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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 5, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Should You Open a 12-Month CD in July 2024?

You might get the best interest out there with a 12-month CD. Read on to see why you should -- or shouldn't -- open one this month.
July 5, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

You Might Want to Upgrade to the Costco Executive Membership. Here's Why

It might seem like a bad idea to pay more than you have to. But here's why it could be well worth the cost.
July 5, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Americans Have $38 Trillion of Retirement Savings. This Expert Says You Need More

Are you saving enough for retirement? Most Americans are not. See how to make better investments for your future.
July 5, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Don't Pay for These 4 Expenses With Your Business Credit Card

A business credit card can make managing your finances easier -- as long as you avoid covering these costs with it.
July 5, 2024 | By Dana George

Auto Insurers Claim to Be Losing Money. Could That Possibly Be True?

Auto insurance companies face financial loss and are raising rates as a result. Keep reading to learn what's led to these losses and what you can do.
July 5, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Do You Love Travel? How to Start a Side Hustle by Booking Travel for Family and Friends

Want to start a side hustle in the travel industry? Fora Travel offers online travel agents an easy way to earn 70% of every commission.
July 5, 2024 | By Ben Gran

New Survey Shows: Most Middle-Class Americans Are Struggling to Save Money. How Do You Compare?

65% of middle-class Americans expect that their financial problems will never improve. See how to regain hope for your financial future.
July 5, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Struggling With Healthcare Bills? Take These 4 Steps Now

It's not easy to keep up with medical bills. Read on to see what steps to take if you're falling behind.
July 4, 2024 | By Ben Gran

You Don't Have to Be a Millionaire to Retire. Here's Why

If you don't have a million dollars, you'll never be able to retire...right? Wrong! See how little money you really need to retire well in America.
July 4, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Pet Lovers: How to Start a Side Hustle by Turning Your Home Into a Dog Park

Want to make extra money while hosting dogs? Learn about Sniffspot -- a great side hustle for pet lovers to turn your yard into cash.
July 4, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

Why I Wouldn't Open a 5-Year CD -- Even With Rates at 4%

Rates on 5-year CDs are pretty high right now, but they have some big drawbacks. Here's why I'm not interested in them.
July 4, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

You're Guaranteed Not to Lose a Dime on a Costco Executive Membership Upgrade. Here's Why

Spending an extra $60 a year on a Costco membership might seem like a risky proposition. Here's why it actually isn't.
July 4, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's an Easy Way to Make Money While You Sleep

Why work for every dollar you earn? Read on to see how a lifetime of passive income could be yours.
July 4, 2024 | By Dana George

Why You Could Be Denied an American Express Card -- Even if Your Credit Score Is Over 800

American Express cards provide attractive perks, but you may not qualify with a high credit score alone. Here's why.
July 4, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's the Single Best Strategy for Making Money With CDs in July 2024

With rates sitting at 5%, July is a good time to open a CD. But here's one key strategy it pays to employ.
July 4, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Need a New Car? You Can Save $1,000 on These 5 Models by Going Through Costco

Buying a car is expensive. Read on to see how Costco could save you a bundle of money.
July 4, 2024 | By Dana George

4 Signs You Shouldn't Open a CD, Even With Rates at 5%

Some CDs may offer high interest rates, but that doesn't mean they're right for everyone. Find out how to know if opening a CD is for you.
July 4, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

New Costco Stores Are Coming to These 9 Cities

New Costco locations are popping up in cities across the globe. Nine of them are in the US. Find out if your city is next.
July 4, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Top 4 Reasons to Start a Work-From-Home Side Hustle

Want to work your side hustle from your home? Take a look at four reasons why it's more possible (and lower-cost) than you might think.
July 4, 2024 | By Dana George

Can Making Small Deposits in Your Bank Account Really Get You in Trouble?

Under the Bank Secrecy Act, banks must report large and suspiciously small deposits. Here's how to know if the way you bank can get you in trouble.
July 4, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

These Little-Known Costco Benefits May Surprise You

Joining Costco might offer more value than you think. Read on to see why.
July 3, 2024 | By Ben Gran

This Airline Elite Status Perk Is Amazing for Long Flights

Want more leg room on your next international flight? Even if you don't have elite status, see how the best travel credit cards can help upgrade your seat.
July 3, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

5 Credit Cards That Will Help You Earn 5% Back on Nearly Every Purchase

Several credit cards earn 5% back on everyday spending. Read on to learn which five deserve a place in your wallet.
July 3, 2024 | By Dana George

7 Reasons the Chase Freedom Rise Credit Card Is Perfect for Your College-Age Child

Securing the right credit card for your college student can be a money-saving measure. See what the Chase Freedom Rise credit card has to offer.
July 3, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

Top Reasons to Get the Prime Store Card Over the Prime Visa

While the Prime Store Card isn't as robust as the Prime Visa, it's better suited for some people. Learn when you should get the Prime Store Card over the Prime Visa.