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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 14, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

You Can Grow Your Kid's College Fund This Year With This One Simple Trick

Looking to grow your kid's college fund without doing anything risky or involved? Well, we've got the answer for you. Read on for the details.
July 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Should You Get a Costco Executive Membership Now That it Costs $130?

Costco's membership fees are rising. Does an upgraded Executive membership make financial sense in light of that? Find out here.
July 14, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

3 Effective Ways to Pay Off $6,500 in Credit Card Debt

No amount of credit card debt is easy to pay off, but $6,500 can feel like climbing a mountain. Learn three great ways to tackle $6,500 in debt.
July 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Reasons to Keep Your Costco Membership -- Despite the Fee Hikes

Costco fees are going up. But here's why you shouldn't rush to cancel your membership.
July 14, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

5 Creative Side Hustles That Could Help You Ditch Your Day Job

Side hustles don't have to involve long hours of tedious work. Here are five options that let you show off your creative side.
July 14, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

How Much Money Can You Make Driving for Instacart?

Shopping for Instacart can be a great way to earn extra cash while you're out and about. Here's how much you can expect to make.
July 14, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Side Hustle to Main Hustle: Steps to Scale Your Part-Time Gig Into a Full-Time Enterprise

Are you working a side hustle that you love? You may be able to turn it into a full-time business. Here are some tips to help you scale your part-time gig.
July 14, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

5 Reasons a Costco Membership Is Worth It for a Single Person With No Kids

Costco is known for its bulk items and notably low prices. But is membership worth it for a solo household? Learn how Costco can help a single person save.
July 14, 2024 | By Dana George

Retired? Don't Overlook These Sweet Tax Breaks

There are definitely benefits associated with growing older, including wisdom and the occasional tax break. Here, we look at some of those breaks.
July 14, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

5 Incredible Costco Buys Under $50

Want to join Costco to save money on everyday purchases? The popular warehouse club offers many low-cost deals. Here are five worthwhile finds for under $50.
July 14, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Should You Keep Your Home Down Payment in a CD?

The best CDs might offer tempting APYs for your home down payment -- but home-buyer beware. See why CDs might cost you more than they're worth.
July 13, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

3 Ways My Costco Membership Pays for Itself

My Costco membership more than pays for itself year after year, which is why I keep going back for more. Check out a few Costco buys that help.
July 13, 2024 | By Devon Delfino

2 Times a Regular Savings Account Might Be a Better Option Than a HYSA -- Despite the Low APY

Depending on your circumstances, you may not qualify for a HYSA. Learn more about when a traditional savings account may be a better option.
July 13, 2024 | By Dana George

7 Ways Everyday People Become Millionaires

A million dollars may not be worth as much as it once was, but it still represents an accomplishment. Find out how most millionaires make it happen.
July 13, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Why You Shouldn't Feel FOMO About Opening a CD at 5% APY

If the Fed cuts interest rates soon, should you open a CD right now? See why staying the course with the best savings accounts could be a better choice.
July 13, 2024 | By Emma Newbery

5 Good Reasons to Buy Glasses and Contacts at Sam's Club

Sam's Club eye products combine quality, value, and convenience with designer frames at less than $60. Find out why Sam's Club glasses and contacts stand out.
July 13, 2024 | By Devon Delfino

Got a CD Maturing Soon? Here Are 3 Things You Should Know

You have three options for handling a mature CD: Do nothing, shop around for another CD, or take the money. Read on to learn when to use each option.
July 13, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

9 Things You'll Only Find at Costco Business Centers

Costco Business Centers offer a huge range of products in massive bulk, as well as items only businesses really need. Read on to learn more.
July 13, 2024 | By Dana George

10 Ways Seniors Can Cut Their Auto Insurance Premiums

Surprisingly, senior drivers may pay higher rates than younger drivers. Learn 10 sensible ways to drive rates back down.
July 13, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Nearly 40% of Gen Z and Millennials Have Spent up to $5,000 for Live Events

Younger people are spending a lot on live entertainment. Read on to learn how to budget for fun.
July 13, 2024 | By Dana George

5 Proven Ways Gig Workers Can Maximize Their Credit Card Benefits

A good credit card can keep a small business running. Here's how a gig worker can also squeeze each and every benefit from the card.
July 13, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

5 Lessons Learned from Using My Favorite Travel Rewards Cards

Travel rewards cards are known for having a learning curve. Check out some valuable lessons one writer has learned after years of using travel cards.
July 13, 2024 | By Dana George

Are You Middle Class? Here's How You Can Tell

It's natural to be curious about which income class you fall into. Find out what it takes to be middle class and why it may (or may not) matter at all.
July 13, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

4 Reasons to Buy Nearly Everything with Credit Cards

Are you paying for most purchases with cash or a debit card? You may want to reconsider. Find out why paying for nearly everything with credit cards is smart.
July 13, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

The IRS Is Denying Billions in Improper Small Business Claims

The IRS paused accepting new employee retention credit claims last year. Read on to find out how to change your claim if necessary.