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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 24, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's a Great Reason to Move Money Out of Your High-Yield Savings Account

It's nice to earn extra interest on your cash in a savings account. But read on to see why putting some of your money elsewhere could be a much smarter move.
July 24, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

3 Reasons I've Sworn Off Flying Economy

I used to always fly economy, but now I make sure to book a better seat. Check out my reasons for switching and how to afford an upgrade.
July 24, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Lesser-Known Drawbacks of a Costco Executive Membership

An Executive membership at Costco gives you cash back on your purchases. But read on to see why an upgraded membership may not be as great as you thought.
July 24, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's How Costco Can Prepare You for the Apocalypse

Worried about surviving a catastrophic event? Costco's got you covered. Read on to learn more.
July 24, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

July Might Be Your Last Opportunity to Snag a 5% CD. Here's Why

Want 5% out of a CD? You'd better move quickly. Read on to see why.
July 24, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

CDs Haven't Done This Since the 1980s, and Investors Can Benefit Right Now

Investors have an unprecedented opportunity to buy short-term CDs at yields that are higher than long-term CDs. Find out why this helps you.
July 24, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

3 Reasons to Cancel Your Sam's Club Membership and Join Costco Instead

Costco has some benefits Sam's Club doesn't. Read on to learn why it might be worth ditching Sam's Club for its biggest warehouse club competitor.
July 24, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Limited-Time Offer: This 9-Month CD Pays 5.10%

Discover is offering a CD with one of the best rates we've found. But you need to act quickly. Find out the details.
July 24, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Almost 95% of Americans Risk Missing a Once-in-a-Generation Investment Opportunity

Most Americans don't own CDs -- and they could be missing out on the highest rates we've seen in years. Learn more about CD benefits here.
July 24, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Harness the Gig Economy: Business Ideas That Can Start as Side Jobs

Do you want to start a side hustle that has the potential to become a full-time business? It may be possible. Check out some business ideas to explore.
July 24, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's How Much Money You Can Make With $5K in a High-Yield Savings Account

Got $5,000 at your disposal? You may be surprised -- in a good way -- at how much interest that can earn you.
July 24, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

5 Amazing Costco Perks You've Probably Never Heard Of

Costco has so many perks, it's hard to keep track of them all. Find out which five might be new to you.
July 24, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I'm Looking to Open My Next CD Before July 31 for This Specific Reason

It's a great time to open a CD in general. But read on to see why this writer wants to act quickly.
July 24, 2024 | By Dana George

I Shaved Years Off My Mortgage in Seconds. Here's How

Tweaking how you pay your mortgage can amount to huge savings. Check out how one writer took years off their mortgage.
July 24, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon's Recent Warning Has Some Hidden Good News for Savers

Dimon has some cautionary words for investors, but the news isn't all bleak. Read on to learn more.
July 24, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

3 of My Favorite Ways to Fly Business Class on the Cheap

Want to fly in business class without draining all the money from your bank account? You can book cheap premium tickets. Here are three ways to score a deal.
July 23, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's How Your High-Yield Savings Account Could Cost You $142,000

Love the idea of keeping money in savings? Read on to see why it might backfire on you.
July 23, 2024 | By Ben Gran

3 Signs That You Need to Start Paying a Financial Advisor

If your investments are growing and your money questions are getting more complex, it might be time to hire a financial advisor. See where to find one.
July 23, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

How Many Americans Have a Perfect 850 Credit Score? The Number Might Surprise You

A perfect FICO® Score is a rare feat. Find out how many Americans have made it to perfection -- and what it takes to reach it yourself.
July 23, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Huge Mistakes You Might Make When Opening a CD This July

Rushing to open a CD before the end of the month? Read on for some major pitfalls to avoid.
July 23, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

I Regret Not Making This Money Move Sooner as a Busy Freelancer

Freelancers are responsible for paying their taxes throughout the year. Automation can make saving easier. Find out how you can benefit from this money move.
July 23, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

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

Thinking of joining Sam's Club to save on gas? How much you drive can make a difference in your total savings. Find out how much the average drive could save.
July 23, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

This Is How Much the Average American Home Costs by State

Ever wonder what the average home costs in your state? Well, wonder no more -- we've got your answers here.
July 23, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's How to Save 20% off an Uber One Membership

Thinking of joining Uber One? Read on for an easy way to save big when you get a membership.
July 23, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

5 Productivity Moves That Can Help You Earn More as a Freelancer

Are you a freelancer who wants to get more done? Finding ways to boost your productivity can help -- read on for five great tips.