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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

July 17, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

Here's How Much Costco Gas Could Save the Average Driver in a Year

Costco has a reputation for rock-bottom gas prices. The real data is slightly less enthusiastic. See our results for the actual numbers.
July 17, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

5 Unusual Ways to Use Your Cash Back Credit Card Rewards

Cash back rewards can be used for more than paying down your balance. Read on to find out some of the best ways to utilize them.
July 17, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Costco Members Get 51% Off on Photos From Shutterfly. Is It Worth It?

Do you love to print photos? Costco members get a big discount at Shutterfly. But beware of a few big downsides. See how to get the best photo prints.
July 17, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Choosing a New Bank? Never Overlook These Features of the Safest Banks

Keeping your money secure should be a top priority when you're picking a bank. Read on for the most crucial benefits to look for.
July 17, 2024 | By Emma Newbery

4​ High-Paying Side Hustles for People Who Don't Have a Car

People can earn around $180 a day in digital marketing by working from home. Find out what other side hustles you can do without leaving your house.
July 17, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

4 Great Temu Buys Under $10

These awesome Temu items came at a great price. Check them out to see if you could get a good deal by ordering from Temu.
July 17, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

How Much Will $5,000 Make You in a High-Yield Savings Account?

$5,000 is a solid chunk of savings -- and you deserve to earn as much interest as possible on it. Read on to see how.
July 17, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Newly Retired? Here's Why a Costco Membership Might Be Right for You

Your spending habits will probably change in retirement. Find out why getting a Costco membership could be a smart decision if you're a new retiree.
July 16, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

How the Amex Gold Card Could Save You $500 or More per Year

The American Express® Gold Card is one of American Express' best values. Find out how to save serious money with this card.
July 16, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Expert Quotes: See This Professor's 3 Predictions for the Future of Auto Insurance

Will car insurance ever get cheaper? See why Bryant University Professor Rick Gorvett believes that drivers might see lower-cost car insurance soon.
July 16, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Ways to Shop at Costco, No Membership Required

Don't want to pay to join Costco? No problem. Read on to see how you can shop there without a membership of your own.
July 16, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

Is the Amex Gold Card Worth the Annual Fee?

The American Express® Gold Card has plenty of valuable perks to cover its annual fee. Find out how it can pay for itself.
July 16, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

3 Reasons to Say No to CDs, Even With Rates as High as 5.15%

CD rates are high right now. Read on for a few reasons not to invest in CDs and what you should do with your money instead.
July 16, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Shop Now to Save $100s on 7 Limited-Time Costco Buys in July 2024

Did you know about this extra way to save money at Costco? Here are seven Costco deals that expire on July 31, 2024.
July 16, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

The Best Small Business Ideas for Small Towns: Opportunities Overlooked

More Americans live in small towns than big cities -- and they might be buying what you're selling. Read on for small-town business inspiration.
July 16, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

Is Sam's Club Photo a Good Deal? Here's Our Review

Sam's Club is the place we go for deals on lots of goods. Are photo prints one of them? See this writer's experience using the service.
July 16, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

3 Reasons Rewards Credit Cards Beat Medical Credit Cards

A medical credit card is the perfect solution to help you with a hospital bill, right? Maybe not. Learn why rewards cards can be a better option.
July 16, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Surprise! This Is Costco's Most Popular Membership

You have choices when it comes to your Costco membership. Read on to see which option is the most common among consumers.
July 16, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

3 Investing Myths That Can Cost You Big Time

Investing is the best way to grow your wealth over time. Keep reading for a few misconceptions that can impact your bottom line.
July 16, 2024 | By Dana George

4 Reasons to Make Your Next Big Electronics Purchase at Costco

Electronics are a major purchase, so it pays to shop around before buying. Here are four reasons to consider buying from Costco.
July 16, 2024 | By Danielle Antosz

Millennials, Is It Time to Sell Your Starter Home?

Are you considering selling your starter home? Before you call your listing agent, read on to learn what to think about.
July 16, 2024 | By Ben Gran

5 Big Perks of Working for Costco

Do you ever wonder what it's like to work at Costco? Costco employees get generous benefits and bonuses -- even part-timers. See what Costco life is like.
July 16, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

This Costco Favorite Just Underwent a Big Change, and Fans Aren't Happy

Costco's rotisserie chicken has long been considered a great deal. But read on to see why some customers aren't as happy with it now.
July 15, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Here's My Favorite New Credit Card of 2024

This card is new to the market and is a highly competitive product. Learn more about it and why you might want to consider it.