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June 8, 2023 by Brett Tams

If you have a savings account, how much interest does it earn? Probably not enough. And if you don’t have a savings account, why not?

A savings account isn’t meant to make you rich. It’s a safe, if not very sexy, way to plan for your future and protect your money. But things get more interesting when you choose a high-yield savings account instead of a traditional savings account. A traditional account will pay pennies on your balance, but a high-yield savings account can help you earn extra money you’ll actually notice.

But how do you choose a savings account when there are so many out there? We did the research for you. These are the top high-yield savings accounts with the best interest rates, features, and benefits.

What’s Ahead:

Best high-yield savings accounts

The Ally Online Savings Account is our top pick for the best high-yield savings account overall because it consistently offers a competitive interest rate and includes features to help you save. For beginners, the Discover Online Savings Account might be a better option thanks to its simple platform and above-average support. The CIT Savings Account is our second runner-up because it has the highest APY of the bunch but does come with a minimum deposit requirement.

We also considered the Axos Bank High-Yield Savings Account, High-Yield Chime® Savings Account, Capital One 360 Performance Savings Account, and Marcus Online Savings Account for our list. Even though these didn’t make our top three, they’re all good choices well worth checking out.

Best overall: Ally Online Savings Account

Ally Bank's logoPros

  • No fees
  • No minimums
  • Boosters to help you save faster

Cons

  • No branch locations

Features

  • Minimum balance: $0
  • Minimum deposit: $0
  • APY: 2.50%
  • Monthly fee: $0

The Ally Online Savings Account is the best high-yield savings account overall offering a generous interest rate and tons of free features to help you save. And speaking of free, this account really is. There are no monthly maintenance fees, overdraft fees, or transfer fees to deplete your earnings.

This high-yield savings account supports you to save by giving you the option to create buckets for different goals and use boosters to save faster. The boosters are:

  • Recurring Transfers – schedules automatic transfers from a linked account
  • Round Ups – rounds up your Ally debit card purchases to the nearest dollar and sends the extra to your savings
  • Surprise Savings – points out money in your checking account that isn’t being used for anything and moves it to your savings

This account is easy to open. There are no minimum balance requirements to earn interest and you can fund it with as little as $0.01. While Ally technically uses balance tiers (<$5,000, $5000 – $24,999.99, and >$25,000), all positive balances currently earn the same rate.

For help with any issues you might have, Ally offers 24/7 live customer support via chat or phone.

Learn more about the Ally Online Savings Account or read our full review.

Best for beginners: Discover Online Savings Account

Discover Bank logoPros

  • No fees
  • No minimums
  • Instant transfers between Discover accounts

Cons

  • Very few branch locations
  • No advanced savings features like buckets or round-ups

Features

  • Minimum balance: $0
  • Minimum deposit: $0
  • APY: 4.00%
  • Monthly fee: $0

The Discover Online Savings Account gets pretty much everything right, from the competitive interest rate to the lack of account fees. We love this high-yield savings account for beginners because it’s easy to use and doesn’t have minimums.

There is no minimum deposit to open or minimum balance required to earn interest or avoid having your account shut down, making this the perfect option for you even if you only have a few bucks to put away right now. You can even open an account with nothing and come back later to fund it.

Although this is a pretty basic account with few bells and whistles, there’s no monthly maintenance fee to worry about and you’ll earn interest on any balance. Plus, the Discover mobile app is notoriously solid, and ditto for customer service.

Interest is compounded daily and credited monthly into your account. If you have a Discover checking account and debit card, you can easily transfer money between this and your savings account. You can also schedule automatic recurring transfers to put your saving on autopilot.

Discover does have some branch locations, but they’re really limited, so you might not have the option to manage your account in person. This account also lacks features to help organize and simplify your saving such as buckets and round-ups.

Learn more about the Discover Online Savings Account or read our full review.

Best for long-term saving: CIT Savings Connect Account

CIT Bank logoPros

  • No fees
  • No minimum balance

Cons

  • Minimum deposit required
  • No branch locations

Features

  • Minimum balance: $0
  • Minimum deposit: $100
  • APY: 4.50%
  • Monthly fee: $0

For high-interest saving, the CIT Savings Connect Account is an excellent choice. This is a newer account with a really competitive APY of 4.50%. There are no minimum balance requirements to earn this rate and you only need to deposit $100 to open. Plus, there are no monthly fees. See details here.

CIT Bank also reimburses up to $30 in third-party ATM fees per statement period and supports free mobile check deposits and external transfers.

The CIT Savings Connect account currently pays the same interest rate on all balance tiers, so you don’t have to worry about maintaining a certain balance or making regular deposits to avoid fees and earn more (although automating your saving is never a bad idea).

This basic account would be a good fit for most people, especially those looking for a fee-free option with no balance requirements. It has one of the best rates and is one of the most straightforward to open and use, so it could make a great primary or secondary savings bucket. Choose the CIT Savings Connect account if getting the best interest rate is your top priority.

CIT Bank offers a number of other savings products including stand-out money market accounts and CDs, so keep this bank in mind if you have a few different savings goals and want to make sure you’re getting the highest rates.

Learn more about the CIT Savings Connect account.

CIT Bank. Member FDIC.

CIT Savings Builder Account

And if you’re looking for another option from this online bank, you can do worse than the CIT Savings Builder Account. This high-yield savings account offers an interest rate of up to 1.00% with a low minimum initial deposit requirement of $100. There is no minimum balance required to keep your account, but your balance will determine your interest rate. See details here.

The CIT Savings Builder Account uses a tiered rate structure with a loophole. The balance tiers and interest rates are:

  • <$25,000 – 0.40% APY
  • <$25,000 – 1.00% APY if you make a monthly deposit of $100 or more
  • >$25,000 – 1.00% APY

If you can’t afford to put away more than $25,000, no worries. Just schedule an automatic transfer of at least $100 from a linked bank account to get yourself into the higher tier. This can also help you make saving a priority.

Because of the tiered interest rate structure, this high-yield savings account is ideal for people who plan to keep high balances and/or make regular contributions to their savings.

Learn more about the CIT Savings Builder Account or read our full review.

CIT Bank. Member FDIC.

Great alternatives

These accounts didn’t make our top three, but they still have a lot to offer, especially if you’re looking for an online savings account.

Axos Bank High-Yield Savings Account

Axos Bank logoFeatures

  • Minimum balance: $0
  • Minimum deposit: $250
  • APY: Up to 0.61%
  • Monthly fees: None

An Axos Bank High-Yield Savings Account is the right high-yield savings account for anyone looking to keep a low balance. There is a minimum deposit requirement of $250 to open an account, but any amount you save will earn interest. Axos uses a tiered rate structure but actually pays the highest rates on the lowest balances. You’ll earn 0.61% as long as your account stays below $24,999.99.

Each account comes with a free ATM card upon request for easy withdrawals. Plus, you can earn a referral bonus of $20 for every friend who opens an Essential Checking account using your unique link.

Open an Axos savings account or read our full review.

High-Yield Chime® Savings Account

Chime logoFeatures

  • Minimum balance: $0
  • Minimum deposit: $0
  • APY: 2.00%7
  • Monthly fees: None2

The High-Yield Chime Savings Account is a great online savings account that does your saving for you. With the Round Up Transfer and Save When I Get Paid features, you can completely forget about your saving and still make progress toward your goals. Round Ups will send the spare change from your purchases right to your savings^ and Save When I Get Paid lets you transfer up to 10% of each direct deposit of $500 or more to your savings account 1. A Chime Checking Account is required to be eligible for a Savings Account. 

This account charges no maintenance fees and has no minimum deposit or balance requirements. Check out Chime checking if you like the idea of saving and banking in one place with a platform that’s easy to use*.

Read our full review.

* Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC.
^ Round Ups automatically round up debit card purchases to the nearest dollar and transfer the round up from your Chime Checking Account to your savings account.
1 Save When I Get Paid automatically transfers 10% of your direct deposits of $500 or more from your Checking Account into your savings account.
2 There’s no fee for the Chime Savings Account. Cash withdrawal and Third-party fees may apply to Chime Checking Accounts. You must have a Chime Checking Account to open a Chime Savings Account.
7 The Annual Percentage Yield (“APY”) for the Chime Savings Account is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed APY is effective as of November 17, 2022. No minimum balance required. Must have $0.01 in savings to earn interest.

Capital One 360 Performance Savings Account

Capital One logoFeatures

  • Minimum balance: $0
  • Minimum deposit: $0
  • APY: 3.00%
  • Monthly fees: None

Opening a Capital One 360 Performance Savings account might be the way to go if you’re looking to automate your saving with a familiar consumer bank. This account pays the same interest rate of 3.00% on all balances and doesn’t cost anything to open. To stay on track with your saving, you can schedule recurring transfers from a Capital One or external account.

If you already have an account with Capital One, you’ll be able to make quick transfers from the app. Finally, there are Capital One branches and ATMs all over the country if you like the option of banking in person.

Open a Capital One savings account or read our full review.

Marcus Online Savings Account

Marcus by Goldman Sachs logoFeatures

  • Minimum balance: $0
  • Minimum deposit: $0
  • APY: 2.50%
  • Monthly fees: None

Marcus by Goldman Sachs is an online-only bank owned by investment company Goldman Sachs. A Marcus Online Savings Account is ideal for people who want control over their savings and like to strategize different ways to grow their money. This account offers a variety of tools and extensive research to help you make informed decisions with your savings and track your progress. You can even see exactly how much interest you’ve earned from the app.

You’ll earn 2.50% regardless of your balance and there’s no minimum deposit.

Open a Marcus savings account or read our full review.

What is a high-yield savings account?

A high-yield savings account offers a higher yield than traditional savings accounts. How much higher completely depends on the market and the institution, but may be as much as ten or fifteen times the average. You might also hear the term high-interest savings account used — this is the same thing.

Right now, the national average interest rate on a savings account is 0.37%, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or FDIC. The FDIC determines rate caps each month using the average interest rates for savings accounts, checking accounts, money market accounts, and certificates of deposit across all banks and credit unions.

How savings account interest works

There are two different ways interest can work with high-yield accounts. The first is to earn a variable interest rate and the second is to earn a tiered interest rate.

A high-yield savings account with a variable rate will pay the same interest rate on any balance. A savings account that uses a tiered interest structure will determine your rate based on your average balance and pay you according to which balance tier you fall into.

With a tiered interest rate, you often earn more interest the higher your balance is. This is to incentivize people to keep more money in their accounts. With a variable interest rate, it doesn’t matter what your balance is as long as you meet the minimum balance requirements (if there are any).

To make things a little more confusing, sometimes a bank or credit union will use a tiered interest rate structure but make the interest rate the same for every balance tier. All interest rates for online savings accounts are subject to change at any time.

Before you apply for an account, find out what rate you’ll qualify for with your balance and activity. Don’t get tricked into opening a high-yield savings account for the great interest rate unless you know you’ll actually earn that rate.

For example, a bank may advertise a high-yield savings account with an interest rate of 3.00% APY, but this rate only applies to balances over $15,000. The difference between the highest and lowest interest rates can be significant, so make sure you don’t get stuck with a lousy rate.

Read more: How to get the best savings account interest rate

What is the annual percentage yield (APY)?

Annual percentage yield is the rate of return you will earn calculated as a percentage of your savings account balance. You’ve probably noticed that the APY on an account is very slightly different from the interest rate. This is because the interest rate only shows simple interest.

The annual percentage yield or APY shows how much interest you can earn each year if you don’t take any of your money out. We like to look at the annual percentage yield rather than just the interest rate because it factors in compounding interest.

To estimate how much you can earn on a high-interest savings account, multiply the APY by your balance to see how much your account will grow if you don’t touch it.

When is interest calculated?

Interest may be calculated daily, weekly, or monthly for a savings account. This is how often your balance is used to determine how much interest you’ve earned.

This frequency can affect your earnings, and daily calculation is the best-case scenario. This is because the more frequently interest is calculated, the higher your balance will be each time it happens thanks to the interest you’ve already been paid. Interest you earn on interest is referred to as compound interest.

For example, a $1,000 balance earning a 1% interest rate pays you $10 in simple interest over a year. If interest is calculated daily, that $10 becomes $10.05 a year.

Read more: Savings interest calculator

Is interest taxed?

Yes, the interest you earn from your savings account will be taxed alongside your income, no matter how much money you bring in.

How to open a high-yield savings account

The basic process for opening a savings account is pretty much the same anywhere you go.

First, you’re going to provide some personal details including your basic contact information. Once your account has been approved, you’ll choose a funding option. Your options might be:

  • ACH transfer
  • Wire transfer
  • Direct deposit
  • Check deposit (paper or mobile)
  • Cash deposit

You need to meet minimum opening deposit requirements for your account when funding. Some banks will let you open a savings account without making a deposit right away. Just make sure you know the rules for your chosen account.

