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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 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

This Change to My Social Media Habits Has Saved Me Hundreds of Dollars Over the Past Year

Impulse buys can be a huge budget-buster. Read on to see what this writer did to help break that habit.
May 14, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Never Ignore These Point-of-Sale Security Features

Hackers are targeting point-of-sales systems. Read on to find out how to protect your small business.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Signs You Need Way More Than a 3-Month Emergency Fund

You'll often hear that three months of savings is the minimum amount to aim for. Read on to see why you should be working toward a higher savings goal.
May 14, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

My Home's Appraisal Came in Low! What Now?

An appraisal is just one of the many steps between you and homeownership. Learn what to do if the appraiser says the home is worth less than expected.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Signs It's Time to Downgrade Your Costco Membership

Should you keep your more expensive Costco membership? Read on to see why it may be time to go back to a basic one.
May 14, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Suze Orman Is Right About CDs, and Dave Ramsey Is Wrong. Here's Why

Both Dave Ramsey and Suze Orman have shared their opinions about CDs, but Orman's stance makes a lot more sense. Read on to learn why.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Should You Open a CD in Your IRA?

You can invest your IRA funds in a CD. But should you? Read on to find out.
May 14, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

4 Reasons I Never Fly Basic Economy

Are you considering buying a basic economy ticket? Make sure you review the restrictions before you book. Find out why one writer avoids this ticket type.
May 14, 2024 | By Margo Winton Parodi

CD Rates Are Above 5%, but I'm Still Not Investing. Here's Why

CDs have been the talk of the town, thanks to the towering rates of late. But take a look at why they may not be the right move for everyone.
May 14, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

5 Things I Do Every Month to Save a Ton of Money

Saving money doesn't need to be difficult. Check out the simple financial habits that have paid off for me.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's the Single Best CD Investing Strategy for Seniors

CDs could make a lot of sense for those approaching retirement. But read on to see how to set yours up.
May 14, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Canceling a Credit Card? Do This First to Avoid Fees

Thinking about canceling one of your credit cards? Don't miss this important step -- it could save you money. Find out what you need to do.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Didn't Increase Your Savings in 2023? Here's How to Do Better in 2024

It's a good time to be putting money into savings. Read on for ways to free up cash for that purpose.
May 13, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Great Costco Gifts for New Parents

Is there someone important in your life who just had a baby? These three Costco finds could be the perfect gift.
May 13, 2024 | By Cole Tretheway

Here's What the Average Costco Shopper Spends per Month. How Do You Compare?

46% of Costco members splurge for the Executive membership. Find out how your spending stacks up to the average Costco shopper.
May 13, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

These 3 Home Renovations Could Raise Your Homeowners Insurance Costs

Improving your home? Read on to learn about some big renovations that could drive your homeowners insurance premiums upward.
May 13, 2024 | By Dana George

4 Things I Don't Like About Investing in CDs

CD rates remain relatively spectacular. Read on for four qualities of certificates of deposit that one writer doesn't especially like.
May 13, 2024 | By Emma Newbery

Could Costco's $1.50 Hot Dog Combo Go Away?

The price of Costco's hot dog and soda combo has not changed for almost 40 years, but what if it does? Find out how this shift could impact your shopping.
May 13, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Americans Earned $315 Billion on Their Savings in 2023. Here's How to Get the Highest Interest Rate Possible

Want to earn more on your money this year? Read on to see how.
May 13, 2024 | By Margo Winton Parodi

I Got Stuck Overnight in a Foreign Country After a Canceled Flight. Here's How I Got My Vacation Back on Track

Airline delays and cancellations can be expected, but are a headache to deal with nevertheless. Check out one example of how to handle the situation.
May 13, 2024 | By Devon Delfino

CDs: The Most Misunderstood Investment Tool for Young Investors

Certificates of deposit provide an opportunity for serious growth. Read on to learn how younger investors can best take advantage of these tools.
May 13, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

If You Put $10,000 Into an IRA, How Much Money Could You Earn?

A retirement account is one of the best ways to build wealth. Check out what kind of results you could get if you put $10,000 into an IRA.
May 13, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Think CDs Are a Risk-Free Investment? Here Are 3 Reasons Why You're Wrong

CDs are often touted as being 100% risk-free, but that's not actually the case. Learn about three risks you're taking when you put your money into a CD.
May 13, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Your Emergency Fund Could Earn Great Rates if You Put It in a CD -- but It's Still a Terrible Idea

Opening a CD with your emergency fund money could leave you stuck facing hard choices if you encounter an unplanned expense. Find out why.