose ARMs over fixed-rate mortgages because it gives them the option to make a smaller monthly payment in the first few years. It could also mean that you can qualify for a more expensive home. But, be careful not to get too overextended, as erratic market behavior could cause the rate to skyrocket.
Get Preapproved
This is one of the more time-consuming parts of the entire mortgage process for a first-time home buyer. The good news is you don’t have to settle for the first offer that comes your way out of fear that your credit score will take a hit.
“FICO Scores ignore [mortgage] inquiries made in the 30 days prior to scoring,” according to myFICO. So, you won’t be penalized for multiple inquiries.
So, start by researching mortgage lenders that you may be interested in working with. You could also solicit the help of a mortgage broker if you’re strapped for time or want someone to do the legwork for you.
Once you’ve settled on a few lenders, be prepared to provide the following to get preapproved:
Financial statements to confirm your assets, including retirement accounts and real estate
Recent bank statements
Last two pay stubs
W-2s from the last two years
They will also pull your credit report and credit scores. If you qualify, the mortgage lender will then provide you with a preapproval letter, valid for a certain time period, that specifies how much you’re eligible for.
Save Up for a Down Payment and Closing Costs
During the preapproval process, the lender should have discussed loan options that could be a good fit for you. They should also have communicated how much you will need for a down payment and closing costs.
While some sellers may be willing to cover closing costs, be prepared to provide earnest money to secure your offer. And you may need a large down payment if you’re taking out a jumbo loan, or don’t qualify for the FHA or VA loan program. If that’s the case, now’s the time to figure out a plan for it.
If the seller is not paying closing costs, expect to pay between 2% and 5% of the sales price. And if a hefty down payment isn’t required, it’s not a bad idea to bring money to the table. Doing so allows you to reduce the Loan-to-Value, which positions you as less risky to the lender.
You may also be able to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI), which is required until you reach 20% in equity, and possibly qualify for a reduced interest rate.
How to Find the Perfect Home
Go Home Shopping
All squared away with a preapproval and planned to save up the cash you need? Now, it’s time to go home shopping. But before you go, you have to decide if you want to enlist the assistance of a real estate agent.
It’s possible to find a slew of listings within your price range on the web with minimal effort. However, real estate agents have access to a system that could expand your reach. Even better, they could be integral in helping you choose a home that’s a good buy and negotiating the final purchase price.
And the seller’s agent pays their commission, so no need to worry about forking over extra cash. Just be sure to hire a real estate professional that is seasoned and reputable.
Now for the fun part: home shopping. Be careful not to judge a home solely by its appearance. Some other important factors to keep in mind:
Taxes: are the property taxes affordable or beyond what you can comfortably afford? (You can roll property taxes and homeowners insurance into an escrow account, but they can easily make or break your budget if the figures are steep).
Location: is the home in an area that has historically held its value? Is the location optimal for your commute to and from work?
Crime: is it a high crime area or is it relatively safe?
Condition: how old is the property? Does it need tons of repairs, or is it close to being move in ready?
Floor plan: is the floor plan feasible or ideal for your situation? Would it be appealing to other buyers if you had to sell?
School district: how are the schools? Have they received a good rating, or do they struggle to stay afloat?
All of these factors can have an effect on the value of the property over time.
Submit an Offer
You’ve found the perfect home, and you’re ready to sign on the dotted. Before you can finalize the paperwork and move in, there’s one more important step. And that’s making the offer. Even if the sales price seems fair, you may need to make an offer that’s higher or lower to snag the home.
Why so? Well, there could be a slight or drastic bidding war going on, and the only way for you to win is to beat out the competition. Or maybe your real estate agent did some research and determined the asking price was a bit high based on similar properties in the area or the home’s current condition.
Either way, you want to submit an offer that stands out and gets accepted. Your real estate agent will be able to do so on your behalf. But if you don’t have a real estate agent, check out these letters from Trulia to get you started.
The Mortgage Process
Even after your offer is accepted, there’s still more work to do. You’re not done just yet! It’s time to move on to the mortgage process.
Remember that preapproval letter? The lender will make sure all the information you initially provided is accurate through a process called underwriting.
Depending on how long it’s been since you were preapproved, you may be asked to provide updated bank statements or pay stubs.
The faster you submit the requested information, the quicker you’ll get a response. So, don’t drag your feet if you want a closing date that’s sooner than later.
Home Inspections and Appraisals
Before you close on the home, you will need to have a home inspection and appraisal complete.
The home inspection shouldn’t cost you more than $500. It will give you an overall assessment of the property and identify any potential issues.
The appraisal also plays an integral role as it will give you a solid idea of the home’s fair market value. The lender will mandate it, but it’s not a bad idea to get an independent appraisal done to serve as a second opinion.
An inspection and appraisal may help you decide if you should lower your offer or walk away from the property.
Purchase Homeowners Insurance
Your mortgage lender will require that you take out homeowners insurance. So, you want to start shopping around for quotes and select a policy prior to closing.
Close on Your Loan
At last! You’ve reached the finish line, and it’s time to close on your loan. During the closing, expect to:
Sign a load of paperwork.
Provide any amounts owed for the down payment.
Pay closing costs, which could include property tax obligations, premiums for homeowner’s insurance and association dues, title insurance, and any other costs associated with finalizing the loan.
Pay discount points or prepaid interest that can reduce the interest rate.
But before you show up at closing, it’s a good idea to speak with the lender, so you’ll know what to expect. You can also request a copy of the final closing document, or Closing Disclosure, to see a detailed breakdown of expenses.
A Few More Tips
Here are a few more suggestions for first time home buyers to help you get approved for your first loan:
Refrain from applying for new credit before you close. This could throw off your DTI ratio, lower your credit score, and ultimately prevent you from closing on the loan.
State and local programs may be available to assist with down payments. If you’re low on funds, be sure to explore options that may be available to you.
Several builders offer buyer incentives, like allowances for upgrades and closing costs. So if you haven’t considered new construction, it may not be such a bad idea to take a look if the price points are within your budget.
Should You Rent, Instead?
Perhaps you’ve done a little legwork, ran the numbers, and are on the fence about home buying. You will typically find that it’s cheaper to make monthly mortgage payments than to pay rent.
