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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 4, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

You're Guaranteed Not to Lose a Dime on a Costco Executive Membership Upgrade. Here's Why

Spending an extra $60 a year on a Costco membership might seem like a risky proposition. Here's why it actually isn't.
July 4, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's an Easy Way to Make Money While You Sleep

Why work for every dollar you earn? Read on to see how a lifetime of passive income could be yours.
July 4, 2024 | By Dana George

Why You Could Be Denied an American Express Card -- Even if Your Credit Score Is Over 800

American Express cards provide attractive perks, but you may not qualify with a high credit score alone. Here's why.
July 4, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's the Single Best Strategy for Making Money With CDs in July 2024

With rates sitting at 5%, July is a good time to open a CD. But here's one key strategy it pays to employ.
July 4, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Need a New Car? You Can Save $1,000 on These 5 Models by Going Through Costco

Buying a car is expensive. Read on to see how Costco could save you a bundle of money.
July 4, 2024 | By Dana George

4 Signs You Shouldn't Open a CD, Even With Rates at 5%

Some CDs may offer high interest rates, but that doesn't mean they're right for everyone. Find out how to know if opening a CD is for you.
July 4, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

New Costco Stores Are Coming to These 9 Cities

New Costco locations are popping up in cities across the globe. Nine of them are in the US. Find out if your city is next.
July 4, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Top 4 Reasons to Start a Work-From-Home Side Hustle

Want to work your side hustle from your home? Take a look at four reasons why it's more possible (and lower-cost) than you might think.
July 4, 2024 | By Dana George

Can Making Small Deposits in Your Bank Account Really Get You in Trouble?

Under the Bank Secrecy Act, banks must report large and suspiciously small deposits. Here's how to know if the way you bank can get you in trouble.
July 4, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

These Little-Known Costco Benefits May Surprise You

Joining Costco might offer more value than you think. Read on to see why.
July 3, 2024 | By Ben Gran

This Airline Elite Status Perk Is Amazing for Long Flights

Want more leg room on your next international flight? Even if you don't have elite status, see how the best travel credit cards can help upgrade your seat.
July 3, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

5 Credit Cards That Will Help You Earn 5% Back on Nearly Every Purchase

Several credit cards earn 5% back on everyday spending. Read on to learn which five deserve a place in your wallet.
July 3, 2024 | By Dana George

7 Reasons the Chase Freedom Rise Credit Card Is Perfect for Your College-Age Child

Securing the right credit card for your college student can be a money-saving measure. See what the Chase Freedom Rise credit card has to offer.
July 3, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

Top Reasons to Get the Prime Store Card Over the Prime Visa

While the Prime Store Card isn't as robust as the Prime Visa, it's better suited for some people. Learn when you should get the Prime Store Card over the Prime Visa.
July 3, 2024 | By Ben Gran

How to Learn New Skills to Start a Side Hustle (and Earn $30/Hour or More)

Want to start a side hustle that pays well? See how to gain the side hustle skills you need with LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and Skillshare.
July 3, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

4 Steps to Finding the Best Checking Account for You

It's important to find the right checking account. Read on to see how.
July 3, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Reasons to Cancel Your Costco Membership in July 2024

A Costco membership has the potential to offer a lot of value. But read on to see why canceling yours might make sense this July.
July 3, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Saving for Retirement? 3 Reasons CDs Are a Terrible Choice

CDs can be a great place to park some cash temporarily. Read on to see why they're a horrible choice for retirement savings.
July 3, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

Is $25,000 Too Much to Keep in a Savings Account?

A savings account might be the best home for your $25,000, even if it means missing out on market gains. Learn when $25,000 is too much for a savings account.
July 3, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Grow Your Savings by $3,000 Before 2025 With These 3 Moves

You can end the year a few thousand dollars richer if you play your cards right. Read on to learn more.
July 3, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

This Is the Most Ridiculous Reason to Not Save for Retirement This Year

Sometimes, putting off retirement savings is justifiable. But read on to see why one common reason is a really poor excuse.
July 3, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Why I Wouldn't Open a 1-Year CD -- Even With Rates at 5%

Want to know if now is a good time to open a 1-year CD? Here are a few reasons why the best savings accounts could be better than the best CDs.
July 3, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Where Can I Use My American Express Card?

American Express is accepted in far more places than it used to be. But it hasn't quite caught up with Visa and Mastercard. Learn what you should know.
July 3, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

One Reason Costco Will Never Accept Coupons

Some people really love using coupons to save -- but Costco doesn't go for that. Keep reading to find out why.
July 3, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

How Expensive Is It to Insure an RV?

Thinking of getting an RV? Read on to see what goes into determining insurance rates.