We have all seen horror stories on the news or social media when a squatter moves into a vacant house or rental property and the unlucky owners cannot get rid of them. That happened to me and it was not a fun time. Luckily it provided some great content for my YouTube channel which helped offset the cost of those squatters. I was also fortunate that I did not have to deal with the squatters for years or even more than 6 months as many people do. How long it takes to get rid of squatters can depend on the state, county, or town you reside in. While I was able to get rid of the squatters, I could have done a few things differently that may have forced them out sooner.
Table of Contents
How did I get squatters?
I own an 8-unit apartment building that I call the Ocho. I bought this property a couple of years ago and it came with some tenants who were not amazing. One of those tenants had been behind on rent a few times and caused some other issues so we decided not to renew their lease. That tenant said they were planning to move out of state so it worked out for everyone, or so we thought.
Below is the actual eviction
We gave them notice and about 20 days later they said they would be out and would drop off the keys. Those keys never showed up. We called a few times and we got the same story. They were almost done moving out and would have keys to us soon. The keys never showed up and then the story from the tenant changed. They said they were all moved out but their sister was at the house cleaning for a day. She claimed the sister would drop off the keys soon. I knew this story was not going to end well.
I stopped by the property and talked to the “sister” who was at the property. There was also another lady and maybe more people in the apartment and they did not look like they were cleaning. They said they would be out the next day and would drop off the keys. Big surprise they did not show up so I stopped by the apartment again to see what was going on and I got the same story. Luckily we had already posted a stay or quit notice when the first tenant had said they were bringing keys and never did because they never paid rent for the next month after they were supposed to have moved.
I knew the sister was not going to leave but evictions are expensive and we try to avoid them. I told her I would pay her $200 if she could be out by the end of the week. She agreed and said she would be out and get us the keys. That day came and she said she was out so I stopped by the property. To my surprise, she was out! However, there were at least three new people in the apartment who I had never seen before.
I was hesitant to talk to them because they did not look like they wanted to talk to me but I really wanted them out. I walked over and one of them came out of the apartment. He claimed to be the ex-boyfriend of the original tenant and said the “sister” was his sister and not related to the tenant. He claimed he had moved in because he used to live here with the original tenant and the electric bill was in his name. However, he was never on the lease and we had never seen him or talked to him before. He also showed me a massive cut on his arm he said he got from being stabbed recently but decided he didn’t need to go to the hospital so he taped it shut.
I told him he couldn’t stay and he needed to leave. He gave me all kinds of stories like he approved to get rent money from COVID funds, he said he talked to my office and they said he could stay, and he said his ex said he could be there. None of these stories checked out. I even called the ex who he claimed told him he could stay and asked her about it. She confirmed no one should be there and one reason she is moving out of state is this guy. Some other people came out of the apartment and said they would start paying rent too and had jobs but they hadn’t been paid yet. Even if they had money, I would never take it as that could constitute a lease!
It was clear they were not going to leave. Unfortunately, while I was talking to them the server for the eviction came by and posted the notice that said they had another ten days until the court date for the eviction. They all thought that meant they could stay! I thought about calling the cops and I should have even though they may not have done anything in this situation. Technically they were trespassing but they also had the keys and cops tend to try to stay out of these situations.
I decided to leave and pursue the eviction since it was coming up.
The eviction hearing
I always use an attorney to handle all of my evictions because I have tried it on my own and I never fill out the paperwork right and it costs me more time and money than an attorney would have cost me. I let my attorney take care of it and waited for him to tell me when the eviction date would be. I got a call from the attorney and he said the eviction was not granted! I could not believe it. He said the squatters showed up to the hearing which was a Zoom call because of covid and the judge granted them a 30-day extension because “they had nowhere to go”.
Looking back on this I should have gone to the hearing. I do not know if it would have helped but I could have told the story and what happened and maybe the judge would not have made that decision. As it was, I now had to wait 30 days or hope they moved out which they were not going to do. I drove by all the time and saw more people in and around the unit. I wanted them out so bad, not just because I feared they were destroying the place but because of the other tenants in the building as well.
Another eviction hearing
I showed up to the next hearing and my attorney and I waited for the judge who hopped on the Zoom call about 10 minutes late. The squatters were not on the call. The judge made us wait another 15 minutes for them to show and he seemed disappointed that they never did. He finally ruled the eviction would proceed since they did not show up. We finally got the eviction scheduled with the sheriff for three weeks out.
Time drug on for what seemed like forever and the eviction day finally came. I showed up with my crew because Colorado requires ten people to be there so they can move everything out in an hour. The sheriff’s deputies serve the notice and make sure everyone is safe. I know the deputies and they are really cool. I could not tell if the squatters were still there but I would think they wouldn’t be because I was guessing they didn’t want any contact with law enforcement.
I was wrong! They were still there and it took them 15 minutes to answer the door. The deputies talked to them and they had not moved anything out. We all decided to give them 10 minutes to move what they could and then we would move the rest. I got in the property and it was dirty but thankfully not destroyed. The tenants moved their stuff into their car and left. I never saw them again. The rest of the stuff we left in the yard for 24 hours per Colorado law and disposed of after that.
This could have been much worse based on what I see in other states but it was still frustrating waiting months for the eviction and not getting any rent.
Another squatter eviction we did:
How to get squatters out
There are a few things I could have done better and some things others can do to avoid long squatter situations as well.
If you have vacant properties check on them often! A vacant property is a target for squatters and vandalism.
If you see someone on your property who should not be there call the police immediately. The police may or may not do anything but you still need to try. Some squatters may not want police contact and may leave if they come. The police may say it’s a civil matter or not their problem but remind them it is trespassing and illegal. If you let squatters stay too long without reporting them it makes it much more difficult to get rid of them.
If there are squatters with no lease, create a document stating the people in the property have no lease and no permission to be in the property. Get this statement notarized and bring it with a copy of the Deed showing the true owner does not have any lease with the squatters in case the squatters provide a fake lease.
If you think something fishy is going on with your tenants, schedule an inspection. Most leases should have a clause that the landlord can inspect the property with notice. If they won’t let you in, that could be grounds for eviction.
If tenants are not paying or are supposed to leave and not leaving, start the eviction process as soon as possible.
In extreme situations, you can try offering cash for keys, or money for them to move. Never pay them before they are out and give you the keys.
Be careful accepting any money or rent as that could give them legal grounds to stay even if they do not have a formal lease.
If an eviction hearing is scheduled it doesn’t hurt to show up yourself to give insight into the situation. Just don’t lose your cool or make it worse.
Don’t do anything illegal like bring enforcers to physically remove people. Talk to an attorney and check state laws to make sure you don’t give the judge or squatters a reason to stay.
If you are in a really tricky situation with state laws and police who will not help, turn to social media or neighbors. Tell your story and the more attention you get, the more likely you can get your situation resolved. Again, stay within the law, stay calm, and don’t make it worse.
Be careful about rekeying properties or trying to force them out on your own.
Conclusion
A lot of people think that because they own the property they can do whatever they want, however, that is not the case. When you rent to someone or give them permission to be in the property they have gained rights to that property. If they live there they are in possession of the property and you cannot simply force them to move or rekey the property. Be sure to talk to a lawyer and check with state laws when you encounter a situation like this. Each state has different laws and eviction processes so just because you see someone else do it, doesn’t make it legal. I hope you never have to encounter a situation like this but if you do act fast and don’t give up!
Are you looking for the best low stress jobs? If you currently dread going to work and are looking for something new, here’s where to start. If your current job is too stressful, you may be thinking about switching to something less intense. Lots of jobs pay well without making you feel anxious or burned…
Are you looking for the best low stress jobs? If you currently dread going to work and are looking for something new, here’s where to start.
If your current job is too stressful, you may be thinking about switching to something less intense. Lots of jobs pay well without making you feel anxious or burned out all the time.
Whether you’re making online content, helping people get fit as a personal trainer, or organizing medical records, there are many options for a job that helps you stay calm and relaxed.
Recommended reading: 40 Best Jobs Where You Work Alone
Best Low Stress Jobs
There are many low stress jobs listed below. If you want to skip the list, here are some jobs that you may want to start learning more about first:
Below are the best low stress jobs.
Note: While these jobs are low stress for some, they may not be for all. There may be a certain aspect of it that may make it low stress for you, such as being able to work alone, being able to work from home, having a flexible schedule, or doing something that you enjoy. But, nearly all jobs have some sort of stress that is a part of the job, so that is something to keep in mind. And, that doesn’t mean that these jobs are easy. Many of the jobs below are still quite difficult, requiring schooling (even getting your doctorate degree!) and hard work.
1. Blogger
If you enjoy writing and sharing ideas, becoming a blogger might be the perfect low stress job for you.
As a blogger, you have the freedom to create content on topics that interest you. Whether it’s personal finance, cooking, travel, tech, or any hobby, your blog is a space to express yourself.
I started my blog, Making Sense of Cents, in 2011 without much planning. I just wanted to talk about my own experiences with money. Surprisingly, since then, I’ve made over $5,000,000 from it. And now, blogging is my main job!
I really enjoy being able to blog full-time, and it’s much less stressful than the previous day job I had. But, it is still running my own business, so there are other stresses that come along with that, of course.
But, there are many positives as well! I can work alone, I get to make my own schedule, I am my own boss, I get to do the work that I choose to do, and I can work from home. I have an amazing work-life balance, and I wouldn’t trade this job for anything else.
So, what’s a blog? Well, it’s like what you’re reading now – it’s writing on a website. You can write a blog about something you really like, something you know a lot about, or even something you want to learn more about. People like to read blogs because they get to follow along with someone’s real experiences and journeys!
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
2. Sell printables
Selling digital printables online is a great way to work from home with less stress and make money.
Creating printables can be a less stressful job because you only need to make one digital file for each product, and then you can sell it many times. It’s also not expensive to start because all you need is a laptop or computer and an internet connection.
Plus, you can do all of this from home and on your own time.
Printables are things you can get on the internet and print at home. They could be games for a bridal shower, lists for groceries, planners for managing money, invites for events, quotes you can hang on your wall, or designs you can use for crafting.
I recommend signing up for Free Training: How To Earn Money Selling Printables. This free workshop will give you ideas on what types of printables you can sell, how to get started, the costs of starting a printables business, and how to make money.
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
3. Bookkeeper
Bookkeepers handle money matters for businesses, and they write down sales, keep track of expenses, and create financial reports.
This job allows you to work independently, earning a typical salary of $40,000 or more each year. You’ll mainly work with numbers instead of interacting with people.
Many bookkeepers like their jobs because they work regular hours and don’t have as much pressure as some other jobs.
You don’t need a college degree to start as a bookkeeper either. This is something that you can learn to get started, as there are no education requirements.
You can join the free workshop that focuses on finding virtual bookkeeping jobs and how to begin your own freelance bookkeeping business by signing up for free here.
Recommended reading: How To Find Online Bookkeeping Jobs
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This free training will teach you what you need to know to become a virtual bookkeeper and make money from home.
4. Proofreader
If you already enjoy reading articles or books and spotting errors, then you may find this job interesting.
A proofreader’s main task is to read content and look for mistakes in spelling, grammar, and punctuation. They’re the last line of defense, ensuring that everything reads perfectly before it goes out into the world. Many proofreaders enjoy the flexibility this job has, as they can often set their own hours and work from where they feel most comfortable.