You can also take advantage of tax deductions and build up equity as you’re making monthly payments. The equity can be borrowed against for a loan or put some extra money in your pocket should you decide to sell before the repayment period ends.
However, renting a home gives you the flexibility to move to a new location if the home isn’t quite what you expected, don’t like the neighborhood, or want something more affordable.
Furthermore, renting allows you to pass the costs of maintaining the home on to the owner. But as a homeowner, you’ll be responsible for costs associated with maintenance and repairs.
Another reason why some choose to rent over buying is the upfront costs. Most landlords require a security deposit. However, it could be substantially lower than the money you may have to bring to the table for the down payment and closing costs.
Ultimately, you have to decide which is the better fit: investing in an asset that could build wealth or continuing to pay rent until you feel the time is right. There is no right or wrong answer; it just depends on your personal preference and financial situation.
Bottom Line
By taking the time to learn about the home buying process, you’ll be well-prepared and save yourself time and headaches. Best of all, you’ll increase your chances of landing your dream home with the most competitive mortgage product on the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process for buying a home?
The process for buying a home typically involves the following steps:
Determine your budget and get preapproved for a mortgage.
Find a real estate agent and start looking for homes.
Make an offer on a home and negotiate the terms.
Get a home inspection and address any issues that are found.
Get a mortgage and close on the home.
How much house can I afford?
When determining how much house you can afford, there are several factors to take into account. You should consider your income, expenses, down payment, credit score, and mortgage type before making a decision.
A larger down payment can help you get a lower mortgage rate, and a higher credit score can qualify you for better rates and loan terms. Shopping around for mortgage rates and considering different types of mortgages, such as fixed-rate or adjustable-rate, can also help you find the best deal.
Keep in mind that owning a home involves more than just the monthly payments. You will also need to factor in property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs. You should create a budget that includes all of these costs and leaves room for unexpected expenses.
How much money do I need for a down payment?
The amount of money you need for a down payment will depend on the type of mortgage you get and the price of the home you are buying.
Some mortgage programs, such as FHA loans, allow for down payments as low as 3.5%, while others may require a higher down payment. It’s a good idea to speak with a mortgage lender to determine how much you will need.
Can I buy a house if I have a low credit score?
It’s possible to buy a house with a low credit score. However, it may be more difficult to get approved for a mortgage, and you may have to pay a higher interest rate. Before applying for a mortgage, work on improving your credit scores, as this will help you qualify for a better loan and save you money over time.
How much will closing costs be?
Closing costs are fees that are paid at the closing of a real estate transaction. These costs can vary widely and may include things like mortgage origination fees, title insurance, and appraisal fees. On average, closing costs can range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price of the home.
What is a mortgage preapproval?
A mortgage preapproval is a letter from a lender that indicates how much you are qualified to borrow for a mortgage. The preapproval letter is based on a review of your financial information, including your credit score, monthly income, and debts. A mortgage preapproval can help you understand how much you can afford to borrow and can make you a more competitive buyer in the real estate market.
What is a mortgage rate?
A mortgage rate is the interest rate that you will pay on your mortgage. The mortgage rate will determine the amount of your monthly payments and the overall cost of your loan. Interest rates can vary depending on the type of mortgage you get and your credit scores.
What is PMI?
PMI, or private mortgage insurance, is insurance that is required by lenders for certain types of mortgages when the borrower has less than a 20% down payment. PMI protects the lender in the event that the borrower defaults on the mortgage. The cost of PMI is typically added to the borrower’s monthly mortgage payment.
Our goal here at Credible Operations, Inc., NMLS Number 1681276, referred to as “Credible” below, is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we do promote products from our partner lenders who compensate us for our services, all opinions are our own.
Home equity loan
Home equity line of credit (HELOC)
Interest rate
Fixed
Variable
Monthly payment amount
Fixed
Variable
Closing costs and fees
Yes
Yes, might be lower than other loan types
Repayment period
Typically 5-30 years
Typically 10-20 years
FAQ
What is a rate lock?
Interest rates on mortgages fluctuate all the time, but a rate lock allows you to lock in your current rate for a set amount of time. This ensures you get the rate you want as you complete the homebuying process.
What are mortgage points?
Mortgage points are a type of prepaid interest that you can pay upfront — often as part of your closing costs — for a lower overall interest rate. This can lower your APR and monthly payments.
What are closing costs?
Closing costs are the fees you, as the buyer, need to pay before getting a loan. Common fees include attorney fees, home appraisal fees, origination fees, and application fees.
If you’re trying to find the right mortgage rate, consider using Credible. You can use Credible’s free online tool to easily compare multiple lenders and see prequalified rates in just a few minutes.
The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice. See Lexington Law’s editorial disclosure for more information.
A hard credit inquiry occurs when lenders look at your credit score after you apply for new credit. This process can temporarily reduce your score by a small amount. Inquiries can stay on your credit report for up to two years, but they typically only impact your score for the first six to 12 months.
If you’re wondering “what is a hard inquiry on my credit?” here’s a quick breakdown: a hard inquiry, also known as a “hard pull,” occurs when a potential lender reviews your credit report after you apply for new credit.
There are two types of credit inquiries: hard inquiries and soft inquiries. Hard inquiries stay on your credit report for up to two years and temporarily hurt your score, while soft inquiries have no impact.
Below, we’ll explore the nuances of hard credit inquiries and explain how credit repair services can help you improve your credit after it takes a hit.
Key takeaways:
Hard credit inquiries will cause your score to briefly dip.
Inquiries will stay on your credit report for 2 years, though they only affect your score for about 12 months.
FICO® will usually lump multiple inquiries of the same type together if they occur within a window of 14 to 45 days.
Table of contents:
What is a hard credit inquiry?
A hard credit inquiry is a formal request by another party to review your credit report. These requests usually come from potential lenders who want to vet your credit history before agreeing to offer you a loan. The process of looking into your credit report generates a hard inquiry.
Creditors do this to check that your credit profile meets their requirements and to look for negative items on your report, like late payments or charge-offs. The more negative items that appear on your credit report, the less likely you are to get approved for new loans or credit cards.
