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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

June 8, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

CDs Are Paying 5% Today -- but if You Want 10% on Your Money, You'll Need to Do This

Why settle for a 5% return on your money when you can do way better? Read on to learn more.
June 8, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

When You Get a Windfall, Should You Buy a CD or Pay Off Your Mortgage?

Got extra cash coming your way? Here's how to tell if paying extra on your mortgage or investing in a CD is the better move.
June 8, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Why It's Time to Stop Settling for Putrid Bank Yields -- and Get 5.00% APY

Is your extra cash sitting in a big bank's 0.01% APY savings account? If so, it's time to make a change. See how to earn 5.00% APY or more.
June 8, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

5 Easy Ways to Build Your Emergency Fund Faster

Saving an emergency fund sounds hard, but there are techniques to make it easier. Read on to begin your savings journey now.
June 8, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

You Won't Believe How Much Interest You Can Earn on a $20,000 CD Today

CD rates could put a bundle of money in your pocket. But are CDs the right choice for you? Keep reading to find out.
June 8, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

3 Surprise Expenses That Shocked Me When I Had My First Kid

Yes, babies are expensive. Here are three expenses that might catch you by surprise when you have your first kid.
June 8, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Here's Why a $1,000 Emergency Fund Probably Isn't Enough for You

Working hard to build your emergency fund? You'll likely want to save more than $1,000. Find out why you may need more than $1,000 in your emergency fund.
June 8, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

Amazing Deals at Costco for First-Time Home Buyers

First-time home buyers can save big on essentials from furniture to appliances at Costco. Here are a few great deals.
June 8, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Seriously, You Need to Open a CD Now With Rates at 5%

CD rates are fantastic right now. Read on to see why they may not hold steady.
June 8, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

Revealed: The Cheapest Car in America to Repair

The cheapest cars to repair in America may come as some surprise, but the brands are certainly all names you know. Read on to learn more.
June 8, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

One Little-Known Thing You Should Know About a CD Before You Invest

Not all CDs work exactly the same way. Read on to see what detail you need to pay attention to before choosing one.
June 8, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here Are Costco's 3 Best -- and Worst -- Food Court Deals

Love Costco's food court? Some items may be worth the money more so than others. Keep reading for all the details.
June 7, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Is $50,000 Too Much Money to Keep in a Savings Account?

You'll often hear that it's best to grow your savings as much as possible. But is there such a thing as having too much cash in the bank? Read on to find out.
June 7, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

5 Reasons Every Freelancer Should Get a Chase Ink Business Cash Card

Every freelancer has their own unique financial needs. This Chase card can likely cover at least one of them. Here's how.
June 7, 2024 | By Dana George

5 Ways Elite Status Air Travel Makes My Life Easier

Air travel is certainly not as comfortable as it once was. Fortunately, earning elite status can make it easier in these five ways. Read on for more.
June 7, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

This Is My Go-To Credit Card for 5% Back at Hardware Stores

Old houses mean a lot of time -- and money -- at the hardware store. This card can help you get up to 5% of that money back.
June 7, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

Here's the Average Credit Score of High-Income Americans

There's a correlation between average income and credit score. Here's a look at the average high-income American's credit score and how you can improve yours.
June 7, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

4 Reasons You Might Regret Getting the Amex Platinum Card

The morning after the annual fee hits is a doozy. Read on to learn who it might hit the worst.
June 7, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Getting a New Credit Card for Your Small Business? 3 Factors to Consider

A credit card can be an asset for your business. Read on for three important considerations to help you choose the right one.
June 7, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

This CD Is Offering 6.00% for 8 Months. Should You Buy It?

A California credit union is offering a 6.00% 8-month CD. If you are eligible for it and you have money to spare, here's why you should consider purchasing it.
June 7, 2024 | By Dana George

Looking for the Perfect Father's Day Gift? Sam's Club Has Ideas

Gift-giving can be a challenge. Even if your dad has everything he needs, these Sam's Club gifts may just make him smile.
June 7, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

5 Incredible Costco Buys for Under $25

You don't have to spend a lot of money at Costco to walk away with quality items. Here are five fantastic products that won't bust your budget.
June 7, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

These Are the 2 Best CD Offers in America Right Now

Right now, there are two credit unions offering promotional CDs -- one with a 6.00% rate and the other with a 9.50% rate. Find out more about these offers.
June 7, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Most Americans Are Missing Out on This Huge Investment Opportunity

Investing in stocks is a great way to grow wealth. But data shows that most Americans aren't buying stocks directly. Read on to learn more.
June 7, 2024 | By Cole Tretheway

How Much Money Should You Keep in a Checking Account? Here's the Sweet Spot

Americans had a median checking account balance of $2,800 in 2022. Find out whether that's enough money and how much you should have.