Many writers, website owners, and students hire proofreaders to improve their work. There’s a big demand for proofreaders, and you can find jobs on different sites.
Even the best writers can make errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. That’s why hiring a proofreader can be extremely helpful for almost everyone.
In fact, I have a proofreader for my blog. Even though I write all day long, I know that it is very important to have a proofreader go through everything that I write.
If you want to become a proofreader, I recommend joining this free 76-minute workshop focused on proofreading. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to begin your own freelance proofreading business.
Recommended reading: 20 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners (Earn $40,000+ A Year).
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This free 76-minute workshop answers all of the most common questions about how to become a proofreader, and even talks about the 5 signs that proofreading could be a perfect fit for you.
5. Transcriptionist
Transcriptionists listen to recordings and type out what they hear.
Becoming a transcriptionist is a low stress job if you’re looking for flexibility in terms of work schedules and the comfort of working from your own space.
Online transcriptionists typically earn between $15 to $30 per hour on average, with new transcribers usually starting at the lower end of that range.
A helpful free training to take is Free Workshop: Is a Career in Transcription Right for You? You’ll learn how to get started as a transcriptionist, how you can find transcription work, and more.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners To Make $2,000 Monthly
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In this free training, you will learn what transcription is, why it’s a highly in-demand skill, who hires transcriptionists, how to become a transcriptionist, and more.
6. Software developer
A software developer is a person who designs, creates, tests, and keeps up software applications, systems, and programs. They’re good at programming languages and frameworks, using their skills to make solutions that meet specific needs or solve problems.
Software developers work in different fields like technology, finance, healthcare, and entertainment. They work with other team members like designers, engineers, and project managers to finish software projects well and meet the needs of users.
I know many software developers who enjoy what they do. While it is a hard job, many of them are able to work from home, travel whenever they want, and they tend to enjoy solving complex technical issues.
Other less stressful jobs in a related field include becoming a computer systems analyst, software architect, computer hardware engineer, and web developer. For these jobs, you may need a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer science, or a related field.
7. Massage therapist
If you’re looking for a stress-free job that lets you help others, think about being a massage therapist. Massage therapists use their hands to ease pain, help people relax, and help people feel less stressed.
Massage therapy might be a little less stressful for you because the atmosphere at work is usually calm (after all, that’s why people are going there – to relax!), and you don’t bring work home with you (so, no late night phone calls from clients!).
Massage therapists usually work in places like spas, wellness centers, or chiropractic clinics. Some may also have their own private businesses or have mobile services, which lets them have a more flexible schedule and be their own boss.
To become a massage therapist, you will need to go to school for massage therapy and pass a state exam. This typically takes around 6 months to 2 years to complete (it depends on the state you live in).
8. Personal trainer
Personal trainers help people with their fitness and being more healthy, which can mean creating workout plans, motivating them to work out, or showing the right way to lift weights.
Personal trainers work in a gym, hospital, or even go solo as a freelancer.
This job has some flexibility, which is something that many personal trainers like. You get to choose who you train, where you work, and when you have sessions. Plus, you’re not stuck at a desk all day, which keeps things fresh and fun.
9. Dental hygienist
Dental hygienists clean teeth, check for things like cavities or gum disease, and teach patients the best ways to brush and floss.
You can start this career with an associate’s degree, which usually takes about two years to finish. Plus, you may be able to make over $75,000 a year as a dental hygienist.
10. Medical records technician
If you’re in the job search for low stress jobs in healthcare, then becoming a medical records technician may be for you.
Medical records technicians handle health information data, and they make sure that all the records (both electronic health records and paper files), such as patient history, test results, and treatments, are accurate, accessible, and secure.
It’s low stress because, unlike some roles in medicine, you won’t be on the front lines dealing with emergencies. Your work environment is typically calm, allowing you to focus on your tasks without the pressure of patient care.
To become a medical records technician, you typically only need a high school diploma, but some employers may want to see a certificate related to the field or higher education.
11. Optometrist
An optometrist is an eye doctor who helps people see better. They check your eyes, find out if you need glasses, and help keep your eyes healthy.
You may like being an eye doctor because:
You usually work regular hours. People don’t typically have optometrist emergencies.
The pay is great.
It’s usually a relatively calm job.
Plus, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for optometrists is over $125,000 a year, and there is expected to be a 9% job growth outlook over the next decade.
12. Physicist
Physicists study the laws and principles that govern the universe, like gravity and motion, and how they apply to everyday life.
Most physicists work in research and development. Some work in offices, while others spend time in laboratories. There are also those who teach at universities.
The job comes with a reasonable stress level, as physicists frequently engage in deep thinking rather than dealing with tight deadlines or high-stress situations, and they typically conduct research. This can make for a fulfilling and low-pressure work environment if you enjoy physics.
To be a physicist, you will likely need a Ph.D. That means a lot of school, but it’s worth it if you love science and discovery.
13. Statistician
Being a statistician might be a perfect choice for your career if you love numbers and data.
Statisticians analyze data and identify patterns, such as by taking a bunch of numbers and turning them into useful information that companies can use to make decisions. Statisticians also might collect data from surveys and experiments.
Statisticians usually have pretty regular hours and it’s normally a quiet place to work, so you can focus just on your tasks without a bunch of noise. Plus, it’s not a job that is typically rushed, so you can take your time.
14. Mathematician
If you love numbers and problems that make you think, a related field to the above may be becoming a mathematician.
Mathematicians use mathematics to unravel patterns and address significant questions.
Mathematicians are needed in many different fields like academia, government, finance, and technology.
In academia, they work as professors and researchers, studying both theoretical and practical math ideas. Government agencies like NASA and the NSA hire mathematicians for jobs like exploring space and analyzing statistics. Financial companies hire mathematicians to make algorithms for things like evaluating risk, pricing items, and creating trading strategies. Also, big tech companies like Google and Microsoft use mathematicians to develop algorithms and analyze data.
15. Librarian
Becoming a librarian is a great job for someone who likes quiet places and books.
Being a librarian is not just about checking out books. It’s a role that’s all about helping people find information and enjoy reading.
Your main job as a librarian would be to help people find the books or online resources they need. You also get to put together fun programs, like story time for kids or book clubs. Keeping the library in tip-top shape is part of your work too, like putting books back on the shelves, managing schedules for employees and volunteers, and making sure everything is where it belongs.
Libraries are usually calm and quiet, which can make it stress-free for you. This makes your workplace quite relaxing, which is great if loud and busy spots make you feel stressed. Plus, you get to have a regular schedule.
Most librarian jobs need a bachelor’s degree at the minimum and sometimes, you will most likely need a master’s degree in library science (MLS) from an accredited program.
Librarians work in many places, such as public libraries, schools, law firms, universities, and more.
16. Orthodontist
One of the best high-paying jobs for people who don’t like stress is becoming an orthodontist.
An orthodontist is a specialized dentist who focuses on fixing teeth and jaw alignment problems. They help patients get straighter smiles and better oral health using treatments like braces, clear aligners, and retainers.
Orthodontists get extra training after dental school to become experts in diagnosing and treating issues like misaligned bites and other dental problems.
By carefully checking each patient, orthodontists make personalized plans to straighten teeth properly, leading to better-looking smiles and improved function of the teeth and jaws.
Being an orthodontist can be pretty low stress since they usually have a set schedule, seeing patients for regular appointments instead of dealing with sudden dental emergencies.
17. Groundskeeper/gardener
Becoming a groundskeeper or a gardener could be a great fit for you if you like being outside and want a stress-free job. You get to work with plants and make outdoor spaces look beautiful. This job is perfect if you’re looking for something that lets you enjoy fresh air and doesn’t have you sitting at a desk all day.
Here are some things that a groundskeeper or gardener may do:
Take care of plants and grass by watering, weeding, and trimming.
Make sure gardens look neat and are healthy.
Sometimes work with tools and machines, like lawn mowers and trimmers.
Shovel snow or take care of indoor plants.
This is one of the best low stress jobs because it is usually quiet, which makes it great for people who get overwhelmed by noisy places.
Recommended reading: 15 Outdoor Jobs For People Who Love Being Outside
18. Audiologist
Audiologists help people with their hearing, and this includes testing hearing, picking out hearing aids, and teaching people how to use them.
This is typically a low stress career choice because you get to work in an office and do similar tasks each day. You are not usually rushing around, instead you have a lot of calm one-on-one time with patients.
Audiologists work in different places like hospitals, clinics, private practices, schools, and research institutions.
19. Pet sitter
Becoming a pet sitter is a great job if you like animals and enjoy caring for them. This is a job that doesn’t typically have a lot of stress because it is not fast-paced. Plus, if you like pets, then you probably enjoy being around them, which can make the job fun.
A pet sitter’s main job is to look after pets while their owners are away. This might mean feeding them, giving them water, and playing with them. It’s important to make sure the pet feels happy and safe when their owner isn’t home.
You might have pets come to your home, or you can go to their owners’ place (this is something that is agreed upon beforehand). Dog walkers typically earn around $20 for every hour they spend walking a dog. Taking care of someone’s pet overnight can earn a person around $25 to $100 or even more each day.
I have used many pet sitters over the years for my dogs, and they all seemed to love what they do. Plus, my mother-in-law is a pet sitter as well, and she enjoys her time with the dogs that she takes care of.
20. Stock photo photographer
Stock photo photographers take photos of things like people, businesses, animals, and more, and sell them for other people to use.
Stock image sites are some of the most popular platforms for photographers to sell their pictures. These websites allow customers to purchase images for purposes such as websites, TV shows, books, and social media accounts. You can take a look at some of the stock photos I’ve purchased within this blog post as examples.
Stock photo photographers typically work by themselves, and this job can be done without much interaction with others. Most of the tasks involve using a camera and then uploading photos to a website.
As a stock picture photographer, you get to set your own schedule. This means you can choose when and where you work.
One great thing about stock photo sites is that they can be a great form of passive income. You can take pictures, upload them, and continue to earn money from those photos for months or even years into the future. Since everything is online and mostly automated, there’s no need to talk with anyone directly.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
21. Freelance writer
Freelance writers create content for clients, including blog posts, advertising materials, and more.
It’s common for freelance writers to work independently, receiving topics from clients and submitting their completed work. Occasionally, they may receive feedback, such as suggestions for improvement, but this is usually the extent of human interaction they’ll have.
This is one of the best low stress jobs from home where you work alone.
I have been a freelance writer for many years and I enjoy this job a lot. I get to work from home, make my own hours, work alone, and choose the topics that I write about.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs As A Beginner
22. Graphic designer
A graphic designer is someone who creates designs for individuals and businesses.
They create things such as images, printables, planners, T-shirt designs, calendars, business cards, social media graphics, stickers, logos, and more.
Graphic designers tend to have the freedom to set their own schedules, especially if they work as a freelancer. This job allows you to work at your own pace, and most of the time, you don’t have to deal with rush hour traffic or crowds since a lot of graphic designers can work from home.
23. Hairstylist
We’ve all been to a hairstylist, so I don’t think I need to describe this job too, too much. Hairstylists cut, style, and take care of hair.
