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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 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.
July 15, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

This Amex Card's Special Bonus Is Worth Up to $1,800

The Amex Gold Card currently has a larger welcome offer for some applicants. Get all the details on the card and how many bonus points you could earn.
July 15, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Top 5 Countries to Travel to While the U.S. Dollar Is Strong

Want better deals on international travel? Many countries' currencies are cheap right now vs. the U.S. dollar. See where your dollars can go further.
July 15, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

This Credit Card's Sign-Up Bonus Is Almost Too Good to Be True

There are some excellent credit card offers in the market right now. Here's why this one is a standout.
July 15, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Why I Canceled My Amex Gold Card After 3 Years

The Amex Gold Card is a solid choice for those who dine out and order takeout. But it's not for everyone. Here's why one writer canceled her Amex card.
July 15, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

These Are the 3 Best Grocery Credit Cards to Have in Your Wallet

If you spend a lot of money on grocery shopping, these three credit cards could be your ticket to earning more cash back or rewards. Which card is right for you?
July 15, 2024 | By Dana George

4 Reasons to Buy Your Next Big Appliance at Costco

Appliances are a major purchase. Find out why it can pay to check out what Costco has to offer before making a final decision.
July 15, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

The Best Costco Finds This Week

Discover Costco's top luxury deals this week. Keep reading for exclusive savings and stylish finds to shop now.
July 15, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Top 4 Reasons Why Costco's Membership Fee Hike Won't Drive Members Away

Costco just hiked its membership fees, effective Sept. 1, 2024. See what this means for the Costco shopping experience.
July 15, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

This Is How Much Money You Can Make With $10,000 in a High-Yield Savings Account

$10,000 is a lot of money already, but the right savings account could turn it into a lot more. Here's what you need to know.