If you already have an account with the bank or credit union you’ve chosen, you can link this with your new savings account either before or after funding. This will allow for easy transfers in the future.

How to use a high-yield savings account

There’s a difference between just having a high-yield savings account and using it for all its worth. Here are some ways to make the most of high-interest savings.

Emergency fund

A high-yield savings account is the perfect place to keep your emergency fund. We recommend you have one savings account where you keep at least six months of your monthly living expenses, completely separate from the rest of your cash. You can take the money out if you get sick, lose your income, or face a large unexpected expense, and your balance will grow until then.

Short-term saving

A high-interest savings account is also a great place to save for short-term goals when you don’t want to put your money on the line with higher-risk investments. These accounts are safe and liquid, so your money is there when you’re ready for it and earning interest when you’re not.

For example, if you’re saving money to buy a new car or for your wedding in the next couple of years, you may be able to get a higher rate of return by investing in a mutual fund or other securities. But in such a short period of time, you may lose money. Investments are best for savings goals more than a few years away. For shorter-term goals, savings accounts are safer.

No matter what you’re saving for, a good rule of thumb is to save as often as possible and think about it as little as possible. If you rely on yourself to remember or feel like putting away money to save, you might have more trouble meeting your goals and start feeling frustrated when you don’t see your balance go up. Instead, take advantage of features that do the work for you. To save automatically, you can:

  • Set recurring transfers
  • Split your paycheck
  • Use booster features like roundups

Read more: The best place for short-term savings

What is the withdrawal limit for savings accounts?

Most savings accounts limit the number of withdrawals you’re allowed to make. This started with Federal Regulation D.

Federal Regulation D was a rule that limited the number of withdrawals or transfers that could be made from a savings account to six per month. This included withdrawals made in person, by phone, online, or through any other type of electronic transfer. If you made more than six transfers or withdrawals in a month, your bank might have charged you an excessive withdrawal fee or closed your account. 

In April 2020, Regulation D was suspended, but many banks still choose to restrict transactions and enforce the same penalties.

What to look for in a high-yield savings account

There are certain standout features that can immediately make or break a high-yield savings account.

Here are the main things to pay attention to when shopping for a savings account.

Minimum balance requirements

How much do you realistically plan to save? This is the first question you should ask yourself before signing up for an account. Many savings accounts have minimum balance requirements, and you won’t be doing yourself any favors if you open an account and can’t meet these.

If your account does have balance requirements, you must meet them in order to:

  1. Avoid monthly maintenance fees
  2. Earn interest
  3. Keep your account

Your balance at the end of each day is used to determine if you’re meeting requirements. If you’re not, you might be penalized.

Not all high-yield savings accounts have minimum balance requirements. Especially for online savings accounts, it’s becoming more common to not have any.

Read more: How much money should you save each month?

Minimum deposit requirements

Some banks may require you to make a certain minimum deposit when signing up for your account. Failure to do so may disqualify you from opening an account or result in a fee.

A minimum deposit requirement could be anywhere from $5 to $500. Sometimes minimum deposit and minimum balance requirements are the same, and sometimes not. It’s not uncommon for a bank to have a minimum deposit requirement but no minimum balance requirement or vice versa.

Many high-yield online savings accounts have very low or no minimum deposit requirements.

Interest and APY

You’re naturally going to gravitate toward accounts with the highest interest rates, right? That’s free money that you don’t have to work for. But be sure to pay attention to the requirements to earn interest too, not just the annual percentage yield.

For example, if a bank requires you to maintain a balance you can’t maintain to earn interest, it’s probably not the right bank for you. For your first savings account, you might prefer a variable interest rate over a tiered interest rate so you don’t have to worry about if your balance is high enough to earn interest.

Some banks also reserve their best interest rates for preferred customers. This might mean you need to have another account such as a checking account or loan to qualify for the highest APY, and that might be more trouble than it’s worth.

Monthly fees

Some banks still charge monthly maintenance fees on savings accounts, but many don’t. When your goal is to earn money on your savings, monthly fees you get charged just for having an account can really get in the way.

While you should generally look for accounts that don’t charge fees, you might make an exception if a bank offers a waiver. For example, the fee may be waived if you maintain a certain minimum balance in your account for each statement cycle or make a recurring transfer from another account.

If you feel like you can easily meet the requirements to waive a fee and an account is otherwise a perfect fit, go for it.

Cash access

Most people try to ignore the money in their high-yield savings account when they can to take advantage of compound interest.

But life happens, and sometimes you need to dip into your savings. When that happens, you should have convenient access to your money. You might be able to make a withdrawal via:

  • ACH transfer
  • Cash withdrawal
  • ATM withdrawal

Most savings accounts give you the option to make a transfer from your savings to a linked checking account. This checking account can either be with the same bank or another one entirely. If with the same bank, transfers may be instant.

Some banks also offer ATM cards with high-yield savings accounts, though you may incur a fee for ATM transactions. You can also make cash withdrawals at branch locations.

Any transfers or withdrawals you make will count toward your monthly transaction limit.

Mobile apps

Almost every bank out there offers a mobile app today, but some are far better than others. As you’re researching the features of an account, always look into the app too.

Saving from your phone only works when an app does what it’s supposed to, so functionality and convenience are important. You should be able to easily access your savings account, initiate transfers, and see your balance at any time. Those are the basics. You might also want an app that will let you make mobile check deposits, create savings goals, and chat with customer support when there’s an issue.

As a rule, online banks and larger institutions tend to have the best mobile apps. But while you might be looking for an app that’s simple and straightforward to use, someone else might prefer a robust app with educational resources, features, and a variety of notifications. Check out some customer reviews to see what real users have to say about their experiences.

Sign-up bonus

Many banks and credit unions offer sign-up bonuses when you open a high-yield savings account. These offers change all the time and can be quite enticing. For example, bonuses up to $200 are not uncommon. But while sign-up bonuses are nice, they’re not more important than interest rates, fees, and minimums.

Also, be aware that sign-up bonuses come with restrictions. Typically, you’ll need to maintain a certain minimum balance for a set amount of time to qualify. This may be six months or even longer. If your account balance drops below the minimum requirement at any time during the first six months, you may forfeit the bonus. Many bonuses also come with direct deposit requirements.

If you do qualify, you probably won’t get the bonus right away and may have to wait several weeks. All this to say that sign-up bonuses aren’t a good option for getting quick cash. Consider these after all of the other features we’ve outlined.

Are high-yield savings accounts safe?

Your money can’t get a lot safer than it is when it’s in a savings account.

Almost all savings accounts with banks are protected by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and insured for up to $250,000 per depositor. This insurance coverage protects your money in the event that your bank loses money and is unable to repay its deposits. Almost all savings accounts with credit unions are protected by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) for up to $250,000 per depositor. This provides the same protections.

If a bank or credit union is not FDIC- or NCUA-insured, you may qualify for private deposit insurance.

Benefits of online savings accounts

High-yield savings accounts and online savings accounts are often one and the same. Here are some of the top benefits you can expect from an online savings account.

Higher interest

A traditional savings account with your bank or credit union might seem like the best choice, but you can do a lot better. Compared to traditional accounts, online savings accounts tend to offer much better interest rates, plus benefits like fewer fees, extra savings features, and the convenience of opening and managing your account completely online (or from your phone).

Online savings accounts can pay higher interest rates because digital accounts are cheaper to operate, lowering a bank’s costs and passing on the savings to you in the form of better interest.

Fewer fees

Online savings accounts almost always have lower fees than traditional savings accounts for the same reasons they can offer better rates. Many charge no monthly fees at all.

Avoiding monthly fees like maintenance fees, low balance fees, and inactivity fees can save you serious money in the long run. Plus, let you actually keep the interest you’ve earned.

Convenience

Online savings accounts are much more convenient to open and use. You can open your account online and fund it by just transferring the money from another account. Usually, all of this takes less than five minutes.

An online account lets you make deposits, transfer money, pay bills, and see your account activity at any time without the need for a phone call or visit to the bank. You can even view your account statements and track your progress. If you’re not a fan of brick-and-mortar branches, an online savings account either with a fully-digital bank or a hybrid bank could be perfect for you.

Perks and benefits

Online savings accounts tend to come with a lot of great, free features. Automatic transfers into your savings account from your checking account, mobile check deposit, and account alerts are just a few common ones.

Some online savings accounts go above and beyond this. They might offer savings support like boosters and automated tools, help you create a saving strategy with resources and insights, or the option to organize your savings into separate buckets or categories.

Read more: Best online savings accounts

Disadvantages of savings accounts

Although a great tool for saving for your future and protecting your finances, savings accounts in general do have limitations. Let’s talk about some of those here.

Limited withdrawals

One of the main disadvantages of high-yield savings accounts is limited cash access. A lot of this has to do with withdrawal restrictions.

Remember, you’re often restricted to just six transactions per statement period with a savings account. This is a limit that was originally set by the federal government that many accounts still stick to. You shouldn’t use your savings account as a secondary spending account because when you hit that limit, you risk losing the account. This is why savings accounts should be for money you don’t immediately need.

If you’re looking for a place to set aside some extra money you do plan to dip into regularly, consider a high-yield checking account instead of a savings account. While the rates for high-yield checking accounts aren’t usually as good as the rates for high-yield savings accounts, you’ll have more flexibility to spend your money.

Read more: Best high-yield checking accounts compared

Rates can change at any time

Another downside to savings accounts is that the interest rates are always variable. This means the rate you earn on your balance can change at any time, and it definitely will as the market fluctuates. It’s important to remember that you’re not locked into the annual percentage yield you sign up for when you open a high-yield savings account.

And if the rate does change, your bank doesn’t have to give you any sort of warning. Although competitive high-yield savings accounts will, for the most part, stay competitive and continue offering the highest yields compared to other accounts, there’s no telling how much you’ll earn in dividends a year from now.

You should choose a high interest rate but know that it can change and don’t rely on the dividends for income.

Security risks

With any type of financial account, there are going to be certain safety concerns. While these are really minimal with an insured savings account, you can take steps to maximize your personal security.

If an account offers multi-factor authentication, set it up (it’s free anyway). If you have the option to enroll in fraud protection, do it. Set up account alerts to notify you about suspicious activity and check your balance often to make sure everything looks good.

FDIC and NCUA protection will keep you safe from losing all of your money if your bank goes bankrupt, but it’s your responsibility to make sure your account is as safe as it can be from hackers.

Read more: How to make online banking more secure

Are high-yield savings accounts worth it?

The answer to this question is probably, but it really depends on what kind of account you choose. We’ll say it again, we always prefer an online savings account with no minimums and no fees. Even if you can’t yet afford to set much money aside, you can start earning a small amount of interest on your balance and setting those good savings habits with free accounts.

But if you open a savings account that charges monthly maintenance fees, overdraft fees, low balance fees, etc., you’re going to have to work harder to make the account worth it. Keep in mind that all of these fees can eat into and even exceed your interest earnings, causing you to lose money in the long run.

So basically, as long as you don’t make the mistake of choosing the wrong account and letting it drain your earnings, you have nothing to lose.

High-yield savings accounts vs. money market accounts (MMAs)

Which is the better option for your money right now: a high-yield savings account or a money market account?

A money market account or MMA is a special type of savings account. They typically have higher balance requirements to earn interest but may offer better interest rates than high-yield savings accounts. Usually, MMAs pay tiered variable interest rates so the more you save, the more you earn.

MMAs often come with higher fees, higher deposit requirements, and higher balance requirements than savings accounts. While they can earn more depending on the interest rate environment, right now the best rates are really comparable between high-yield savings accounts and MMAs.

Savings accounts and money market accounts have the same transaction limit of six per statement period.

Read more: 9 best money market accounts

High-yield savings accounts vs. certificates of deposit (CDs)

A certificate of deposit or CD is a type of deposit account that usually offers a fixed interest rate for a fixed term. This means that the amount of money you earn on your deposits is guaranteed for the length of the CD term.

CD terms can range from as little as one month to as much as 10 or even 20 years. During the term of the CD, you agree not to withdraw any of the money you’ve deposited. If you do need to access your money before the end of the term, you’ll pay an early withdrawal penalty fee.

Early withdrawal fees are equal to the interest you earn for a set number of days or months. For example, you may pay three months’ interest for taking money out of a one-year CD early.

Because of early withdrawal fees, you risk losing your interest in a CD, so you should only deposit money you’re absolutely certain you won’t need until the term is up.

Stick with a savings account until you have an emergency fund built up before you consider a CD. CDs can be better vehicles for long-term saving but they should not replace your emergency savings account.

Read more: Best CD rates of 2023

Source: moneyunder30.com

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Apache is functioning normally

June 7, 2023 by Brett Tams

The Sunshine State is a great place to call home. Whether you’re an individual or small business owner, rest assured there are many banks available to help you meet your financial goals.

