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

June 2, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

The Surprising Downside of Always Flying Business Class

Flying business class has benefits that include more leg room and free drinks. But find out the surprising downside to paying for these upgraded seats.
June 2, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I'm About to Retire and Have Never Owned a Home. Should I Buy or Continue Renting?

It's never too late to become a homeowner. But see how becoming a homeowner for the first time in retirement may throw your finances for a loop.
June 2, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Never Had a Credit Card? 3 Smart Reasons to Open One ASAP

A credit card is an important financial tool. If you've never had one, find out why you should open a credit card right away.
June 2, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Can Too Many Bank Sign-Up Bonuses Damage Your Reputation?

Want to open lots of bank accounts to earn multiple bank sign-up bonuses? This plan might sound profitable, but see how it can hurt you in other ways.
June 2, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

2 Signs a Balance Transfer Card Isn't Right for You

Under the right circumstances, transferring a balance to a new credit card can help you pay it off. Read on for ways to tell this won't work for you, though.
June 2, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

5 Costco Perks You Aren't Taking Advantage of -- but You Should

If you're a Costco member or plan to join, don't miss out on membership perks. You may be ignoring some valuable benefits. Check out a few you should use.
June 2, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Here's Why I'm Raising My Car Insurance Deductible -- and Maybe You Should, Too

Some means of saving on auto insurance are more effective than others. Read on to learn why raising deductibles is worth considering.
June 2, 2024 | By Devon Delfino

How Much Should You Put Into Your Checking Account? Here's One Way to Decide

A checking account buffer should cover you in the event of a missed or delayed paycheck. Read on to learn how to figure out that critical figure.
June 2, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Housing Inventory Is Low. Should You Buy Land and Build a Home Instead?

If you can't find a home that meets your needs or budget, you may be eager to buy land and have one built. Read on to see why this might be a good idea.
June 2, 2024 | By Dana George

If I Ever Cancel My Costco Membership, These Will Be the Reasons

As one of the most popular retailers in the U.S., Costco has millions of members. Here's what one member says it would take for them to cancel.
June 2, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Southwest Just Raised Early Check-In and Upgraded Boarding Fees

Before you buy a Southwest flight ticket, review recent fee hikes. Some optional service fees have increased. Here's what you need to know before your flight.
June 2, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

5.00% APY CDs Are Getting Scarce. 3 Places You Can Still Find Them if You Hurry

CD interest rates are expected to drop later this year. Check out these three banks if you want to lock in a 5.00% APY before it's too late.
June 2, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Best Credit Repair Companies, Ranked

Some companies can potentially help you rebuild your credit. Read on to find out what to look for when choosing one.
June 2, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

This So-Called Perk of a VA Loan Could Actually Be a Major Drawback

A VA loan could make it easier to become a homeowner. But read on to see why you need to be careful with these specific loans.
June 2, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Never Cruised Before? 5 Tips to Save Money

Gearing up for your first cruise? Here's how to cut your travel costs.
June 2, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Costco Will Take Half-Eaten Food Back -- but You Can't Return These 8 Items

Costco's return policy is extremely flexible. But read on for some exceptions to that rule.
June 2, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

Affordable Ways to Fund a Startup Without Going Into Debt

Starting up a business comes with a lot of risk, and funding it with debt makes that risk worse. Try these ideas instead.
June 1, 2024 | By Margo Winton Parodi

My Credit Card Just Saved Me $150 With the Click of a Button. Here's How

If a vendor refuses to make things right after a sale gone wrong, you're not out of options. See how turning to your credit card can save you a lot of money.
June 1, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Thinking of Buying a CD? You Should Buy 5 Instead

Instead of buying just one CD and having to choose between the best rate and a longer term, you should consider a CD ladder. Find out why.
June 1, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

This Little-Known Trick Could Knock Up to 15% Off Your Car Insurance Premium in a Weekend

Car insurance premiums cost Americans nearly $3,700 per year on average. Here's a simple way to shave hundreds of dollars off yours.
June 1, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I Used to Budget but Gave It Up. Here's Why -- and What I Do Instead

When budgeting became a huge drag, I stopped doing it. But doing so didn't hurt my finances. Read on to see why.
June 1, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

The Hidden Downside of Leaving Lots of Money in Your Savings Account

Even savings accounts have drawbacks. Read to find out when these accounts aren't the best option.
June 1, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

3 Great Perks of Renting a Home Instead of Buying One

Renting isn't throwing your money away. Learn a few reasons why renting a home can be better than owning one.
June 1, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Things About Foreclosure You Should Know

Worried about foreclosure? Read on to learn what the process entails.
June 1, 2024 | By Emma Newbery

Got $5,000 to Invest? Here Are 5 of the Best Places to Put It

If you invest $5,000 in a fund that tracks the S&P 500, it could be worth over $20,000 in 20 years' time. Find out what investment makes most sense for you.