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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 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.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Signs It's Time to Downgrade Your Costco Membership

Should you keep your more expensive Costco membership? Read on to see why it may be time to go back to a basic one.
May 14, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Suze Orman Is Right About CDs, and Dave Ramsey Is Wrong. Here's Why

Both Dave Ramsey and Suze Orman have shared their opinions about CDs, but Orman's stance makes a lot more sense. Read on to learn why.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Should You Open a CD in Your IRA?

You can invest your IRA funds in a CD. But should you? Read on to find out.
May 14, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

4 Reasons I Never Fly Basic Economy

Are you considering buying a basic economy ticket? Make sure you review the restrictions before you book. Find out why one writer avoids this ticket type.
May 14, 2024 | By Margo Winton Parodi

CD Rates Are Above 5%, but I'm Still Not Investing. Here's Why

CDs have been the talk of the town, thanks to the towering rates of late. But take a look at why they may not be the right move for everyone.
May 14, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

5 Things I Do Every Month to Save a Ton of Money

Saving money doesn't need to be difficult. Check out the simple financial habits that have paid off for me.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's the Single Best CD Investing Strategy for Seniors

CDs could make a lot of sense for those approaching retirement. But read on to see how to set yours up.
May 14, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Canceling a Credit Card? Do This First to Avoid Fees

Thinking about canceling one of your credit cards? Don't miss this important step -- it could save you money. Find out what you need to do.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Didn't Increase Your Savings in 2023? Here's How to Do Better in 2024

It's a good time to be putting money into savings. Read on for ways to free up cash for that purpose.
May 13, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Great Costco Gifts for New Parents

Is there someone important in your life who just had a baby? These three Costco finds could be the perfect gift.
May 13, 2024 | By Cole Tretheway

Here's What the Average Costco Shopper Spends per Month. How Do You Compare?

46% of Costco members splurge for the Executive membership. Find out how your spending stacks up to the average Costco shopper.
May 13, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

These 3 Home Renovations Could Raise Your Homeowners Insurance Costs

Improving your home? Read on to learn about some big renovations that could drive your homeowners insurance premiums upward.
May 13, 2024 | By Dana George

4 Things I Don't Like About Investing in CDs

CD rates remain relatively spectacular. Read on for four qualities of certificates of deposit that one writer doesn't especially like.
May 13, 2024 | By Emma Newbery

Could Costco's $1.50 Hot Dog Combo Go Away?

The price of Costco's hot dog and soda combo has not changed for almost 40 years, but what if it does? Find out how this shift could impact your shopping.
May 13, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Americans Earned $315 Billion on Their Savings in 2023. Here's How to Get the Highest Interest Rate Possible

Want to earn more on your money this year? Read on to see how.