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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 18, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

A Quarter of Americans Have a Credit Score of 800, but Is That Overkill?

A quarter of Americans now have credit scores of 800 or better, but does it really matter to their daily lives? Find out where you rank here.
July 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The Hidden Downside of Upgrading to Business Class

It's nice to fly in comfort, but there's a drawback to getting used to business class you need to know about. Find out what it is here.
July 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The 3 Smartest Places to Put Your Money in July 2024

Have extra money on hand? Here's what to do with it this month.
July 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The 3 Smartest Ways to Save Money at Costco This July

Want to maximize your Costco savings this month? Read on to find out how.
July 18, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Is a Costco Membership Still Worth It for Childfree Couples?

If you don't have kids, you might not need to buy pudding cups in bulk. Learn why you might still want to join Costco anyway.
July 18, 2024 | By Devon Delfino

3 Reasons You Should Invest in a CD Right Now

Given the current offerings, CDs represent an appealing opportunity to maximize your cash. Read on to learn three reasons to consider investing in one right now.
July 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

5 Ways You Can Make the Most of Your Costco Membership, Even at $65

The cost of a Costco membership is rising. But you can still come out ahead financially by making these key moves.
July 17, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

CD Rates Above 5.00% Are Bad News for Investors. Here's Why

CD rates above 5.00% mean inflation is high, so you have less money to invest and your real returns aren't that great. Learn more here.
July 17, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I'm Retiring With $200,000. Am I in Good Shape?

A $200,000 saving balance might seem like it could set you up for life. Read on to see why you should probably aim higher.
July 17, 2024 | By Devon Delfino

How to Manage Money After a Layoff (From Someone Who Survived One)

If you've been laid off, you need to create a severance package budget and potentially file for unemployment. Read on to learn more about your options.
July 17, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

5 Super Popular Costco Buys Under $100

If you have $100, Costco has plenty of ways for you to spend it. Check out this month's best deals under $100.
July 17, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Here's How Much America's Highest Earners Have Saved for Retirement

Earning a lot of money makes it easier to save for retirement. Find out just how much the highest-earning Americans have saved for their futures.
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.