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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 17, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

This Is the Only Reason I Would Ever Invest in CDs

CDs are hot, hot, hot right now -- but they're not the right savings vehicle for everyone. Learn why one writer has avoided them so far.
May 17, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

5 Things Aldi Does Better Than Nearly Any Grocery Store

Aldi has a loyal following among budget-conscious shoppers. Read on to find out why they love the store.
May 17, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

CD Rates Are Near 5%. Here's Why I'm Still Not Tempted to Open One

CDs pay impressive rates right now. Read on to find out why they're still not worth it for everyone.
May 17, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

5 Alternatives to Summer Camp You May Want to Look Into

Camp can be a huge budget-buster. Read on for ways to keep your kids busy and looked after during the summer.
May 17, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

The Single Best Way to Increase the Credit Limits on Your Credit Cards

Increasing your credit limits can help your credit score. Learn the best way to boost your cards' limits.
May 17, 2024 | By Cole Tretheway

You Won't Get Rich by Investing in CDs. Should You Put Your Money Elsewhere?

The best CDs earn you half of what the stock market offers. Find out whether you should invest in the market instead.
May 17, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

The 4 Best Costco Buys for Your Memorial Day Weekend Cookout

As you shop for Memorial Day weekend, look for ways to get a better discount on your cookout essentials. Here are some affordable items to buy at Costco.
May 17, 2024 | By Ben Gran

3 Little-Known Perks of Owning an EV Over a Hybrid

Shopping for a new car in 2024? You can get a big discount with new (or used) EV tax credits. See a few other perks of owning an EV instead of a hybrid.
May 17, 2024 | By Ben Gran

The 5 Types of Financial Advice That Gen Z Wants the Most

Want to save more money, make smarter investments, or get out of debt? See which types of financial advice are most in-demand from Gen Z -- and where to get it.
May 17, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

I Only Have $500 to Invest. Is Opening a CD Worth It?

You don't need to be rich to put your money to work. See why a CD is still worth opening even if you don't have a lot to invest.
May 17, 2024 | By Cole Tretheway

This Is What Happens to Your Credit Limit Based on How You Spend

Your credit limit could rise by thousands of dollars if you swipe your cards the right way. Find out what happens to your limit when you spend.
May 17, 2024 | By Ben Gran

More Americans Are Ditching Banks With Low Interest Rates. Should You?

Are you still putting up with 0.01% APY on your savings? See why Americans have recently moved $1.6 trillion into higher-yield accounts.
May 17, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Reasons I Don't Shop at Target Anymore

I used to love shopping at Target. Read on to see why I've changed my tune.
May 16, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Top 3 Places to Put Your Money Instead of a 0.01% APY Bank Account

Tired of making money for your bank? See how to make money for yourself with a 5.00% APY (or higher) savings account, money market account, or CD.
May 16, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Only 1 in 3 Women Work With a Financial Professional. Here's Why You Should Consider Hiring an Advisor

There's nothing wrong with seeking out help in meeting your financial goals. Read on to see how an advisor can be instrumental in attaining financial security.
May 16, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

10 States With the Cheapest Car Insurance

Auto insurance rates are skyrocketing across the U.S., but some states fare better than others. Here are the 10 with the lowest average car insurance premiums.
May 16, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

4 Reasons Cash Is the Best Gift for a College Grad

Have a college graduate in your life? Read on to see why the gift of cash may be your best option.
May 16, 2024 | By Dana George

Small Business Simplified Through These 4 Accounting Tips

Consistent accounting is vital for starting a small business. Learn four ways to keep your accounting practices simple.
May 16, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

The 5 Best Sam's Club Buys for Your Memorial Day Weekend Cookout

Ready to shop for your upcoming Memorial Day cookout? Deals can help you keep your spending in check. Take a look at these affordable Sam's Club buys.
May 16, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I'm About to Have an Empty Nest. Should I Keep My Costco Membership?

A Costco membership could be useful even if you won't have kids living at home anymore. Read on to see why.
May 16, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

3 Signs Upgrading Your Costco Membership Is Right for You

A Costco Executive membership costs more money but comes with added perks. Watch for these three signs that you should upgrade.
May 16, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Here's How to Get Airport Lounge Access With Your Favorite Airline

Being at the airport is much more enjoyable when you can kick back in a lounge. Discover how to get airport lounge access with any of the big airlines.
May 16, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I Have a $20,000 Emergency Fund. Am I All Set?

You'd think you'd be all set with $20,000 in emergency savings. But read on to see why in some cases, you may be wrong.
May 16, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Fly to These 20 Surprising Places With 75,000 Welcome Bonus Points From Chase Sapphire Reserve

Wondering where you can fly with 75,000 welcome bonus points from the Chase Sapphire Reserve® credit card? How about New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and Vietnam?
May 16, 2024 | By Ben Gran

20 Faraway Countries You Can Visit With 75,000 Chase Sapphire Preferred Bonus Points

Want to see how far you can travel with 75,000 bonus points from the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card? How about India, Morocco, Brazil, and beyond?