Hair styling is lower stress because you work with clients in a relaxed setting. Also, you don’t have to sit at a desk all day – you move around and talk with people.
Plus, you can set up your day the way you like it. If you want, you can take breaks between clients. This means you won’t feel rushed and can enjoy your work more.
24. Social media manager
Social media managers engage with people online and share news, pictures, and videos on behalf of a company.
You may find this to be a low stress job because you mostly type on a computer or phone as a social media manager. So, if talking in front of people makes you nervous, this could be the perfect job. Plus, you can often work from home.
25. Virtual assistant
One of my first side gigs was working as a virtual assistant, and it was both enjoyable and flexible for earning income.
While you have a boss as a VA, many of the tasks you handle will require you to take the lead and complete them independently, usually from your own home.
A virtual assistant is someone who assists people with office tasks remotely, whether from home or while traveling. This could involve tasks such as responding to emails, scheduling appointments, and managing social media accounts.
Recommended reading: Best Ways To Find Virtual Assistant Jobs
26. Litter cleanup worker
This is one of the least stressful jobs.
If you have a business, it’s important to keep it clean and neat. No one likes seeing trash scattered about when they’re shopping, correct?
That’s why some business owners pay someone to tidy up before their business opens. A clean space makes the place look inviting and pleasant for customers.
This low stress job without a degree can be started all by yourself, and you can earn around $30 to $50 for every hour you work. It’s quite straightforward too. All you’ll need is a broom, a dustpan, and some tools to help you pick up litter more easily.
People like this job because they can work alone and it’s easy to clean an area up.
Recommended reading: How I Started A $650,000 Per Year Litter Cleanup Business
27. Economist
Economists examine how goods and services are made, shared, and used within an economy. They use different tools, like math and stats, to grasp and predict economic patterns and actions.
Economists might work for the government, giving advice to policymakers on things like money policies and taxes. They also help businesses by explaining market trends, so they can make good decisions about prices, production, and investments.
A somewhat related field to this would be becoming an economics professor.
28. Astronomer
Astronomers study objects and events in space beyond Earth’s atmosphere, like stars, planets, galaxies, and cosmic happenings such as black holes and supernovas.
They use a mix of observations, data analysis, and theoretical models to learn about the origins, changes, and behaviors of these objects. Astronomers usually use advanced telescopes, both on the ground and in space, to observe and gather data from far-off parts of the universe.
They also work with physicists, mathematicians, and engineers to create new technologies and tools for exploring space. Through their work, astronomers help us understand big questions about the universe, like how old it is, what it’s made of, and what will happen to it in the future.
Unlike many jobs, being an astronomer means regular hours with few surprises. Plus, the quiet of a lab or observatory is perfect for staying focused and calm.
29. Actuary
Actuaries assess and handle financial risks by using math and stats to analyze data and forecast future events.
They mainly work for insurance companies, pension funds, and financial consulting firms. Actuaries examine how likely events like death, illness, accidents, and natural disasters are to happen, and what impact they could have on insurance policies and pension plans.
Based on their analysis, they help create insurance policies, decide on premiums, and suggest investment plans to make sure these financial products stay stable and have enough coverage for customers.
If you enjoy numbers and are looking for a job that’s pretty easy on stress, becoming an actuary could be a smart move. Actuaries help businesses look into the future and protect against loss.
30. Radiologist
If you’re interested in a career in the medical field that is both high-paying and considered to have lower stress, you might want to think about becoming a radiologist.
Radiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries using medical imaging techniques like X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine. They analyze images to find any abnormalities and give detailed reports to other doctors, helping with patient diagnosis and treatment plans.
Radiologists work closely with other healthcare professionals to make sure they understand the imaging results and can provide the best care for patients.
31. Data entry clerk
Data entry is one of the easiest low stress jobs without a degree needed.
Data entry clerks input, edit, and verify data in databases or spreadsheets. They enter details like numbers and names into computers to maintain organization and records.
This job can often be done remotely and independently, with little supervision or interaction with customers. For some people, this is key to having a stress-free job, and I completely get it – this is what I want as well!
Data entry positions generally pay around $15 to $20 per hour.
Recommended reading: 15 Places To Find Data Entry Jobs From Home
32. Yoga instructor
If you love helping others relax and stay fit, being a yoga instructor could be the perfect job for you if you want to find fun low stress jobs.
Yoga instructors lead classes and sessions in practicing yoga, a holistic discipline involving physical postures, breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, and meditation.
They help students through different yoga poses, focusing on correct alignment, breath control, and mindfulness. Yoga instructors create a welcoming environment where students of all levels can explore and improve their practice.
33. Dietitian
A dietitian talks to clients about their eating habits and helps figure out the best way to eat healthy.
Being a dietitian is usually not too stressful. You get to chat with people one-on-one or in small groups. You don’t have to rush around or handle dangerous equipment.
They can work in places such as hospitals, clinics, schools, community health centers, and food service establishments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to find low stress jobs.
What’s the least stressful job?
The least stressful job will depend on your personality, as everyone is different. Some less stressful jobs include writing online, gardening, selling printables, and data entry. For me, I really like blogging, and I think it’s a great stress-free career that you can do at home.
How do I find a peaceful job?
If you want a peaceful job that doesn’t have a lot of stress, then I recommend first thinking about what you would find peaceful in a career, such as by looking for jobs with fewer deadlines and less contact with lots of people. Jobs where you can set your own pace, like a blogger or a freelancer, tend to have a peaceful workday. Think about what makes you feel calm, and then look for jobs that match that feeling.
What job is the easiest and pays the most?
Some jobs that are pretty easygoing and also pay well include orthodontist and optometrist. These jobs usually have regular hours and don’t need you to rush around. Plus, they pay more than enough to help you save for those things you love to buy.
What types of work-from-home jobs are low stress?
Working from home can be really laid back when you’re doing something like freelance writing, blogging, transcribing, or graphic design. You can pick the jobs you want and work when it suits you best.
What are the best low stress jobs for introverts?
If you’re quiet or introverted, then you might be interested in jobs where you can work solo or with just a few people. Jobs like a bookkeeper, transcriptionist, or data entry let you focus on your work without having to talk to many people.
What are high-stress jobs?
Some of the most stressful jobs include being a nurse, police officer, surgeon, social worker, anesthesiologist, firefighter, lawyer, airline pilot, paramedic, and in the military.
Best Low Stress Jobs – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best low stress jobs.
Nowadays, people are realizing how important it is to balance work and personal life and to take care of their mental health while lessening their anxiety about work. Some occupations, like software development and data entry, have this balance and a sense of calm.
Professionals such as dental hygienists, librarians, and dietitians also enjoy low stress roles with predictable schedules.
You don’t have to give up peace of mind to have a career. By thinking about what you’re good at and what you enjoy, you can find jobs that meet your goals while keeping stress levels low.
For me, I personally love having a career that has low stress. While it is still hard, I love that I can work from home, choose the work I do, and have a flexible schedule – all things that help me be less anxious and happier about the work that I do.
Unfortunately, we don’t have a great way to measure all of the past precedents, but it’s safe to say that the this was one of the least volatile weeks in the history of mortgage rates. Our daily rate index never moved more than 0.01 and it remained in a 0.01 range.
Today’s average rate was right in line with yesterday’s even though the bond market (the thing that normally dictates rates) suggested some movement. Despite the suggestion, it’s not a huge surprise to see another flat day given the early close in financial markets and the full closure tomorrow. Lenders often adopt less nimble pricing strategies on these holiday weeks–only making noticeable moves when the market really forces their hands.
Next week continues to be a different story–at least in terms of what’s possible. In other words, this week was never likely to offer much excitement. Next week has infinitely more potential to do so depending on the outcome of the economic reports–especially Friday’s jobs report.
Have you ever wondered, “Should I move to Philadelphia, PA?” Living in Philly is like being in a giant history book but with a modern twist. This city is famous for its cheesesteaks, passionate sports fans, and the Liberty Bell, showing off its rich history and spirited culture. Philadelphia is unique because it blends old-world charm with bustling city life, where historic sites like Independence Hall stand alongside trendy restaurants and shops. Whether you’re exploring the cobblestone streets of Old City or enjoying a picnic in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia offers a special experience that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Before packing your bags, it’s a good idea to know the city’s strengths and weaknesses to make sure it’s the right fit for you. In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of living in Philadelphia that may help you make your decision. Let’s get started.
Philadelphia at a Glance
Walk Score: 75 | Bike Score: 67 | Transit Score: 67
Median Sale Price: $243,000 | Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,722
houses for rent in Philadelphia | apartments for rent in Philadelphia | homes for sale in Philadelphia
Pro: Strong historical heritage
Philadelphia, often dubbed the “Birthplace of America,” is steeped in rich historical significance, offering residents and visitors a unique glimpse into the nation’s past. From the iconic Liberty Bell to Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were debated and adopted, the city is a living museum. Living in Philadelphia means having unparalleled access to these historic sites, along with numerous museums and educational opportunities that celebrate America’s journey to independence.
Con: Challenging winter conditions
One of the cons of living in Philadelphia is the harsh winters. During the winter months, it’s common to experience freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and icy conditions. Locals must contend with bitter cold temperatures, which can make daily activities such as commuting or running errands a daunting task. Snowstorms frequently blanket the city, causing disruptions to transportation networks and posing safety hazards for pedestrians and motorists alike. Despite the city’s efforts to maintain roadways and clear snow, the severity of winter weather in Philadelphia remains a significant inconvenience for residents.
Pro: Beautiful green spaces
Philadelphia is home to an abundance of green spaces and parks, offering residents a peaceful escape from the urban environment. Fairmount Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, provides miles of trails for hiking, biking, and outdoor activities. The city’s commitment to maintaining and expanding its green spaces means that locals can easily find a natural retreat within the city limits, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.
Con: Limited biking infrastructure
One notable drawback of living in Philadelphia is its lower bike score of 67. Despite efforts to improve bike infrastructure, such as dedicated lanes and bike-sharing programs, many areas still lack adequate facilities for safe and convenient cycling. The city’s narrow and congested roads can make cycling intimidating and hazardous. As a result, residents who rely on bikes as a primary mode of transportation may find their options limited and may need to exercise extra caution when riding in the city.
Pro: Dynamic culture
Philadelphia’s arts and culture scene is a significant pro for residents. The city is home to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, famous not only for its vast collection but also for the iconic “Rocky Steps.” Beyond this, there are countless galleries, theaters, and live music venues across the city, catering to a wide range of artistic tastes. The annual Fringe Festival showcases avant-garde theater and performance art, highlighting the city’s diverse and vibrant cultural landscape.
Con: High cost of living
Despite its many attractions, Philadelphia’s cost of living can be a big con for some. The cost of living in Philadelphia is 2% higher than the national average. While it is more affordable than cities like New York or San Francisco, rent prices and daily expenses can be high, especially in more desirable neighborhoods. For those with modest incomes or fixed budgets, the elevated cost of living can limit opportunities for savings, investments, and overall financial stability. As a result, many residents must carefully budget and prioritize expenses, sacrificing certain luxuries or experiences to make ends meet.
