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The Ascent Articles

Learn more about applying the principles of money management to help stay in control of your finances.

Recent Articles

May 28, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

How to Get Elite Status With Hilton

The Hilton Honors program has three elite status tiers with special benefits. Learn about what you need to do if you want elite status with Hilton.
May 28, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

How to Get Elite Status With Marriott

The Marriott Bonvoy program has several elite status tiers with special benefits. Find out what they offer and the requirements for each one in this guide.
May 28, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

How to Get Elite Status With Hyatt

Hyatt offers special perks for guests with elite status. Learn how to get elite status in the World of Hyatt program and check out the benefits it offers.
May 28, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

Newlywed? Here Are 7 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Travel Rewards Credit Card

Congratulations on tying the knot! Now that you're married, discover smart strategies to maximize your travel rewards credit card and save big on your next adventure.
May 28, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

One Reason to Buy Big-Ticket Items at Costco -- Even if They're Cheaper Elsewhere

Costco's prices aren't always the lowest. But read on to see why it often pays to make bigger purchases there.
May 28, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

How My Bank of America Premium Rewards Card Saved Me $200 Last Month

A Bank of America credit card covered some of my travel costs recently. Keep reading to learn how credit cards can save you money and make your life easier.
May 28, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

3 Reasons to Open a CD in June

CDs are a great way to keep cash safe and growing. See why you might want to jump on one this month.
May 28, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

How to Get up to $70 Off Your Next Costco Order

Costco's partnership with Uber has resulted in some hefty discounts. Learn how to save $70 on your next Costco order.
May 28, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

These 2 Perks Alone Could Make a Costco Membership Worth It for Seniors

Seniors tend to spend a lot of money on two expenses in particular -- and Costco offers good deals on both. See why these perks could make it worth joining.
May 28, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

3 High-Interest Savings Accounts to Check Out in May

Many savings accounts earn an impressive rate these days. Read on to find out which ones may be right for you.
May 28, 2024 | By Ben Gran

This Is How Much Money You Can Make With $10,000 in a High-Yield Savings Account

Want to see just how much money you can earn with high-yield savings accounts, the best money market accounts, and more? Let's crunch the numbers.
May 28, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Reasons to Buy Appliances With Credit Cards

Appliances aren't exactly an everyday purchase. Read on to see why using your credit cards to buy them is your best bet.
May 28, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Forget CDs: Here Are 4 Better Investments for Your Retirement Savings

CDs are a popular way to save, but they're not the best choice for your retirement savings. See which investments typically offer much higher returns.
May 28, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Surprising Things About Costco's Kirkland Products

New to Costco? Here are some things to know about its signature brand.
May 28, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

3 Reasons to Open a High-Yield Savings Account in June

Is the bulk of your savings in a savings account at a big bank? Your cash deserves better. Learn why now is a great time to open a high-yield savings account.
May 28, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

4 Pros and Cons of Joining Costco

Is a Costco membership right for you? Maybe. But consider these benefits and drawbacks before making your decision.
May 28, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's Why 12-Month CDs Are a Great Deal Today

Should you choose a 12-month CD today? Read on for two great reasons to lock up your money for the next year.
May 28, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

5 Tips to Tackle Credit Card Debt Fast

Conquering credit card debt can help you reclaim your financial freedom. Read on for a few ways to approach your debt.
May 28, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Here's Why I'm Keeping a Savings Account That Only Earns a 0.01% APY

Savings accounts at big banks are pretty worthless for APY -- but they have other benefits. Learn why one financially savvy writer is hanging onto hers.
May 28, 2024 | By Dana George

5 Perks of Buying a TV at Costco

The average American household has multiple TVs that will eventually need to be replaced. Find out why it makes sense to buy a TV at Costco.
May 28, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Why the Highest-Paying CDs Aren't Always a Good Deal -- Even With Rates of Up to 9.5%

Some banks and credit unions are offering extremely high rates on CDs. Find out why you may want to think twice before opening one.
May 28, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

5 Critical Tips for Choosing the Right Small Business Insurance

Insurance coverage is crucial to protect the financial security of your business. Keep reading for vital information to help you pick the right policies.
May 28, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

4 Clear Signs You Should Cancel Your Costco Membership Right Now

Costco's discount membership club isn't right for everyone's financial situation. Here's when it might be a good time to look elsewhere for savings.
May 28, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Procrastinating on Opening a HYSA? You Might Regret That

Rates on savings accounts are already falling. Read on to learn why now is the time to open a high-yield savings account if you haven't yet.
May 28, 2024 | By Ben Gran

The Single Best Accounting Tip for Small Business Success

Want to save time and money on tax prep, bookkeeping and managing business finances year-round? Get accounting software! See how it can help your business.