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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 20, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Top 5 Reasons to Apply for the United Explorer Card

Do you fly United Airlines often? See why the United Explorer Card could be a great choice for your next credit card.
May 20, 2024 | By Dana George

4 Reasons I Check My Bank Account Every Day

Balancing a checkbook can take hours each month. Take a look at what one writer does instead.
May 20, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Here's Why American Airlines Credit Card Miles Are More Valuable Than You Think

American Airlines' loyalty program rewards credit card spending more than others. Here's how you might be underestimating their value.
May 20, 2024 | By Cole Tretheway

5 Reasons to Close a Credit Card Even When It Hurts Your Credit Score

Closing a credit card could boost your quality of life. Find out whether it's worth hurting your credit score.
May 20, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Amazing Costco Items You Won't Find at Other Stores

You can find plenty of traditional grocery and household items at Costco. But read on to learn about some unique Costco buys you won't find elsewhere.
May 20, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Costco Is Kicking Non-Members Out of the Food Court. Should You Join for the Hot Dog?

Costco is cracking down on non-members visiting the food court. Is it worth joining just to keep enjoying the $1.50 hot dog deal?
May 20, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

There Are 2 Kinds of Savers. Which Are You?

In my long and storied life, I've categorized people into two money-saving saving styles. Here's how to optimize your savings based on your type.
May 20, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

The Best Airlines for Traveling With Kids

Flying together as a family with kids can be an ordeal. Booking with a kid-friendly airline may help. Find out which airlines are best for traveling with kids.
May 20, 2024 | By Dana George

How to Know When You Have Too Much Money in Your Savings Account

While most Americans are still working on their savings, it is possible to have too much in your account. Learn how you can tell it's time to change course.
May 20, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

This Little-Known Costco Perk Could Cover the Cost of Membership

Costco offers many ways to make up your membership fee. Here's one that doesn't even require shopping at Costco!
May 20, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

3 Reasons Why Your Business Needs a Small Business Checking Account

Your business needs a small business checking account -- trust me on this. But if you don't, read this article to find out why.
May 20, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

1 in 5 Americans Struggled to Add to Their Savings in the Past Year. But This Simple Move Could Help Boost Yours

Struggling to give your savings a lift? Read on for an easy move that might yield great results.
May 19, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

5 Things Money Pros Recommend You Do With $1,000

An extra $1,000 can do a lot of financial good. Read on to learn how to use it to improve your finances.
May 19, 2024 | By Devon Delfino

3 Tools Every Good Freelancer Needs for Efficient Business Banking

Freelance businesses need tools to create more financial stability. Read on to discover the three tools you should consider to streamline your business.
May 19, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Stop Letting Big Banks Insult You -- Get a 5% APY Savings Account

Do you have money in a big bank savings account that pays only 0.01% APY? That's terrible. You deserve better! See how to get more yield on your savings.
May 19, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Want to Beat the Best CD Rates (5.15% APY)? This Wealthfront Account Could Do It

Looking for a higher-yield, flexible, innovative alternative to CDs? See why you should try automated bond investment accounts from Wealthfront.
May 19, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Tips for Spending Less at Walmart This Year

Want to reduce your Walmart spending? Read on to see how.
May 19, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Why You Shouldn't Get Too Dazzled by CD Rates (Even at 5.15% APY)

Want to beat the best CDs? Even though CD rates are at 5.15% APY, you can do better. See where to put your money for even higher ROI on your cash.
May 19, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Most Expensive Mistakes Parents Make With Cash Back Credit Cards

Cash back credit cards are popular with parents. Watch out for these costly errors that could end up cutting into the cash back you earn.
May 19, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Only About 2 in 3 Women Feel Financially Secure. Take These Steps to Feel Better About Your Finances

Feeling iffy about your finances? You're not alone. Take a look at how to get to a better place.
May 19, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

3 Reasons I'm Not Touching 12-Month CDs, Even With Rates at 5.25%

12-month CD rates are at a two-decade high. Find out why this writer is avoiding 12-month CDs for the near future.
May 19, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

You Might Not Realize What Happens When You Spend More Than $10,000 on Your Credit Card

Many high-limit credit cards offer over $10,000 in spending power. Find out what would happen if you spent this much with your credit card.
May 19, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Affordable Ways to Personalize the Customer Experience

Looking for ways to improve the customer experience through personalization? Doing so can benefit your small business. Here are four easy examples.
May 19, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

This Is How Much Money You Can Make With $5,000 in a CD Ladder

A CD ladder is a popular strategy to take advantage of high CD rates. Check out how it works and see the amount you could earn if you invested $5,000 this way.
May 19, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Is It Getting Harder to Be Approved for a Credit Card? This New Fed Survey Says Yes

Want to apply for a new credit card? Banks might be making it harder. See what tighter approval standards could mean for you.