Pro: Exceptional culinary scene
Philadelphia boasts an exceptional culinary scene that goes far beyond its famous cheesesteaks. The city is a melting pot of cultures, reflected in its diverse food offerings. From high-end dining experiences like Hiroki or Fork, to local food trucks, there’s something for every palate. The Italian Market, one of the oldest and largest open-air markets in the country, offers fresh produce, meats, and specialty foods, showcasing the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Con: Public transportation challenges
With a Transit Score of 67, many people find public transportation lacking in Philly. While Philadelphia does have a public transportation system, including buses, subways, and trolleys, residents often face challenges with reliability and coverage. Some areas of the city are not well-served by public transit, making it difficult for those without cars to navigate. Additionally, delays and infrequent service can be frustrating for daily commuters.
Pro: Sports fan’s paradise
“Should I move to Philadelphia if I’m a sports fan?” Absolutely. Living in Philly is a dream for sports fans, offering professional teams across various leagues. The Philadelphia 76ers dominate basketball courts, while the Philadelphia Flyers electrify ice hockey enthusiasts. At Citizens Bank Park, the Philadelphia Phillies draw crowds with their passionate baseball games, and the Philadelphia Eagles ignite fervor in football fans at Lincoln Financial Field. Additionally, the city’s collegiate sports scene, led by universities like Temple and Villanova, adds further excitement to Philadelphia’s sports culture, making it a true paradise for those who live and breathe athletics.
Con: Minimal green building initiatives
While Philadelphia has made strides in sustainability, the city still has limited green building initiatives compared to others. This can be a con for environmentally conscious residents who prioritize living in a city that embraces sustainable development practices. Efforts to increase green buildings and eco-friendly infrastructure are ongoing, but progress has been slower than in some other major cities.
Pro: Proximity to other major cities
A significant pro of living this city is its strategic location on the East Coast, offering easy access to other major cities like New York City, Washington D.C., and Baltimore. This proximity makes it convenient for residents to explore these cities for business or leisure, without the need to relocate.
Jenna is a Midwest native who enjoys writing about home improvement projects and local insights. When she’s not working, you can find her cooking, crocheting, or backpacking with her fiancé.
HAMILTON, Bermuda, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Athene Holding Ltd. (NYSE: ATH) (“Athene”), an industry-leading financial services company focused on retirement savings solutions, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Foundation Home Loans (“FHL”), a specialist UK mortgage lender from funds managed by affiliates of Fortress Investment Group LLC. As of June 2021, FHL had a £3 billion portfolio of specialist buy-to-let and owner-occupied mortgages on its balance sheet. The closing of the acquisition remains subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions, including consent by the Financial Conduct Authority.
The investment in FHL will be managed by the team at Apollo Global Management, Inc. (NYSE: APO) (“Apollo”), Athene’s strategic asset management partner, and together Apollo and Athene expect that FHL will continue to be a leader in originating high-quality residential mortgage loans, providing Athene with attractive investment opportunities in high-quality yield assets.
Jim Belardi, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Athene, said, “This transaction continues our longstanding strategy of working with Apollo to identify and invest in attractive businesses which add direct origination asset sourcing capabilities to our alpha-generating investment portfolio. We believe our investment will help FHL achieve its full potential, while being a complementary addition to our expanding asset sourcing capabilities.”
Hans Geberbauer, Chief Executive Officer of Foundation Home Loans, commented: “We are delighted to partner with Athene and Apollo for the next phase of growth in the UK specialist lending market. Their expertise and funding capacity will greatly enhance our position in the market.”
“Apollo has developed deep expertise in the residential loan market and we are excited to partner with FHL and its management team to help scale FHL’s platform, further positioning it as a leading originator within the UK buy-to-let market,” said Kevin Crowe, Partner of Apollo. Christopher Hojlo, Partner of Apollo, added, “We expect that FHL will contribute high-quality assets to Athene’s residential mortgage portfolio of loans and structured securities, which exceeded $13 billion of net invested assets as of March 31, 2021 and exhibits a strong yield profile that is indicative of the alpha generation the asset class can offer.”
About Athene Athene, through its subsidiaries, is a leading retirement services company with total assets of $205.7 billion as of March 31, 2021 and operations in the United States, Bermuda, and Canada. Athene specializes in helping its customers achieve financial security and is a solutions provider to institutions. Founded in 2009, Athene is Driven to Do More for our policyholders, business partners, shareholders, and the communities in which we work and live. For more information, please visit www.athene.com.
About Apollo Apollo is a high-growth, global alternative asset manager. We seek to provide our clients excess return at every point along the risk-reward spectrum from investment grade to private equity with a focus on three business strategies: yield, hybrid and opportunistic. Through our investment activity across our fully integrated platform, we serve the retirement income and financial return needs of our clients, and we offer innovative capital solutions to businesses. Our patient, creative, knowledgeable approach to investing aligns our clients, businesses we invest in, our employees and the communities we impact, to expand opportunity and achieve positive outcomes. As of March 31, 2021, Apollo had approximately $461 billion of assets under management. To learn more, please visit www.apollo.com.
Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains, and certain oral statements made by Athene’s representatives from time to time may contain, forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, events and developments to differ materially from those set forth in, or implied by, such statements. These statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of Athene’s management and the management of Athene’s subsidiaries. Generally, forward-looking statements include actions, events, results, strategies and expectations and are often identifiable by use of the words “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “seeks,” “estimates,” “projects,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “might,” “should,” or “continues” or similar expressions. Factors that could cause actual results, events and developments to differ include, without limitation: the accuracy of Athene’s assumptions and estimates; Athene’s ability to maintain or improve financial strength ratings; Athene’s ability to manage its business in a highly regulated industry; regulatory changes or actions; the impact of Athene’s reinsurers failing to meet their assumed obligations; the impact of interest rate fluctuations; changes in the federal income tax laws and regulations; the accuracy of Athene’s interpretation of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act; litigation (including class action litigation), enforcement investigations or regulatory scrutiny; the performance of third parties; the loss of key personnel; telecommunication, information technology and other operational systems failures; the continued availability of capital; new accounting rules or changes to existing accounting rules; general economic conditions; Athene’s ability to protect its intellectual property; the ability to maintain or obtain approval of the Delaware Department of Insurance, the Iowa Insurance Division and other regulatory authorities as required for Athene’s operations; the delay or failure to complete or realize the expected benefits from the proposed merger with Apollo Global Management; and other factors discussed from time to time in Athene’s filings with the SEC, including its annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020, its quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2021 and its other SEC filings, which can be found at the SEC’s website www.sec.gov.
All forward-looking statements described herein are qualified by these cautionary statements and there can be no assurance that the actual results, events or developments referenced herein will occur or be realized. Athene does not undertake any obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results.
Apollo Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain forward-looking statements that are within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements include, but are not limited to, discussions related to Apollo’s expectations regarding the performance of its business, its liquidity and capital resources and the other non-historical statements in the discussion and analysis. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s beliefs, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management. When used in this press release, the words “believe,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that these expectations will prove to have been correct. These statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including those described under the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Apollo’s annual report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 19, 2021 and quarterly report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on May 10, 2021, as such factors may be updated from time to time in Apollo’s periodic filings with the SEC, which are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements that are included in this press release and in other filings. Apollo undertakes no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. This press release does not constitute an offer of any Apollo fund.
Do you want to learn how to move out at 18 with no credit, little money, or even no money? Here’s what you need to know. There are many reasons for why you may want to move out at a young age – perhaps you have a difficult home life, you want to move somewhere…
Do you want to learn how to move out at 18 with no credit, little money, or even no money? Here’s what you need to know.
There are many reasons for why you may want to move out at a young age – perhaps you have a difficult home life, you want to move somewhere new, or you just want your own space.
I moved out shortly after turning 18 (about a week or so after my 18th birthday) into a rental home, and while I was not prepared at all, I do think being prepared to move out at a young age is extremely helpful. I made many mistakes that led to many, many tears, money wasted, stress, and more.
Today, I want to help you avoid as many problems as you can.
After all, moving out at 18 years old (or any other young age) is already really hard, and there is such a huge learning curve.
Moving out when you turn 18 is a big step into becoming an adult. Even though it can be exciting, moving out for the first time needs to be planned carefully. Before you leave, it’s important to make a plan to make sure you can afford it and stay on your own.
This means finding a job, making a budget you can stick to, and saving money for unexpected costs.
How To Move Out at 18
Below are ways to move out at 18.
Recommended reading: Buying a House at 20 (How I did it)
Make a plan to move out at 18
I highly recommend having a plan if you want to move out at 18 years old.
Moving out at 18 is a big step, and making a plan will help everything go a little more smoothly.
You will want to think about things such as:
Where you will work
How you will pay your bills
If you will live with a roommate or on your own
What your budget will be like
What you’ll do if things get tough, such as if you can’t afford your rent
What you will do for health insurance and medical bills
And so much more.
I will be going further in-depth on many of these below.
Find ways to make money
If you are 18 and want to move out, then you will need to have a stable source of income, of course. There are many options for earning money, from traditional jobs to more flexible side hustles.
A full-time job typically gives you more hours and benefits like health insurance, which are helpful when you’re living on your own. If you have other things going on, a part-time job might be better because it offers more flexibility while still giving you money (but, you may not earn as much money). You can find job openings online, at job fairs, or on community bulletin boards. Jobs like delivering food can be either full-time or part-time, and companies tend to need people.
If you want to make more money, you can side hustle to make extra income – a way to make extra cash that you do alongside your main job. You could freelance by doing things like writing, teaching tutoring lessons, or designing graphics. Or, you could babysit for families nearby, walk dogs, or help people with tasks or errands. These little jobs can add up to a lot of money and give you the flexibility to work when you want.
When I was young and first moved out, I worked full-time at a retail store. I also eventually started a few side hustles (like blogging, freelance writing, and selling stuff online) so that I could pay off my student loans quickly. Living on your own is not easy, especially when you are young and your income is not that high – so side hustles may be needed so that you can make enough money to pay your bills.
Some helpful articles to read include:
Create a budget
When you’re ready to step out into the world at 18, you need a budget. I can’t think of any young adult who would not need a budget.
Budgets are great because they help you keep track of your money coming in and going out. With a monthly budget, you’ll know exactly how much you can spend on different things each month as it helps you see how much money you have and where you might need to cut back on spending.
A budget will help you to figure out if you can afford to live on your own, if you need to have roommates, or if you need to find a cheaper living arrangement.
Making a budget is easy. First, write down how much money you make each month from your job or other places. Then, write down what you need to spend money on each month, like:
monthly rent
food
phone bill
internet
car
fuel
utilities like electrical, water, trash, sewer, gas/propane
car insurance
medical/health
pet care
restaurants
cable, satellite, or any TV monthly subscriptions
household essential items, like toilet paper, trash bags, etc.
and some money for fun stuff too
Knowing your monthly expenses will help you to better manage your money so that you won’t go into credit card debt.
Recommended reading: The Complete Budgeting Guide: How To Create A Budget That Works
Save for the move (and open a bank account)
When you’re getting ready to move out at 18, saving money is obviously very important. If you can help it, I do not recommend moving out with no money saved.
Think about all the costs you’ll face – like rent, your first security deposit, food, and any unexpected things that pop up. You’ll want to tuck away money for this.
