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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

May 6, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

This Is How Much Money You Can Make With $20K in a 5-Year CD

CDs are risk-free investments with generous interest rates. Find out how much you can earn over five years with $20,000 invested.
May 6, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

6 Reasons Flying Business Class Is Worth the Points

Business class can cost double the points of a main cabin ticket. Find out some of the reasons it's worth the extra cost.
May 6, 2024 | By Ben Gran

These Top 5 Things Cause Men and Women the Most Money Stress

What makes women and men feel the most financial stress? See what a Laurel Road survey has to say about gender gaps in money stress.
May 6, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Little-Known Ways to Save Money in May 2024

Want to bank some extra cash this month? Read on to see how.
May 5, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The 3 Smartest Places to Put Your Money in May 2024

Need a home for your extra money? Read on to see what your best options look like this month.
May 5, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Suze Orman Thinks Retirees Should Invest in CDs. Should You Listen to Her?

CD rates are up and let you lock in a rate for the duration of the account's term. Learn why CDs can be a good option for retirees.
May 5, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

New Homeowner? You Should Consider This Type of Credit Card

Credit cards can be useful financial tools. Learn why one type of card in particular is perfect if you've just closed on a mortgage.
May 5, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Top 8 Ways You Could Be Missing Out on Free Money

Do you ever get the nagging suspicion that you could be earning more money for free? Keep reading to see how to get that money back.
May 5, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

Here's What Happens When Busy Moms Pay Off Their Debt

Discover how debt-free living boosts moms' lives. Read on for the benefits and learn how to start your journey.
May 5, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Buying a Home in My 20s Was a Huge Mistake. Here's Why Doing It Now Is Different

No financial move is right for every person at every stage of life. Learn why buying a house at the wrong time is one writer's biggest money regret.
May 5, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Do You Really Need 3 to 6 Months of Emergency Savings?

Personal finance gurus often say that your emergency fund needs enough cash for three months (or more) of expenses. Let's see if that's realistic.
May 5, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

Here's How Much You Can Really Earn in Gas Rewards Each Year

Rewards cards advertise their rewards as rates, so you need to do some math to see real numbers. Here's how they play out.
May 5, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

​​Don't Make These 3 Common Expensive Mistakes With Your CDs

CDs are FDIC-insured and relatively risk free. But if you make any of these three errors, you could be missing out on bigger returns. Read on for more.
May 5, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

The Federal Reserve Will Likely Lower Rates Later This Year. Here's Why You Should Buy a House Now

Buy a house now, don't wait for Fed Chief Jerome Powell to cut the federal funds rate. Learn why it'll be worth it.
May 5, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

5 Amazing Costco Buys for Under $20

Costco members can get extra value out of these amazing $20 buys. Check out the full list here.
May 5, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

If a Savings Account Doesn't Have These 5 Features, It's Not Worth Your Time

There are thousands of savings accounts out there. Focus on these five criteria to find the best one for you.
May 5, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Tips for a Low-Cost Mother's Day Celebration That Mom Will Love

Why bust your budget on Mother's Day? Read on for ways to pull off a fun and affordable celebration.
May 5, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

Ranked: The Best Credit Card Travel Rewards Programs

Everyone has to pick a travel rewards team when they start collecting. See how your pick ranks.
May 5, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The 3 Best Places for Retirees to Keep Their Savings

As a retiree, it's a good idea to spread your money across different assets. Here are some options to explore.
May 5, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

5 Tips to Stretch Your Dollars Further When Meal Planning

Are you sick of wasting food and overspending on groceries? Meal planning can save you time and money and reduce food waste. Try these tips to save even more.
May 5, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Top 5 Reasons Why Your Small Business Needs an Accountant

Was your business tax return more complicated than expected in 2024? You might need an accountant. See why small business owners should hire a CPA.
May 5, 2024 | By Charlie Pastor, CFP®

Here Are the Fastest Ways to Save on Your Prescription Drugs

Looking for ways to spend less on medication? Sometimes, all you have to do is ask. Keep reading to learn more.
May 5, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

3 Unique CDs That Could Be Great Investments in 2024

These aren't your ordinary CDs. But they make good financial sense for a lot of savers. Read on to learn why.
May 5, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

5 Ways to Feng Shui Your Finances

Discover feng shui tips to boost your finances. Read on to learn how to harmonize your wealth today.
May 5, 2024 | By Ben Gran

5 Ways Your Life Gets Better When You Open a High-Yield Savings Account

Have you been delaying or procrastinating about opening a high-yield savings account? It's not too late to make your life better. See how.