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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 15, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

Never Overpay for Auto Insurance Again: A Guide for Recent College Grads

As a new college grad, your auto insurance likely costs more than you want to spend. Read on to learn how to cut costs effectively.
May 15, 2024 | By Cole Tretheway

If I Could Only Use One Credit Card Forever, This Is the One I'd Pick

My one forever card would need to get me strong rewards no matter what. Find out which credit card I'd pick.
May 15, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Sam's Club vs. Costco: Which Is the Better Option for Buying Tires?

Costco's tire center may be a little cheaper, but Sam's Club offers a few more perks. Learn more about warehouse club tire savings here.
May 15, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Why Most Checking Account Bonuses Are a Better Deal Than Savings Account Bonuses

Want to open a new checking account? See why it can be worth pursuing checking bonuses over savings account bonuses.
May 15, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Here's the Single Best CD Investing Strategy for Retirees

CDs can create a great combination of maximum interest and predictable income. Here's how to make them work for you.
May 15, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

American Express Platinum vs. American Express Delta Reserve: Which Is Right for You?

These two high-end travel cards offer tremendous value for the money. Which is the best fit? Read on as we compare them here to find out.
May 15, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Avoid These 5 Money Mistakes Americans Make

No one is immune to money management errors. Read on and learn how to avoid some common ones.
May 15, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

3 Great Cash Back Credit Cards With No Annual Fees and Unique Perks

Just because a card doesn't have an annual fee doesn't mean it can't offer great rewards and benefits. Learn about three here that fit the bill.
May 15, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

3 Ways to Save $80 or More on American Airlines

Planning to book airline tickets with American Airlines? Make sure you don't overpay. Here are several ways to save money on American Airlines flights.
May 15, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Ranked: Top 3 Perks of Airline Credit Cards Even if You're Not 'Elite'

Want to have a better time as an airline passenger? You don't need elite status. Check out these easy-to-get perks of the best airline credit cards.
May 15, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Don't Open a 3-Year CD Until You Check Out This New Investment

Are you thinking about a 3-year CD? Before you commit your cash, consider Save Market+, a three-year investment program with the possibility of over 9% returns.
May 15, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The 3 Smartest Ways to Save Money at Costco This May

Want to save big this month? Read on for ways to reap savings at Costco.
May 15, 2024 | By Dana George

The Struggle of Managing Multiple Projects in a Small Business

Part of owning a small business is feeling like you have to do it all. See how it's possible to manage multiple projects and save your sanity.
May 15, 2024 | By Dana George

4 Reasons You Should Stop Panicking About Retirement

As dismal as news reports can be, it's no wonder we're nervous. Check out four reasons you should put a halt to any alarm you feel about retirement.
May 15, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Don't Fall Into This Sneaky CD Trap

CDs are a great way to grow your money. But read on to see why opening a CD might also backfire on you.
May 15, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here’s What Happens When You Return Something to Costco

Will too many Costco returns get you banned? Will you need your original receipt? Read on for answers to these questions and more.
May 15, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

How to Safeguard Your IRA Against Inflation

Worried about inflation? Read on to see how you can set your IRA up to beat it.
May 15, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Never Bought a CD Before? Now May Be an Especially Good Time

If you've got no experience with CDs, what are you waiting for? Read on to learn how to capitalize on today's historically high rates.
May 15, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

4 Reasons a Sam's Club Plus Membership Is Way Better Than a Costco Executive Membership

While both Sam's Club and Costco have upgraded memberships offering cash back, Sam's Club's membership has more value than Costco's. Find out why here.
May 15, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

How Bad Is a $10,000 Balance on Your Credit Card?

Credit card debt is one of the most common financial issues. See how much a $10,000 credit card balance really costs you and learn how you can pay it off.
May 15, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Things You Probably Don't Know About Your Costco Executive Membership

Costco's Executive membership offers lots of benefits. But read on for some surprising facts you may not have known.
May 15, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Why This Surprising Decision From Tesla Could Be Bad News for EV Owners

Have you heard about Tesla firing its entire Supercharger team? See what this means for the future of EV charging, and what to do before you buy an EV.
May 15, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Why You Shouldn't Rush to Invest in CDs Now

Trying to decide between a CD and a savings account? Based on the latest moves from the Fed, you shouldn't feel pressure to open a CD. See why.
May 15, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

4 Ways to Get the Best Auto Insurance for Recent College Grads

Learn how to find better auto insurance rates as a new grad. Read on for key tips to help you save on the coverage you need.
May 15, 2024 | By Ben Gran

This New Investment Option Could Be a CD Killer

Does the fixed APY on the best CDs feel uninspiring to you? Here's what you need to know about Save, a fintech that offers higher returns on your savings.