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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 2, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The Fed's Latest Decision on Interest Rates Is Great News for Savers. Here's Why

The Fed just voted to keep interest rates steady. Read on to see why that might benefit you.
May 2, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

The Single Best Strategy for Maximizing CD Profits in May 2024

CDs continue to pay out at generous rates in May 2024. Find out how to make CDs work even harder for you this month.
May 1, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Here's the Single Best Way to Save Money on Business-Class Flights

Paying full price for a business-class flight can be costly, but there are ways to score a deal. Find out how to save money on a business-class ticket.
May 1, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

It's Not Too Late to Snag a Raise for 2024. Here Are Some Tactics to Employ

Eager for a boost in pay? Read on for ways to get one before the year is over.
May 1, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

A CD Ladder Could Be a Perfect Investment for Retirees. Here's Why

A CD ladder is a great place to keep money you don't want in the market. Find out why it's ideal for retirees who need generous returns, but accessible cash.
May 1, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

4 Paths to Becoming a Millionaire

A study of millionaires found that there are a few common paths people follow to build wealth. Find out what they are and which is right for you.
May 1, 2024 | By Dana George

10 Sam's Club Gifts Mom Is Sure to Love

If getting a Mother's Day gift "just right" is especially important, you'll want to keep reading. Here, we share some of Sam's Club's best options.
May 1, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Why You Should Lock in a CD ASAP After the Fed's Latest Decision

The Fed just made an announcement on interest rates. Read on to see why it should prompt you to open a CD.
May 1, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

The Underrated Importance of Accurate Payroll in Employee Satisfaction

On the surface, payroll may be a mundane administrative task. But accurate payroll is vital to employee satisfaction. Here's why.
May 1, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

How Much Money Should You Keep in a Savings Account in Retirement?

This important decision affects how long your money will last. Here's how to decide how much you should keep in savings in retirement.
May 1, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

I Could Buy a Home With an FHA Loan -- Here's Why I'm Not

First-time buyers (or those who haven't owned in at least three years) qualify for FHA mortgages. Read on to learn why they aren't always the best fit, though.
May 1, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

I Bond Interest Rates Just Fell. Are They Still a Smart Place to Put Your Money to Work?

The yield from inflation-protected savings bonds just got lower. But keep reading to learn the rest of the story.
May 1, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

5 Things Costco Only Sells Online

If you limit your Costco shopping to stores only, you might miss out on a world of inventory. Here are some of the items you can only find at Costco.com.
May 1, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

I Have 7 Subscription Services. Here's Why I'm Not Cutting Back

Having a lot of subscription services isn't always a problem. Find out why I'm not going to cancel any of mine, even though I have seven of them.
May 1, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Here's Why I Carry a Backup Credit Card When Traveling

Being financially prepared when traveling away from home is beneficial. Learn why one writer always travels with multiple credit cards.
May 1, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Common Mistakes Parents Make When Paying for Child Care

Child care costs can be exorbitant. Read on to see how you can avoid some big blunders when covering child care.
May 1, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

The Sneaky Card Fee That Can Wreck Your Summer Vacation

International vacations are already four-figure affairs. Avoid boosting the cost even more by skipping this nuisance fee.
May 1, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I Thought About Signing Up for Walmart+. Here's Why I Opted Not To

It turns out a Walmart+ membership isn't right for me, and you may not need one, either. Read on to learn more.
May 1, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Young Investor? Avoid These Mistakes When Starting Your First CDs

CDs can be a great place to put your money, but there are a few drawbacks. Read on to find out a few common pitfalls investors should look out for.
May 1, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

3 Little-Known Drawbacks of Using Gas Credit Cards

Gas credit cards offer a discount when you buy gas at certain gas stations. Read on to learn if these cards really stack up to other credit cards.
May 1, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

5 Summer Must-Haves Under $100 You Can Buy at Costco

Prepping for summer doesn't have to cost a lot, and a Costco membership can help you save on summer must-haves. Here are five Costco buys for under $100.
May 1, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

How to Secure Funding for Your Small Business: Insider Tips

Unlock funding secrets for your business venture. Dive into our insights and start thriving today.
May 1, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Getting Started With CD Investing? This Is the Best Strategy to Try

If you want to take advantage of today's high CD rates, building a CD ladder could be the way to go. Learn why this strategy makes sense for beginners.
May 1, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

No Matter What, Do This Before You Start House Hunting

There's one absolutely vital step to take first if you're hoping to buy a home. Keep reading to learn why it's so important.
May 1, 2024 | By Emma Newbery

​​4 Unexpected Ways to Delight Your Customers and Boost Retention

Going above and beyond your customers' expectations can make a difference to your bottom line. Find out how to surprise your customers and build loyalty.