Hard inquiries typically occur when applying for:
Credit cards
Auto loans
Student loans
Personal loans
Mortgages
Apartment rentals
New phone or utility applications
What is a soft credit inquiry?
A soft credit inquiry is a check into your credit report that will not affect your credit score. While hard inquiries are thorough reviews of your credit history, soft inquiries are partial reviews that aren’t as extensive. For example, soft pull credit cards are typically sent in the mail by lenders who’ve already reviewed your report and preapproved you.
Soft inquiries typically occur when:
You access your credit report
You are preapproved for a credit card without request
A potential employer performs a background check
You apply for certain utilities and services
How much does a hard inquiry affect your credit score?
Typically, a single hard inquiry will not majorly impact your credit score. For example, one hard inquiry will usually decrease your credit score by a small amount, such as five to 10 points or less. When thinking about what affects your credit score, keep this in mind: new credit makes up 10 percent of your FICO credit score.
A hard credit inquiry impacts your credit score based on your credit history. FICO will usually lump multiple inquiries of the same type together if they occur within two weeks to 45 days, depending on the exact model being used. But be careful about applying for different kinds of credit in a short time span.
Hard inquiries may have a greater effect on your credit score if:
You have few or no credit accounts
You have a short credit history
You authorize many different inquiries within a short time
When do hard inquiries fall off your credit report?
A hard inquiry will stay on your credit report for two years, though it only usually impacts your credit score for about 12 months. Inquiries within the past six months affect your credit the most.
If your credit history is substantial, a few hard inquiries on your credit report will not likely have a significant impact over the two years they are on your account.
How to remove a hard inquiry from your credit report
Credit bureaus cannot remove accurate, authorized inquiries. However, you can dispute inaccurate information and unauthorized inquiries with the credit bureaus. Federal law will support credit disputes against inaccurate or suspicious information on your credit report.
Here is how you can initiate this process:
Frequently review your credit reports and challenge inaccurate or unfair items. In some cases, unauthorized hard inquiries could signal that you’ve experienced identity theft.
Write letters to credit bureaus. This is one of the first steps in the credit inquiry removal process. List all relevant information about the hard inquiry, including the date it occurred.
Wait for credit bureaus to investigate your dispute. Hard inquiries will be removed from your report if the credit bureau determines that an error has been made, which could help improve your credit.
You can contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau for issues concerning your credit reports, including the dispute of a hard inquiry.
Can you avoid hard credit inquiries?
It is difficult to avoid hard credit inquiries if you apply for a loan or credit card. However, hard inquiries generally don’t significantly impact your credit, so don’t let them worry you too much.
If you want to improve your credit after it has been affected by a hard inquiry, consider focusing on the other factors that play a role in determining your credit health. These factors include your payment history, your credit usage, the length of your credit history and your credit mix.
It may be easier to improve your credit by paying your bills on time, monitoring your credit card balances and clearing any collection accounts that may appear on your credit report rather than trying to avoid credit inquiries.
Work to recover from hard inquiries with Lexington Law Firm
Our credit scores can fluctuate vastly over time, but recovering from a hit is possible. Consider using our services to help you challenge inaccurate, unfair or invalid items with Experian®, Equifax® and TransUnion®. We can also help you learn more about responsible credit management to maintain your credit health moving forward.
Note: Articles have only been reviewed by the indicated attorney, not written by them. The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice; instead, it is for general informational purposes only. Use of, and access to, this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client or fiduciary relationship between the reader, user, or browser and website owner, authors, reviewers, contributors, contributing firms, or their respective agents or employers.
Reviewed By
Brittany Sifontes
Attorney
Prior to joining Lexington, Brittany practiced a mix of criminal law and family law.
Brittany began her legal career at the Maricopa County Public Defender’s Office, and then moved into private practice. Brittany represented clients with charges ranging from drug sales, to sexual related offenses, to homicides. Brittany appeared in several hundred criminal court hearings, including felony and misdemeanor trials, evidentiary hearings, and pretrial hearings. In addition to criminal cases, Brittany also represented persons and families in a variety of family court matters including dissolution of marriage, legal separation, child support, paternity, parenting time, legal decision-making (formerly “custody”), spousal maintenance, modifications and enforcement of existing orders, relocation, and orders of protection. As a result, Brittany has extensive courtroom experience. Brittany attended the University of Colorado at Boulder for her undergraduate degree and attended Arizona Summit Law School for her law degree. At Arizona Summit Law school, Brittany graduated Summa Cum Laude and ranked 11th in her graduating class.
Our goal here at Credible Operations, Inc., NMLS Number 1681276, referred to as “Credible” below, is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we do promote products from our partner lenders who compensate us for our services, all opinions are our own.
Home equity loan
Home equity line of credit (HELOC)
Interest rate
Fixed
Variable
Monthly payment amount
Fixed
Variable
Closing costs and fees
Yes
Yes, might be lower than other loan types
Repayment period
Typically 5-30 years
Typically 10-20 years
FAQ
What is a rate lock?
Interest rates on mortgages fluctuate all the time, but a rate lock allows you to lock in your current rate for a set amount of time. This ensures you get the rate you want as you complete the homebuying process.
What are mortgage points?
Mortgage points are a type of prepaid interest that you can pay upfront — often as part of your closing costs — for a lower overall interest rate. This can lower your APR and monthly payments.
What are closing costs?
Closing costs are the fees you, as the buyer, need to pay before getting a loan. Common fees include attorney fees, home appraisal fees, origination fees, and application fees.
If you’re trying to find the right mortgage rate, consider using Credible. You can use Credible’s free online tool to easily compare multiple lenders and see prequalified rates in just a few minutes.
The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice. See Lexington Law’s editorial disclosure for more information.
American spending habits fluctuate by generation. In 2023, Gen Z spent most of their money on food and clothes while baby boomers prioritized healthcare.
American spending habits fluctuate based on factors like the economy, average cost of living and global events. Interestingly, spending trends don’t always move in predictable patterns—NPR reported elevated spending in 2023 despite rising inflation costs.
Here, we’ll review American spending habits to paint a clearer picture of our potential expenses in the near future. We’ll also share personal finance resources that can help you refine your budget and reach your savings goals.
