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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 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

5 of the Best Costco Deals for July 2024

Costco's prices are competitive to begin with. But a few specific sales this month might save you big money. Read on to learn more.
July 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Little-Known Ways to Save Money in July 2024

Looking to bank some extra cash this month? Read on for a few tips that can help.
July 18, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

3 Facts About CDs You're Probably Wrong About

Many people get the facts wrong about certificates of deposit. Read on for three myths and misconceptions about CDs.
July 18, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

How to Turn Stopovers Into Free Mini Vacations

Did you know you can discover new cities without extra costs? Read on to see how you can maximize your travel with a stopover.
July 18, 2024 | By Danielle Antosz

5 Small Business Myths That Can Hold Your Business Back

Struggling to start or grow your small business? These misconceptions about small business growth might be hampering your progress.
July 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Want to Save an Extra $100 (or More) at Costco? Here's a Secret Tip

There's a special way to save money at Costco on big-ticket items -- that you can't get in the warehouse. See how to save big at Costco.com.
July 18, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Don't Let CD Rates Above 5% Fool You Into Thinking They're a Good Investment

CD rates are very high right now, but that doesn't mean that you should be putting your money into them. Find out why CDs may not be a good deal.
July 18, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

A Quarter of Americans Have a Credit Score of 800, but Is That Overkill?

A quarter of Americans now have credit scores of 800 or better, but does it really matter to their daily lives? Find out where you rank here.
July 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The Hidden Downside of Upgrading to Business Class

It's nice to fly in comfort, but there's a drawback to getting used to business class you need to know about. Find out what it is here.
July 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The 3 Smartest Places to Put Your Money in July 2024

Have extra money on hand? Here's what to do with it this month.
July 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The 3 Smartest Ways to Save Money at Costco This July

Want to maximize your Costco savings this month? Read on to find out how.
July 18, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Is a Costco Membership Still Worth It for Childfree Couples?

If you don't have kids, you might not need to buy pudding cups in bulk. Learn why you might still want to join Costco anyway.
July 18, 2024 | By Devon Delfino

3 Reasons You Should Invest in a CD Right Now

Given the current offerings, CDs represent an appealing opportunity to maximize your cash. Read on to learn three reasons to consider investing in one right now.
July 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

5 Ways You Can Make the Most of Your Costco Membership, Even at $65

The cost of a Costco membership is rising. But you can still come out ahead financially by making these key moves.
July 17, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

CD Rates Above 5.00% Are Bad News for Investors. Here's Why

CD rates above 5.00% mean inflation is high, so you have less money to invest and your real returns aren't that great. Learn more here.
July 17, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I'm Retiring With $200,000. Am I in Good Shape?

A $200,000 saving balance might seem like it could set you up for life. Read on to see why you should probably aim higher.
July 17, 2024 | By Devon Delfino

How to Manage Money After a Layoff (From Someone Who Survived One)

If you've been laid off, you need to create a severance package budget and potentially file for unemployment. Read on to learn more about your options.
July 17, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

5 Super Popular Costco Buys Under $100

If you have $100, Costco has plenty of ways for you to spend it. Check out this month's best deals under $100.
July 17, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Here's How Much America's Highest Earners Have Saved for Retirement

Earning a lot of money makes it easier to save for retirement. Find out just how much the highest-earning Americans have saved for their futures.
July 17, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

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

Costco has a reputation for rock-bottom gas prices. The real data is slightly less enthusiastic. See our results for the actual numbers.
July 17, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

5 Unusual Ways to Use Your Cash Back Credit Card Rewards

Cash back rewards can be used for more than paying down your balance. Read on to find out some of the best ways to utilize them.
July 17, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Costco Members Get 51% Off on Photos From Shutterfly. Is It Worth It?

Do you love to print photos? Costco members get a big discount at Shutterfly. But beware of a few big downsides. See how to get the best photo prints.
July 17, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Choosing a New Bank? Never Overlook These Features of the Safest Banks

Keeping your money secure should be a top priority when you're picking a bank. Read on for the most crucial benefits to look for.
July 17, 2024 | By Emma Newbery

4​ High-Paying Side Hustles for People Who Don't Have a Car

People can earn around $180 a day in digital marketing by working from home. Find out what other side hustles you can do without leaving your house.
July 17, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

4 Great Temu Buys Under $10

These awesome Temu items came at a great price. Check them out to see if you could get a good deal by ordering from Temu.