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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

March 18, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

5 Money-Saving Tax Tips for Married Couples

Married couples have access to some specific money-saving deductions. Read on to find out how you and your spouse can save on taxes this year.
March 18, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

The Best Strategy for Paying Off Debt With Balance Transfer Cards in 2024

A balance transfer could be your secret weapon to getting out of debt. See exactly how to do it in this step-by-step guide.
March 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Loud Budgeting Doesn't Work for Me. Here's What I Do Instead

Loud budgeting is all the rage, but I'm not comfortable with it. Read on to learn about my approach to managing my money and meeting my goals.
March 18, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

This Many Americans Are Missing Out on Credit Card Rewards. Don't Be One of Them

Many Americans use rewards credit cards -- but around 29% of consumers do not. See why they're missing out and why you may want to get a rewards credit card.
March 18, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Should You Keep Your Emergency Fund in a CD?

Keeping your emergency fund in a CD is typically not a good idea. Check out a few reasons why you could regret buying a CD with emergency cash.
March 18, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Why the Capital One/Discover Merger Could Be Expensive for Consumers

The biggest credit card merger in years is set to take place. Take a look at what consumers should know.
March 18, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Why CDs Are a Great Investment for People Who Don't Like Risk

Losing money stinks. Read on to learn five reasons why CDs are great for risk-averse investors.
March 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I Brought Home Several Gallons of Bad Milk From Costco. Here's What Happened

If you buy something at Costco that doesn't meet your expectations, you're not out of luck. Read on to learn more.
March 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Got Your Tax Refund? 9 Smart Things to Do With It

Have a tax refund coming your way? Read on for great ways to maximize that cash.
March 18, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Celebrate Women's History Month by Making These 4 Money Moves

I am woman, hear me roar -- about boosting your financial security. Keep reading for money tasks for March and beyond.
March 18, 2024 | By Margo Winton Parodi

3 Reasons I'm Glad I Didn't Splurge on a Forever Home

They say a home is likely the biggest purchase you'll ever make. Find out some of the benefits of buying a great home rather than the perfect one.
March 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I Made a Mistake on My Tax Return. Now What?

Botched your tax return? Read on to see when you do and don't need to take action.
March 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

10 Better Places to Put Your Money Than a Checking Account

Too many people have extra cash sitting in a checking account. Are you one of them? Here are 10 better choices for how to invest your money in 2024.
March 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The Unseen Downsides of Not Investing in Your 401(k)

Keeping your 401(k) in cash could cause you to lose out big time. Read on to learn more.
March 18, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

This Is Women's No. 1 Financial Goal, Survey Shows

Fidelity Investments found that women want to feel more secure about money and have no financial fears. Discover some ways women are improving their finances.
March 18, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

If You Plan to Do These 3 Things With Your Money, You Definitely Shouldn't Invest It in a CD

CDs are one way to grow your wealth, but they're not your only option. Check out three times CDs aren't a good fit.
March 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Investment Hacks You Can Afford by Not Having Kids

Being child-free often means having more money at your disposal. Read on for some ways you can maximize your investing strategy in that scenario.
March 18, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Can You Deduct Your Mortgage Interest When You File Your Taxes?

When you can deduct interest, it saves you money since the government subsidizes some of the cost. But can you deduct mortgage interest? Find out here.
March 18, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Got a Raise This Year? This Is the Single Smartest Thing to Do

Getting a raise can make a huge difference in your financial life over the long term if you make this decision. Read on to learn what it is.
March 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Not a Fan of CDs? Here's Why You May Want to Change Your Tune -- for Now

CDs have their drawbacks, but you may want to consider one today for one specific reason. Read on to learn more.
March 18, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

3 Major Tax Headaches and What You Can Do About Them

Taxes can be stressful, especially if complications arise. Learn how to solve three common tax problems.
March 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's What Happens When You Don't File Your Taxes on Time

Being late with a tax return could have serious consequences. Read on to learn more.
March 18, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Is a Costco Membership Worth It if You Can Only Shop at Costco.com?

If you don't have a Costco near you, you can shop at Costco.com -- but buying a membership just to do so may not be worth it. Learn why here.
March 17, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

3 Lies You've Been Told About Mortgage Interest Rates

Mortgage interest rates aren't as straightforward as they seem. Keep reading for the partial truths within this particular real estate lore.
March 17, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Saving for a Really Big Purchase? Be Aware of This Risk

If you have a large amount of cash in the bank, you may be risking loss. Keep reading to learn about FDIC insurance on deposit accounts.