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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

June 26, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Getting Your First Apartment? 3 Costco Buys That Could Come in Handy

Moving into your first apartment is a milestone to celebrate. Check out how these Costco purchases could make it easier to settle in.
June 26, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

3 Perks You Only Get With the Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

The Citi Strata Premier℠ Card has useful benefits for a reasonable annual fee. Learn about this Citi card's most unique perks to see if it's right for you.
June 26, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Buying a House? Here's Why It Pays to Join Costco

A Costco membership could be crucial for new homeowners. Read on to see why.
June 26, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

4 Unique Perks of the Amex Blue Cash Preferred Card

The Amex Blue Cash Preferred Card is known for its gas and grocery rewards. Check out its most unique perks to see what makes it special.
June 26, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Top 5 Must-Have Costco Buys for Your July 4 Party

Hosting a July 4 party? See how much you can save on must-have Costco July 4 deals.
June 26, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Signs You're Not Taking Advantage of Your Credit Card Rewards

A huge benefit of using credit cards is to reap the rewards. Read on to make sure you're not missing out.
June 26, 2024 | By Ben Gran

4 Side Hustles That Aren't Worth the Effort

Starting a side hustle can be fun and empowering, but it can also bring extra costs and risks. See how to make these side hustles work for you.
June 26, 2024 | By Dana George

7 Amazing Costco Buys Under $20

As one of the most popular retailers in the world, Costco knows how to provide bargains. Here are seven items for less than $20.
June 26, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Good Reasons to Downgrade a Credit Card

Are your credit cards serving your needs? Read on to see why a downgrade could make sense if they're not.
June 26, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

The 5 Best Gift Card Deals at Costco Right Now

Costco gift cards can help you save money at your favorite stores. Check out which five gift card bundles are among its best.
June 26, 2024 | By Dana George

10 Things You Should Always Buy at a Dollar Store

One way to fight inflation is to purchase everyday items at a dollar store. Keep reading to learn about 10 purchases you don't want to miss.
June 26, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

Have a Chase Savings Account? You Might Be Missing Out on $400-Plus per Year

Rate-wise, Chase savings accounts pale in comparison to today's high APYs. Find out what you could be missing here.
June 26, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Tired of Getting Gouged By Car Insurance? Here's How to Take Back Control

Car insurance has become a big, painful monthly expense for many Americans. See how drivers can save money on car insurance.
June 26, 2024 | By Ben Gran

See Why 70% of Gen Zers Are Thinking About Starting This Type of Business

Want to start a business? 70% of Gen Zers are already doing it -- or thinking about it. See why freelancing is a hot Gen Z trend.
June 26, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Tired of Throwing Your Money Away at Costco? Make These 3 Changes

Why waste hard-earned money? Some simple changes to your Costco shopping could put cash in your pocket -- here's how.
June 26, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Will CD Rates Stay High Into 2025? Here's What We Know so Far

CD rates are strong right now. Will that be the case next year? Read on to find out.
June 25, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

3 Unique Perks of the Amex Platinum Card

The Amex Platinum Card comes with all kinds of benefits. Find out about some of its most special perks that are hard to find anywhere else.
June 25, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Earn $200 Back With This Student Credit Card

A student credit card helps you build credit -- and it could save you some money, too. Check out a great student card with a $200 welcome bonus offer.
June 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I'm Still Kicking Myself Over This Horrible Costco Fail. Don't Make the Same Mistake

Being stubborn about the products you buy can come back to bite you. Read on to avoid doing something similar during your Costco shopping.
June 25, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Is Your Teen Working This Summer? Consider Opening This Account

It's never too soon to start saving for the future. Learn how one type of investment account can start your teen out on the right foot.
June 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

5 Things I Hate About Costco

Costco is one of my favorite stores. But here are a few aspects of the shopping experience I wish would improve.
June 25, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

This Is the Single Best Strategy for Investing in CDs

If you're interested in investing in CDs, it may be worth trying out a CD ladder. Here's the perks and how to build your own.
June 25, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

72% of Americans Share This Financial Concern. Do You?

Almost three-quarters of Americans are worried about the cost of food and consumer goods. Here's what to do if you're one of them.
June 25, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

You Might Not Realize What Happens When You Spend More Than $10,000 on Your Credit Card

Planning to make a huge credit card purchase? Learn what to expect if you charge $10,000 or more on a card.
June 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Smart Moves to Make With $1,000 Right Now

Got $1,000 you're not sure what to do with? Here are some strategies for putting it to great use.