While some banks have brick-and-mortar locations in Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, and other parts of the state, others are online-only, meaning you’ll need to use an online portal or mobile banking app to manage your accounts.

Welcome to Florida

15 Best Banks in Florida

We’ve done all the research and compiled this list of the best banks in Florida so you can make the most informed decision for your unique situation.

1. Huntington Bank

Huntington Bank has been around since 1866 and primarily services Southwest Florida. Its solo Florida branch can be found in Naples but you can bank from anywhere, thanks to a robust digital banking program.

Huntington’s checking accounts come with many benefits, such as 24-hour grace overdraft fee relief, platinum debit cards, mobile pay, and early pay. You can make deposits to them directly or through an ATM or mobile device.

If you’re looking for the ideal savings account, you may choose from several money market accounts, IRAs and other retirement accounts, and certificates of deposit. Huntington serves small business owners in Florida as well through business checking accounts, business credit cards, business loans, insurance products, and more.

2. Chime

Chime isn’t a traditional bank or credit union. However, it’s a mobile banking app you can take advantage of in Florida. It made its debut in 2013 and offers online banking services through Bancorp Bank, N.A. and Stride Bank.

With the Chime Checking account, you can enjoy early direct deposit, automated savings tools, free debit card replacement, and access to over 60,000 fee free ATMs across the county. If you opt for the Chime High-Yield Savings account, you’ll lock in a competitive interest rate and won’t have to pay monthly fees or meet a minimum balance requirement. Plus, there is no cap on how much interest you may earn.

3. Revolut

Revolut is another non-traditional banking opinion that serves Floridians from the U.K. With Revolut, you can access your paycheck up to two days early and won’t be charged fees for withdrawals at 55,000 ATMs across the nation.

If you consider yourself an avid traveler, you’re sure to appreciate its travel perks, such as currency exchange, overseas health insurance, delayed baggage and flight insurance, and the ability to make purchases in numerous currencies.

With the Smart Delay feature, you’ll get to hang out in airport lounges if your flight is delayed. Additionally, Revolut offers budgeting and analytics tools so you can keep your finances in check as well as cash back when you make purchases at select retailers.

4. Ally Bank

Ally Bank is an online bank with rates that are about 10 times the national average. Even though there are no Ally branches in Florida, it’s a solid pick if you’d like your money to grow quickly. Unlike most brick-and-mortar financial institutions in the Sunshine State, Ally doesn’t charge monthly fees or impose minimum balance requirements.

You can open an Ally account with any deposit amount. In addition to a savings account, you may take advantage of an interest bearing checking account and credit cards with rewards like cash back and travel points. We can’t forget Ally’s retirement and investment services, which include self-directed trading, robo portfolios, IRAs, stocks, commission-free ETFs, and even cryptocurrency.

5. Regions Bank

Regions Bank is a regional bank with more than 300 branches and 500 ATMs in Florida. If you’re an avid traveler, rest accrued the bank also has many locations in the Midwest, South, and Texas. Regions stands out from other, larger financial institutions for its checking account rewards program and LifeGreen Savings account, which is free of monthly maintenance fees and service fees.

In addition to the LifeGreen Savings account, you may opt for a Regions Savings account. This account offers a discount on a safe deposit box, a minor account for children under 18, and the Now Savings account, which is specifically for those with a Regions prepaid Visa card.

Furthermore, Regions offers CDs with terms that range from seven days and 72 months. Other perks include a robust mobile app and 24/7 customer service through an online secure messaging system.

6. Bank of America

Bank of America is a large bank with nearly 500 branches throughout the Sunshine State and no shortage of ATMs across the country. Thanks to its handy mobile app, you can cash checks, pay bills, and manage your accounts while you’re on the go. Speaking of accounts, there’s something for everyone at Bank of America.

The Bank of America Advantage Banking account is a checking account with three features: SafeBalance, Advantage Plus, and Advantage Relationship. With SafeBalance, which is ideal for students, you don’t have to worry about overdraft fees.

Advantage Plus offers several ways to waive monthly fees and Advantage Relationship rewards you with interest and other perks for higher balances. In addition, Bank of America boasts credit cards with generous sign on bonuses for new checking account customers, a variety of mortgages, and investment management services.

7. Chase Bank

Chase Bank is a part of JPMorgan Chase and has more than 400 branches in Florida. With Chase, you can expect a large ATM network of over 16,000 ATMs across the country and a number of online and mobile banking tools. If you decide to become a Chase customer, you’ll have access to two savings accounts: the Chase Savings account and the Chase Premier Savings account.

While Chase Savings comes with a low monthly fee, the Chase Premier Savings is a solid pick if you’re looking for a competitive interest rate on a large balance. When it comes to checking accounts, Chase offers several options, like the Chase Total Checking account and the Chase Sapphire Checking account with perks like attractive interest rates and no ATM fees.

Note that the Chase Sapphire Checking account is only available for Sapphire members with an average balance of $75,000 average balance.

8. Fifth Third Bank

Fifth Third Bank is a national bank that was recognized by J.D. Power for the great banking experience it provides in Florida. It has numerous branches in Bradenton, Lakeland, Apopka, Orlando, and other cities throughout the state.

You can open a checking or online savings account without having to worry about an opening deposit requirement and won’t be charged a monthly fee for any checking account.

If you do face a fee for a savings account, there are several ways to get it waived. Fifth Third also offers an extensive ATM network, which will give you access to more than 50,000 ATMs across the country.

Additionally, if you get paid via direct deposit in a Fifth Third account, you may access your paycheck up to two days early. For questions and concerns, you can reach out to Fifth Third’s customer service team 6-days a week.

9. TIAA Bank

TIAA Bank is the largest regional bank in the Sunshine State. You can find its financial centers in Jacksonville, Clearwater, Boca Raton, Coral Gables, Fort Lauderdale, Naples, and Fort Myers.

In addition to a personalized banking experience, this Florida bank provides a checking account featuring low fees and no transaction limits, a savings account with no monthly account fees and competitive rates, and three different types of CDs.

Plus, the bank is digitally savvy and provides online banking tools so you can keep tabs on your accounts, set a budget and savings goals, make transfers, pay bills, and send money with Zelle. If you’re interested in investing, TIAA Bank will give you the opportunity to invest in precious metals and foreign currencies.

10. Capital One

Capital One is a national bank that’s known for its flagship 360 Checking account. With a 360 Checking account, you can enjoy an attractive interest rate, access to more than 70,000 fee-free ATMs across the U.S., and 24/7 mobile banking.

You also won’t be on the hook for any monthly fees and Capital One will automatically decline any transitions that overdraw your balance for no extra charge.

Even though Capital One does not have any physical branches in Florida, you can apply for and manage your accounts online. Other benefits of Capital One include early paycheck, which can allow you to receive your incoming funds up to two days early, free financial coaching sessions, and a well-designed mobile app.

11. Raymond James Bank

Raymond James Bank is based in Florida. It’s an affiliate of Raymond James, which is a financial company with headquarters and one branch location in St. Petersburg. Through its Enhanced Savings Program, you’ll be able to earn interest on certain cash if you link your brokerage account to a high-yield Raymond James bank account.

You can also receive yields that are higher than traditional checking or savings accounts without bank fees or holding periods. Raymond James also offers a plethora of mortgage products, such as fixed rate and adjustable rate mortgages, interest-only mortgages, jumbo mortgages, pledged securities mortgages, construction mortgages, and home equity lines.

12. PNC Bank

PNC Bank is one of the largest traditional banks in the U.S. with nearly 200 branches in Florida. It offers the PNC Standard Savings account, a children’s savings account, and Virtual Wallet, which pairs a traditional checking and savings account. If you decide on the Virtual Wallet, you can enjoy a generous sign-up bonus and no fees.

When it comes to CDs, you can choose from a plethora of options including fixed rate CDs, ready access CDs, fixed rate IRA CDs, callable CDs, variable CDs, and stepped rate CDs. Additionally, the bank goes the extra mile with free budgeting tools and competitive interest rates for account holders that meet certain criteria. As an added bonus, PNC has a reputation for stellar customer service.

13. Discover Bank

Discover Bank is known for its credit cards. However, it’s an online bank with other banking products for Florida residents. Not only does Discover offer cash back on debit card purchases, it doesn’t charge monthly maintenance fees, insufficient funds fees, or overdraft fees.

While there are no branch locations in Florida, Discover has an intuitive mobile banking app and is part of a large ATM network of more than 60,000 fee free ATMs. In addition to checking accounts and savings accounts, you can turn to Discover for credit cards with various rewards and loans, like personal loans, student loans, home equity loans, and mortgage refinancing.

14. Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo is a major financial institution with more than 600 branches and thousands of ATMs throughout Florida. At Wells, you’ll find a full suite of banking products and services, such as checking accounts, savings accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), credit cards, personal loans, and home loans.

You can choose from a basic, no-frills free checking account or opt for an interest checking account or a checking account for a teen or young adult. There are also a few saving account options, like a goal-based savings account and a high-interest savings account.

While you can visit a local branch if you prefer an in-person banking experience, you may also take advantage of online and mobile banking. In addition, Wells offers other conveniences like Zelle money transfers and online bill pay.

15. My eBanc

My eBanc is an online savings bank that serves customers in Florida and other parts of the U.S. It’s part of Banco Bradesco, a large bank in Latin America, which is an FDIC insured institution chartered in Florida. As a My eBanc customer, you’ll have access to several products that can help you save money and achieve various financial goals.

The SuperSaver Money Market account requires a $5,000 minimum deposit but offers perks such as a competitive interest rate, unlimited deposits, money management tools, and mobile check deposit. Other popular accounts you might consider include the eRelationship Savings account and Advantage Checking account. My eBanc also offers online time deposits with terms between 6 months and 36 months.

​​Types of Banks in Florida

The ideal bank depends on your particular banking preferences. In the Sunshine State, most banks are either national banks, regional banks, community banks, or online banks. Let’s take a closer look at how each banking option works.

National Banks

National banks are common in larger cities throughout Florida. If you’re looking for a wide range of banking products, you’re sure to find them at national banks, such as Wells Fargo, PNC Bank, and Wells Fargo.

Regional Banks

Regional banks have branches in certain regions of the U.S. In most cases, these banks are mid sized and offer a good mix of personal banking and business banking products. A few examples of regional banks in Florida include Regions Bank and TIAA Bank.

Community Banks

Community banks serve customers in specific geographic areas. Also known as local banks, community banks are similar to credit unions in that they focus on personal customer service and community outreach. Community Bank of the South and Mainstreet Community Bank of Florida are two community banks in Florida.

Online Banks

Online banks don’t have physical locations in Florida but serve individuals and businesses with online banking services. Since they have less overhead costs than banks with brick-and-mortar locations, online banks tend to offer more competitive interest rates and minimal to no fees.

Bottom Line

If you live or work in Florida, there are many reputable banking options available to you. As you explore various banks and credit unions, consider their accounts and services, fees, interest rates, customer service, and perks. Good luck in your search for the best bank in Florida.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the largest banks in Florida?

The largest banks in the Sunshine State include Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Fifth Third Bank. These banks have many branches throughout the state.

Should I choose an online bank?

If you’re comfortable with the internet or mobile apps, online banking from a place like Ally Bank and CIT Bank can be a smart choice. This is particularly if you can find the products you need with competitive interest rates and low fees.

What is the best bank for in person service?

Florida offers many great options if you prefer an in-person banking experience. You might want to consider Regions Bank, TIAA Bank, or ​​Raymond James Bank.

How do I open a bank account in Florida?

Most banks allow you to open a deposit account online, from the comfort of your own home or office. Be prepared to make a minimum opening deposit and provide basic personal information, like your name and Social Security number.

Do Florida banks charge fees?

In most cases, larger brick and mortar banks require customers to pay fees like monthly service fees, wire transfer fees, overdraft fees, excessive withdrawal fees, ATM fees, and late payment fees. You might be able to get them waived, depending on the bank and the type of account you open.

What is the best local bank in Florida?

There are many local banks in the Sunshine State that each come with their own benefits and drawbacks. Several options you might want to explore include Florida Shores Bank, Seaside Bank and Trust, and One Florida Bank.

What is the difference between a bank and a credit union?

Anyone can become a customer at a bank. If you want to take advantage of the products and services at a credit union, you’ll need to meet certain criteria and join it.

Source: crediful.com

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Apache is functioning normally

June 6, 2023 by Brett Tams

If you live or work in Delaware, it’s important to find the right bank for your unique goals. Fortunately, there are plenty of options at your disposal.

In addition to its beautiful beaches, affordable housing, and historical landmarks, the First State is home to many reputable banks that are member FDIC for your peace of mind and ideal for your personal or business finances.

Welcome to Delaware

13 Best Banks in Delaware

While some have local branches throughout the state, others are online only. To make your search for the ideal financial institution a bit easier, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you and listed the best banks in Delaware below.

