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 29, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

3 Reasons I Love My Target Circle Credit Card

If you like shopping at Target and are thinking of getting a new credit card, you may want to consider the Target Circle Credit Card. See three reasons why.
May 29, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Here Are the 3 Credit Cards Ramit Sethi Uses and Why They Might Be Right for You

Ramit Sethi has shared the three credit cards he has in his wallet. Find out what they are and what you can learn from his choices.
May 29, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

Here's My Favorite Underrated Amex Platinum Travel Perk

Everyone talks about the coupon book and lounge access. But this Amex Platinum perk deserves way more attention.
May 29, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Beware This Fee of Up to $99 When Transferring Amex Points to Some Airline Partners

Ready to redeem the Amex card points you've earned? Watch out for this airline points transfer fee. Find out what it is and how you can avoid it.
May 29, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

This Credit Card Perk Can Save You $10,000 -- And It Has Nothing to Do with Rewards

Credit cards come with a slew of perks, including free insurance. See how this benefit in particular could save you $10,000 on a single purchase.
May 29, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

5 Travel Cards to Check Out Instead of the Amex Platinum Card

The Amex Platinum Card isn't right for everyone. If you're not sold on it, here are some of the best alternatives for saving money on travel.
May 29, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

4 Reasons I'm Considering Applying for the Discover it® Cash Back

A long intro 0% APR offer can be an asset when you've got big expenses coming up. Learn why one future homeowner is targeting this Discover card.
May 29, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

I Earn at Least 3% Back on All My Online Shopping, Thanks to These 2 Credit Cards

One of the best things about the 21st century is shopping without leaving my house. Read on for two standout credit cards that save me a ton on my purchases.
May 29, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

Amex Platinum: Should Your Spouse Be an Authorized User or Have Their Own Card?

Having two cardholders can change the nature of the game. Here's how that can impact your Amex Platinum choices.
May 29, 2024 | By Ben Gran

EVs Aren't for Everyone. Here's Why -- and Here's What Car to Buy Instead

Want to buy a new car in 2024? It's OK if you don't want to buy an EV. Here's how to find a good deal and save money on gas (and car insurance).
May 29, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Here Are the 4 Travel Credit Cards I've Used to Book Cheap Business-Class Flights

Business class is even better when you don't need to pay cash for it. Check out the travel cards I've used to book tickets with rewards.
May 29, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Will CDs Still Be Worth Opening After the Fed Cuts Interest Rates?

Interest rate cuts could happen this year. Read on to see if CDs will remain a good deal once that happens.
May 29, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

Store Credit Card Rewards Are Getting Better. Should You Get One?

Store credit cards have never been as rewarding as they are today. Discover the rewards (and pitfalls) of store credit cards and decide if one is right for you.
May 29, 2024 | By Dana George

5 Things to Do Before You Downgrade a Credit Card

It's easy to get caught up in the moment and take out a credit card that no longer works for you. Here's what to do before downgrading that card.
May 29, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Mistakes People Make Too Often When Paying Medical Bills

Medical bills can be a huge financial burden. Read on to avoid some common mistakes that could make yours more expensive than necessary.
May 29, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

My Friends Waited Until Their 40s to Buy a Home. Here's Why They Don't Regret It

Waiting to buy a home can pay off for numerous reasons. Read on to see why you may want to sit tight on a home purchase.
May 29, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

Planning Your Summer Vacation? Here Are 4 Good Reasons to Book Through Costco

Booking travel through Costco can have a lot of perks, including saving you money. Here's what you should know.
May 29, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's Why You Should Never Keep All of Your Money in CDs

CDs are a smart bet when you want to earn more interest. But read on to see why you shouldn't put every dollar you have into a CD.
May 29, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

5 Mistakes I Used to Make as a Costco Newbie -- and How I Avoid Them Today

Being a Costco member for years has taught me a thing or two. Read on to see why I'm no longer falling victim to rookie mistakes.
May 29, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Hoping to Buy a Foreclosure? Here's Why That Will Be Difficult in 2024

You might spend less on a home purchase if you buy a foreclosure. Read on to see why that may not be so feasible in today's market.
May 29, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Lies You've Been Told About CDs

CDs could be a great place for your money. But it's important to know the truth about how they work.
May 29, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

How to Roll Over Your Retirement Account When You Switch Jobs

Help your job change go smoothly and roll over your retirement account to keep your savings growing. Learn how with our guide.
May 29, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Mistakes Mortgage Applicants Make -- and How to Avoid Them

Need to borrow for a home? Read on to see which mistakes you should make every effort to avoid.
May 29, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Should You Invest in CDs After the Federal Reserve Kept Rates the Same?

Want to open a CD? What if the Federal Reserve doesn't cut interest rates in 2024? See how to decide if now is the best time to open a CD.
May 29, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

5 Affordable Business Ideas That Almost Anyone Can Start

You don't need a lot of money to start some businesses. Read on to find out which ones you can launch with low start-up costs.