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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 Christy Bieber

Should You Cash In Your CD to Avoid Credit Card Debt?

If you're facing an expense you have to put on a credit card, does it make sense to break your CD term early to cover it? Find out here.
May 15, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Pitfalls of Shopping at Discount Grocers

Picking up staples at discount grocers could save you money. But read on to see why your shopping experience may not be as positive as expected.
May 15, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

3 Reasons I'm Sitting on the CD Sidelines, Despite 5% Rates

CD rates are impressive. Read on to discover why they might not be the best option for your money.
May 14, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

4 Ways to Spring Clean Your Finances

Revitalize your finances this spring with expert tips. Take a look at how to start your financial detox now.
May 14, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

This Is How Much Money You Could Make if You Invested $2,500 in a CD Today

You have a lot of great options for high-paying CDs today. Read on to learn how much $2,500 in one could net you over time.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Should You Join Costco for the Bakery Alone?

Costco's bakery is loaded with deals. But should you join for the express purpose of getting to access it?
May 14, 2024 | By Ben Gran

This Unique Fintech Could Help Working Families Improve Their Personal Finances

The Reset card is a unique on-demand pay card, or "earned wages access" card that works like a debit card. It can help gig workers get paid faster with no fees.
May 14, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Does Your Net Worth Put You in the Upper, Middle, or Lower Class?

Net worth is an important financial metric. Find out the average net worth for the upper, middle, and lower class to see where yours lands.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Can Severance Take the Place of Your Emergency Fund After a Layoff?

Some workers are eligible for severance pay when their jobs are eliminated. Read on to see why falling back on that option is pretty dangerous.
May 14, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Here's How Your Credit Card Debt Stacks Up to the Average American

Carrying a credit card balance is very common, and the average balance increased by 10% over a year. Learn how to cope with your credit card debt here.
May 14, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

5 Signs You're Not Taking Full Advantage of Your Costco Membership

Costco memberships offer a world of value. Read on to make sure you're making the most of yours.
May 14, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

May Is Your Last Chance to Get This Limited-Edition Amex Card

Interested in a limited-edition credit card made from a Boeing 747 aircraft? Here's why you'll need to act quickly to get your hands on it.
May 14, 2024 | By Dana George

Want to Buy CDs? Here's Why You Need a (Simple) Plan

Investing in a CD could not be any more straightforward. Take a look at a plan that can help you squeeze the most from your investment.
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.