1. The Bank of Delmarva

The Bank of Delmarva is a small community bank with branches in Ocean City, Salisbury, and Sussex County. Its lineup of personal banking accounts and services includes the best checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, CDs, and IRAs.

If you’re a small business owner, rest assured that it offers business loans, commercial products, and merchant services. Compared to other banks in the state, it offers low fees and competitive interest rates. Plus, it’s earned stellar reviews for its customer service. We can’t forget the intuitive mobile app you can use to manage your banking while you’re out and about.

2. Chime

Chime is a digital bank redefining traditional banking norms. With no physical branches, Chime stands out by providing a simple yet intuitive suite of financial products, all managed from their highly rated mobile app. The bank offers a fee-free1 checking account, a savings account, and a secured credit card.

The checking account, with no minimum balance and no overdraft fees, is particularly impressive. Its standout feature, SpotMe5, allows qualifying users to overdraw by up to $200 without fees. Meanwhile, the savings account is made appealing with an automatic savings feature, making it simple to save without thinking.

Notably, Chime gives the benefit of receiving paychecks up to two days early2 with direct deposit setup, a major plus for budgeting and financial planning. Its secured credit card is also a boon, helping users build credit over time through responsible usage and consistent payments.

3. TD Bank

TD Bank is a solid pick for a national bank with a handful of locations in the First State. With TD Bank, you can expect a plethora of products and services, no fees on international transactions, and a highly rated mobile banking app.

From personal and business checking accounts and savings accounts to personal loans, IRAs, and mortgages, TD Bank truly offers it all. If you open an account, you might qualify for a generous bonus. Also, if you’re a student or young adult, you won’t have to worry about monthly maintenance fees or service fees. You might also be able to waive these fees if you maintain a high balance in your accounts.

4. M&T Bank

M&T Bank has many locations in Delaware in cities like Wilmington and New Castle. Even if you don’t live in an area with a physical M&T location, you can enjoy digital banking and conveniences like Zelle transfers and mobile deposits. When it comes to checking accounts, M&T Bank offers four options.

The EZ Choice Checking is your best bet for a basic, free checking account while MyWay Banking is a checkless account that doesn’t charge overdraft fees. MyChoice Plus is an interest-bearing account, just like MyChoice Premium, which offers competitive rates on loans and other products.

In addition to these noteworthy checking accounts, you’re sure to appreciate M&T’s large ATM network and no monthly fees.

5. Artisans’ Bank

Artisans’ Bank has served Delaware since 1861. Today, it has 12 branch locations in the First State as well as two commercial lending offices. Artisans’ list of personal banking products includes checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, debit cards, and branded credit cards with cash back rewards.

The bank also serves small businesses in Delaware with small business banking products such as business bank accounts, business credit cards, and business loans. Even though Artisans’ is a local bank with a physical presence, it offers online banking services so you can manage your accounts online.

6. Capital One

Capital One is a large bank with a reputation for no minimum deposit requirements or monthly maintenance fees. While there are no Capital One branches in Delaware, the bank is worth considering if you prefer online banking. You can apply for and manage personal and business accounts online.

Speaking of accounts, its flagship account is the 360 Performance Savings that makes it a breeze to earn interest on your hard earned money. In addition to an impressive interest rate, there is no minimum balance required so you can open an account with any amount. Other perks there is a highly rated mobile app and free credit card monitoring.

7. Axos Bank

Axos Bank is a digital bank with competitive interest rates on checking and savings accounts, which are free of monthly fees and ATM fees. Even if you live in Delaware, you can perform your banking through Axos online or via the intuitive mobile app, which comes with mobile check deposits, fund transfers, and mobile bill pay.

The bank’s checking accounts offer rewards while the savings accounts stand out for their ATM cards. Speaking of ATMs, Axos Bank will reimburse you for ATM fees on many of its accounts. In addition to its personal banking products, Axos specializes in new mortgages, mortgage refinancing, HELOCs and home equity loans, car loans, personal loans, and managed investment portfolios.

8. Barclays Bank

Barclays Bank operates in Wilmington. It’s a global bank that serves all U.S. states with several banking products. Even though there is only one branch in Delaware, it offers an online portal and a highly rated mobile app so you can bank from anywhere.

As a customer, you’ll enjoy benefits like a high interest rate on high-yield savings accounts and CDs. If you do open a CD with Barclays, you’ll also reap the benefits of low withdrawal penalties. In addition, the bank’s customer service line is available seven days a week to answer any questions or concerns you might have.

9. Community Bank Delaware

Community Bank Delaware is exactly what it sounds like: a community bank based in Delaware. Since it’s locally owned and managed, it focuses on personalized customer service and community support.

At this bank, you’ll find checking accounts, personal savings accounts, time deposits, personal loans, personal credit cards, mortgages, and home equity loans. Community Bank also serves local small business owners with products to support their business operations, such as checking accounts, business savings accounts, business credit cards, and merchant services.

Additional banking solutions include online banking, wire transfers, cashiers checks, night depositary services, direct deposit, and safe deposit boxes.

10. PNC Bank

PNC Bank is a national bank with over 30 branches in cities such as Dover, Bear, Wilmington, and Newark. Its deposit accounts and other products are designed to meet all your banking needs. Virtual Wallet Spend is a combination checking and a long term savings account with a generous sign-up bonus and features like online bill pay, free mobile banking, and a debit card.

While there is a monthly maintenance fee, you can avoid this monthly fee if you maintain a direct deposit balance. PNC also offers loans, such as mortgages, home equity lines of credit, auto loans, personal loans, student loans, and refinancing products. With the PNC mobile app, you’ll be able to manage your accounts while you’re on the go.

11. Ally Bank

Ally Bank is an online bank with competitive rates on savings accounts, money market accounts, and CDs. Thanks to its low overhead costs, Ally doesn’t charge monthly maintenance fees or impose minimum balance requirements.

You can access your money and make cash transactions at more than 43,000 ATMs through the Allpoint network, which Ally has joined. If you have certain savings goals, you’ll love Ally’s “buckets” feature. With the buckets, you’ll be able to organize your funds and receive personalized recommendations that allow you to save.

12. Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo is one of the largest banks in the U.S. with no shortage of physical branches and ATMs throughout Delaware so you can easily deposit cash. Just like most large banks, Wells Fargo offers a full suite of banking products, such as checking accounts, savings accounts, credit cards, home loans, personal loans, and auto loans.

Investment and retirement accounts as well as wealth management services are available too. You can invest on your own or take advantage of a financial advisor that will help you come with a personalized financial plan. Whether you’re an individual or a small business owner, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for at Wells. If you open an account, you may be eligible for a cash sign on bonus.

13. WSFS Bank

WSFS Bank is a regional bank and a subsidiary of a financial services company called WSFS Financial Corporation. Based in Delaware and Greater Philadelphia, WSFS Bank is known as one of the oldest banks in the country.

It offers a wide range of personal banking services, like checking accounts, savings accounts, credit cards, loans, and wealth management. Its certificates of deposit (CDs) feature competitive interest rates you might not be able to find elsewhere and the WSFS Bank Philadelphia Union Visa® Debit Card comes with contactless pay and access to more than 670 ATMs in Delaware and Philadelphia.

At WSFS Bank, you can also take advantage of business banking services, like SVP management, cash management, and merchant services.

Delaware Banking Options

There are three main types of banks in Delaware, including national banks, community banks, and online banks. Here’s a brief overview of each one.

National Banks

National banks are large banks that can be seen throughout Delaware and other states. These banks typically offer a long list of products for individuals and business owners, such as checking accounts, savings accounts, retirement accounts, credit cards, and mortgages. Some examples include TD Bank, Wells Fargo, and PNC Bank.

Community Banks

Community banks are designed to serve local communities in Delaware. You’ll find that these banks prioritize personal customer service. Community Bank Delaware and the Bank of Delmarva are two community banks in the First State.

Online Banks

Online banks operate online and don’t have physical locations in Delaware. Since their overhead costs are lower than banks with brick-and-mortar branches, online banks usually provide lower fees and higher interest rates. Chime, Axos Bank, Ally, and UK-based Barclays Bank are great online banking options in Delaware.

Bottom Line

Delaware has plenty of banks and other financial institutions to help you meet your financial goals. Before you choose one, consider your priorities and weigh the pros and cons of all your options.

If you like an in-person banking experience, a community bank might make sense. On the flip side, if you prefer online and mobile banking, an online bank is likely the way to go. Good luck with your search for the best bank in Delaware.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Delaware banks keep my money safe?

Most banks insure your deposits up to 250,000 with the FDIC or Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Other services like fraud protection can also give you some peace of mind for your linked accounts.

What are the most popular banks in Delaware?

The banks with the most branches in Delaware include PNC Bank, M&T Bank, and WSFS Bank. If in-person banking is important to you, these banks should definitely be on your radar.

Can I open a bank account in Delaware as a non-resident?

Yes. In most cases, you can open an interest earning account or business savings account even if you don’t live in Delaware. You’ll likely need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A.; Members FDIC. Credit Builder card issued by Stride Bank, N.A.

1. Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply with Chime except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.

2. Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. Chime generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.

5. Chime SpotMe is an optional, no fee service that requires a single deposit of $200 or more in qualifying direct deposits to the Chime Checking Account each at least once every 34 days. All qualifying members will be allowed to overdraw their account up to $20 on debit card purchases and cash withdrawals initially, but may be later eligible for a higher limit of up to $200 or more based on member’s Chime Account history, direct deposit frequency and amount, spending activity and other risk-based factors. Your limit will be displayed to you within the Chime mobile app. You will receive notice of any changes to your limit. Your limit may change at any time, at Chime’s discretion. Although there are no overdraft fees, there may be out-of-network or third party fees associated with ATM transactions. SpotMe won’t cover non-debit card transactions, including ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, or Chime Checkbook transactions. See Terms and Conditions.

Source: crediful.com

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Apache is functioning normally

June 6, 2023 by Brett Tams

Taxes are unavoidable but that doesn’t mean you have to pay more than you owe. What happens to your tax liability with proper financial planning? The simple answer is that it can allow you to minimize what you owe while preserving more of your income to fund your financial goals. Talking to a financial advisor is a good first step in creating a strategy for effectively managing tax liability.

Understanding Tax Liability

Tax liability refers to the money that an individual, business or organization owes to a federal, state or local tax authority. A simpler way to think of your tax liability is the difference between your taxable income and the tax deductions you’re able to claim.

As a general rule of thumb, earning a higher income can result in a higher tax liability. The U.S. uses a graduated tax system, which means that income and tax rates move together. As income increases, so does your tax rate.

The amount you pay in taxes is determined by your income, but capital gains can also affect your tax liability. That’s important to know if you’re focused on investing and building wealth, as higher net-worth individuals may face a steeper tax liability if they’re reaping capital gains from investments.

What Happens to Your Tax Liability With Proper Financial Planning?

Managing your tax liability is important as it can directly influence how much of your income or investment earnings you get to keep. The more income and assets you have to work with, the easier it becomes to build wealth.

Proper financial planning can help you implement strategies that are designed to minimize taxes while maximizing income and assets. Having a solid financial plan in place can generate significant tax savings year by year. You can then use those savings to generate additional income through investments, grow your retirement accounts and increase your net worth.

Does financial planning require you to work with a financial advisor? Not necessarily. You could always go it alone. But there are some distinct advantages to having a financial advisor help you formulate a plan for managing tax liability.

Financial advisors have extensive knowledge about how tax planning can affect your financial plan. A good advisor is also familiar with the tax code and the latest tax rules. Even if you think you have a relatively straightforward tax situation, a financial advisor may be able to pinpoint areas where you can improve tax efficiency that you might have missed.

Financial Planning Strategies for Minimizing Tax Liability

There are different ways to approach tax planning in order to reduce your tax bill, depending on the specifics of your situation. If you’re working with a financial advisor to create a tax plan, then it may include any or all of the following.

Retirement Planning

Retirement planning is a focal point of a solid financial plan, particularly with regard to taxes. Aside from ensuring that you have enough money to retire, it’s also important to consider how much of your savings you’ll be able to keep once you start making withdrawals.

In terms of how you plan for retirement, your financial advisor may suggest any of the following:

  • Maxing out annual contributions to a traditional 401(k) or to a Roth 401(k) if you have that option.
  • Contributing money to a traditional or Roth IRA each year.
  • Funding a Health Savings Account (HSA) if you have that option with a high deductible health plan.

If you’re self-employed or own a business, you might open a solo 401(k), SEP IRA or SIMPLE IRA to save for retirement instead. It’s important to understand the tax treatment of different retirement savings options.

For example, traditional 401(k) plans and traditional IRAs allow for tax-deductible contributions. Qualified distributions are taxed as ordinary income in retirement. Roth accounts don’t offer a tax deduction, but you can make withdrawals tax-free when you retire.