Table of contents:
Overview of American spending habits
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Americans spent an average of $72,967 in 2022. This number suggests a 9 percent increase in American spending habits from 2021 (wherein the average annual expenditure was $66,400) to 2022. How much we spend makes a lot more sense when we break down what exactly our money is going toward.
What do Americans spend the most money on?
Expenditure
Cost
Housing
$24,298
Transportation
$12,295
Food
$9,343
Personal Insurance and Pensions
$8,742
Healthcare
$5,850
Entertainment
$3,458
All Other Expenditures
$2,080
Cash Contributions
$2,755
Apparel and Services
$1,945
Education
$1,335
Personal Care Products and Services
$866
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
In 2022, the BLS noted a 7.5 percent increase in income to coincide with a 9 percent increase in expenditures. Among the different categories, spending on food increased by 12.7 percent from 2021 to 2022. Vehicle purchases and entertainment expenses dropped by 6.9 percent and 3.1 percent, respectively.
These numbers fluctuate depending on the circumstances of a particular household. For example, the BLS found that 39.4 percent of a one-person household’s expenses go toward housing costs, while 32.1 percent of a two-person household’s funds are spent on housing.
To better understand American spending habits, we can examine the average expenditures of various groups based on factors such as age and education.
Teen spending habits
According to the United States Census Bureau, more than 43 million teenagers live in America. Gaining a better understanding of teen spending habits is important, as teens spend about $63 billion each year.
More than 50 percent of young adults (16 to 24) were employed in 2023. Some of the top brands that teens spend their new income on include Chick-fil-A, Netflix and Snapchat. In 2024, the BLS anticipates that more teenagers will prioritize school attendance over traditional means of employment—which could affect where and how often they’re spending money.
College student spending habits
College student spending habits fluctuate as changes to the American education system become more widespread. Four years in college is no longer the norm—many students take anywhere between an extra semester to a few extra years to graduate. This extra time incurs additional costs (like tuition and rent) that impact spending habits.
In addition to money spent on tuition, college students are purchasing new tech, tickets to festivals and events and lots of food. Older students with more life experience also have to balance school expenses with other mandatory purchases like groceries for the household.
Gen Z spending habits
Generation Z includes anyone born between 1997 and 2012. Gen Z spending habits reportedly differ even more than their older millennial counterparts. This generation grew up completely immersed in the digital era and is very likely to shop online.
A 2021 study by Elmira Djafarova and Tamar Bowes found that 41 percent of Gen Zers are impulse buyers. Quality and value are of the utmost importance to this generation. They may be quick to switch brands if they believe they’re getting better overall value from a different company.
Millennial spending habits
Millennials are generally defined as the generation born between 1981 and 1996. This group is known for making financial decisions that are strikingly different from those that came before them.
Millennial spending habits include increased online shopping, a preference for experiences over material things and an openness to generic brands if the choice saves money.
Baby boomer spending habits
Baby boomers are those born between 1946 and 1964. This group is filled with people who are close to or already in their retirement years. In contrast to their parents, who were born in the Great Depression, boomers expect to have a fun retirement.
They’re looking forward to experiencing new places and trying new things. However, many baby boomers are facing retirement issues due to a lack of savings and mounting debt. Despite it all, baby boomer spending habits indicate that this generation holds more than 50 percent of the wealth in the United States.
Enhance your credit with Lexington Law Firm
American spending habits can fluctuate based on a person’s background, but credit scores impact all of us in many ways. At Lexington Law Firm, we can help you understand the nuances of credit. Get your free credit snapshot now to see your credit score and get a free credit assessment to help you get started.
Note: Articles have only been reviewed by the indicated attorney, not written by them. The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice; instead, it is for general informational purposes only. Use of, and access to, this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client or fiduciary relationship between the reader, user, or browser and website owner, authors, reviewers, contributors, contributing firms, or their respective agents or employers.
Reviewed By
Alexis Peacock
Supervising Attorney
Alexis Peacock was born in Santa Cruz, California and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona.
In 2013, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Criminology, graduating cum laude from Arizona State University. Ms. Peacock received her Juris Doctor from Arizona Summit Law School and graduated in 2016. Prior to joining Lexington Law Firm, Ms. Peacock worked in Criminal Defense as both a paralegal and practicing attorney. Ms. Peacock represented clients in criminal matters varying from minor traffic infractions to serious felony cases. Alexis is licensed to practice law in Arizona. She is located in the Phoenix office.
Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate mortgages to write unbiased product reviews.
Average 30-year mortgage rates are hovering in the high 6% range this week after spiking close to 7% in the wake of the latest inflation report last Wednesday, according to Zillow data.
March’s Consumer Price Index data came in hotter than expected, causing mortgage rates to rise. Until inflation slows further and the Federal Reserve is able to start lowering the federal funds rate, mortgage rates are likely to remain elevated.
Depending on what incoming data shows, we could even see rates tick above 7% for the first time since November 2023.
Next week, the US Bureau of Economic Analysis will release the latest personal consumption expenditures price index. The PCE price index is the Fed’s preferred measure of inflation.
If the latest PCE numbers support the narrative that inflation is remaining stubbornly high, mortgage rates could inch up further. But the PCE price index tracks a broader range of good and services than the CPI, so it’s possible this index could show some softening that didn’t appear in the CPI report.
Ultimately, it may take a few more months of data before we see inflation cool enough for the Fed to start cutting rates. Though they were initially pricing in a rate cut at the Fed’s meeting in June, investors are now betting that we won’t get the first cut until September, according to the CME FedWatch Tool. This will likely keep mortgage rates elevated throughout the spring and summer. But we could still see them go down later in 2024.
Current Mortgage Rates
Mortgage type
Average rate today
This information has been provided by
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mortgage rates on Zillow
Real Estate on Zillow
Current Refinance Rates
Mortgage type
Average rate today
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Real Estate on Zillow
Mortgage Calculator
Use our free mortgage calculator to see how today’s mortgage rates would impact your monthly payments. By plugging in different rates and term lengths, you’ll also understand how much you’ll pay over the entire length of your mortgage.
