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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 15, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

4 Reasons a Sam's Club Plus Membership Is Way Better Than a Costco Executive Membership

While both Sam's Club and Costco have upgraded memberships offering cash back, Sam's Club's membership has more value than Costco's. Find out why here.
May 15, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

How Bad Is a $10,000 Balance on Your Credit Card?

Credit card debt is one of the most common financial issues. See how much a $10,000 credit card balance really costs you and learn how you can pay it off.
May 15, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Things You Probably Don't Know About Your Costco Executive Membership

Costco's Executive membership offers lots of benefits. But read on for some surprising facts you may not have known.
May 15, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Why This Surprising Decision From Tesla Could Be Bad News for EV Owners

Have you heard about Tesla firing its entire Supercharger team? See what this means for the future of EV charging, and what to do before you buy an EV.
May 15, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Why You Shouldn't Rush to Invest in CDs Now

Trying to decide between a CD and a savings account? Based on the latest moves from the Fed, you shouldn't feel pressure to open a CD. See why.
May 15, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

4 Ways to Get the Best Auto Insurance for Recent College Grads

Learn how to find better auto insurance rates as a new grad. Read on for key tips to help you save on the coverage you need.
May 15, 2024 | By Ben Gran

This New Investment Option Could Be a CD Killer

Does the fixed APY on the best CDs feel uninspiring to you? Here's what you need to know about Save, a fintech that offers higher returns on your savings.
May 15, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Here's Why I Only Use One Credit Card When I'm Traveling Abroad

I enjoy relying on a lot of credit cards when I'm at home, but I stick to one when I'm overseas. Learn the features of the best cards for foreign travel.
May 15, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Should You Cash In Your CD to Avoid Credit Card Debt?

If you're facing an expense you have to put on a credit card, does it make sense to break your CD term early to cover it? Find out here.
May 15, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Pitfalls of Shopping at Discount Grocers

Picking up staples at discount grocers could save you money. But read on to see why your shopping experience may not be as positive as expected.
May 15, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

3 Reasons I'm Sitting on the CD Sidelines, Despite 5% Rates

CD rates are impressive. Read on to discover why they might not be the best option for your money.
May 14, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

4 Ways to Spring Clean Your Finances

Revitalize your finances this spring with expert tips. Take a look at how to start your financial detox now.
May 14, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

This Is How Much Money You Could Make if You Invested $2,500 in a CD Today

You have a lot of great options for high-paying CDs today. Read on to learn how much $2,500 in one could net you over time.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Should You Join Costco for the Bakery Alone?

Costco's bakery is loaded with deals. But should you join for the express purpose of getting to access it?
May 14, 2024 | By Ben Gran

This Unique Fintech Could Help Working Families Improve Their Personal Finances

The Reset card is a unique on-demand pay card, or "earned wages access" card that works like a debit card. It can help gig workers get paid faster with no fees.
May 14, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Does Your Net Worth Put You in the Upper, Middle, or Lower Class?

Net worth is an important financial metric. Find out the average net worth for the upper, middle, and lower class to see where yours lands.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Can Severance Take the Place of Your Emergency Fund After a Layoff?

Some workers are eligible for severance pay when their jobs are eliminated. Read on to see why falling back on that option is pretty dangerous.
May 14, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Here's How Your Credit Card Debt Stacks Up to the Average American

Carrying a credit card balance is very common, and the average balance increased by 10% over a year. Learn how to cope with your credit card debt here.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

5 Signs You're Not Taking Full Advantage of Your Costco Membership

Costco memberships offer a world of value. Read on to make sure you're making the most of yours.
May 14, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

May Is Your Last Chance to Get This Limited-Edition Amex Card

Interested in a limited-edition credit card made from a Boeing 747 aircraft? Here's why you'll need to act quickly to get your hands on it.
May 14, 2024 | By Dana George

Want to Buy CDs? Here's Why You Need a (Simple) Plan

Investing in a CD could not be any more straightforward. Take a look at a plan that can help you squeeze the most from your investment.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

This Change to My Social Media Habits Has Saved Me Hundreds of Dollars Over the Past Year

Impulse buys can be a huge budget-buster. Read on to see what this writer did to help break that habit.
May 14, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Never Ignore These Point-of-Sale Security Features

Hackers are targeting point-of-sales systems. Read on to find out how to protect your small business.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Signs You Need Way More Than a 3-Month Emergency Fund

You'll often hear that three months of savings is the minimum amount to aim for. Read on to see why you should be working toward a higher savings goal.
May 14, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

My Home's Appraisal Came in Low! What Now?

An appraisal is just one of the many steps between you and homeownership. Learn what to do if the appraiser says the home is worth less than expected.