How much should you save to move out? A good rule is to save at least three to six months of living expenses. For example, if you spend $1,500 a month, aim to save between $4,500 and $9,000 before you head out on your own.
This will be your emergency fund. An emergency fund is money you save up for unexpected things that might happen. This could be paying bills if you lose your job or if your hours or pay get reduced. It could also cover unexpected expenses like a car repair, medical bill, or fixing a broken window.
An emergency isn’t something like buying a birthday present, a new TV, or going on vacation.
Having an emergency fund is smart because it can stop you from getting into debt you don’t need. Some people rely on their credit cards for emergencies, but that’s not a good plan.
I also recommend getting your own bank account for all of the money you save. It’s a safe place for your money, and it helps you track what you earn and spend. Plus, you’ll need it for things like direct deposit from jobs or paying bills online.
I personally use Marcus by Goldman Sachs for my savings account as they have a very high rate. You can get up to 5.50% at the time of this writing through a referral link bonus. According to this high-yield savings account calculator, if you have $10,000 saved, you could earn $550 with a high-yield savings account in a year. Whereas with normal banks, your earnings would only be $46.
Improve your credit score and history
When you’re moving out of your parents’ home, having a good credit score is super helpful. This is because your credit score and credit history may be used for things like getting approved for an apartment and getting signed up for utility bills.
If your credit score is low, then you may be denied an apartment and even have to pay large deposits to get signed up for utilities (like water and electric).
Here are some important things to know:
Understand credit utilization – This is all about how much credit you’re using compared to how much you have. Try to use less than 30% of your credit limit. Say your card has a $1,000 limit. Aim to spend no more than $300.
Always pay on time – You should pay every bill on time, every time. Even being a little late can hurt your credit score a LOT!
There are other ways to improve your credit, such as by getting a secured credit card or becoming an authorized user on a family member’s credit card.
Here are two really helpful articles I recommend reading:
I also recommend keeping an eye on your credit by checking your score and report. Sites offer free checks, and it’s good to know where you stand. That way, you can fix any mistakes fast.
Think about where you’ll live
When planning to move out at 18, picking where you’ll live is a huge step.
Here are some things to think about:
Think about who you’ll live with. Living by yourself can be expensive so sharing rent and other bills with roommates can save you money, but make sure you choose your roommates wisely. You’ll be sharing your space with them, so it’s important to pick people who are responsible and trustworthy (and will actually pay the bills!).
Try using online tools to compare different areas. You can check things like crime rates, public transportation options, and how close they are to places you need, like grocery stores.
Think about the cost. Can you pay the rent and utility bills every month? Make sure to include these costs in your budget. Sometimes, living a bit farther from popular areas can be cheaper.
For my first home, I rented a very small 400-square-foot home with no real bedroom. But, it was within my budget and next to my college (I lived a few miles away), and surprisingly affordable.
Talk to your parents
When you’re getting ready to move out at 18, it’s important to have a conversation with your parents. This might feel hard or even impossible, but remember that clear communication is important.
I recommend choosing a time to tell them when your parents aren’t too busy or stressed as having this conversation when everyone is relaxed can make it easier for everyone to talk openly.
I think it is also helpful to think about how your parents might feel. If you’re the first to leave the home, they might find it tough. Try to understand their perspective and mention that you’ll stay in touch and visit.
And, be ready to show them your plan. Your parents will want to know you’ve thought things through. If you’ve been saving money, let them know. Talk about your job and how you’re managing to support yourself. It’s good to tell them about the place you’re planning to move into and how you chose it.
How to move out of your parents if it isn’t safe
So, after reading the above, I know that some of you may not have a good home life. You may not feel safe telling your parents that you are moving out.
If that’s the case, then I recommend reading this section.
Sometimes, home isn’t the safe place that it’s supposed to be. If you’re in a tough situation and need to leave at 18 but can’t talk to your parents about it, you’re not alone.
Here’s what you can do:
Find an adult you trust – Look for someone you trust, like a teacher, counselor, or family friend. They can maybe give you support and help you figure out your options.
Plan ahead – Start thinking about where you’ll go and how you’ll support yourself. Look into shelters, transitional housing programs, or staying with a trusted friend or relative.
Know your rights – As you turn 18, you have rights. Learn about your options for housing, education, and employment because there may be resources available to help you.
Stay safe – If you’re in danger at home, prioritize your safety. Contact local authorities or organizations that can help you leave safely.
Take care of yourself – Moving out can be tough, but remember to take care of yourself emotionally and physically, such as by talking to friends, finding support groups, or talking to a counselor if you need to.
Leaving home at 18 without being able to talk to your parents is hard, but it’s not impossible. Reach out for help, make a plan, and remember that you deserve to live in a safe and supportive environment.
Get free stuff for your new home
One of the big challenges of moving out on your own is affording all of the different things that you need.
Luckily, there are ways to get things for free or really cheap.
Some of the top ways include:
Facebook Buy Nothing groups – This is my favorite place to start if you want to get things for free. These groups promote recycling and reusing items instead of throwing them away when you’re done with them. To begin, look for and join a local Buy Nothing group on Facebook. You can search for groups for your city. People list their free stuff all the time, such as furniture, electronics, clothes, and more. You can even make a post asking if anyone has something that you need.
Ask family and friends – Your family and friends might have extra stuff they’re willing to part with. They might even be happy to see it go to a good home – your new home!
Check online platforms – Websites like Craigslist, Freecycle, and Facebook Marketplace can be goldmines for free furniture. People often list items they want to get rid of quickly.
Visit thrift stores and yard sales – Thrift stores and yard sales sometimes offer “free bins” or low-cost items they want to get rid of fast.
Attend college move-out days – If you live near a university, go there on move-out day. Students tend to leave behind perfectly good furniture that’s yours for the taking.
Community centers and churches – These places often have bulletin boards with listings for free items.
Always be safe when arranging pickups, especially with strangers. Always bring a friend or let someone know where you’re going.
Helpful articles:
Handling utilities and bills
Dealing with utilities and bills is a big step in moving out. Utilities are services you need like water, electricity, gas, and the internet.
Before you move, call or visit the websites of local utility companies. You’ll need to set up accounts in your name. This might include a deposit fee, so be ready for that.
I recommend making a list of all your expected bills. Rent, electricity, water, internet, and maybe gas are usually the basics. Add them up to see how much you’ll spend each month.
After you move in, you will want to find out when each bill is due. It’s your job to pay them on time as paying late can lead to extra fees or even getting your services turned off. Some companies let you set up automatic payments, and this means the money comes out of your bank account on its own each month. This can make sure you’re always on time.
You will want to hold onto your bills and receipts. This way, if there’s ever a mistake with a bill, your records will help fix it.
You can save money by being smart about using your services. Turn off lights when you leave a room and unplug electronics that you’re not using. You might also shop around for better deals on services like the internet.
After you get your first set of bills, you will understand why your parents wanted to keep the air conditioning off or why they always asked you to turn the lights off – things can be expensive!
Also, remember that different times of the year will impact your bills. For example, your electric bill will most likely be a lot more expensive in the summer than it will be in the spring or fall.
Maintain your home (housekeeping)
Moving out at 18 means taking on the responsibility of housekeeping. You might be surprised how quickly your new home can become cluttered and get dirty.
Keeping your home nice starts with regular cleaning, and I recommend setting aside some time each day for tasks like washing dishes, making your bed, and tidying up the living area. This way, messes won’t pile up and become overwhelming.
Then, once a week, dedicate your time to deeper cleaning such as vacuuming, mopping floors, cleaning the bathroom, dusting, and doing laundry.
Housekeeping also requires tools and supplies, so you will want to plan your budget to include items like sponges, cleaners, and trash bags.
Make friends in your new community
Moving out at 18 is a big step, and making friends in your new community is important. It can make your new place feel like home. When you move, you might not know many people, but there are fun and simple ways to meet people.
Here are some tips:
Get to know your neighbors – Start with a smile and say hi to your neighbors.
Join local groups or classes – Look for groups that interest you. Love to paint? Find an art class. Enjoy cooking? Maybe there’s a cooking group nearby. Like rock climbing? Go to the local climbing gym. This way, you meet people who like what you like.
Visit community centers – Many towns have a community center. They have activities like sports, games, and events.
Making friends might take time, but it’s totally possible! Just be yourself and be open to talking to new people.
Balancing work and personal life
I’m guessing you will have a lot going on, between trying to work full-time and enjoying your life, and even possibly furthering your education.
I recommend trying to schedule your time so you don’t get too busy. Use a calendar or app to make sure you’ve got time for work, taking care of your place, and doing fun things too.
It’s okay to say no if you’re too busy. If you’re working a full-time job, you might not be able to hang out with your friends all the time. It’s all about finding a healthy balance between earning money and enjoying life. I had to say no to my friends many times because I was simply too busy. If your friends still live at home, it may be hard for them to understand this unless you explain your situation.
Plus, remember to take breaks. When you’re planning your week, set aside some time just for relaxing. Watching a movie, reading, or hanging out in the park are all great ways to unwind and give your mind a break.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are common questions about how to move out at 18 years old with little money.
How can I move out fast at 18?
To move out quickly, focus on making a steady income and finding affordable housing. Create a budget to manage your expenses and look for immediate job openings or housing options. Saving as much money as you can right now is also super helpful.
How much money should I have saved by 18 to move out?
Aim to save at least 3 to 6 months of living expenses before moving out. This safety net can cover rent, groceries, and unexpected costs, giving you financial stability as you start on your own.
Can you move out at 18 while still in high school?
Yes, you can move out at 18 while in high school, but make sure you have a support system in place. Balancing school responsibilities with living independently can be very hard.
How to move out at 18 with strict parents?
When moving out at 18 with strict parents, communicate your plans clearly and respectfully. Prepare a well-thought-out plan to show them you’re serious and capable of managing your own life.
Can your parents not let you move out at 18?
When you turn 18, you’re legally an adult in most places, and you can decide to move out even if your parents don’t agree. However, it’s important to respect their opinion and explain your reasons. There are some places where you have to be older, so make sure you do your research.
Do I have to tell my parents I’m moving out?
While you’re not legally required to inform your parents in most places, it’s nice to talk about your decision with them, as transparent communication helps maintain a positive relationship after you leave.
Can I move out at 18 without parental consent?
Yes, in most places, at 18 you’re legally permitted to move out without parental consent. You will want to make sure this applies to your local area.
What things do you need when moving out of your parents’ house?
There are many things that you will need to move out of your parents’ house such as a bed, blanket, pillow, kitchen supplies, towels, a place to eat, a dresser, cleaning supplies, groceries, and more.
Is it realistic to move out at 18?
It is realistic to move out at 18 if you have a reliable income, a budget, and a plan for handling responsibilities. You will want to be as prepared as possible to move out at a young age because there will be many hurdles thrown your way, most likely.
How To Move Out At 18 – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to move out at 18 years old.
It’s really important to have a plan for a successful move when you are just 18 years old.
You’ll need to find ways to earn money regularly, like getting a job and even doing extra work on the side.
Having savings in the bank and an emergency fund will help you handle unexpected expenses without ruining your plans.
There are also many other things to think about, such as the cost of living, utility bills, your credit score, and more.
I moved out when I was just 18 years old, so I completely understand where you are coming from. I had no financial help from my parents and found and did everything on my own – from making money to finding a place to live, making all of my own meals, and more. It was hard, but it was what needed to be done.
