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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 9, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

4 Big Drawbacks to Shopping Costco Next

Costco Next can be a great place to find discounts with dozens of brands. But before shopping with it, you should consider these potential issues.
May 9, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

How to Pay for Rent (and Earn Points) With a Credit Card

Rent payments make up a large portion of many people's budgets. Learn how to avoid credit card transactions fees on rent and earn rewards while you're at it.
May 9, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

How to Get Elite Status on Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines rewards Elite Status passengers with bonus miles, priority boarding, and more. Check out this guide to learn how you can earn Elite Status.
May 9, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Want Your Checking, Savings, and Investment Accounts in One Place? Here Are 3 Great Choices

There's a lot of convenience that comes with having all of your finances at the same institution. Check out these three options to help keep your money organized.
May 9, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

10 States With the Highest Gas Prices

Gas prices aren't too bad in most of the U.S., but some drivers pay a lot more than others. Here are the 10 states with the highest average rates now.
May 9, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

Is a Brick-and-Mortar Savings Account Ever Worth It?

Brick-and-mortar savings accounts usually don't have high interest rates, but there are a few exceptions. Here's how to know if one is right for you.
May 9, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

Is Costco Travel Actually Cheaper? We Compared Real Prices on 3 Trips

Costco Travel is a members-only discount travel portal. We take a look at how much you can really save.
May 9, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

Why Reward Credit Cards Might Not Be Rewarding for Everyone

Reward credit cards may not always be the jackpot they seem. Learn how to navigate the perks wisely.
May 9, 2024 | By Emma Newbery

The Fastest Way to Turn Your Small Business Idea Into Reality

As an entrepreneur, it's exciting to bring a business idea to life. Find out how to do it in the quickest and most effective way possible.
May 9, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Here's How Much Money Americans Think They Need to Retire

Want to know how much it takes to retire? The average American wants a retirement nest egg of $1.46 million. See what this means for your savings.
May 9, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

How to Fly Business Class to Italy for Free

Many folks dream of an Italian vacation. Take a look at how you can make that dream a reality.
May 9, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

How to Get the Best Mortgage Deal as a Veteran

More veterans own homes than civilians. Keep reading for a few tips to find a home loan you can afford so you can buy the house of your dreams.
May 9, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

4 Tips for Making the Most of Costco Next

Costco Next is a lesser-known perk for members that can help them save a lot of money. Here's what you need to know.
May 8, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Have You Done Your BOI Reporting for Your Small Business? Do These 3 Errands Next

BOI reporting is a new federal requirement for business owners in 2024. Check out three important tasks to do before and after you file your BOI report.
May 8, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Top 5 Money Mistakes That Couples Make

Want to save your relationship from money trouble? Watch out for these big money mistakes for couples -- and keep talking and loving each other.
May 8, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Here's How You Can Take Advantage of Southwest Airlines' Newest Perk

Want to book a Southwest flight but don't have enough points? Now you can with this new feature. Find out how to redeem points and cash for Southwest flights.
May 8, 2024 | By Ben Gran

How to Save Your Relationship From Money Trouble

Want to prevent fights about money? See why 37% of couples feel financially unequal -- and learn what you can do better.
May 8, 2024 | By Ben Gran

U.S. Bank Is Offering a $200 Bonus for New Accounts. Here's Why It's Not Worth the Effort

Some banks' new account bonuses sound impressive, but the numbers don't add up. See why U.S. Bank's $200 savings account bonus isn't that great.
May 8, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

3 Terrible Choices We Make With Credit Cards That Feel Smart at the Time

Credit cards come with risks, like interest rates and fees. Learn which three choices feel can come back to haunt you later.
May 8, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Could This Personal Finance App for Couples Save Your Relationship?

Tired of fighting about money in your relationship? Check out Tandem, a personal finance app for couples to split bills, save money, and set goals.
May 8, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Understanding the Downside of CDs for Young Investors

CDs are red-hot right now, but they're not the best fit for everyone. Learn why younger investors may struggle with CDs.
May 8, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Get a Free Night at a 5-Star Hotel With This Card's Limited-Time Sign-Up Bonus

Chase is offering an excellent welcome bonus on two of its top credit cards. Find out what it could mean to you.
May 8, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Should You Buy Outdoor Furniture at Costco?

Buying household goods at Costco can save you money. For some shoppers, buying outdoor furniture there is worth it, too. Find out what you need to know.
May 8, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Do You Feel Behind on Retirement Savings? Here's Why You Might Be Fine

Worried that you'll never be able to retire? Here are five reasons to breathe easier.
May 8, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

Ranked: The 5 Best CDs to Open in May 2024 (Rates up to 9.5%)

Banks continue to pay out generous rates on CDs. Find out which five CDs have the highest APYs in May 2024.