Mortgage Calculator
$1,161 Your estimated monthly payment
Total paid$418,177
Principal paid$275,520
Interest paid$42,657
Paying a 25% higher down payment would save you $8,916.08 on interest charges
Lowering the interest rate by 1% would save you $51,562.03
Paying an additional $500 each month would reduce the loan length by 146 months
Click “More details” for tips on how to save money on your mortgage in the long run.
Mortgage Rates for Buying a Home
30-Year Fixed Mortgage Increase (+0.28%)
The current average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is 6.89%, up 28 points from where it was this time last week, according to Zillow data. This rate is also up compared to a month ago, when it was 6.53%.
At 6.89%, you’ll pay $658 monthly toward principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow.
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is the most common type of home loan. With this type of mortgage, you’ll pay back what you borrowed over 30 years, and your interest rate won’t change for the life of the loan.
20-Year Fixed Mortgage Rates Rise (+0.34%)
The average 20-year fixed mortgage rate is 34 points up from where it was last week, and is sitting at 6.64%. This time last month, the rate was 6.22%.
With a 6.64% rate on a 20-year term, your monthly payment will be $754 toward principal and interest for every $100,000 borrowed.
A 20-year term isn’t as common as a 30-year or 15-year term, but plenty of mortgage lenders still offer this option.
The average 15-year mortgage rate is 6.12%, just a single basis point higher than last week. It’s up slightly compared to this time last month, when it was 6.03%.
With a 6.12% rate on a 15-year term, you’ll pay $850 each month toward principal and interest for every $100,000 borrowed.
If you want the predictability that comes with a fixed rate but are looking to spend less on interest over the life of your loan, a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage might be a good fit for you. Because these terms are shorter and have lower rates than 30-year fixed-rate mortgages, you could potentially save tens of thousands of dollars in interest. However, you’ll have a higher monthly payment than you would with a longer term.
7/1 ARM Rates Increase Slightly (+0.11%)
The 7/1 adjustable mortgage rate is up 11 basis points from a week ago, currently at 6.80%. It’s down from a month ago, when it was at 7.02%.
At 6.80%, your monthly payment would be $652 toward principal and interest for every $100,000 borrowed — but only for the first seven years. After that, your payment would increase or decrease annually depending on the new rate.
5/1 ARM Rates Nearly Flat (+0.03%)
The average 5/1 ARM rate is 6.87%, a three-point increase from last week. It’s lower compared to where it was a month ago, when it was 7.06%.
Here’s how a 6.87% rate would affect you for the first five years: You’d pay $657 per month toward principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow.
30-year FHA Rates Go Up (+0.19%)
The average 30-year FHA interest rate is 5.93% today, which is 19 basis points up from last week. This rate was 6.09% a month ago.
At 5.93%, you would pay $595 monthly toward principal and interest for every $100,000 borrowed.
FHA mortgages are good choices if you don’t qualify for a conforming mortgage. You’ll need a 3.5% down payment and 580 credit score to qualify.
30-year VA Rates Jump Above 6% (+0.42%)
The current VA mortgage rate is 6.25%, 42 basis points higher than this time last week. This rate was 5.95% a month ago.
With a 6.25% rate, your monthly payment would be $616 toward principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow.
Mortgage Refinance Rates
30-Year Fixed Refinance Rates Inch Down (-0.08%)
The average 30-year refinance rate is 6.98%, eight basis points lower than last week. It’s also down slightly compared to a month ago, when it was 7.08%.
Here’s how a 6.98% rate would affect your monthly payments: You’d pay $664 toward principal and interest for every $100,000 borrowed.
Refinancing into a 30-year term can land you lower monthly payments, but you’ll ultimately pay more by refinancing into a longer term.
20-Year Fixed Refinance Rates Spike (+1.31%)
The current 20-year fixed refinance rate is 7.69%, which is up 131 basis points compared to a week ago. This rate was 6.53% this time last month.
A 7.69% rate on a 20-year term will result in a $817 monthly payment toward principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow.
15-Year Fixed Refinance Rates Tick Up (+0.15%)
The average 15-year fixed refinance rate is 6.59%, which is 15 points higher compared to last week. It’s also up compared to this time a month ago, when it was at 6.34%.
A 6.59% rate on a 15-year term means you’ll pay $876 each month toward principal and interest for every $100,000 borrowed.
Refinancing into a 15-year term can save you money in the long run, because you’ll get a lower rate and pay off your mortgage faster than you would with a 30-year term. But it could result in higher monthly payments.
7/1 ARM Refinance Rates Drop a Full Percentage Point (-1.12%)
The average 7/1 ARM refinance rate is 6.49%, down 112 points from where it was last week. It’s also down a bit from a month ago, when it was 7.94%.
Refinancing into a 7/1 ARM with a 6.49% rate means your monthly payment toward principal and interest will be $631 for every $100,000 you borrow. This will be the payment for the first seven years, then your rate will change annually unless you refinance again.
5/1 ARM Refinance Rates Fall (-0.76%)
The 5/1 ARM refinance rate is 6.41%, which is lower than it was this time last week. It’s also down a lot compared to this time last month, when it was 7.59%.
A 6.41% rate will result in a monthly payment of $626 toward principal and interest for every $100,000 borrowed. You’ll pay this amount for the first five years of your new mortgage.
The 30-year FHA refinance rate is 5.95%, which is 19 points higher than last week. This rate was 5.49% this time last month.
A 5.95% refinance rate would lead to a $596 monthly payment toward the principal and interest per $100,000 borrowed.
30-Year VA Refinance Rates Inch Up (+0.12)
The average 30-year VA refinance rate is 5.91%, which is up 12 points compared to where it was was last week. This rate was 5.82% a month ago.
At 5.91%, your new monthly payment would be $594 toward principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow.
Are Mortgage Rates Going Down?
Mortgage rates started ticking up from historic lows in the second half of 2021 and increased over three percentage points in 2022. Mortgage rates also rose dramatically in 2023, though they started trending back down toward the end of the year. Though rates have been somewhat elevated recently, they should go down by the end of 2024.
For homeowners looking to leverage their home’s value to cover a big purchase — such as a home renovation — a home equity line of credit (HELOC) may be a good option while we wait for mortgage rates to ease further. Check out some of our best HELOC lenders to start your search for the right loan for you.