Do you plan on moving out soon? Do you have any questions for me on how to move out at 18?
The main differences between checking and savings accounts is that checking accounts are for spending and come with a debit card and checks, while savings accounts are a place to stash and grow your money via interest earned but your access may be more limited. These two kinds of financial products can form the foundation of how you manage your money day to day.
Read on to learn what the difference between a savings and checking account is, how they are the same, and the role each plays in your financial life.
Key Points
• Bank transfers move money from one bank account to another.
• These can be done by online transfers, checks, peer-to-peer services, wire transfers, third-party companies, or bank-to-bank money transfer services.
• There may be limits on how many bank transfers you can do in a specific time period and the dollar amount.
• The time it takes to complete a bank transfer may vary with the method.
Quick Comparison of Checking vs Savings Accounts
To help you understand the difference between checking and savings accounts, here is a chart summarizing some key points.
Checking Account
Saving Account
Fees
Varies
Varies
Interest earnings
Minimal (if at all)
Yes
Debit card access
Yes
No
Check writing capabilities
Yes
No
Withdrawal limits
None
May be capped at 6 per month
Maintenance fees
Varies
Varies
Minimum opening balance
Varies
Varies
Best used for
Spending
Saving
There are similarities when you compare checking vs. savings accounts, such as varied minimum opening deposits, maintenance fees, and other monthly fees. Also, both kinds of accounts are typically insured by the FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) or NCUA (National Credit Union Administration), which can give you peace of mind.
That said, there are also three major points of difference between checking and savings accounts: how account holders access their money, withdrawal limits, and interest earnings.
💡 Quick Tip: Make money easy. Open a bank account online so you can manage bills, deposits, transfers — all from one convenient app.
Three Major Differences to Know
Consider these three important ways that checking vs. savings accounts can differ.
Interest Earnings
When it comes to earning a bit of a return on an online bank account, savings accounts typically offer a higher interest rate than checking accounts. In many cases, checking accounts aren’t interest-bearing, meaning no interest is earned at all. Interest rates for savings accounts vary. The current average is 0.46% APY (compared to a current average of 0.07% APY for checking accounts), according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, or FDIC. That said, you probably will find higher rates at online banks instead of bricks-and-mortar ones, with rates ranging from 4.35% to 5.15%. By not having physical locations, online banks save money and can pass savings onto their customers.
Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.
Open a SoFi Checking and Savings Account with direct deposit and get up to a $300 cash bonus. Plus, get up to 4.60% APY on your cash!
Liquidity
Here’s a key difference between a savings and checking account: Checking accounts are usually used by account holders to access their cash frequently, whether paying monthly bills or buying a latte. Checking accounts generally include a debit card, which can be used for purchases or ATM withdrawals. Checks, while not as popular as they once were, are also typically provided.
Savings accounts, on the other hand, don’t usually come with debit cards. Some financial institutions offer an ATM card for deposits and withdrawals to a savings account. Similarly, they lack checks. This reinforces the idea that these accounts are not for spending.
Withdrawal Limits
Checking accounts allow unlimited withdrawals, whereas savings accounts may only allow up to six per month. After that point, the transaction could be denied or the account holder charged a penalty. The bank might even convert the savings account into a checking account.
However, in April 2020, the Federal Reserve lifted this limitation of six transactions imposed through Regulation D. Financial institutions are no longer required to limit savings account withdrawals or transfers to six per month, but some may continue to do so. Check with your financial institution to learn the full story.
What Is a Savings Account?
A savings account is an account held at a financial institution such as a bank or credit union, and its primary purpose is to store your funds safely. Most savings accounts allow the account holder to earn interest on the account balance.
A few points to note:
• Savings account rates are generally higher than those offered with checking accounts (if those pay any interest at all). For this reason, they can be a good option as a savings vehicle for money that the account holder doesn’t need to access frequently.
• Common uses for savings accounts are emergency funds, short-term savings goals, and funds for occasional expenses. The cash can accumulate in the savings account and have an opportunity to earn interest.
• As mentioned above, banks can still impose a per-month transaction limit on savings accounts — they’re just not required to by the Fed anymore. There could be fees imposed on these excess transactions, which can add up.
• Some financial institutions may automatically close an account holder’s savings account or convert the savings account to a checking account if too many withdrawals are made each month on a regular basis.
• Other financial institutions don’t charge a maintenance fee or require account holders to maintain a minimum account balance, although they may require a minimum deposit to open an account. It’s wise to check with your financial institution to make sure you understand the ground rules.
💡 Quick Tip: Most savings accounts only earn a fraction of a percentage in interest. Not at SoFi. Our high-yield savings account can help you make meaningful progress towards your financial goals.
Benefits of Savings Accounts
Here are some of the upsides of opening and maintaining a savings account:
• Savings accounts are low-risk, which means you are unlikely to lose money. Rather, you are likely to make money, thanks to interest, especially when that interest compounds.
• Interest is a plus. By shopping around for high-yield accounts, you may be able to grow your money without the volatility of investing in, say, stocks.
• Savings accounts are usually insured by the FDIC for up to $250,000 per account holder, per account ownership category, per insured institution. In the highly unlikely event of your bank going out of business, you’d be covered. What’s more, some banks participate in programs that extend the FDIC insurance to cover millions1.
• Easy access is another plus. Unless term or time deposits, in which your money can be locked up for a specific period of time, savings accounts allow for easy withdrawal of your funds.
• Peace of mind can come with savings. Having a savings account can help you feel more secure as you work toward your financial goals. For instance, you’ll know that you have funds available if an emergency cropped up.
Recommended: Guide to Using an ATM
What Is a Checking Account?
A checking account is also held at a financial institution, though its primary purpose is to be used for everyday spending. These accounts generally don’t have any withdrawal limits, so account holders can make as many transactions as their heart desires.
• Debit cards typically come with checking accounts, and can be used for purchases at bricks-and-mortar and online retailers and to withdraw cash from an ATM.)
• Checking account holders may also be able to use paper checks, either complimentary or purchased by the account holder, which can be used to pay bills and make purchases.
• Account holders may also access their funds by P2P platforms (such as Venmo or PayPal) and other means.
Checking accounts may not earn as much interest compared to savings accounts, if they earn any interest at all.
Many financial institutions charge the same types of fees for checking accounts and savings accounts, such as monthly maintenance fees. Additional checking account fees may include overdraft or non-sufficient funds fees and out-of-network ATM fees.
Having enough money in the account and sticking with in-network ATMs are good ways to avoid charges like these, but banks are required to disclose certain fees it charges. Take a look at the fee schedule for any particular type of account you are thinking of opening and get acquainted with the details.
Benefits of Checking Accounts
There are many advantages to having a checking account, including:
• You can pay bills and transfer funds online, in person, or by app; there’s no need to carry around cash for such transactions. Checking accounts can make money management very convenient.
• Checking accounts are typically insured by the FDIC (or, if you bank with a credit union, NCUA), so your money is safe. Even if the financial institution were to go out of business, you wouldn’t lose your money up to $250,000 per account holder, per account ownership category, per insured institution.
• Checking accounts can be an affordable way to conduct financial transactions. For instance, your account is likely to come with checks, which can save you the effort and expense of using money orders or other types of payments in many situations.
• Your checking account may offer rewards, such as cash back opportunities, or if you apply for a loan at the same institution, you may get a better rate.
Recommended: Ways to Avoid Overdraft Fees
The Takeaway
Yes, there are significant differences between checking and savings accounts. They serve quite separate purposes (spending vs. saving) and can be useful in working toward varied financial goals. For many people, however, it’s not a question of which kind of account to open, but where’s the best place to open both.
When you’re looking for the best banks for checking and savings accounts, see what SoFi can offer.
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 4.60% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.
3 Great Benefits of Direct Deposit
It’s Faster
As opposed to a physical check that can take time to clear, you don’t have to wait days to access a direct deposit. Usually, you can use the money the day it is sent. What’s more, you don’t have to remember to go to the bank or use your app to deposit your check.
It’s Like Clockwork
Whether your check comes the first Wednesday of the month or every other Friday, if you sign up for direct deposit, you know when the money will hit your account. This is especially helpful for scheduling the payment of regular bills. No more guessing when you’ll have sufficient funds.
It’s Secure
While checks can get lost in the mail — or even stolen, there is no chance of that happening with a direct deposit. Also, if it’s your paycheck, you won’t have to worry about your or your employer’s info ending up in the wrong hands.
FAQ
Are interest rates variable on savings and checking accounts?
Savings and checking accounts virtually always have variable interest rates.
Are checking or savings accounts insured?
Yes, both checking and savings accounts are usually insured by the FDIC (or NCUA) for up to $250,000 per account holder, per account ownership category, per insured institution.
Is it better to have most of your money in a savings or checking account?
When comparing checking vs. savings accounts, know this: If you have a chunk of the money that will sit in the bank for a period of time, a savings account can be a wise choice since it will earn interest.
Photo credit: iStock/AleksandarNakic
1SoFi Bank is a member FDIC and does not provide more than $250,000 of FDIC insurance per legal category of account ownership, as described in the FDIC’s regulations. Any additional FDIC insurance is provided by banks in the SoFi Insured Deposit Program. Deposits may be insured up to $2M through participation in the program. See full terms at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/terms. See list of participating banks at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/receivingbanks.
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 4.60% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a deposit to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government 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, do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate.
SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.60% 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 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 4.60% 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 10/24/2023. 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.
Are you a little obsessed with planning your next big trip? We hear you! The excitement of seeing new places — whether that means a faraway tropical island or a neighboring state — is a powerful lure. But there’s one thing that may get in the way: Money.
Let’s be real, travel can be expensive. Even if you’re hopping in the car for a short weekend road trip, the cost of gas, food, entertainment, accommodations, and more can get a bit overwhelming. Fortunately, with a little bit of planning, you can make your travel dreams a reality. And it can all begin by creating a travel fund.
What Is a Travel Fund?
A travel fund is exactly what it sounds like — a fund exclusively used for gallivanting around the world. It’s a place to stash some cash that you don’t use for rent, bills, repaying student loans, or any other monthly financial obligations. This fund is just for your passion in life. And your passion is clearly traveling.
How to Fund Traveling
Unfortunately, a travel savings account will not grow by magic. If only! You’ll need to find ways to funnel some cash towards your travel plans. There are a variety of ways to do this. Perhaps you got a raise recently (nice!) and can put that amount directly towards travel. Or, maybe you can automatically whisk $25 or $50 per paycheck into your savings. Or, you might give up concert tickets or takeout food for a while to allow some wiggle room in your budget that goes towards paying for your next getaway. There are many options — some of which we’ll explore below.
Recommended: 15 Easy Ways to Save Money
Setting Up a Dedicated Travel Savings Account
There are a few options for where to keep your travel fund. Yes, you could keep your vacation fund in the same account as your day-to-day savings, but separating the fund could provide even more clarity.
Keeping your travel fund in a separate account can make it easy to see how close you are to reaching your travel goal. It allows you to see exactly how much money you’ve saved for the cause with ease. Having the money in a separate account also allows you to set up automatic contributions, just as you might already be doing with your other accounts.
