Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

This device is too small

If you're on a Galaxy Fold, consider unfolding your phone or viewing it in full screen to best optimize your experience.

Skip to main content

The Ascent Articles

Learn more about applying the principles of money management to help stay in control of your finances.

Recent Articles

May 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

How an Average Gen Xer Can Save $1.5 Million for Retirement

If you're a typical Gen Xer, see how much you need to save today to retire in 15 years. (It might be less than you think.)
May 18, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

CD Rates Are Over 5% -- and I Still Think They're a Waste of Money

Many investors are interested in CDs right now. Read on to find out why other options might be better.
May 18, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

Why You Should Upgrade Your Costco Membership if You Use Costco Travel

Don't upgrade because the cashier asks you -- do it to get 2% back on your trip to Paris. See why a Costco Executive membership is good for travelers.
May 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Are Hybrids Actually More Affordable Than EVs?

Are you shopping for a new car in 2024? See how to decide between EVs vs. hybrid cars -- and learn why hybrids can be a better deal for your budget.
May 18, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Earn $750 Back After Spending $4,000 With This Credit Card

One of Capital One's top travel cards is running an excellent welcome offer right now. See which card it is and how much you could earn back with it.
May 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Will a Costco Membership Really Save You Money? Here's How to Know

A Costco membership isn't right for everyone. Here's how to figure out if you should spend the money on one.
May 18, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Act Quickly: Earn $1,125 Back After Spending $4,000 With This Credit Card

Chase recently increased the welcome offer on one of its best credit cards. Find out which Chase card is now offering over $1,000 worth of bonus points.
May 18, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Never Ignore These Business Credit Card Fees

A credit card can be an asset to your small business's finances. But read on for a few pesky fees that are best avoided.
May 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Tips for Eating Healthy on a Budget

Eating well can come at a cost. Read on to see how you can minimize the amount you spend on healthy food items.
May 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Military Members and Families Can Get $539 of Value From This Navy Federal Credit Card

Navy Federal Credit Union is offering 40,000 welcome bonus points (worth $400) on its Visa Signature® Flagship Rewards Credit Card. Learn more here.
May 18, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Earn $800 (or More) Back After Spending $8,000 With This Card

The Amex Platinum card is an expensive card, but it has tons of perks and a terrific sign-up bonus. Here's what you need to know.
May 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Chase Sapphire Is Offering 75K Bonus Points. Here's How to Earn Them Faster

Want to earn 75,000 bonus points from Chase Sapphire? See how to rack up the minimum required spending -- without breaking the bank.
May 18, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

3 Underrated Perks of the Amex Hilton Surpass Card

The Amex Hilton Surpass is a great hotel card that's loaded with benefits. Explore a few of its high-value perks that fly under the radar.
May 18, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Earn $500 Back After Spending $3,000 With This Credit Card

United credit cards are a good choice if you're a frequent flyer with the airline. Check out one that's currently offering $500 worth of miles for new cardholders.
May 18, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

3 Better Places for Your Money Than CDs

Despite the buzz that CDs have right now, they're not the right fit for everyone's money. Read on for three other options to grow your cash.
May 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

75% of First-Time Home Buyers Are Optimistic About Today's Housing Market. Here Are a Few Positives

Looking to buy a home? Today's real estate market isn't easy to navigate, but see why it's not all bleak.
May 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

How to Overcome These 5 Bogus Fears and Open a 5.00% APY Savings Account

So you're thinking about opening a 5.00% APY savings account -- but you have some worries. See how to overcome the fears, and get the "free money."
May 18, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

The Best Way to Book Qatar Airways' Famous QSuite With Credit Card Points

You can unlock the luxury of Qatar Airways' QSuite for less! Learn savvy strategies to book using credit card points.
May 18, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

How to Make $1,000 a Year With CDs

Today's great CD rates make it easier to earn $1,000 annually on these lucrative bank products. Find out how to earn $1,000 with CD investments.
May 18, 2024 | By Cole Tretheway

This Is Why Your California Auto Insurance Just Got More Expensive

Allstate hiked car insurance rates in California by 30% in 2023. Find out why auto insurance is getting more expensive.
May 18, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

The 5 Vacation Costs That Stress People Out the Most -- and How to Cut Them

Travel is fun, but it can also lead to stress about money. See which vacation costs are the biggest stressors and how you can solve them.
May 18, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

Here's What Happens When You Put $50,000 in a 5-Year CD

Got $50,000 in savings? Learn how much you could earn by putting it in one of the best 5-year CDs.
May 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The 3 Most Common Payroll Mistakes Small Businesses Make

Is your business at risk of making major payroll mistakes? Read on to see if that's the case, and learn how to avoid common blunders.
May 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

How Much of an Emergency Fund Do You Need if You're Buying a House?

It's important to have ample cash reserves as a new homeowner. But how much is enough? Read on to find out.
May 18, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

7 Surprising Insights Into Boomers' Financial Habits

What can financial trends among baby boomers teach us about finances in America? Keep reading to find out.