A HELOC is a line of credit that lets you borrow against the equity in your home. It works similarly to a credit card in that you borrow what you need rather than getting the full amount you’re borrowing in a lump sum. It also lets you tap into the money you have in your home without replacing your entire mortgage, like you’d do with a cash-out refinance.
Current HELOC rates are relatively low compared to other loan options, including credit cards and personal loans.
A 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan in which employees contribute to a tax-deferred account via paycheck deductions (and often with an employer match). A pension plan is a different kind of retirement savings plan in which a company sets money aside to give to future retirees.
Over the past few decades, defined-contribution plans like the 401(k) have steadily replaced pension plans as the private-sector, employer-sponsored retirement plan of choice. While both a 401(k) plan and a pension plan are employer-sponsored retirement plans, there are some significant differences between the two.
Here’s what you need to know about a 401(k) vs. pension.
What Is the Difference Between a Pension and a 401(k)?
The main distinction between a 401(k) vs. a pension plan is that pension plans are largely employer driven, while 401(k)s are employee driven.
These are some of the key differences between the two plans.
Pension
401(k)
Funding
Typically funded by employers
Funded mainly by the employee; employer may offer a partial matching contribution
Contributions
No more than $275,000 in 2024 or 100% of employee’s average compensation for the highest 3 consecutive years
$23,000 ($30,500 for those 50 and up) for 2024. Contributions from employee and employer cannot exceed $69,000 (or $76,500 for those 50 and up) in 2024
Investments
Employers choose the investments for the plan
Employees choose the investments from a list of options
Value of the Plan
Set amount designed to be guaranteed for life
Determined by how much the employee contributes, the investments they make, and the performance of the investments
Funding
Employees typically fund 401(k) plans through regular contributions from their paychecks to help save for retirement, while employers typically fund pension plans.
Investments
Employees can choose investments (from several options) in their 401(k). Employers choose the investments that fund a pension plan.
Value
The value of a 401(k) plan at retirement depends on how much the employee has saved, in addition to the performance of the investments over time. Pensions, on the other hand, are designed to guarantee an employee a set amount of income for life. 💡 Quick Tip: The advantage of opening a Roth IRA and a tax-deferred account like a 401(k) or traditional IRA is that by the time you retire, you’ll have tax-free income from your Roth, and taxable income from the tax-deferred account. This can help with tax planning.
Pension Plan Overview
A pension plan is a type of retirement savings plan where an employer contributes funds to an investment account on behalf of their employees. The earnings are paid out to the employees once they retire.
Types of Pension Plans
There are two common types of pension plans:
• Defined-benefit pension plans, also known as traditional pension plans, are the most common type of pension plans. These employer-sponsored retirement investment plans are designed to guarantee the employee will receive a set benefit amount upon retirement (usually calculated with set parameters, i.e. employee earnings and years of service). Regardless of how the investment pool performs, the employer guarantees pension payments to the retired employee. If the plan assets aren’t enough to pay out to the employee, the employer is typically on the hook for the rest of the money.
According to the IRS, contributions to a defined-benefit pension plan cannot exceed 100% of the employee’s average compensation for the highest three consecutive calendar years of their employment or $265,000 for tax year 2023 and $275,000 for 2024.
• Defined-contribution pension plans are employer-sponsored retirement plans to which employers make plan contributions on their employee’s behalf and the benefit the employee receives is based solely on the performance of the investment pool. Meaning: There is no guarantee of a set monthly payout.
Like 401(k) plans, employees can contribute to these plans, and in some cases, employers match the contribution made by the employee. Unlike defined-benefit pension plans, however, the employee is not guaranteed a certain amount of money upon retirement. Instead, the employee receives a payout based on the performance of the investments in the fund.
Recommended: What Is a Money Purchase Pension Plan (MPPP)?
When it comes to pension plan withdrawals, employees who take out funds before the age of 59 ½ must pay a 10% early withdrawal penalty as well as standard income taxes. This is similar to the penalties and taxes associated with early withdrawal from a traditional 401(k) plan.
Pros and Cons
There are benefits to and drawbacks of pension plans. It’s important to understand both in order to maximize your participation in the plan.
Advantages of a pension plan include:
Funded by employers
For employees, a pension plan is retirement income from your employer. In most cases, an employee does not need to contribute to a defined-benefit pension plan in order to get consistent payouts upon retirement.
Higher contribution limits
When compared to 401(k)s, defined-contribution pension plans have significantly higher contribution limits and, as such, present an opportunity to set aside more money for retirement.
A set amount in retirement
A pension plan typically provides employees with regular fixed payments in retirement,usually for life.
Disadvantages of a pension plan include:
Lack of control
Employees can’t choose how the money in a pension plan is invested. If the investments don’t pan out, the plan could struggle to pay out the funds.
Vesting
Employees may need to work for the employer for a set number of years to become fully vested in the plan. If you leave the company before then, you might end up forfeiting the pension funds. Find out what the vesting schedule is for your pension plan.
Earnings and years employed
How much an employee gets in retirement with a pension plan generally depends on their salary and how long they work for the employer.
401(k) Overview
A traditional 401(k) plan is a tax-advantaged defined-contribution plan where workers contribute pre-tax dollars to the investment account via automatic payroll deductions. These contributions are sometimes fully or partially matched by their employers, and withdrawals are taxed at the participant’s marginal tax rate.
With a 401(k), employees and employers may both make contributions to the account (up to a certain IRS-established limit), but employees are responsible for selecting the specific investments. They can typically choose from offerings from the employer, which may include a mixture of stocks and bonds that vary in levels of risk depending on when they plan to retire.
Recommended: 401(a) vs 401(k): What’s the Difference?
Contribution Limits and Withdrawals
To account for inflation, the IRS periodically adjusts the maximum amount an employer or employee can contribute to a 401(k) plan.
• For 2024, annual employee contributions can’t exceed $23,000 for workers under 50, and $30,500 for workers 50 and older (this includes a $7,500 catch-up contribution). The total annual contribution by employer and employee in 2024 is capped at $69,000 for workers under 50, and $76,500 for workers 50 and over.
• For 2023, annual employee contributions can’t exceed $22,500 for workers under 50, and $30,000 for workers 50 and older (this includes a $7,500 catch-up contribution). The total annual contribution paid by employer and employee in 2023 is capped at $66,000 for workers under 50, and $73,500 for workers 50 and over.
