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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 29, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I'm 50 With No Retirement Savings. What Should I Do Now?

It's not a great thing to be 50 with no money set aside for retirement. But all isn't lost, either. Read on to see how to salvage that situation.
June 29, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's Why a Costco Executive Membership Beats a Sam's Club Plus Membership

An upgraded membership at Costco or Sam's Club could make sense for you. But read on to see what gives Costco's Executive membership an edge.
June 29, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Is $100,000 Too Much to Have in Your Savings Account?

Most Americans don't have anywhere near $100,000 in savings. Find out if this is too much to keep in your savings account and what else you can do with it.
June 29, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Why Is Your Car Insurance Getting So Expensive?

Have you noticed the cost of insurance has increased dramatically? Read on to find out why.
June 29, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Things Rich People Do With Their Money That You Probably Don't

The wealthy tend to take a different approach to managing their money. Read on to see what strategies they commonly adopt.
June 29, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

3 Fast-Growing Industries Entrepreneurs Swear By

Some sectors present more opportunities to aspiring business owners. Read on to discover how to get started with these booming industries.
June 29, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Unbelievably Easy Ways to Snag an Extra $500 Before the End of the Year

Want an extra $500 to boost your finances? Here's a simple way to get it.
June 29, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Kiss 5% Savings Account Rates Goodbye When the Fed Cuts Rates

Lower savings rates are likely on the horizon. Read on to find out what you should do with your money once rates fall.
June 28, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

3 Ways to Get the Amex Platinum Card at No Cost

Getting the Amex Platinum Card for free might sound like a dream come true. Here are three ways to make it happen.
June 28, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

You Can Retire on $41.67 a Month -- if You Do These 2 Things

Is saving $500 a year enough to complete your nest egg? It could be -- under the right circumstances. Read on to learn more.
June 28, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

This Bank Account Offers a $300 Bonus and a 4.60% APY. Should You Sign Up?

Don't let this lucrative bank account offer expire. Learn why the SoFi Checking and Savings account is worth opening today.
June 28, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Wild Costco Rules You May Not Realize Exist

Do you know the ins and outs of how Costco works? Take a look at a few rules that might really surprise you.
June 28, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Popular Amex Cards Could Soon See Fee Hikes. Here's Why

The Amex CEO has signaled that more fee hikes could be on the horizon. Learn what this means for American Express cardholders.
June 28, 2024 | By Ben Gran

See How the Best Travel Credit Cards Save You Money on This Little-Known Cost

Travel insurance can save you thousands of dollars. Did you know that some credit cards give you built-in travel insurance? Here's how it works.
June 28, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

4 Costco Products You Should Never Buy at Full Price

Costco frequently runs promotions on the same items. Learn which four products you should only buy on sale at Costco.
June 28, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Why I Wouldn't Open a 6-Month CD -- Even With Rates at 5%

Want to know if a 6-month CD is a good deal? Here are a few possible downsides -- and why the best savings accounts could be better.
June 28, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's Why You May Never Want to Set Foot in Target Again

A lot of people love Target. But here's why it may be time to say goodbye.
June 28, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

The 3 Best Credit Cards for Teens in 2024

Getting your teen a credit card could set them up for success. Learn about these top picks to help your child build a financial future.
June 28, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

These Popular Savings Accounts Could Cost You Hundreds of Dollars per Year

If you want your savings to grow as quickly as possible, you need the right savings account. Here's one type you should avoid.
June 28, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

Everything You Need to Know About an SBA Loan

Small Business Administration loans can empower you to start your own company. Learn how these loans support and boost small enterprises.
June 28, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

5 Smart Ways to Invest $1,000 Right Now

In this high-rate environment, you have plenty of great opportunities to invest $1,000. Read on to learn the top five ways.
June 28, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

3 Ways to Avoid the Singles Tax When Grocery Shopping

Avoiding the singles tax when grocery shopping is key, but it's a minefield out there. Read on to find out how I do it.
June 28, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Kiss 5% CD Rates Goodbye When the Fed Cuts Rates at the End of 2024

CD rates could fall soon. Read on to find out how to get the maximum CD rate now.
June 28, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

How I Secured $25,000 of Funding for My Startup

I secured $25,000 to launch my travel-inspired bag line through a community-based lender. Get tips on crafting a solid business plan and navigating SBA loans.
June 28, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

5 Overlooked Perks of a Costco Membership

Costco is well known for its discounted warehouse products, like televisions and pies the size of your head. Learn about some lesser-known perks here.