A Health Savings Account is not a retirement account, per se. It’s meant to be used to save money for medical expenses, but it can double as a source of retirement income since you can withdraw funds for any purpose after age 65 without a tax penalty. You’ll just owe regular income tax on withdrawals.

Investment Planning

Investment planning is related to retirement planning, but it can include different aspects of managing tax liability. For instance, say that you’re investing through a taxable brokerage account, which is subject to capital gains tax. Your financial advisor can offer different strategies for managing tax liability, which may include:

  • Holding investments longer than one year to take advantage of the more favorable long-term capital gains tax rate.
  • Choosing tax-efficient investments, such as exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which can trigger fewer turnover events than traditional mutual funds.
  • Harvesting tax losses to offset some or all of your capital gains for the year.

Your advisor may also be able to guide you on how to deduct expenses related to investment properties if you own one or more rental homes. They could also help with executing a 1031 exchange if you’re interested in swapping out one property for another to minimize capital gains tax.

Tax Deductions and Credits

Tax deductions reduce your taxable income, which can help to push you into a lower tax bracket for the year. There are numerous expenses you might be able to deduct, including:

  • Mortgage interest
  • State and local taxes
  • Charitable donations
  • Business expenses
  • Self-employment expenses
  • Medical expenses
  • Student loan interest

Tax credits, meanwhile, reduce what you owe in taxes on a dollar-for-dollar basis. For instance, if you owe $1,000 in taxes and qualify for a $1,000 tax credit, the credit can wipe out what you owe. Some credits are refundable which can increase the size of your tax refund for the year. A financial advisor can walk you through the various deductions and credits you might be eligible to take in order to reduce your tax liability.

Withdrawal Planning

As you approach retirement, it’s important to consider how you’ll withdraw the money that you’ve saved. Your advisor can discuss different strategies for withdrawing money from a 401(k), IRA or taxable brokerage account so that you’re not overpaying taxes or draining your retirement reserves too quickly.

Your advisor may also discuss ways to tax-friendly ways to create supplemental income in retirement, such as purchasing an annuity or taking out a reverse mortgage.  An advisor can also help you figure out when to take Social Security benefits to maximize your payment amount and how to coordinate those benefits with other sources of income in retirement.

The Bottom Line

Knowing what happens to your tax liability with proper financial planning is important for creating a long-term strategy for growing wealth. Handing over more money than you need to in taxes doesn’t offer any tangible benefit and it can be problematic if it leaves you with less money to save and invest. Having a trusted financial advisor to work with can ensure that you’re meeting your tax obligations without shortchanging your goals.

Financial Planning Tips

  • Tax planning can seem complicated if you’re not well-versed in the Internal Revenue Code. Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor matches to decide which one you feel is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
  • Robo advisors can offer a more affordable way to manage financial planning, as the fees may be lower than what traditional advisors charge. However, it’s important to know what you’re getting for the money. For example, some robo-advisors offer tax loss harvesting but not all of them do. Additionally, robo-advisors aren’t really equipped to offer one on one advice about tax planning or investing. Those are good reasons to consider working with a human advisor instead, even if it means paying a slightly higher fee.

Photo credit: ©iStock.com/Wasan Tita, ©iStock.com/Extreme Media, ©iStock.com/Charday Penn

Rebecca Lake, CEPF®
Rebecca Lake is a retirement, investing and estate planning expert who has been writing about personal finance for a decade. Her expertise in the finance niche also extends to home buying, credit cards, banking and small business. She’s worked directly with several major financial and insurance brands, including Citibank, Discover and AIG and her writing has appeared online at U.S. News and World Report, CreditCards.com and Investopedia. Rebecca is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and she also attended Charleston Southern University as a graduate student. Originally from central Virginia, she now lives on the North Carolina coast along with her two children.

Source: smartasset.com

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Apache is functioning normally

June 6, 2023 by Brett Tams

There’s plenty to love about the Land of 10,000 Lakes, from its professional sports teams to its polite residents. For the many people who live and work in Minnesota, though, a strong economy and reasonable cost of living make it a great place to live.

If you’re in the market for a bank account in Minnesota, you’ll have plenty of choices. From national banks with branches in Minnesota to local and community bank options, the state has a little of everything.

Welcome to Minnesota

12 Best Banks in Minnesota

To help you find the right bank account to fit your needs, here are some of the best banks in Minnesota.

1. Associated Bank

Associated Bank is a regional bank with branches in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois. You’ll find branches throughout the region, but you’ll also have cash access while traveling at more than 30,000 MoneyPass ATMs nationwide. There are several checking account options, including a fee-free checking account with no minimum balance requirements.

Fees:

  • No monthly maintenance fees
  • $32 overdraft fee

Balance requirements:

  • $25 opening deposit
  • No minimum balance requirements

ATMs:

  • Fee-free at Associated Bank ATMs
  • Fee-free at 30,000+ MoneyPass ATMs nationwide
  • $3 for each non-Associated Bank ATM transaction

Interest on balance:

  • Up to 2.50% APY on savings accounts
  • Up to 4.50% APY on CDs
  • Up to 1.25% APY on money market accounts

Additional perks:

  • $50 grace zone on overdrafts
  • Multiple debit card designs available

2. CIT Bank

CIT Bank provides online banking solutions to consumers and small business owners. Although CIT Bank has no ATMs, you’ll pay no ATM fees, no matter which ATM you use, and CIT Bank reimburses up to $30 of the fees you’ll pay other banks for using their ATMs.

The best thing about CIT’s checking account is that you’ll earn interest. Balances below $25,000 earn 0.10% APY, while balances of $25,000 and over earn 0.25% APY.

Fees:

  • No monthly maintenance fees
  • No overdraft fees

Balance requirements:

  • $100 minimum deposit to open
  • No minimum balance requirement

ATMs:

  • Up to $30 in waivable monthly fees for out-of-network ATMs

Interest on balance:

Additional perks:

  • Competitive rates on financing for small business owners
  • Competitive rates on no-penalty CDs

3. Wings Financial Credit Union

Credit unions are a great way to get perks and competitive rates, as long as you qualify for membership. Wings Financial Credit Union was originally founded to serve Northwest Airlines employees, but it has recently expanded to include those in certain states and counties.

Wings Financial is headquartered in the Apple Valley area, with branches throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin. Currently, Wings Financial is offering a $300 bonus for opening a new checking account and setting up a recurring direct deposit of at least $600 a month. You’ll also need to make at least five debit card transactions of $25 or more.

Fees:

  • No monthly maintenance fees
  • $30 overdraft fee

Balance requirements:

  • $5 nonrefundable donation required for credit union membership
  • No minimum balance requirement

ATMs:

  • Fee-free at Wings Financial ATMs
  • Fee-free at 80,000+ Co-Op, MoneyPass, and Allpoint ATMs nationwide

Interest on balance:

  • Up to 3.04% APY on checking accounts
  • Up to 1.56% APY on savings accounts
  • Up to 4.59% APY on CDs
  • Up to .25% APY on money market accounts

Additional perks:

  • $300 bonus for eligible new checking account
  • Competitive rates on mortgage, auto, and boat loans

4. GO2bank

Another online banking option is GO2bank, which offers a savings account with 4.50% APY, and a checking account with no fees, as long as you have at least one payroll or government benefits direct deposit each month.

Otherwise, you’ll pay $5 a month for checking. One feature that sets GO2bank apart, though, is its cash access. Not only can you withdraw cash at Allpoint ATMs nationwide, but you can also deposit cash at more than 90,000 retailers.

Fees:

  • $5 monthly maintenance fee (waived with requirements)
  • $15 overdraft fee (24-hour grace period)

Balance requirements:

  • No minimum deposit to open
  • No minimum balance required

ATMs:

  • Fee-free at Allpoint ATMs nationwide
  • $3 out-of-network ATM fee

Interest on balance:

  • 4.50% APY on savings accounts

Additional perks:

5. Wells Fargo

Although Wells Fargo is a national bank, it’s only available in 37 states. This could be a problem if you travel outside those areas, as you’ll pay $2.50 for each out-of-network ATM withdrawal.

Wells Fargo offers a selection of checking and savings accounts, including a checking account that has no monthly fees if you can maintain a $500 balance or have at least $500 monthly in qualifying deposits. Currently, Wells Fargo is offering a $300 bonus for new checking accounts with at least $1,000 in qualifying direct deposits in the first 90 days.

Fees:

  • $10 monthly fee (waived with requirements)
  • $35 overdraft fee

Balance requirements:

  • $25 minimum deposit to open
  • No minimum balance required

ATMs:

  • Fee-free at Wells Fargo ATMs nationwide
  • $2.50 out-of-network ATM fee

Interest on balance:

  • Up to 2.51% APY on savings accounts
  • Up to 4.51% APY on CDs

Additional perks:

  • $300 bonus on new checking accounts
  • Robust mobile banking services

6. Chime

Chime is an online banking solution that works best for those who rarely need to deposit cash. The mobile banking app comes with everything you need to pay bills, transfer funds, and monitor your checking account.

You’ll get fee-free ATM access at more than 60,000 partner ATMs nationwide. If you have electronic deposits each month, you’ll qualify for SpotMe, which covers you for up to $200 in overdrafts, as well as early access to your paycheck.

Fees:

  • No monthly maintenance fees
  • No overdraft fees

Balance requirements:

  • No minimum deposit to open
  • No minimum daily balance required

ATMs:

  • Fee-free at more than 60,000 ATMs nationwide
  • $2.50 out-of-network transaction fee

Interest on balance:

  • 2.00% APY on savings account balances

Additional perks:

  • SpotMe covers up to $200 in overdrafts
  • Access to paycheck up to two days early

7. Home Federal Savings Bank

Those looking for a local bank should consider Home Federal Savings Bank, which has 14 branches and 2 loan production offices in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa. Home Federal has fee-free checking account options, but those who travel outside the service area may want to take a look at ATM fees.

The checking account comes with four free out-of-network transactions a month. After that, you’ll pay $2 for each withdrawal. In all instances, you’ll pay third-party ATM fees for each transaction.

Fees:

  • No monthly maintenance fees

Balance requirements:

  • $25 minimum deposit to open
  • No minimum balance required

ATMs:

  • Fee-free use at Home Federal ATMs
  • $2 per out-of-network ATM transaction (4 free per month)

Interest on balance:

  • Up to 2.02% APY on checking accounts

Additional perks:

  • $10 off your first box of checks
  • Robust business checking account options

8. Huntington Bank

Huntington Bank is another regional bank with branches in 11 states. You’ll get fee-free ATM access at more than 1,400 Huntington ATMs, as well as competitive rates on CDs and money market accounts.

If you receive at least 1,000 in deposits each month and keep a daily balance of $200, your checking account may qualify for Standby Cash. With Standby Cash, you’ll get interest-free access to a line of credit as long as you repay it with automatic payments within three months.

Fees:

  • No monthly fees
  • $15 overdraft fee (waived up to $50)

Balance requirements:

  • No minimum deposit to open
  • No minimum balance required

ATMs:

  • Fee-free at more than 1,700 ATMs within service area
  • $3.50 out-of-network ATM transaction fee

Interest on balance:

  • Up to .06% APY on savings accounts
  • Up to 5.13% APY on CDs
  • Up to 4.18% on money market accounts

Additional perks:

  • Standby Cash issues no-interest loan as needed
  • Early Pay gives you two days early access to your paychecks

9. MidWestOne Bank

MidWestOne Bank is a community bank with branches in Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Florida, and Colorado. You’ll find multiple checking accounts, including one free option with no minimum daily balance requirements. You’ll get fee-free access to cash while traveling at any MoneyPass or Presto! ATM.

Fees:

  • No monthly maintenance fees
  • $35 overdraft fee

Balance requirements:

  • $100 minimum deposit to open
  • No minimum daily balance required

ATMs:

  • Fee-free at MidWestOne ATMs
  • Fee-free at MoneyPass and Presto! ATMs nationwide
  • $1 out-of-network transaction fee

Interest on balance:

  • Up to .10% APY on savings account balances
  • Up to 4.28% APY on CDs
  • Up to 4.25% APY on money market accounts

Additional perks:

  • Customized debit cards available
  • Competitive rates on personal loans and lines of credit

10. TruStone Financial Federal Credit Union

If you live, work, worship, volunteer, or go to school in a qualifying Minnesota or Wisconsin county, you’ll qualify for membership with TruStone Financial Federal Credit Union. You’ll get plenty of perks with your membership, including a debit card that earns you 1 point for every $5 you spend on purchases.

You’ll need a share savings account to qualify for a checking account with TruStone Financial, but new checking accounts currently earn a $150 bonus with qualifying activities.