Some plans allow employees to make additional after-tax contributions to their 401(k) plan, within the contribution limits outlined above.
• Money can be withdrawn from a 401(k) in retirement without penalties. But taxes will be owed on the funds withdrawn. The IRS considers the removal of 401(k) funds before the age of 59 ½ an “early withdrawal.” The penalty for removing funds before that time is an additional tax of 10% of the withdrawal amount (there are exceptions, notably a hardship distribution, where plan participants can withdraw funds early to cover “immediate and heavy financial need”).
Pros and Cons
While a 401(k) plan might not offer as clearly-defined a retirement savings picture as a pension plan, it still comes with a number of upsides for participants who want a more active role in their retirement investments.
Advantages of a 401(k) include:
Self-directed investment opportunities
Unlike employer-directed pension plans, in which the employee has no say in the investment strategy, 401(k) plans offer participants more control over how much they invest and where the money goes (within parameters set by their employer). Plans typically offer a selection of investment options, including mutual funds, individual stocks and bonds, exchange traded funds (ETFs).
Tax advantages
Contributions to a 401(k) come from pre-tax dollars through payroll deductions, reducing the gross income of the participant, which may allow them to pay less in income taxes. Also, 401(k) contributions and earnings in the plan may grow tax-deferred.
Employer matching
Many 401(k) plan participants are eligible for an employer match up to a certain amount, which essentially means free money.
Disadvantages of a 401(k) include:
No guaranteed amount in retirement
How much you have in your 401(k) by retirement depends on how much you contributed to the plan, whether your employer offered matching funds, and how the investments you chose fared.
Contributions are capped
The amount you can contribute to a 401(k) annually is capped by the IRS, as described above.
Less stability
How the market performs generally affects the performance of 401(k) investments. That could make it difficult to know how much money you’ll have for retirement, which could complicate retirement planning. 💡 Quick Tip: Before opening an investment account, know your investment objectives, time horizon, and risk tolerance. These fundamentals will help keep your strategy on track and with the aim of meeting your goals.
Which Is Better, a 401(k) or a Pension Plan?
When considering a 401(k) vs. pension, most people prefer the certainty that comes with a pension plan.
But for those who seek more control over their retirement savings and more investment vehicles to choose from, a 401(k) plan could be the more advantageous option.
In the case of the 401(k), it really depends on how well the investments perform over time. Without the safety net of guaranteed income that comes with a pension plan, a poorly performing 401(k) plan has a direct effect on a retiree’s nest egg.
Did 401(k)s Replace Pension Plans?
The percentage of private sector employees whose only retirement account is a defined benefit pension plan is just 4% today, versus 60% in the early 1980s. The majority of private sector companies stopped funding traditional pension plans in the last few decades, freezing the plans and shifting to defined-contribution plans like 401(k)s.
When a pension fund isn’t full enough to distribute promised payouts, the company still needs to distribute that money to plan participants. In several instances in recent decades, pension fund deficits for large enterprises like airlines and steel makers were so enormous they required government bailouts.
To avoid situations like this, many of today’s employers have shifted the burden of retirement funding to their workers.
What Happens to a 401(k) or Pension Plan If You Leave Your Job?
With a 401(k), if you leave your job, you can take your 401(k) with you by rolling it over to your new employer’s 401(k) plan or into an IRA. The process is fairly easy to do.
If you leave your job and you have a pension plan, however, the plan generally stays with your employer. You’ll need to keep track of it through the years and then apply in retirement to begin receiving your money.
The Takeaway
Pension plans are employer-sponsored, employer-funded retirement plans that are designed to guarantee a set income to participants for life. On the other hand, 401(k) accounts are employer-sponsored retirement plans through which employees make their own investment decisions and, in some cases, receive an employer match in funds. The post-retirement payout varies depending on market fluctuations.
While pension plans are far more rare today than they were in the past, if you have worked at a company that offers one, that money will still come to you after retirement even if you change jobs, as long as you stayed with the company long enough for your benefits to vest.
Some people have both pensions and 401(k) plans, but there are also other ways to take an active role in saving for retirement. An IRA is an alternative to 401(k) and pension plans that allows anyone to open a retirement savings account. IRAs have lower contribution limits but a larger selection of investments to choose from. And it’s possible to have an IRA in addition to a 401(k) or pension plan.
Ready to invest for your retirement? It’s easy to get started when you open a traditional or Roth IRA with SoFi. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).
Easily manage your retirement savings with a SoFi IRA.
FAQ
Can you have both a 401(k) and a pension plan?
Yes. An individual can have both a pension plan and a 401(k) plan, though the two plans may not be from the same employer. If an employee leaves a company after becoming eligible for a pension and opens a 401(k) with a new employer, their previous employer will still typically maintain their pension. An employee can access the pension funds by applying for them in retirement.
How much should I put in my 401k if I have a pension?
If you have both a pension and a 401(k), it’s wise to contribute as much as you can to your 401(k) up to the annual contribution limit. While a pension can help supplement your retirement income, it may not be enough to cover all your retirement expenses, so contributing to your 401(k) can help fill the gap. One rule of thumb says to contribute at least 10% of your salary to a 401(k) if possible to help ensure that you’ll have enough savings for retirement.
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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.
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A cup and handle pattern is something identified by stock traders or investors analyzing data related to certain securities. Traders analyzing stock charts can identify a cup and handle pattern, which comprises a period of falling values followed by a “breakout,” and use it to help inform their trading decisions.
The cup and handle pattern is one of many that investors may identify and use to help make investing decisions.
What Is a Cup and Handle Pattern?
The cup and handle security trading pattern is a bullish continuation pattern used in technical analysis. When the pattern appears on a stock chart, it shows a period of price consolidation followed by a price breakout. The pattern is called cup and handle because it has two distinct parts: the cup and the handle.
The cup pattern forms after an advance and looks like a bowl with a round bottom. It forms after a price advance. After that pattern forms, a “handle” forms to the right of the cup within a trading range. Finally, there is a breakout above the range of the handle, showing a bullish continuation of the prior advance.
