Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

This device is too small

If you're on a Galaxy Fold, consider unfolding your phone or viewing it in full screen to best optimize your experience.

Skip to main content

The Ascent Articles

Learn more about applying the principles of money management to help stay in control of your finances.

Recent Articles

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.
May 25, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Top 5 Costco Buys to Survive Hot Summer Days

Are you worried about hotter weather in summer 2024? Here's how Costco can save you money on air conditioners, freezers, water sports gear, and more.
May 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Before You Buy an RV, Ask Yourself These 3 Questions

Interested in owning an RV? Make sure you've thought things through first. Take a look at what to consider.
May 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Rules Always I Follow When Shopping at Aldi

Aldi is a unique grocery store. Read on to see how I do my shopping there.
May 25, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

How to Decide if a Credit Card's Annual Fee Is Worth It

Are you considering a credit card with an annual fee? Check out a few considerations to keep in mind to make sure the fee is worth it.
May 25, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

5 Costco Executive Membership Benefits Worth at Least $100

Costco offers deals on everything from travel to gas. Discover why the $120 fee for an Executive membership is worth it.
May 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Do You Need a 6-Month Emergency Fund?

Is six months' worth of savings sufficient for you? Is it too much? Read on to find out.
May 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I Lease a Plug-In Hybrid. Here's Everything You Need to Know

Curious as to what it's like to drive a plug-in hybrid? Read on to see what my experience has been like so far.
May 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

12- vs. 24-Month CD: What's Best for You?

If you're going to open a CD, it's important to choose a term that works well for you. Here's how to decide between a 12- and 24-month option.
May 25, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

5 Amazing Costco Buys for Under $50

Costco's Memorial Day savings have kicked off. Check out these five amazing deals before their offers expire.
May 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Mortgage Rates Could Fall in 2024. Here's Why That Could Make It Even Harder to Buy a Home

Many would-be home buyers today are being thwarted by high mortgage rates. But read on to see why falling rates may not make it any easier to purchase a home.
May 25, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

The 5 Best Credit Cards for Shopping at Costco

You could save even more at Costco by using the right credit card. Check out this list for credit cards that earn big rewards on Costco purchases.
May 24, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Chase Freedom Flex vs. Discover It Cash Back: Which Is Better for Rotating 5% Rewards?

The Chase Freedom Flex and the Discover it® Cash Back are similar cash back cards. Find out which is the better option with this comparison.
May 24, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

How to Get Elite Status on Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines made changes to its SkyMiles program last year. Check out the new rules for getting Medallion Status.
May 24, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

The One Change That Could Maximize Your Business Credit Card Rewards

Credit card rewards are an easy way to get value back on your business spending. Discover one smart move to max out the rewards your business earns.
May 24, 2024 | By Cole Tretheway

Here Are the Pros and Cons of Owning 2 Bank Accounts

Owning two savings or checking accounts could be worth the hassle. Find out the perks and drawbacks of multiple bank accounts.
May 24, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

How My Costco Executive Membership Paid for Itself in One Trip

The Costco Executive membership costs twice as much as a standard membership, but can be well worth it. Here's one writer's experience.
May 24, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

5 Reasons to Apply for the New Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

The Citi Strata Premier℠ Card just launched. Check out the top reasons why you should consider adding this travel card to your wallet.
May 24, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's the Single-Best Reason to Open a CD Right Now

CD rates are up right now. But that's not the main reason why it pays to open a CD. Read on for all the details.