Fees:

  • No monthly maintenance fees
  • $30 overdraft fee

Balance requirements:

  • $25 minimum deposit to open
  • No minimum daily balance required

ATMs:

  • Fee-free at TruStone ATMs
  • Fee-free at 65,000+ ATMs nationwide
  • $2 out-of-network transaction fee (5 free per month)

Interest on balance:

  • .30% APY on savings account balances
  • Up to 4.75% APY on savings certificates
  • Up to 2.00% APY on money market accounts

Additional perks:

  • Rewards on debit card transactions
  • Up to $150 bonus on new checking accounts

11. BMO Harris Bank

BMO Harris offers banking services in Minnesota, as well as Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Arizona, Florida, and California. You’ll get all the features you need through the banking app, including mobile check deposit, online bill pay, and the ability to transfer funds back and forth from your savings account to your checking account.

Fees:

  • No monthly maintenance fees
  • $15 overdraft fee

Balance requirements:

  • $25 minimum deposit to open
  • No minimum daily balance required

ATMs:

  • Fee-free at BMO Harris ATMs nationwide
  • Fee-free at 40,000+ ATMs nationwide
  • $3 out-of-network transaction fee

Interest on balance:

  • Up to 4.50% APY on savings account balances
  • Up to .25% APY on CDs

Additional perks:

  • Wealth management services available to account holders
  • View all accounts in one dashboard, including those with other banks

12. Bremer Bank

With a service area that includes Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin, Bremer Bank has one of the best customer service ratings of all the banks in Minnesota. Whether you’re looking for a personal or business checking account, Bremer Bank is worth considering.

The basic checking account is fee-free as long as you enroll in free online statements, maintain a $1,500 average balance, or are under age 21 or over age 64.

Fees:

  • $3 monthly service fee (waived with requirements)
  • $35 overdraft fee

Balance requirements:

  • $100 minimum deposit to open
  • No minimum daily balance required ($1,500 to waive service fee)

ATMs:

  • Fee-free at 37,000+ MoneyPass ATMs nationwide
  • $2.75 out-of-network transaction fee

Interest on balance:

  • Up to .30% APY on savings account balances
  • Up to 3.00% APY on CDs
  • Up to 3.30% APY on money market accounts

Additional perks:

  • First order of Bremer Bank checks is free
  • Agriculture and business checking account options available

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bank in Minnesota?

Minnesota banks have worked hard to keep up with the latest banking trends. In 2023, customers not only want great rates on savings accounts and plenty of checking account features, but they also want the convenience of managing their accounts using a mobile app.

While the in-person customer service you get with a local bank is valuable, it’s easy to do everything from your phone, so that feature might not be as important.

What is the most financially stable bank in the US?

Stability is an important feature in a bank. This is one area where a national bank will tend to be a better option than a local or regional bank. Wells Fargo is largely considered one of the most financially stable, with more than $1.8 trillion in assets. Traditional banks can tend to be more reliable in general than newer banks simply because they have a long history in the industry.

Do I need good credit to open a Minnesota bank account?

You don’t need good credit to open a savings or checking account. However, when you apply with a national, local, or regional bank, the bank will likely pull something called a ChexSystems report.

This will provide information on any deposit accounts you’ve held before. This includes any joint accounts that used your Social Security number. If you have a history of closed accounts, you may find that your application is denied.

Can I get a bank account if I don’t have a job?

Banks don’t typically factor employment into account approvals. You can even find a bank that will accept your application without any money. Look for a bank that requires no minimum opening deposit. In some cases, you may find you’ll pay monthly fees or that you won’t be eligible for some features without direct deposit.

Can an online-only bank meet all my banking needs?

Online banking has more financial products than ever. In many cases, you’ll be able to do all your banking using only the app. If you like to be able to visit a local branch, online banking might not suffice, but some banks provide live teller access through the app. Also, make sure your online bank offers cash deposit and withdrawal without charging massive fees.

Our Methodology

Although this list certainly doesn’t include all the checking and savings accounts available in Minnesota, it’s a great snapshot of what’s available. We strove to include a combination of online banks, local banks, regional banks, and national banks to help you see the pros and cons of each.

When looking at a bank, we considered a variety of factors. A bank may have no fees on checking accounts but offer few ATM cash withdrawal options, which may mean out-of-network fees each month. We also looked for banks that pay competitive rates on savings accounts or on high-yield checking accounts to help you make the most of your money.

The best banks in Minnesota can vary dramatically from one person to another. By narrowing down the types of financial products that matter most to you, you’ll be able to save money while also getting the features you need.

Source: crediful.com

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Apache is functioning normally

June 6, 2023 by Brett Tams

Imagine the freedom to never worry about money. Some dopes think that means having so much of the green stuff that you could never spend it all. But bad money management has put many a Richie Rich in the poor house. No, I’m talking about the kind of freedom that comes from being in control of your dough. I’m talking about a budget.

I know budgets aren’t romantic. And for all those people who feel they’re entitled to buy whatever they want, whenever they want it, a budget can seem like kryptonite. But you can choose to continue to see a budget as a major pain in the butt, or you can choose to see it as a useful tool that helps you spend your money on the things that are most important to you.

By Any Other Name…
Once upon a time to try and get away from the stigma the word “budget” carried, I took to calling them “spending plans.” But you know what? It wasn’t the word people hated — it was the discipline, the work, the focus required to pre-determine how much you were going to spend, and then spend no more.

Regardless of whether you call it a spending plan or a budget, the point of the exercise is to decide how you’ll spend your money. Having a plan gives you the freedom to enjoy yourself because you don’t have to worry about how you’ll pay the bill when it comes in. You’ll know, right from the start, whether you can afford the purchase you’re contemplating or not. And if you really, really want it, you can decide what you’re prepared to give up to get it, whatever it may be.

Note: This sort of decision-making is what conscious spending is all about. Your regular expenses are mapped by a budget. When something unusual comes up, you can make the decision: Do I pull money from the grocery or gas or garden budget? Or do I wait to save for the new thing?

Have you ever made a large cash withdrawal from a banking machine only to wonder a few days later where all the money went? Think for a moment: Where did the last $100 you spent go? Stop for a minute and write it down. Chances are you can account for most of it, but there may be five, ten, or twenty dollars missing from your list.

Why You Should Track Your Spending
What does it cost you to live each month? Some people under-estimate their expenses because they forget the things that don’t occur every month.

  • Did you include your gym costs even though you pay them once a year?
  • How about your house or car insurance?
  • Did you include the cost of your haircuts, your contact lenses, or your vacation?
  • Do you pay someone to shovel your snow, clean your windows and carpets or do your taxes?
  • What about your vet bills, the flowers for your garden or patio, your best-friend’s birthday present?

Some people under-estimate their expenses because they actually don’t know how much they’re spending on things like take-out, clothes, and coffee. Over and over when I show folks how much money they’re spending on the non-essentials of life, they’re gob-smacked. Well, the only way to make a budget that will work is to know what you have been spending so you get some sense of what you’re going to have to change.

One of the best ways to gain a perspective on your spending habits is to keep a log of everything you spend, each time you do a transaction. The idea is to figure out where you’re spending all those dimes that seem to go missing each month. It’s also about learning more about yourself and where your place your priorities. This isn’t about shame, blame, or deprivation. You don’t have to change anything you don’t want to change. But you should at least know. With a spending log, you’ll have a clear picture of what you’re getting for your money.

When you do all your money management in your head, it’s very easy to forget things — sometimes important things — that will have an impact on your overall financial life. You’re always guessing how much you have left. And you shouldn’t really be surprised when your account is overdrawn. After all, if you don’t know how much you have, how can you know how much you can spend?

If you don’t believe you can find the time to maintain your budget — collecting receipts, entering details onto your budget, adding it all up and balancing it out — think about the time you have to spend solving the problems that arise from not taking care of the details. And think about all the money you waste on overdraft fees, interest costs, and ATM transactions. You’ll have to decide whether you’d rather live life peacefully, or continue waking to the specter of financial worry rattling his chains at the foot of your bed.

Source: getrichslowly.org

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Apache is functioning normally

June 6, 2023 by Brett Tams

By Peter Anderson 3 Comments – The content of this website often contains affiliate links and I may be compensated if you buy through those links (at no cost to you!). Learn more about how we make money. Last edited March 11, 2010.

If you’re a self employed person or are looking at taking the plunge and becoming an entrepreneur, one thing you have to consider is how you will save for retirement.  Since you won’t have the option of a 401k, there are several other retirement account type options that you will want to think about using.  Among them are:

  • SEP IRA
  • SIMPLE Plan
  • Solo 401(k)
  • Keogh Plan

Today I want to look at what many consider one of the better options for tax deferred investing for self employed individuals, the SEP IRA

What Is A SEP IRA?

First of all, let’s get the definitions out the the way.  What does SEP IRA stand for?  When I first started researching the topic I was reading lots of articles talking about how self employed individuals were taking advantage of the accounts, so I assumed it meant “Self Employed IRA”.    After reading up on it a bit more I realized that my assumption was wrong.  SEP IRA actually stands for Simplified Employee Pension Individual Retirement Arrangement.  It is basically an easy way for small businesses to set up a retirement account option for their employees with minimal administrative costs or paperwork.

The SEP IRA is pretty much like a traditional IRA account, although it does have some differences, especially as it relates to the contribution limits.  The contribution limits for a SEP IRA are higher.

SEP IRA Rules

As an employer there are rules and regulations you need to follow when you open a SEP IRA.  Most of the rules that apply to Traditional IRAs also apply to SEP IRAs.  Among the SEP provisions:

  • All eligible employees must be provided with plan benefits, and a separate IRA account.   If you are self employed with no employees besides yourself, it isn’t an issue. If you have employees, it is something to consider.
  • Part time employees who are 21 years of age who have worked 3 out of the preceding 5 years, earning $500 or more annually will be eligible.
  • Only the employer can contribute to the SEP IRA.  If you work for a company that provides one, only your employer can contribute to the account.
  • You have until the tax filing deadline of April 15th to establish and fund your SEP IRA.
  • Withdrawals from a SEP IRA are treated the same as withdrawals from an IRA account – with a 10% early withdrawal penalty, and taxes charged at your current rate.
  • Only income from the business can be contributed – you can’t contribute money from your day job if you have one.

SEP IRA Contribution Limits

Contributions to the SEP IRA are subject to yearly limits, however, they are higher than many other similar account types.  For example, for tax years 2009 and 2010 you can contribute up to 25% of an eligible employee’s compensation, up to a limit of $49,000.  Extrapolated from the 25% rule the income threshold for a SEP IRA is then $196,000.

Example: Let’s say you make $100,000 a year and you’re self employed.  Under a SEP IRA you would be able to contribute 25%, or $25,000 to your plan.

No catch-up contributions are permitted for older employees.

Benefits Of The SEP IRA

There are several benefits to having a SEP IRA account.  Among them:

  • If you are an employee at a small business that has a SEP IRA plan, you are 100% vested in the contributions your employer makes, right away.  The money is yours!
  • Tax deferred investing!
  • High contribution limits for self employed individuals.
  • Easy to setup.  Usually can be done simply by filling out IRS Model Form 5305-SEP
  • Less paperwork and administrative costs after the plan is setup.
  • Flexible annual contribution obligations – a good plan if cash flow is an issue.  You can contribute 10% one year, and then 5% the next if you want.

Do you contribute to a SEP IRA as a self employed individual, or do you have one through an employer? How has it worked out for you? Have we missed any important details about the SEP IRA? Tell us about it in the comments.

Related Posts

Source: biblemoneymatters.com

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Apache is functioning normally

June 5, 2023 by Brett Tams

Getting divorced can cause both emotional and financial upheaval for everyone involved. One of the most important questions you and your soon-to-be former spouse may have to decide centers on how to divide retirement assets.

Understanding the key issues around divorce and retirement can make it easier to untangle them as you bring your marriage to a close.

Taking Note of Your Retirement Accounts

The average cost of divorce can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, so it’s important to know what’s at stake financially. Managing retirement accounts in divorce starts with understanding what assets you have.

There are several possibilities for saving money toward retirement, and different rules apply when dividing each. Here’s a look at what types of retirement accounts you may hold and thus will need to consider in your divorce.

401(k)

A 401(k) plan is a defined contribution plan that allows you to save money for retirement on a tax-advantaged basis. Your employer may also make matching contributions to the plan on your behalf. According to the Census Bureau, 34.6% of Americans have a 401(k) or a similar workplace plan, such as a 403(b) or Thrift Savings Plan.

IRA

Individual retirement accounts, or IRAs, also allow you to set aside money for retirement while enjoying some tax benefits. The difference is that these accounts are not offered by employers. There are several IRA options, including:

•   Traditional IRAs, which allow for tax-deductible contributions.

•   Roth IRAs, which allow for tax-free withdrawals in retirement.

•   SEP IRAs, which follow traditional IRA tax rules and are designed for self-employed individuals.

•   SIMPLE IRAs, which also follow traditional IRA tax rules and are designed for small business owners.

Each type of IRA has different rules regarding who can contribute, how much you can contribute annually, and the tax treatment of contributions and withdrawals.

