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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 26, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I Only Have $500. Is It Worth Opening a CD?

A CD could put more interest in your pocket. Read on to see if you should open one if you only have $500.
May 26, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Here's What Happens When Costco Books Your Vacation

Looking for an easy way to book an amazing vacation? Try Costco Travel! See what happens when you book a cruise or an all-inclusive vacation with Costco.
May 26, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Top 5 Little-Known Reasons Why Customers Buy From Small Businesses

How can small businesses compete with big corporations? By going deeper into the local community. See how better small business marketing can help.
May 26, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

3 Ways Costco Can Save You Money on Car Ownership -- Besides Cheap Gas

Most people know Costco offers great prices on gas, but you can also get deals on tires, insurance, and even your next vehicle. Learn more here.
May 26, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Most Renters Think the American Dream of Owning a Home Is Dead. Are They Right?

Owning a home has become exceedingly difficult. Should you give up on it? And is that even such a bad thing? Read on to find out.
May 26, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Lies You've Been Told About Your Costco Membership

It's important to know the ins and outs of Costco's rules. Read on to get to the bottom of some big myths.
May 26, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Have $10,000 to Invest? Here's How Much You Could Have in 30 Years

When you're saving for a far-off goal, investing is almost always your best bet. Read on to see more.
May 26, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Reasons Not to Open a CD Now -- Even With Rates at 5%

Today's CD rates are tempting. But read on to see why a CD may not be the best choice for you.
May 26, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

I'm About to Take an 8-Night Cruise. Here Are 4 Things I'm Doing to Save Money

I'm about to set sail on a family vacation, and the costs can certainly add up. Here are a few ways to make it easier on your wallet.
May 26, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Revealed: The Most Expensive Car to Repair in America

There's one pickup truck that will cost you a lot to maintain. Read on to find out how to save on car ownership costs.
May 26, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Reasons I Refuse to Spend Extra on a Business Class Ticket

When I travel by air, I choose economy class tickets. Read on to see why.
May 26, 2024 | By Dana George

How to Budget Comfortably on a Fixed Income in Retirement

Unless you have a limitless budget, you'll probably retire on a somewhat fixed income. Check out some ways to make that retirement more comfortable.
May 26, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

How the Average American Can Turn Their Tax Refund Into $129,000

Investing your tax refund instead of spending it could turn it into a huge sum of money. Read on to learn more.
May 26, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Is a Costco Membership Worth It if You Only Go Once a Year?

A Costco membership makes sense when you'll be shopping there often. But is it worth buying a membership for a once-a-year visit?
May 26, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Surprise: You'll Never Guess the 20 Cheapest Cars to Own

Want to buy an affordable car in 2024? Here are 20 vehicles that score highly when it comes to insurance and fuel costs.
May 26, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

This Costco Customer Service Experience Turned Me Into a Lifetime Member

Costco has long been one of my favorite stores. But an experience in 2020 made me an even more loyal member. Read on to see what happened.
May 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's Why Now's Not the Best Time to Buy Summer Clothes for Your Kids at Costco

Costco offers great deals on apparel. But read on to see why now's not necessarily a great time to buy summer clothing.
May 25, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

CD vs. High-Yield Savings Account: What's the Better Place for Your Savings Right Now?

Both can be good options for your money. Read on to find out why savings accounts may have the advantage.
May 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Flying With Southwest? Here's How Costco Can Save You $50 on Your Next Flight

Airfare can be expensive. Read on to see how you can save thanks to Costco.
May 25, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Don't Make This Big Home-Buying Mistake

Putting yourself into a huge financial trap is a major mistake. Learn why you should carefully consider your budget when buying a home.
May 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Minivans May Be the Least Cool Car Out There, but Here Are 4 Benefits of Driving One

Minivans are often regarded as lame. But read on to see why it could pay to get one.
May 25, 2024 | By Dana George

Here's Why It's Never Too Late to Plan for Retirement

Planning for old age is something every American will have to do. Keep reading to learn how to make the most of it, even if you've waited to begin.
May 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

CD Rates Could Fall This Year -- But Here Are 3 Reasons to Wait on Opening One

It's a good time to lock in a great CD rate. But you may want to wait if these situations apply to you.
May 25, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Ranked: The 3 Most Cost-Effective Types of Businesses to Start

You don't need deep pockets to start a business. Read on to find out which ones cost next to nothing.
May 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Expenses Medicare Won't Cover That You Can Buy at Costco for Less

There are certain essential services and products that Medicare won't pay for. Read on to see how a Costco membership might make those less expensive.