Automating your savings towards travel means you can eliminate another task from your to-do list. You’ll be making progress toward your dream of cruising down the Nile without even having to think about it. And since it’s stashed separately, you don’t need to worry that you’ll use it on, say, entertainment or new shoes without realizing it.
Tips on Selecting an Account to Use
When it comes to setting up a dedicated travel fund, the first order of business is usually to pick an account type. There are a variety of options to choose from. Part of what will likely influence your decision is how long you plan on saving. If you want to take a trip in just a few months, a savings account may be a good vehicle. You can easily contribute to it, and you’ll earn some interest.
To help your travel fund grow faster, you may want to go with a high yield savings account. These accounts typically pay a much higher annual percentage yield (APY) than traditional savings accounts, giving you the ability to earn more on your money while still enjoying the security of a federally insured account. These days, many high-yield savings accounts offer APYs of up to 5% or more — many times more than the average national rate of 0.46%.
Some of these accounts may come with certain restrictions, like a limited number of withdrawals a month or maintaining a minimum balance, so be sure to read the fine print on each account you might be considering.
Another is a certificate of deposit (CD), which locks up your money for a particular term, typically from six months to a few years. This type of account can sometimes offer a more competitive interest rate than a traditional savings account but comes with withdrawal restrictions. If you choose to withdraw the money before the term ends, you’ll likely have to pay a penalty or fee.
Yet another option is to use a cash management account with a brokerage firm. These accounts are meant as an option for your uninvested money. They can also be great for putting away some extra money to save, but again — do read the fine print. Fees may be involved, plus commissions if a broker steps in to help you with your investments. Make sure that these won’t cut into your savings.
All of these options will allow you to keep your vacation fund separate from your checking account, emergency savings, or regular savings account. You may even be able to give it a unique name like “travel fund” or even more specific like “Tahiti fund.” It’s much more exciting to watch “dream trip to Bali fund” grow than just “account: 3283052.”
Growing Your Travel Fund
After you’ve created your unique travel fund, it’s time to put in some savings work. And that begins with your budget. If you already have a budget, that’s great. All you need to do is add in “travel fund” as a new line item and shift as much money as you feel comfortable moving to this new account each month.
But, if you’re starting from scratch, that’s OK too. Trying to save for the trip of a lifetime is just as good an excuse as any to start budgeting.
To build a budget, you’ll want to start by figuring out your average monthly take-home income (what you earn after taxes are taken out). Next, it’s good to create a list of all your monthly expenses. You’ll want to include all the basics like rent or mortgage, car payments, student loans, credit card statements, food, gas, insurance, gym memberships, streaming accounts, and any money you currently put towards saving and investing. Make sure to get as granular as possible about your spending.
Next, subtract your average monthly expenses from your average monthly income to see how much you have leftover. If it’s more than $0, that’s excellent news! You can put the excess towards your travel fund. If not, you’ll need to find some places to cut back on spending.
Recommended: How to Make a Budget in 5 Steps
Finding Extra Cash for Your Travel Account
If you’d like that leftover number in your budget to be higher, maybe it’s time to take a look at both your spending and your current income level. Perhaps you can see where changes can be made.
One of the potentially easiest ways to create more cash for your travel fund is to look deeply at your monthly spending. Are you still subscribing to that streaming service you never (or rarely) watch? Are you signed up for the premium version of that social media platform you haven’t been on in months?
What about that gym membership? How’s that going for you? Go ahead and get rid of things that aren’t bringing you joy or are dispensable. Then, refocus those funds in your travel fund.
If there’s no room for cuts, then it might be time to increase your income. Of course, you could always ask for a raise at work, but if that doesn’t come through, explore some other options — like a side hustle. A side hustle is a gig you take on outside your normal work to make some extra money. If you can, pick something you really enjoy doing so it feels less like “work.” For example, if you love dogs but aren’t ready to own one, maybe walking dogs before work would be fun for you.
If you are a handy person who likes to fix things, creating a listing on a site like Thumbtack or TaskRabbit may be a good idea. If you have other talents like photography, writing, or graphic design, you might do some networking to see if you can drum up some freelance work. That way, you can get paid for what you love to do and save for what you love too.
Recommended: How Families Can Afford to Travel on Vacation
SoFi: Your Partner in Creating a Travel Fund
By now, you’ve committed to adjusting your budget and setting aside cash in a new fund. The only thing left to do is find the best place to stash your cash.
When choosing where to put your travel fund, you’ll want to find an account that pays a competitive yield, keeps your money safe, and allows you to easily access your funds when it’s time to set off for your next adventure.
SoFi Travel has teamed up with Expedia to bring even more to your one-stop finance app, helping you book reservations — for flights, hotels, car rentals, and more — all in one place. SoFi Members also have exclusive access to premium savings, with 10% or more off on select hotels. Plus, earn unlimited 3%** cash back rewards when you book with your SoFi Unlimited 2% Credit Card through SoFi Travel.
Wherever you’re going, get there with SoFi Travel.
FAQ
How much should I keep in my travel fund?
To come up with a travel savings goal, you’ll want to determine how much you’ll need for your trip and when you want to take it. From there, you can determine how much you’ll need to transfer into your travel fund each month to reach your goal. For example, if your trip will cost $2,500 and you plan to travel in six months, you’ll need to set aside around $33 a month.
How do I set up a travel fund?
Setting up a travel fund can take only a matter of minutes. It can be as easy as opening a savings account online and then directing money towards it. You can also go into a brick-and-mortar bank to set up an account.
How can I save money on a travel fund?
To save money on a travel fund, look for a savings account that doesn’t charge monthly fees and offers a competitive interest rate. These two factors will help boost your savings and get you on your dream vacation as quickly as possible.
**Terms, and conditions apply: The SoFi Travel Portal is operated by Expedia. To learn more about Expedia, click https://www.expediagroup.com/home/default.aspx.
When you use your SoFi Credit Card to make a purchase on the SoFi Travel Portal, you will earn a number of SoFi Member Rewards points equal to 3% of the total amount you spend on the SoFi Travel Portal. Members can save up to 10% or more on eligible bookings.
Eligibility:
You must be a SoFi registered user. You must agree to SoFi’s privacy consent agreement. You must book the travel on SoFi’s Travel Portal reached directly through a link on the SoFi website or mobile application. Travel booked directly on Expedia’s website or app, or any other site operated or powered by Expedia is not eligible. You must pay using your SoFi Credit Card.
SoFi Member Rewards: All terms applicable to the use of SoFi Member Rewards apply. To learn more please see: https://www.sofi.com/rewards/ and Terms applicable to Member Rewards.
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.
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.
Florida is a popular destination for beaches, theme parks, rocket launches and more. However, one of the more underrated destinations in this state is Fort Walton Beach. Let’s take a look at how to get there, the best things to do in Fort Walton Beach and where to stay once you arrive.
The best things to do in Fort Walton Beach
Fort Walton Beach offers many things to do for every type of traveler. Whether you’re visiting as a family, with friends or on a couple’s getaway, you’ll find plenty of attractions, cultural experiences and outdoor adventures to fit your budget.
1. Paddleboard along the coast
Fort Walton Beach offers calm, clear waters in its bays, which is perfect for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). This activity is one the best things to do in Fort Walton Beach whether you’re an expert or a beginner.
Some of the locals’ favorite spots include Norriego Point, Okaloosa Island Beach and Gulf Islands National Seashore. If you don’t have your own equipment, local businesses rent boards to visitors wanting to enjoy the sun and water.
2. Visit the Air Force Armament Museum
For the AV geek or military buff in your family, the Air Force Armament Museum is a must. This military museum features over 29 different aircraft ranging in age from the War II-era to present day. Inside, you’ll also find exhibits featuring hundreds of pieces of armament, including bombs and missiles.
It’s a good option for budget-conscious travelers because admission is free. It’s open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., including most federal holidays.
3. Learn local history at Fort Walton Beach Heritage Park and Cultural Center
The Fort Walton Beach Heritage Park and Cultural Center is the place to be for visitors wanting to learn about local history. This museum showcases the area’s history from 12,000 B.C. through the 1950s.
The park includes numerous attractions, such as Indian Temple Mound Museum, Camp Walton Schoolhouse Museum, Garnier Post Office Museum, Fort Walton Temple Mound and the Civil War Exhibit Building.
Purchase your admission inside the Indian Temple Mound Museum for $5 per person. One ticket includes admission to all of the attractions listed above. The museums open at 10 a.m. and close by 3 p.m. (or earlier). It is closed on Sundays, Mondays and all major holidays.
4. Step into the Norriego Point tide pools
The Norriego Point tide pools offer a shallow water experience for visitors of all ages. The tide pools are cordoned off from open waters to provide a safe space for small children and inexperienced swimmers.
In the tide pools, you’ll discover numerous types of fish, hermit crabs and more. Learn about the local sea life up close. These also offer a unique vantage point to watch the boats coming into the harbor.
There is no cost to visit the Norriego Point tide pools. However, parking is limited, so consider parking at nearby O’steen Beach or on the local streets.
5. Feed an alligator at Gator Beach
Another activity at Fort Walton Beach is seeing the alligators at Gator Beach. There is no admission fee, and its considered the largest alligator park on the Emerald Coast.
This attraction features hundreds of alligators; for a small fee, visitors can feed the gators. If you’re brave enough, you can even take a picture while holding a live alligator. There are also multiple shows and tours throughout the day to learn about this local species.
6. Experiment at the Emerald Coast Science Center
The Emerald Coast Science Center in Fort Walton Beach is one of many attractions for families with young children.
This interactive, hands-on museum features numerous exhibits for guests, including dinosaur fossils, robotics, chemistry demonstrations and a handful of outdoor exhibits. Plus, there are additional areas with live birds, mammals and reptiles to round out your science adventure.
The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $12 per person, and children two and under are free.
7. Camp at Henderson Beach State Park
While many travelers prefer a nice hotel, others are looking for a more rustic experience. Camping at Henderson Beach State Park allows visitors to immerse themselves in the outdoors and enjoy 30-foot sand dunes and warm Gulf Coast waters.
The state park offers 60 campsites, fishing opportunities and a nature trail. It’s adjacent to the beach, and campers can access the water using the boardwalk.
Visitors can make reservations up to 10 months in advance (11 months for Florida residents). Campsite prices range from $16 to $42 per night and cabins are $30 to $160 a night. Florida State Parks also charges a nonrefundable fee of $6.70 per reservation. You can book your stay online or over the phone at 800-326-3521.
8. Become a mermaid at Reefs & Wrecks Remembered
If you or your child has ever dreamed of becoming a mermaid, this dream can become reality at Reefs and Wrecks. This PADI-certified company offers three different types of mermaid experiences for different levels of swimmers.
The entry level course is the Discover Mermaid experience in a shallow pool. For experienced divers, the Advanced Mermaid course includes two sessions in open water where you can test out your mermaid skills. Prices start at $145 and go up to $450, depending on the course selected.
9. Go fishing at The Island Pier
Throw out a line or just enjoy the views from The Island Pier. This pier stretches 1,262 into the Gulf of Mexico, so it offers unparalleled views of the beach and water.
Local marine life includes dolphins, sea turtles, herons and pelicans. Visitors can purchase a daily fishing license, buy lures and tackle or rent equipment from shops on the pier.
