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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

April 27, 2024 | By Dana George

5 Tips to Save Big on Your Next Costco Haul

As one of the most popular retailers on the planet, there are plenty of shoppers who count on Costco. These five tips could help them save more.
April 27, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's What Happens When Your Credit Score Rises by 20 Points

A 20-point credit score increase won't always make a huge difference. But in some cases, it might. Read on to learn more.
April 27, 2024 | By Ben Gran

4 Life Insurance Riders Every Senior Should Consider

Want to buy life insurance as a senior? Don't forget about riders. Here's how the best life insurance riders can help you with long-term care and other costs.
April 27, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

3 Credit Card Mistakes I've Made and How Much They Cost Me

Credit card mistakes can be expensive. Check out three of the mistakes I've made so you know what not to do.
April 27, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Struggling to Afford Your Auto Insurance? 3 Steps Worth Taking

Auto insurance can be a drain on your finances. Here's what to do if you're having a hard time keeping up with the cost.
April 27, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

3 Effective Ways for College-Bound Teens to Maximize Their HYSA

Opening a savings account before you go off to college can help build a lifelong habit. Keep reading to learn what to consider when you're a beginning saver.
April 27, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

4 Lies You May Have Been Told About Flying Business Class

There are lots of myths and misconceptions about flying business class. Learn about the most common ones so you don't fall for them.
April 27, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

How to Choose Affordable Business Banking for Your Freelance Services

Are you considering opening a business bank account for your freelance services? Affordable banking options exist. Here's what to look for and what to avoid.
April 27, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

The Single Worst Mistake You Can Make With Rewards Credit Cards

Rewards credit cards can help you earn points or miles. Keep reading for an error that could see you end up with a mound of debt.
April 27, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

CD Rates Topping 5% Could Soon Be Harder to Find. Should You Invest in Them Now?

While higher-rate CDs have been common in recent months, they are slowly disappearing. Find out what you should know about whether to buy.
April 27, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

5 No-Brainer Reasons You Should Never Get a Vacation Loan

If you don't have enough saved for travel, you may be considering a vacation loan. Find out why this isn't a good idea and how it can cost you.
April 27, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

How Much Do You Need to Fly to Earn American Airlines AAdvantage Gold Status?

It's not how much you fly, it's how much you spend. Learn what you need to know about achieving elite status on American Airlines.
April 27, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

Having Trouble Saving Money? A CD Could Be the Answer You're Looking For

CDs offer high interest rates, and they have rules that help discourage withdrawals. Here's what you need to know about them.
April 27, 2024 | By Cole Tretheway

Why You Shouldn't Put Your Venmo or Cash App ID in Your Social Media Profiles

Putting your Venmo or Cash App ID on your social media profile is dangerous. Find out what to do instead.
April 27, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Fastest Ways for Newlyweds to Earn Points on Their Travel Rewards Card

Traveling as a couple is fun, and it's even better when you're paying for it with points. See what you and your spouse can do to earn travel rewards more quickly.
April 27, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Are You Overlooking These 3 Essential Features When Choosing a CD?

When you open a CD, you should look beyond the interest rate. Here are three other features to consider to maximize your return and find the right CD for you.
April 27, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

5 Underrated Kirkland Products That Are Totally Worth It

Costco's Kirkland Signature products are well-known for their quality. Here are five less celebrated products to add to your shopping list.
April 27, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's Why Making Your Minimum Credit Card Payments May Not Be Enough to Save Your Credit Score

If you want your credit score to improve, you need to focus on paying down debt as well as being timely with debt payments. Read on to see why.
April 27, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Never Fall for These Lies About Hybrid Cars

Worried about EV range anxiety? Buying a hybrid car could be a good move. But don't fall for these big myths.
April 27, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

3 Reasons to Book Business Class -- and How to Do It

Business class is a much more comfortable way to fly. Check out a few situations when flying business class makes sense and how to book it for less.
April 27, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

​​3 Reasons You'll Regret Not Opening a CD in 2024

CD rates have already started to fall. If you're interested in opening one, find out why you might not want to delay your decision for much longer.
April 27, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

These Are the 5 Hottest Rental Markets. Do You Live in One?

Rental prices have jumped over the past couple of years. Read on to find out where the hot spots are and how to lower your rental costs.
April 27, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Think Saving Money Is Impossible? These 3 Tips Make It Easier

With the right approach, you can go from someone who struggles to save to a person who saves consistently. Read on to learn more.
April 26, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

How Does Your Entertainment Spending Compare to Your Fellow Americans'?

Entertainment spending can make or break your budget. Keep reading to find out whether yours is average -- and what it could mean for your finances.
April 26, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

4 Reasons Every Small Business Needs Its Own Credit Card

You have to spend money to make money. Take a look at why you should open a business credit card to do that spending.