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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 6, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

4 of the Most Important Features When Choosing a Travel Credit Card

A travel credit card can be a great tool for travelers. But make sure you choose one that meets your needs. Here's what to look for in a travel credit card.
May 6, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

5 Great Mother's Day Gifts You Can Find at Costco

Need a great gift for your mom? The clock is ticking down. Read on to see how Costco can come to your rescue.
May 6, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

U.S. Bank Is Offering New Customers Up to $700 Until June 27. Should You Go for It?

U.S. Bank is offering an impressive sign-up bonus, but there's more to consider before opening accounts here. Here's what you need to know.
May 6, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Want to Own an Airbnb? Here's What You Need to Know About Homeowners Insurance

Short-term rental properties can be an excellent investment. Read on for important insurance concepts you can't afford not to know.
May 6, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

2 Unexpected Challenges of Starting a Small Business and How to Overcome Them

Many people want to forge their own financial path. Keep reading for a few pitfalls you may encounter along the way -- and how to cope.
May 6, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

The Struggle of Work-Life Balance as a New Small Business Owner

If you don't manage your working time well when you start a business, you may overwork yourself. Here are some tips that may help.
May 6, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

3 Reasons It Never Pays to Be Loyal to One Airline

Loyalty to one airline is a good strategy for some travelers, but it's not for everyone. Check out a few reasons why airline loyalty may not make sense.
May 6, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Reasons to Give Your Mom the Gift of a Costco Membership

Not sure how to find the perfect Mother's Day gift? Read on to see why a Costco membership might fit the bill.
May 6, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

3 Reasons You Shouldn't Open a High-Yield Savings Account, Even With Rates at 5.55%

The best high-yield savings accounts have mind-boggling APYs. But here are three reasons you might want to avoid them in 2024.
May 6, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

5 Ways Your Sam's Club Membership Can Pay for Itself in One Trip

Is a $50 Sam's Club membership worth it? Read on to find out how to earn it back with just one purchase.
May 6, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

3 Practical Ways to Save Money on Your Remodel

Have you bought the fixer-upper of your dreams? Find out how to keep it that way by making your remodeling project more affordable.
May 6, 2024 | By Ben Gran

How to Invest Your 401(k) Money if You're 40 Years Old

Investing your 401(k) funds is crucial for a comfortable retirement. Read on for a few simple strategies for asset allocation.
May 6, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Should You Get a Personal Loan or Use a Balance Transfer Credit Card in 2024?

Both balance transfers and personal loans can help you get out of debt. Which is best for you? Keep reading for a closer look.
May 6, 2024 | By Margo Winton Parodi

Explain Like I'm 5: The Top 3 Financial Tips That a Child Could Understand

Figuring out your finances can feel daunting, but it doesn't have to be complicated. Take a look at a few tips that can paint a simpler picture for you.
May 6, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Why You Shouldn't Be in Any Big Rush to Open a CD

Want to open a CD in 2024? Based on the Fed's latest interest rate moves, here's why there's no need to hurry.
May 6, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Women Say These 5 Big Changes Would Reduce Their Financial Stress

Women face unfair challenges in the financial world, but there are ways to fight back. Here are five big changes that women want to see in their finances.
May 6, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

This Is How Much Money You Can Make With $20K in a 5-Year CD

CDs are risk-free investments with generous interest rates. Find out how much you can earn over five years with $20,000 invested.
May 6, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

6 Reasons Flying Business Class Is Worth the Points

Business class can cost double the points of a main cabin ticket. Find out some of the reasons it's worth the extra cost.
May 6, 2024 | By Ben Gran

These Top 5 Things Cause Men and Women the Most Money Stress

What makes women and men feel the most financial stress? See what a Laurel Road survey has to say about gender gaps in money stress.
May 6, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Little-Known Ways to Save Money in May 2024

Want to bank some extra cash this month? Read on to see how.
May 5, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The 3 Smartest Places to Put Your Money in May 2024

Need a home for your extra money? Read on to see what your best options look like this month.
May 5, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Suze Orman Thinks Retirees Should Invest in CDs. Should You Listen to Her?

CD rates are up and let you lock in a rate for the duration of the account's term. Learn why CDs can be a good option for retirees.
May 5, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

New Homeowner? You Should Consider This Type of Credit Card

Credit cards can be useful financial tools. Learn why one type of card in particular is perfect if you've just closed on a mortgage.
May 5, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Top 8 Ways You Could Be Missing Out on Free Money

Do you ever get the nagging suspicion that you could be earning more money for free? Keep reading to see how to get that money back.
May 5, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

Here's What Happens When Busy Moms Pay Off Their Debt

Discover how debt-free living boosts moms' lives. Read on for the benefits and learn how to start your journey.