If you’re unable to catch anything, don’t worry about going hungry. The pier’s shop serves sandwiches, ice cream, snacks and drinks.
10. Stroll the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk
Along the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk, you’ll find a variety of dining options, gift shops and activities. There are numerous restaurants to choose from based on your budget and appetite.
Plus, visitors can enjoy the children’s playground, splash pad and sand volleyball courts. During the summer, stick around after dark for the fireworks show on Wednesday evenings.
11. Shop local at the Downtown Fort Walton Beach Farmers Market
Support local farmers, artisans and crafters by shopping at the Downtown Fort Walton Beach Farmers Market. The market is open year-round on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month. It operates from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., so arrive early for the best selection.
The Okaloosa Farmers Market is another option where you can buy local goods. It operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
12. Go snorkeling at Stingray Bay
The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is a unique experience for travelers. The park offers numerous animal encounters, including dolphins, harbor seals, penguins and stingrays.
Ticket prices are $30 or less, depending on your age. Florida residents receive a discount.
One of the experiences available is to snorkel in Stingray Bay. For an additional $59, you’ll get 30 minutes to snorkel and interact with cownose rays, small sharks, groupers and numerous fish species.
13. Experience the fun at Crab Island
One of the top things to do in Fort Walton Beach is Crab Island, which takes advantage of the shallow waters and raised sandbars along the Gulf Coast.
In most places, the water is only one to four feet deep, so it’s safe even if you don’t know how to swim. Visitors will find obstacle courses, floating bars and more for fun in the sun.
Only accessible by boat, many people rent one or bring their own to visit Crab Island. Some arrive on pontoon boats so they have a place to rest and relax during the day. There are also tour and water taxi options.
While there is food available from floating food vendors and restaurants, you cannot purchase alcohol on Crab Island. You’ll have to bring your own if you want to enjoy an adult beverage.
Where is Fort Walton Beach, Florida?
Fort Walton Beach is located on the Florida panhandle, across the Choctawhatchee Bay from Destin. The city is about two hours east of Mobile, Alabama, and about an hour west of Panama City Beach, Florida.
How to get to Fort Walton Beach, Florida
Fort Walton Beach is a popular road trip destination for travelers in the South. However, the local Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport is also an option for those who wish to fly. The airport is serviced by Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines and Sun Country Airlines.
There are numerous nonstop flights from airports across the country, including Boston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Minneapolis, Las Vegas and Washington-National.
Where to stay in Fort Walton Beach
Travelers have a variety of lodging options when booking their vacation to Fort Walton Beach. Here are a few from several major hotel chains, along with how many points are needed to book a room there in 2024.
Tru by Hilton Fort Walton Beach: Redemptions from 22,000 to 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
Holiday Inn Express Fort Walton Beach Central: Redemptions from 14,000 to 43,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Fort Walton Beach-West Destin: Redemptions from 32,000 to 48,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
You can earn a large sum of points quickly by getting the sign-up bonus for new hotel and travel credit cards. Generally speaking, to earn a bonus, you need to spend a certain amount within a specific time frame after signing up for the card.
Top hotel credit cards
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
on Chase’s website
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
on Chase’s website
Annual fee
Sign-up bonus
Limited time offer! Earn 5 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after spending $5,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card.
Earn 155,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.
Earn 165,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Still not sure?
Once you reach that threshold, you’ll earn a bulk sum of points or miles that can be used toward award redemptions.
Other accommodations in Fort Walton Beach can be booked through Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo using OneKey Rewards.
Things to do in Fort Walton Beach recapped
Beach vacationers should consider visiting Fort Walton Beach in the Florida panhandle. There are many fun things to do for adults and kids alike. Learn about the city’s history, make new friends with local wildlife, go fishing and enjoy a variety of water activities.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
The joy our furry and feathered friends add to our lives is priceless. But pet ownership does come at a dollars-and-cents cost. From basics like adoption fees and food to expensive emergency veterinary care, being a pet parent can be, well, ruff on your bank account.
Pet loans are one way to pay for the expenses of having a pet, but it’s usually a good idea to consider alternatives before going into debt.
Read on to learn about how pet loans may be able to help you meet the financial demands of pet ownership and what other options are available.
What Is Pet Financing?
Pet financing refers, essentially, to taking out a personal loan to pay for the cost of owning a pet. While some banks may market the loans specifically as pet loans, they work the same way.
A personal loan is unsecured debt, which means the bank doesn’t have any collateral to turn to in the event the loan is not repaid. This means that personal loans, including pet loans, may have stricter eligibility requirements and higher interest rates. 💡 Quick Tip: Before choosing a personal loan, ask about the lender’s fees: origination, prepayment, late fees, etc. SoFi personal loans come with no-fee options, and no surprises.
Cost of Owning a Pet
While the specifics will depend on what kind of pet you own — a fish costs a lot less to feed and care for than a Great Dane — all types of pet ownership come with some costs involved. Here are some of the common expenses you may encounter:
• Purchase or adoption fees, which can vary significantly. Buying a purebred puppy could cost thousands of dollars, while an adoption fee might be a nominal $25 for a cat at the shelter.
• Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccines, which pets need in order to be safe (and, in the case of the rabies vaccines in some U.S. states, legal to keep)
• Food, which can run the gamut from cheap kibble to expensive raw or fresh foods
• Supplies you need to keep your pet safe and happy, like food and water dishes, beds, crates, litter boxes and litter, collars and leashes, or treats.
• Veterinary care or medical procedures that may cost far more than regular upkeep, like dental work or surgery to repair a broken bone
What Can I Use a Pet Loan For?
Because a pet loan is basically just a personal loan, you can use the money for pretty much anything you want. (If the bank you’re borrowing from is offering a pet loan specifically, you can check and ensure that there are no rules or restrictions around what the money can be used for.)
Here are some of the most common ways you might use the funds from a pet loan.
Pet Purchase Financing
If you’re purchasing a pricy purebred, or if the setup phase of pet ownership comes at a steep cost (i.e., if you’re getting into saltwater fish tanks), you might want to use the money from your pet loan to fund the purchase or adoption of your pet.
Pet ownership tends to be more expensive in the first year or so than in subsequent years, since new pets may often need to be spayed or neutered or have their first rounds of puppy or kitten shots. Using a pet loan to get into pet ownership may make sense if you know you’ll have the money to pay back the loan and afford continued care throughout the pet’s life.
Pet Health Care Financing
Just as with humans, health-care related costs for pets can be high. The average cost of routine vet care can be as much as $350 on average during the first year of pet ownership, and $250 per year after that.
That may not sound like much. But alongside other major expenses, like food — which can run as high as $500 or more per year on its own — vet bills can really add up, and may be a reason some owners choose to take out a pet loan.
Pet Surgery Financing
We all hope our four-legged friends never need major medical care, but when they do, it can be just as worrisome for our wallets as our hearts. For instance, even a routine surgery like a spay can cost up to $600 at a private veterinary practice. And if your dog needs a dental cleaning — which is done under anesthesia— the cost may jump tp $1,500 or higher
So using a pet loan to pay for a pet’s surgery can make a lot of sense, though there are still other alternatives to consider (which we’ll get into below).
Pet Care Financing
As anyone who has a dog or cat who can’t or won’t travel knows, pet care can be expensive, particularly if you’re paying for overnight pet-sitting for several days in a row.
Whether you’re boarding your kitty or pup or enlisting the help of a professional pet watcher, you might spend around $50 per night or more. This adds up quickly when you factor in other costs of travel. That’s why pet care might be another reason to take out a pet loan.
Pet Store Financing
For pet owners, a trip to the pet store can feel like being a kid in the candy shop. But most of the items you can purchase cost far more than a nickel or a quarter.
You could use a pet loan to purchase supplies from the pet store, such as feeding dishes, bedding, treats, and toys. (If you’re hoping to finance your own pet store, on the other hand, you’d probably want to look into a business loan.)
Can I Get Pet Financing With Bad Credit?
Like any type of financing, the better your credit, the easier it is to get a pet loan — especially since, again, it’s an unsecured form of debt and therefore riskier for the bank.
While many factors about your financial situation will be assessed, like your income, other current debts, and job stability, you’ll likely need a credit score of at least 610 or higher to qualify. And some banks may have a higher minimum credit score than that.
💡 Quick Tip: Generally, the larger the personal loan, the bigger the risk for the lender — and the higher the interest rate. So one way to lower your interest rate is to try downsizing your loan amount.
Reasons to Take Out a Pet Loan
From a financial stability perspective, it may be a good idea to avoid going into debt to take care of your pet, though in some cases, a pet loan may be the best option.
For example, if you need to take out a loan to afford a pet at all, it might be worth waiting until you’re in a stronger financial state before getting into pet ownership.
But if you already have a pet and are facing unexpected medical costs, taking out a pet loan may make more financial sense than, say, going into credit card debt for treatment. Still, a personal loan can impact your overall financial situation in a multitude of ways, so it’s worth considering all your options before making a plan.
Alternatives to Pet Loans
If you’re considering taking out a pet loan, here are some alternatives to put on the table before you sign the paperwork.
• Pet insurance can help lower the overall cost of veterinary care from the start. However, like human insurance, you may need to be careful to work with a vet who’s in-network in order to glean any savings.
• A veterinary payment plan may be available at your local clinic and may even offer 0% interest options based on your financial need. If you work with a private veterinary clinic, it’s worth asking if they have payment plans available, even if they don’t advertise them.
• Veterinary schools and low-cost clinics may offer the same care at a lower cost, whether to help new veterinarians with their training or simply to provide options for lower-income pet owners in the community.
• Savings can be a good option if you have an ample emergency cushion saved up, and may allow you to avoid going into debt. However, if your pet loan is at a low enough interest rate and you’re still working on building up an emergency savings fund, you might not want to break into it for Fido.
• Credit cards are another option that allow you to pay off large bills over time, and some credit cards offer a promotional 0% interest period. That said, if you are unable to pay off the debt in full before the promotional period ends, you may be stuck with an APR of 20% or higher, and that kind of interest rate can make it even more challenging to get out of debt.
The Takeaway
A pet loan can help you finance some of the costs of pet ownership. But keep in mind it’s still a form of debt, so it’s worth carefully considering alternative options before you sign up.
Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.
SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.
FAQ
Can I take out a loan for a dog?
If your credit history is strong enough, you may be able to take out a pet loan — a type of personal loan — to pay for the cost of adopting or purchasing a dog, or any of the costs associated with their care thereafter. However, if you can’t afford to own a dog out of pocket, you’ll want to think carefully about whether or not it’s a smart financial move.
What credit score do you need for pet financing?
While each bank has its own specific requirements around minimum credit scores, for most personal loans, including pet loans you won’t be able to qualify with a score lower than 610. (Of course, your credit score isn’t the only thing that matters. The bank will also look at your income, existing debts, job stability, and more.)
What do you do if you can’t afford to keep your pet?
There are many options available to those who’ve found they can’t afford to keep their pets. While turning your pet over to a humane shelter or otherwise rehoming them with a trustworthy family is one way to go, you may also be able to lower the cost of pet care by visiting low-cost veterinary clinics or taking out a pet loan.
Photo credit: iStock/AleksandarNakic
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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.