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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 19, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

3 Reasons I'm Not Touching 12-Month CDs, Even With Rates at 5.25%

12-month CD rates are at a two-decade high. Find out why this writer is avoiding 12-month CDs for the near future.
May 19, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

You Might Not Realize What Happens When You Spend More Than $10,000 on Your Credit Card

Many high-limit credit cards offer over $10,000 in spending power. Find out what would happen if you spent this much with your credit card.
May 19, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Affordable Ways to Personalize the Customer Experience

Looking for ways to improve the customer experience through personalization? Doing so can benefit your small business. Here are four easy examples.
May 19, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

This Is How Much Money You Can Make With $5,000 in a CD Ladder

A CD ladder is a popular strategy to take advantage of high CD rates. Check out how it works and see the amount you could earn if you invested $5,000 this way.
May 19, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Is It Getting Harder to Be Approved for a Credit Card? This New Fed Survey Says Yes

Want to apply for a new credit card? Banks might be making it harder. See what tighter approval standards could mean for you.
May 19, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Underrated Perks of a Sam's Club Plus Membership

Should you join Sam's Club? Here are some lesser-known ways a membership can benefit you.
May 19, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

52% of First-Time Home Buyers Are Interested in a Fixer-Upper. Beware These 2 Pitfalls, Though

Should you buy a fixer-upper in today's market? Read on to see why it may be a move that backfires on you.
May 19, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

3 Reasons Your Credit Card Is Your Best Summer Travel Companion

The easiest thing to pack could be the most valuable. See what your cards can do for you this summer.
May 19, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

CDs vs. Mutual Funds: What's the Better Investment Now?

Both options offer investors decent returns. Learn how to choose the right one for your needs.
May 19, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

7 Ways Costco Can Help You Stretch Your Social Security Checks

Many retirees live on a fixed income. Read on to see how Costco can help you make the most of yours.
May 19, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Why This $400 Checking Account Bonus Is a Great Deal

Huntington Bank offers $400 if you qualify for a new Perks Checking account by June 22, 2024. Learn why it's worth a look if you need a new account.
May 19, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

This Was the Average HELOC Balance in 2023 -- and Why It's a Bit Alarming

HELOC balances grew in 2023. Read on to see why that's a problem.
May 19, 2024 | By Robin Hartill, CFP

With Rates at 5.15%, Should You Put CDs in Your Roth IRA?

High CD yields could mean a higher tax bill. Find out whether the potential tax savings makes a Roth IRA the right place for holding CDs.
May 19, 2024 | By Ben Gran

5 Reasons Why Small Businesses Are Embracing 'Shrinkflation'

Shrinkflation is a popular strategy for small businesses to manage inflation without raising prices. See why small business owners are using shrinkflation.
May 19, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

The One Kirkland Item I'll Never Buy Again

Costco has built its reputation on the strength of its Kirkland brand. Learn how product changes have made one item hard to use.
May 19, 2024 | By Ben Gran

These 10 Products Are Most at Risk for 'Shrinkflation'

Are you thinking about using "shrinkflation" for your small business? See which product categories are shrinking -- and why it can be a bad strategy.
May 19, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

This Was the Average Mortgage Balance in 2023. Can You Afford It?

The rate on your mortgage can spell the difference between an affordable balance or not. Read on to learn more.
May 19, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Ranked: The Top 5 Reasons to Invest in CDs

CDs can be a good investment choice. Read on to learn the most popular reasons investors choose them.
May 19, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Hybrid vs. EV: Which Is Right For You?

Choosing between a hybrid car and EV doesn't have to be tough. See which types of drivers are a good fit for hybrids vs. electric vehicles.
May 19, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

1 in 4 First-Time Home Buyers Today Are Considering an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage. Here Are 2 Pros and Cons

Is an adjustable-rate mortgage right for you? Read to see why it may or may not be.
May 19, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

The Hidden Downside of Always Flying Basic Economy

Regularly flying with basic economy tickets could offer big savings. Read on for a major drawback to consider.
May 19, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

5 Things Even Costco Won't Let You Return

Costco's return policy is famously lax, but even Costco has its limits. See what items fall under these exceptions.
May 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

A Hybrid Car Can Save You $611 per Year

Want to save money on gas and get a better deal on buying a car? See how much you can save with a hybrid car -- and how to get EV tax credits.
May 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

How an Average Gen Xer Can Save $1.5 Million for Retirement

If you're a typical Gen Xer, see how much you need to save today to retire in 15 years. (It might be less than you think.)
May 18, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

CD Rates Are Over 5% -- and I Still Think They're a Waste of Money

Many investors are interested in CDs right now. Read on to find out why other options might be better.