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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 31, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

4 Unexpected Perks of Business Credit Cards You Haven't Considered

Business credit cards have lots of valuable perks. Check out some of the benefits that might not have crossed your mind.
May 31, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Reasons Not to Open a CD in 2024 -- Even Though Rates Are Outstanding

CD rates are really attractive right now. But see why you may be better off steering clear of a CD this year.
May 31, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

When Do You Need Travel Insurance?

Planning a vacation? Determine whether you need travel insurance with this handy guide.
May 31, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

I Finally Quit Using My Credit Card for Everything, and I'm Not Looking Back

Credit card rewards aren't always worth it. Read on to find out when it might be a good idea to back off of using your favorite card.
May 31, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

You Won't Believe How High the Median U.S. Home Sale Price Is

Home prices keep climbing. Read on to see what the median home is selling for today.
May 31, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Costco's Executive Membership Gives You Up to $1,000 in Cash Back -- but Here's Why You'll Probably Get a Lot Less

A Costco Executive membership could put serious cash back in your pocket. But pursuing the maximum amount could seriously hurt your finances.
May 31, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

The Unexpected Upside to Retiring Later Than Planned

Retiring early is a popular goal. But here are three good reasons you might want to wait a few years.
May 31, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Raided Your Emergency Fund After a Layoff? Here's How to Rebuild It

It's easy to blow through your savings when you don't have a job. Here's how to get back to where you started.
May 30, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

The Zero Down Mortgage Is Back -- But Is It a Financial Mistake?

Should you consider a zero down mortgage for your home's purchase? Find out here.
May 30, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Why I Wouldn't Open a 3-Month CD Today

CD rates are high right now. But read on to see why I think a 3-month CD just isn't worth it.
May 30, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Ways to Maximize Your Grocery Savings at Costco

Costco offers a host of great deals on groceries. Read on for ways that you can save even more.
May 30, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Ways to Make Sure You're Not Overspending on Your Retirement Home

Buying a new home for retirement? Read on to make sure you're not getting in over your head.
May 30, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

The 5 Best Decor Finds at Costco Now

From sectionals to dining sets, discover stylish, budget-friendly decor at Costco. Keep reading to see the deals.
May 30, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I Just Discovered This Unwanted Surprise in My Bank Account. Here's How I Could've Avoided It

One bank account change is working to my disadvantage. Read on to see how I could've prevented it in the first place.
May 30, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Aldi's Produce Prices Often Beat Costco's. Here's Why I Buy Produce at Costco Anyway

Aldi is known for ultra-competitive prices. But read on to see why buying produce at Costco often makes more sense.
May 30, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

This Is How Much Money You Can Make With $5K in a CD

CD rates are at their highest level in years, and you might be surprised at how much you could earn in one. Keep reading to find out more.
May 30, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Why You Shouldn't Try to Save Money by Eliminating All Your 'Fun' Spending

Cutting your fun spending out of your budget might seem like the best route to building your savings. See why this approach could sorely backfire on you.
May 30, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The One Rule You Must Follow if You're Signing an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage Today

Looking at signing an adjustable-rate mortgage? Read on to make sure you're not setting yourself up for financially disastrous results.
May 30, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Don't Sign Up for These Savings Account Bonuses -- 5.00% APY CDs Are a Better Deal

Have you seen these big savings account bonuses from TD Bank, U.S. Bank, and Wells Fargo? See how much you'd earn with the best CDs instead.
May 30, 2024 | By Jamie Matthews

I Called Chase's Reconsideration Line to Get a Denial Overturned. Here's What Happened

I was shocked to find out I was denied for a Chase credit card recently. Learn how my experience went with Chase's reconsideration line.
May 30, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

How to Maximize Your Passive Income From CDs

There's one CD strategy that can help you maximize your income. See why income investors should use it.
May 30, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

Here Are the 5 Cheapest Hybrid Trucks

The cheapest hybrid trucks on the market combine power and fuel efficiency. Read on to find your perfect hybrid truck and save.
May 30, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Reasons to Stop Shopping at Aldi

A lot of people absolutely love Aldi. But take a look at a few reasons to consider spending your grocery budget elsewhere.
May 30, 2024 | By Ben Gran

This Is How Much Capital You Really Need to Start Your Small Business

Want to start a business? See how much start-up capital you really need for a few popular types of businesses, from online stores to restaurants.
May 30, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Signs a Costco Membership Isn't Worth It for You

Will a Costco membership pay off, or will it be a waste of money? Read on to find out.