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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 10, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

This Was the Smartest Move I Made Before Buying a Home

Buying a house comes with lots of steps. Here's one this new homeowner absolutely doesn't regret.
July 10, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

4 Amazing Sam's Club Buys for Under $50

A Sam's Club membership can help you save money when you shop. You can score great deals on items that cost $50 or less. Here are a few deals to consider.
July 10, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Why I'm (Still) Not Opening Any CDs in 2024 -- Even if the Fed Cuts Rates Soon

Many people are getting antsy about locking down a high-yield CD before the Fed cuts interest rates. See why savings accounts could still be a better choice.
July 10, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

The BusyKid Debit Card Lets Parents Add Chore Money

You can empower your kids with financial savvy using the BusyKid Visa Debit Card. Learn how this can teach them valuable money management skills.
July 9, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

The Ultimate Reason to Ditch Your Cash Back Card for One That Earns Points

Cash back credit cards are growing in popularity. Find out why a rewards credit card could be better for you.
July 9, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

The 4 Best Ways to Spend Your Chase Rewards Points

Rewards points are a key benefit of most credit cards. Read on to find out how to maximize your Chase Ultimate Rewards points.
July 9, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

4 Little-Known Perks of the Chase Freedom Unlimited Credit Card

The Chase Freedom Unlimited has perks you might not know about. Find out what they are so you can get the most out of this rewards card.
July 9, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

4 Reasons the Chase Sapphire Preferred Is a Great First Travel Credit Card

With so many options, it's hard to pick your first travel credit card. Find out why the Chase Sapphire Preferred is one of the best options for beginners.
July 9, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Here's How I'm Getting $300 After Spending Just $1,000 on This Credit Card

This credit card is a solid product for avid cruisers. Here's why I decided to apply.
July 9, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Good News for Globetrotters: U.S. Passports Can Be Renewed Online

Is the clock ticking down until your next international trip? Don't get caught with an outdated passport -- see if you can renew your U.S. passport online.
July 9, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

Stop Using Your Credit Card Like an Emergency Fund. Here's How

It's tempting to use credit cards as an emergency fund, but it's a dangerous cycle to enter. Here's how to get out.
July 9, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Here's How You Could Save $40,000 in 5 Years

Maxing out your IRA contributions could quickly boost your retirement savings. Read on to find out how.
July 9, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

How Much Will High-Yield Savings Accounts Pay in 2025 and Beyond?

It's hard to know for sure where savings account rates will go. Read on for indications from the latest projections.
July 9, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

I Might Need a Costly Dental Procedure. This Money Move Will Make the Expense Feels Less Daunting

Need to pay for a dental procedure without draining your savings? You may want to get a 0% APR credit card. Find out how this payment strategy can be a win.
July 9, 2024 | By Dana George

Here's What Happens if You Withdraw $10,000 From Your Bank Account

The Bank Secrecy Act is meant to stop money laundering and other criminal enterprises. Here's how it impacts your bank deposits and withdrawals.
July 9, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Nearly Half of 65-Year-Olds Have Postponed Retirement Because of Inflation

Some Americans are delaying retirement. Read on to find out how to fight inflation when you're no longer working for an income.
July 9, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

If You Have One of These 5 Popular Savings Accounts, You Could Be Losing $400 This Year

Rate wise, savings accounts at big-name banks pale in comparison to top high-yield savings accounts. Find out which accounts could be causing you to miss out.
July 9, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

Get the Most Out of Your Credit Card Rewards Points This Summer

Summer can bring big expenses, but it can also offer great opportunities to earn credit card rewards. Here's how to maximize yours.
July 9, 2024 | By Danielle Antosz

Here Are 2 Ways to Save $100,000 in 10 Years

Want to build a nest egg? Here are two simple ways to save $100,000 in 10 years by putting the power of long-term investing to work for you.
July 8, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

I'm Happy to Pay an Annual Fee for This Amex Card -- Here's Why

An annual fee isn't always worth paying -- but some cards really are worth it. Read on for one writer's favorite Amex offering.
July 8, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Ranked: My 3 Favorite Rewards Cards

Rewards credit cards can help you monitor your spending, get purchase protection, and earn points or cash back. Read on for one writer's top three cash rewards cards.
July 8, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

The Best Costco Finds This Week

Shop this week's best tech deals at Costco. Read on to see how to save big on laptops, headphones, and more.
July 8, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Do You Have TSA PreCheck Yet? Here's Why You Should -- And 3 Ways to Get It Reimbursed

TSA PreCheck can save you time and aggravation at the airport. And it's cheaper than you might think. Here's what you need to know about this service.
July 8, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

These 3 Credit Cards Could Be a Pet Owner's Best Friend

Love your pets? Of course you do! Keep reading for one cat-loving writer's favorite credit card options for pet expenses.
July 8, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

These 2 Credit Cards Give Me at Least 3% Back on Home Improvements

Buying a house is just the beginning. Read on to discover which two credit cards are helping one writer earn cash back on furnishings and more.