Stock broker William O’Neil identified the cup and handle stock pattern and introduced it in his 1988 book, How to Make Money in Stocks.
💡 Quick Tip: When you’re actively investing in stocks, it’s important to ask what types of fees you might have to pay. For example, brokers may charge a flat fee for trading stocks, or require some commission for every trade. Taking the time to manage investment costs can be beneficial over the long term.
How the Cup and Handle Works
The cup-and-handle candlestick pattern starts with the formation of the “cup,” which looks like a bowl. The two sides of the cup are not always the same height but in a perfect scenario they would be. Once the cup forms, the stock price pulls back, forming a “handle” out to the right of the cup. The handle shows price consolidation happening before a price breakout occurs.
The handle is smaller than the cup and generally doesn’t retrace more than ⅓ of the cup’s advance, staying in the upper part of the cup range. It can also form a triangle shape. If the handle forms at the bottom price range of the cup, the pattern may indicate that this is not a good time to trade. It may take six months or longer for the cup pattern to form, but the handle forms much faster, ideally within four weeks.
The entire pattern can also form within minutes or days. Technical analysts watching the cup-and-handle pattern try to buy when the price breaks out from the handle. This is marked by when the price moves above the old resistance level, which is the top of the right side of the cup. The more volume in the breakout the stronger the buy signal.
To estimate the price target the stock might hit after the breakout, a trader would measure the distance from the bottom of the cup to the top of the right side of the cup and then add that number to the buy signal point. If the left and right sides of the cup are different heights, the smaller side would give a more conservative price target, and the taller would be a more aggressive target.
What Does a Cup and Handle Pattern Tell Traders?
The cup-and-handle is a candlestick pattern that indicates a cup-shaped price consolidation. This involves a downward price movement, a stabilization period, then a price increase of about the same amount as the downward movement.
This is followed by a sideways pullback between the high and low of the cup shape, forming the handle. Then, a price breakout indicates increasing trade volume. However, as with any trading pattern, a cup-and-handle pattern does not guarantee the stock price will continue on a bullish trajectory, it’s just a trading indicator.
The cup and handle is a bullish pattern that can show a continuation or a reversal from a bearish trend into a bullish trend. Either way it indicates that the stock price will likely rise following the pattern.
Example of a Cup and Handle Pattern
An example of a cup and handle pattern would be if a cup shape forms between $48 and $50. A handle should then form between $49 and $50, ideally closer to $50. Then the price should break out above the price range of the handle.
💡 Quick Tip: Look for an online brokerage with low trading commissions as well as no account minimum. Higher fees can cut into investment returns over time.
Does the Cup and Handle Pattern Work?
The cup-and-handle pattern is one strategy that traders can use to get a sense of the market and inform their investing decisions. However, it is not a perfect tool.
Like any trading pattern, the cup and handle should be used in conjunction with other trend indicators and signals to make informed trading decisions. Although the cup and handle pattern can be a useful and easy to understand pattern to find entry and exit points, it does have some drawbacks.
The cup-and-handle pattern may form over the course of a day, weeks, months, or even a year. This makes it challenging to figure out exactly when to place a purchase order. Generally it forms over a month to a year, but identifying the exact breakout point is not easy.
Also, the depth of the cup can be a confusing part of the pattern. A shallow or a deep cup might be a false signal. The cup also doesn’t always form a handle at all, and the liquidity of the stock also affects the strength of the trading signal.
How to Trade a Cup and Handle Pattern
Traders wait for the handle pattern to form, which may either be in the shape of a sideways handle or a triangle. When the stock price breaks out above the top of the handle, that indicates completion of the cup-and-handle pattern, and creates a signal that stock price could continue to rise.
Although the cup-and-handle pattern can be a strong buy indicator, it does not guarantee that prices will go up. The stock price may rise, fall again, then continue to rise. Or it might rise and then simply fall.
One way to avoid significant losses when this happens is to set a stop-loss on trades with your broker. Day traders may want to close out the trade before the market closes.
Cup-and-Handle Patterns in Crypto
While the cup-and-handle pattern has traditionally been used for stock trading, it can also be used in crypto trading. Cup and handle patterns have formed in Bitcoin and Ethereum charts in recent years. Bitcoin formed a cup and handle pattern in 2019, and Ethereum formed one in 2021. The basic guidelines and indicators are the same for crypto as for stocks.
Recommended: Crypto Technical Analysis: What It Is & How to Do One
The Takeaway
Stock patterns are signals that form a certain recognizable shape when charted graphically, making them easy to spot and trade. They can help traders find entry or exit points, estimate price targets and potential risk. The cup-and-handle pattern is a useful and easy to follow trading pattern to help traders spot entry points for bullish trades.
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FAQ
Is cup and handle pattern bullish?
Yes, the cup and handle pattern is considered a bullish market signal, and investors may take it as a sign that they should go “long” on an investment or specific market position.
How reliable is cup and handle pattern?
The cup and handle pattern is merely an indicator, and not a promise or sure sign that something is going to happen. As such, investors should be careful not to take it as a sure thing. That said, investors may do well to use it in conjunction with other trading strategies and methods, and along with other trend markers.
What are the rules for the cup and handle pattern?
The cup and handle pattern doesn’t have “rules” per se, but instead, is a pattern that forms on a stock chart. That form shows a stock price decreasing in price over a short period of time, then stabilizing, forming a “cup,” which is then followed by a rise in value, creating the “handle.”
What is the weekly timeframe for the cup and handle pattern?
Cup and handle patterns can emerge on a stock chart over several months, but many times, over a handful of weeks.
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SoFi Invest® INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below:
Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.
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.
Crypto: Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies aren’t endorsed or guaranteed by any government, are volatile, and involve a high degree of risk. Consumer protection and securities laws don’t regulate cryptocurrencies to the same degree as traditional brokerage and investment products. Research and knowledge are essential prerequisites before engaging with any cryptocurrency. US regulators, including FINRA , the SEC , and the CFPB , have issued public advisories concerning digital asset risk. Cryptocurrency purchases should not be made with funds drawn from financial products including student loans, personal loans, mortgage refinancing, savings, retirement funds or traditional investments. Limitations apply to trading certain crypto assets and may not be available to residents of all states.
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