💡 For more info, check out our guide on individual retirement accounts (IRAs).

Pension Plan

A pension plan is a type of defined benefit plan. The amount you can withdraw in retirement is determined largely by the number of years you worked for your employer and your highest earnings. That’s different from a 401(k), since the amount you can withdraw depends on how much you (and your employer) contribute during your working years.

How Are Retirement Accounts Split in a Divorce?

How retirement accounts are split in divorce can depend on several factors, including what type of accounts are up for division, how those assets are classified, and divorce laws regarding property division in your state. There are two key issues that must be determined first:

•   Whether the retirement accounts are marital property or separate property

•   Whether community property or equitable distribution rules apply

Legal Requirements for Dividing Assets

Marital property is property that’s owned by both spouses. An example of a tangible marital property asset is a home the two of you lived in together. Separate property is property that belongs to just one spouse.

In community property states, spouses have an equal share in assets accrued during the marriage. Equitable distribution states allow for an equitable — though not necessarily equal — split of assets in divorce.

You don’t have to follow state guidelines if you and your spouse can come to an agreement yourselves about how divorce assets should be divided. However, if you can’t agree, then you’ll be subject to the property division laws for your state.

If retirement assets are to be divided in divorce, there are certain steps that have to be taken to ensure the division is legal. With a workplace plan, you’ll need to obtain a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO). This is a court order that specifies how much each spouse should receive when dividing a 401(k) or similar workplace plan in divorce.

IRAs do not require a QDRO. You would, however, still need to put in writing who gets what when dividing IRAs in divorce. That information is typically included in the final divorce settlement agreement, which a judge must sign off on.

Protecting Your 401(k) in a Divorce

The simplest option for how to protect your 401(k) in a divorce may be to offer your spouse assets of equivalent value. For example, if you’ve saved $500,000 in your 401(k) and you jointly own a home that’s worth $250,000, you might agree to let them keep the home as part of the divorce settlement.

If they’re not open to the idea of a trade-off, you may have to split the assets through a QDRO. That could make a temporary dent in your savings, but you might be able to make it up over time if you continue to make new contributions.

You could skip the QDRO and withdraw money from your 401(k) to fulfill your obligations to your spouse under the terms of the divorce settlement. However, doing so could trigger a 10% early withdrawal penalty if you’re under age 59 ½, along with ordinary income tax on the distribution.

Protecting Your IRA in a Divorce

Traditional and Roth IRAs are subject to property division rules like other retirement accounts in divorce. Depending on where you live and what laws apply, you might have to split your IRA 50/50 with your spouse.

Again, you might be able to protect your IRA by asking them to accept other assets instead. Whether they’re willing to agree to that might depend on the nature of those assets, their value, and their own retirement savings.

If you’re splitting an IRA with a spouse, the good news is that you can avoid tax consequences if the transaction is processed as a transfer incident to divorce. Essentially, that would allow you to transfer money out of the IRA to your spouse, who would then be able to deposit it into their own IRA.

Divorce and Pensions

Pension plans are less common than 401(k) plans, but there are employers that continue to offer them. Generally, pension plan assets are treated as marital property for divorce purposes. That means your spouse would likely be entitled to receive some of your benefits even though the marriage has ended. State laws will determine how much your spouse is eligible to collect from your pension plan.

Protecting Your Pension in a Divorce

The best method for protecting a pension in divorce may be understanding how your pension works. The type of payout option you elect, for instance, can determine what benefits your spouse is eligible to receive from the plan. It’s also important to consider whether it makes sense to choose a lump-sum or annuity payment when withdrawing those assets.

If your spouse is receptive, you might suggest a swap of other assets for your pension benefits. When in doubt about how your pension works or how to protect pensions in a divorce, it may be best to talk to a divorce attorney or financial advisor.

Opening a New Retirement Account

Splitting retirement accounts in a divorce can be stressful. It’s important to know what your rights and obligations are going into the process. If you’re leaving a marriage with less money in retirement, it’s a good idea to know what options you have for getting back on track. That can include opening a new retirement account.

SoFi offers individual retirement accounts for people who want to invest with minimal hassle. You can open a traditional or Roth IRA online and choose between active or automated investing to fit your needs and goals.

Easily manage your retirement savings with a SoFi IRA.

FAQ

How long do you have to be married to get part of your spouse’s retirement?

If you’re interested in getting spousal retirement benefits from Social Security, you have to be married for at least one continuous year prior to applying. The one-year rule does not apply if you are the parent of your spouse’s child. Divorced spouses must have been married at least 10 years to claim spousal benefits.

Is it better to divorce before or after retirement?

Neither situation is ideal, but divorcing before retirement may be easier if there are fewer assets to divide. Getting a divorce after retirement can raise questions over how to divide retirement and non-retirement assets. It may also lead to financial insecurity on the part of one or both spouses if the distribution of assets is unequal.

Who pays taxes on a 401(k) in a divorce?

If you’re dividing up your 401(k) prior to divorcing then you would be responsible for paying any taxes or penalties owed. Waiting until after the divorce is finalized to split your 401(k) with your former spouse could reduce the amount of taxes and penalties you owe.


Photo credit: iStock/FG Trade Latin

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Apache is functioning normally

June 4, 2023 by Brett Tams

Digital nomads enjoy the freedom and flexibility of being able to work from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing them to balance work and leisure in a way that suits their lifestyle. They travel frequently, often staying in one place for a few weeks or months before moving on to the next destination.

digital nomad in Bangkok, Thailand

However, expats and digital nomads face unique challenges when it comes to managing their finances. They need a bank that understands their lifestyle and offers services that cater to their needs.

For example, digital nomads require a bank that offers low fees and transaction charges since they frequently move money across borders. They also need a bank that provides easy access to their accounts from anywhere in the world, with mobile banking features that allow them to make transactions on the go.

10 Best Banks for Digital Nomads

Without further ado, here’s our lineup of the best bank accounts for digital nomads.

1. Revolut

Revolut is a digital bank that’s headquartered in London. While it doesn’t offer a traditional bank account, its money management app can be a great option. Once you download it, you can make global exchanges with more than 30 currencies and transfer money abroad instantly. Revolut will give you 10 free international transfers per month plus a debit card with cash back rewards.

Also, if you invest in a Premium or Metal plan, you can enjoy additional perks, like travel insurance and access to airport lounges while you wait for your flights. In addition, you’ll get to use 55,000 fee-free ATMs and be able to withdraw up to $1,200 from out-of-network ATMs each month. If you’re interested in a Revolut account, you’ll need to provide a name, address, and ID. The bank does not require a credit check or proof of address.

2. Chime

When most people think of international financial accounts, Chime doesn’t typically come to mind first as it’s a financial technology or fintech company in the U.S. Even though it doesn’t provide a multi-currency account, its cards don’t charge foreign transaction fees and offers free cash withdrawals at ATMs across the globe.

This is great news if you’re looking for an affordable way to cover your international purchases. Chime’s main offerings you might want to consider include the Chime Checking Account, the Chime High Yield Savings Account, and the Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card.

It’s important to note that Chime is designed to be used as a mobile app so it could be a solid pick if you like the idea of mobile banking. The app will send you daily notifications on your account balance and international transactions. Rest assured you can disable them at any time.

3. Capital One

Capital One is one of the largest banks in the U.S. but we had to include it in this list because of its primary checking account, the Capital One 360 Checking. If you consider yourself an expat, often make online purchases from different countries, and would like to avoid a monthly fee or foreign transaction fee, this account can make sense.

You won’t have to pay any transaction fees if you use your card overseas, plus you may open the account without a minimum opening deposit requirement or monthly fees. To reap the benefits of the Capital One 360 Checking, you must be a U.S. resident with a U.S. mailing address and Social Security number.

4. Wise

Wise, which was formerly known as Transferwise, should be on your radar if you do business abroad. The UK-based fintech company will let you create a local bank account that accepts multiple currencies, making it a breeze to meet your digital nomad banking needs. Wise also integrates with popular payment platforms, such as Amazon Payments and Stripe for easy direct deposits.

We can’t forget to mention the Wise borderless account that may be worthwhile whether you’re studying abroad, an expat, or a freelancer with international clients. It comes with low fees and can be accessed by just about anyone. However, Wise is not an actual bank account so you may have trouble receiving direct deposit payments. For this reason, it might be a good supplement to an existing bank account.

To take advantage of Wise, you’ll need a bank or credit card statement, tax bill, proof of address, driver’s license, or government document.

5. Chase

Chase is an excellent choice for digital nomads and expats living abroad due to its global presence and user-friendly digital banking platform. Chase’s online banking system is user-friendly and provides a range of features, including bill pay, mobile check deposit, and international money transfers.

For those living abroad, Chase’s credit and debit cards also offer no foreign transaction fees, making it an affordable option for international travelers. In particular, the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Chase Sapphire Reserve are widely considered to be among the best credit cards available.

Furthermore, Chase Bank provides 24/7 customer service support, ensuring that its customers can get assistance with any issues they may encounter, regardless of their time zone.

6. HSBC

HSBC serves about 40 million customers across 63 countries in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa, North America and Latin America. If you’re an international traveler, you can’t go wrong with the HSBC Everyday Global Account, which makes it easy to make purchases in 10 different foreign currencies with no transaction fees or monthly service fees. It truly offers a fee-free banking experience.

In addition, there are no ATM fees so you can enjoy fee free ATM withdrawals and many promotions throughout the year. HSBC also offers Visa Zero Liability, which can protect you from fraud and give you some much-needed peace of mind. We can’t forget that HSBC offers over 55,000 ATMs, many of which are in the Allpoint network, as well as 24/7 customer support via phone and Twitter.

7. Citibank

There’s a good chance you’ve heard of Citibank as it’s a well-known bank in the U.S. It has a presence in 97 markets and supports clients in more than 160 countries. With the Citibank Plus account, you can manage your money in up to 21 different currencies.

Citibank will waive your maintenance fee as long as you maintain a certain balance and reimburse you for foreign ATM withdrawals when you use ATMs outside its network. Additionally, you may send money abroad quickly and won’t have to pay a penny if you’re sending the funds to another Citibank account. Another great perk is the handy mobile app that offers convenient banking while on the go.

8. Monzo

Monzo is a challenger bank in the UK that’s recently increased in popularity. You can open an account for free, divide it into “pots” to better manage and save your money, and get a free debit card, which can be sent to any address in the UK. You can use it for a variety of debit card transactions and ATM withdrawals abroad.

You won’t pay any fees when you make purchases on your card and can receive a limited amount of free ATM withdrawals every month. Monzo is also compatible with Apple Pay and Google Pay. Plus, there’s a convenient mobile app with useful budgeting tools that may help you take control of your spending. Note that Monzo is fully digital so you can’t count on it for in-person support or local branches.

9. Charles Schwab Bank

You can open a U.S. bank account through Charles Schwab and won’t have to worry about foreign transaction fees or opening fees. Plus, you can enjoy unlimited rebates on international withdrawals.

In the event you move to a different country, you can open another Charles Schwab account but you may have to meet a high minimum deposit threshold. If you need assistance while you’re traveling, you’ll be thrilled to know you can receive it via phone or email.

10. Bank of America

Despite the word America in its name, Bank of America can be a smart option if you’re looking for a digital nomad bank account. In fact, it attracts many frequent travelers.

It serves more than 35 countries and has locations throughout Europe, Asia, and the Middle Each so you shouldn’t have an issue finding a branch near you. Bank of America offers a variety of bank accounts you may find appealing as well as a well-designed mobile app.

Features to Consider When Choosing the Best Bank for Digital Nomads

When exploring different digital nomad banks, consider these features.

Banking Experience

Every financial institution provides its own unique experience. First, think about whether you’d like an online-only bank or one with branches you can visit. Then, think about the size of the bank that would be best for you.

A smaller bank might be a better fit if you prefer personal service as well as better rates and lower fees. A larger bank, however, might make more sense if you’d like access to a wider range of products and resources.

Account Types

Some banks offer a few accounts and banking services while others pride themselves on a long list of offerings, like checking accounts, savings accounts, investment accounts, and many others. To determine the account types you need, think about your goals.

Are you looking for someone to park your cash so you can access it while you’re abroad? If so, you might be in the market for a basic checking account or high yield investor checking account with no foreign transaction fees and ATM fee reimbursement.

If you’re a business owner, you may require additional services like international wire transfers between accounts and countries without paying costly fees.

ATMs and Debit Cards

Chances are you can benefit from a digital nomad bank account with ATM access. If you need to make purchases abroad frequently or every once in a while, you should opt for an account with debit cards that are compatible everywhere. This usually means you’re in the market for a Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or American Express debit card.

Keep in mind that many countries don’t accept cards with magnetic strips so you will need a card with an EMV chip. Ideally, it would also allow for contactless payments, which are quite popular abroad.

Note that while debit card purchases may make sense in some situations, credit cards come with greater protections, which can be helpful if your card gets lost or stolen. If possible, use your debit card at ATMs and credit card every time you make a purchase.

Fees

At the end of the day, you don’t want to be stuck with sky-high fees that deter you from your financial goals. Here are some fees to be aware of as you search for the best banks for digital nomads.

Foreign transaction fees: These fees can kick in whenever you make a withdrawal or purchase in a foreign currency. Your bank might charge them all the time, in certain situations, or not at all.

ATM fees: If you need to withdraw money from an ATM, you may be on the hook for ATM fees. The chances of this are higher if you opt for an out-of-network ATM. The good news is some banks offer free withdrawals or will reimburse you for ATM fees while you’re abroad.

Monthly maintenance fees: You may face a monthly maintenance fee or service fee to keep your account open. Typically, the more features your account has, the more expensive this fee will be. Fortunately, some banks pride themselves on low banking costs and zero monthly fees.

Interest Rates

Depending on what you plan to do with the bank account you open, interest rates may or may not be important. If your sole purpose is to get easy access to cash while you’re traveling to a different country, interest rates probably aren’t a big deal. But if you’d like to use your account for saving or investment purposes, a higher rate is ideal. The higher the rate, the easier it will be for you to meet your goals.

Security

Security should be a top priority when you explore digital nomad bank accounts. Reputable banks have certain account holders protections in place for if your debit or credit card gets lost or stolen, for example. They also make it a breeze to report fraudulent activity from anywhere.

Some banks also have a security feature known as two-factor authentication. This requires you to use your password and a special code you receive via call or text every time you log in. It provides extra security in the event your device gets lost or stolen.

Customer Service

In a perfect world, you’d never have any questions or issues with your bank account. Since this is unlikely, you shouldn’t overlook the importance of customer service. The bank you choose will determine how easy or difficult it is to receive assistance.

If you can, opt for a digital bank with 24/7 customer service. Otherwise, you may get stuck if you have an urgent need and customer service is only available during select business hours.

Reviews

If you visit a bank’s website, you’ll find no shortage of information on its benefits and why you should become a customer. However, one of the best ways to determine whether a bank account is worth it is through customer reviews. Do your due diligence and read real reviews on reputable, third-party websites.

Also, look at ratings on websites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to get a better idea of a bank’s reputation. If you notice a lot of negative reviews and poor ratings, you may want to look elsewhere.

Online Banking Features

As a digital nomad, you’ll likely be doing a lot of your banking online. Look for a bank that offers robust online banking features, such as the ability to view account balances and transaction histories, transfer funds, and pay bills online.

Bottom Line

Choosing a good bank is essential for digital nomads who need access to their money while traveling the world. With the right bank, you can manage your finances easily and efficiently while enjoying the freedom of a location-independent lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a digital nomad?

A digital nomad is someone who works remotely and has the ability to work from anywhere in the world as long as they have an internet connection. They often travel frequently and have a location-independent lifestyle.

Why do digital nomads need a specific bank?

As a digital nomad, you’ll need to find a bank that caters to your specific financial needs; one that offers easy online access, enables low-fee transactions, and facilitates international transfers without hefty costs. Traditional banks may not be able to provide you with these services, which is why it’s important to investigate other options.

What is the best bank for digital nomads and expats?

There is not one bank that checks off everyone’s boxes. The right option for you depends on your goals. You may choose an account that allows for easy money transfer abroad. Or you may prefer one that eliminates foreign transaction fees. It’s up to you and what you hope to accomplish.

How can I avoid transaction fees when banking as a digital nomad?

To avoid transaction fees when banking as a digital nomad, you should look for a bank that offers fee-free ATM withdrawals and has low foreign transaction fees. You may also want to consider using a debit or credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

Do I need to have a permanent address to open a bank account as a digital nomad?

You do not necessarily need a permanent address to open a bank account as a digital nomad. Some banks allow you to use a post office box or a friend’s address as your mailing address. You may also be able to use a virtual mailbox service.

Can I open a bank account in a foreign country as a digital nomad?

Most countries prohibit non-residents from opening bank accounts. You’ll find that you’ll likely need a local mailing address. Unfortunately, financial institutions don’t typically accept hotel or short-term rental addresses.

Can I use my digital nomad bank account for personal transactions?

Yes, you can use your digital nomad bank account for personal transactions. However, it’s best to keep your business and personal finances separate to make accounting and tax reporting easier.

Will my digital nomad bank account have all the features of a traditional bank account?

Your digital nomad bank account may not have all the features of a traditional bank account, but it should have the features that are most important for your lifestyle, such as online banking and low transaction fees. Be sure to research the banks you’re considering to ensure they offer the services you need.

What should I do if I lose my debit card while traveling?

If you lose your debit card while traveling, you should contact your bank immediately to report the loss and request a replacement card. You should also carry a backup debit card or credit card in case of emergencies.

What are the best banks for international wire transfers?

If you’d like to make many international wire transfers, there are certain banks with solid bank transfer rules you should explore. Several examples are Bank of America, Chase, Citibank, Wells Fargo, Citibank, PNC, and U.S. Bank.

Source: crediful.com

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Apache is functioning normally

June 4, 2023 by Brett Tams

Image of a relaxing lake -- perfect for an early retirement

For as long as I can remember, I have known that I wasn’t fit for the corporate world.

Like J.D. Roth, the founder of Get Rich Slowly, I am an introvert, not a fan of authority and even less of structure. So even before I graduated college, I had my mind on one big goal: leave the corporate world as soon as possible. I was working for a big IT multinational in business school; those were not the happiest times, but that job allowed me to graduate debt free, with a small nest egg that I immediately invested to buy my first rental property in cash.

I believe real estate is one of the best way to build wealth and make money, since you generate an almost passive income, but it was far from enough to cover my basic living expenses. I started playing with those online savings calculators to see where my savings would take me in 5, 10 or 20 years. It was a revelation.

Do you know that if you make $2,000 and invest 10 percent of your salary at 6 percent for the next 40 years, you will have $400,289 for only $96,000 invested? At a 4 percent withdrawal rate, your nest egg will produce a monthly income of $1,334. Less than the $2,000 you are making today, or the $1,800 you are living on since you are investing 10 percent of your salary, but no small change.

The thing is, I didn’t want to wait for 40 years. Playing with the calculator some more, I found out that if you can live on 25 percent of your salary, to cover your expenses in retirement, you only need to save for 7 years! Living on 25 percent of my salary was a bit of a stretch, so I looked for ways to make more money. I bought a three-bedroom apartment and took in two roommates. I took odd jobs on top of my day job; I was making money tutoring at night and writing for several travel websites on the weekends, catering at weddings and freelancing as a translator. The plan was to retire around age 40, but I was so determined to quit my last job that I considered an alternative: how about leaving the U.K., where I worked, and relocating abroad?

At the time, I was 29 and owned two rentals in France and the U.K. that would cover my expenses in a cheaper country. I had a few investments that could cover the mortgage on the second rental (the first one was paid for) in case of a vacancy. And my freelance income was more than what I made at my day job. It came from half a dozen sources, and the probability of them all drying up at once was slim. I quit my job and took a one way flight to Morocco.

I lived in Casablanca for a year, and started a life of semi-retirement. I would cycle along the oceanfront, study Arabic, spend hours shopping for fresh produce or eating grilled camel at the market, and travel for weeks at a time to get pictures and posts for my travel writing gigs. I loved my time in Morocco but kept thinking about a country I loved even more, Guatemala. I had lived there for three years after business school, and after traveling to 80 countries, it was still one of my favorite. After a short trip there, I knew it would be my next destination. I found a piece of land by a beautiful lake in the northern area of the country, complete with a lovely little house that could become a guest house someday (one of my dreams). I bought it with cash along with with a 90-acre piece of land that I am turning into a residential development.

I have been living there with my boyfriend for almost a year, and after putting quite a bit of cash into house renovations and building a detached room and panoramic terrace, we are living happily on less than $1,000 a month, or $500 each.

Related Content:
How to live on less

Here is our budget:

Housing: $0 We bought our property with cash. You can rent a lovely furnished one- or two-bedroom house in Antigua Guatemala or Lake Atitlán, the two favorite retirement spots in the country, for $500 to $700 a month, generally including utilities. For a bigger colonial home, you will have to spend $1,000 to $1,500 per month.

Food: $200 This is pretty high, almost the minimum wage in Guatemala but we like to eat and that includes some imported products we enjoy (like cheese!) and some alcohol. We seldom go out.

Car: $100 We have two old cars that we bought with cash and put about $100 per month in gas.

Electricity: $80 With the house renovations there were drills and tools plugged all day, we occasionally use air conditioning, and pump our water from the lake to cook and shower with an electric pump.

Natural gas: $12 for a 25 lb. container that lasts about a month.

Staff: $300 We have a full time handyman/gardener around the house, who alternates with his girlfriend who comes to clean the house. This is a great perk to living in Guatemala.

Animals: $20 We have a rooster and 10 hens, some turkeys, ducks and roosters. They eat a $20 bag of feed per month, we eat $40 worth of delicious free-range eggs each month. Win-win!

Internet: $80 We spend $40 each. He pays for a data plan on his iPhone, and I pay for a wireless USB modem. It’s expensive, but we are in the middle of nowhere!

Property taxes: $30

Accountant: $20 We own the house and land as an LLC so we need an accountant.

Random: $150 Once in a while we go out, buy something for the house or go over the grocery budget, but that never comes to $150 though, but if something breaks it could. It is quite complicated to get car parts or any parts around here.

That’s a total of $992 or $496 per person.

On top of that, I spend about $3,000 per year or $250 per month on travel. I fly back to France for a month but stay with my family so apart from a $1,000 ticket I don’t spend a lot, my last trip cost about $2,000 so I still have $1,000 to travel somewhere else, maybe the U.S., by the end of the year.

You may have noticed that I don’t mention healthcare. When I go back to France I get my physical from my doctor, and I do not have health insurance here, just a travel insurance included in my credit card that will repatriate me if something serious happened. This year, I only got a root canal in Guatemala that cost $200.

With the cost of a rental, healthcare and travel back to the U.S. once or twice a year, you could live well here on less than $1,000 per person. Go the extreme early retirement route, and you can live on rice and beans for less than $300, housing included.

But is retiring abroad worth it? I wrote a post recently to compare the costs of early and normal retirement in the U.S. versus abroad, where I concluded that you could either live better than you do for the same price, have a bigger home, some staff, a lovely piece of land with a view for the price of a 500-square-foot condo, or be able to retire years earlier by moving to a cheaper country and living by local standards.

For me, Guatemala meets all my requirement. The weather is mild all year long (they call it the land of eternal spring), people are nice and relaxed, the cost of living is very low and you can find most things you may want or need, from imported tech gadgets to U.S. trained doctors, albeit at a cost. I enjoy my month-long European holiday to visit my family and friends. Since I have been living abroad for the past 10 years anyway, I am used to emailing and Skyping the rest of the year. They visit me occasionally, as well. I could live in France on a similar or slightly higher budget but would not get the same quality of life.

Related Content: Retirement strategies

Where you will spend your retirement is a very personal choice, and for many, being near your family will be on the top of your list. Although if your kids are on the West coast and you are on the East coast, you are just as far away as if you had retired under the Guatemalan sun.

Source: getrichslowly.org

Posted in: Retirement, Taxes Tagged: 2, About, accountant, age, air, Air Conditioning, All, apartment, basic, bedroom, before, best, big, boyfriend, Budget, build, building, business, Buy, calculator, Calculators, car, cars, choice, Clean, College, Colonial, condo, cost, Cost of Living, country, Credit, credit card, data, Debt, debt free, Development, Early retirement, East Coast, Eating, electric, estate, expenses, expensive, Family, Financial Wize, FinancialWize, first rental, flight, food, Free, freelance, gadgets, gas, goal, graduated, great, grocery, grocery budget, guest, health, Health Insurance, healthcare, holiday, home, hours, house, house renovations, Housing, How To, in, Income, Insurance, internet, Invest, Investing, investments, iPhone, job, jobs, kids, lake, Land, Life, list, Live, Living, living expenses, LLC, Local, low, Make, Make Money, making, Making Money, market, minimum wage, money, More, more money, Mortgage, Moving, natural, oceanfront, or, passive, passive income, percent, Personal, plan, pretty, price, probability, products, property, property taxes, quality, random, rate, Real Estate, relocating, renovations, Rent, rental, rental property, Rentals, Residential, retirement, retiring abroad, rice, rich, room, roommates, roth, Salary, save, savings, School, second, semi-retirement, shopping, short, shower, Spring, square, stories, Strategies, taxes, Tech, the west, time, tools, Travel, travel insurance, under, utilities, versus, wealth, weather, Websites, weddings, West Coast, will, wireless, withdrawal, working
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