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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

April 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Buying Fractional Shares Can Be a Great Choice if You're One of These 5 Investors

Some online brokerages let you buy fractional shares as a lower-cost way to buy individual stocks. See if you're the right fit for fractional shares.
April 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's What Happens When You Repay a Personal Loan Early

You're generally not barred from paying off a personal loan early. But it might cost you. Read on to learn more.
April 18, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

I Tried and Failed to Cut Spending on Dining Out. Here's What I'm Doing Instead

Instead of cutting back on restaurant spending, I've reassessed my spending priorities and made cuts in other areas instead. Find out why here.
April 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

The 3 Best Pieces of Investing Advice I've Ever Received

Read on for the best investment advice that this personal finance writer ever received -- and it's not "how to pick stocks."
April 18, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

These 2 Savings Accounts Offer High Rates -- and a Bonus if You Sign Up Soon

Both SoFi and Barclays are currently offering great savings account bonuses for new customers -- and other account perks, too. Check them out here.
April 18, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Get a Sam's Club Membership for Just $14 Through April 30

Sam's Club is offering a huge discount on annual memberships, but it won't last long. Find out more and see how you can sign up.
April 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Does a Costco Membership Make Sense if You Live in a City?

You don't need a large living space to make good use of a Costco membership. Read on to learn more.
April 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Retiring in a Year? Make This Brokerage Account Move Now

It's important to review your investments as retirement gets closer. Read on to learn more.
April 18, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

2 Reasons I'm Not Switching My Savings Accounts to Get Better Rates

Different savings accounts offer different rates. Learn why it may not be worth changing banks to get a higher APY on your saved cash.
April 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The 'Singles Tax' for Solo Renters Just Hit $7,110

Renting a home can be burdensome when you're single. Read on for ways to lower your costs.
April 18, 2024 | By Ben Gran

This New Federal Filing Requirement for LLC Owners Only Took Me 5 Minutes

A new rule for small business owners took effect in 2024. Do you know what BOI Reporting is? See how to protect yourself in just five minutes.
April 18, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

57% of Families Are Teaching Their Kids This Crucial Lesson. You Should, Too

Are you teaching your kids about debt? Read on to see why you should.
April 17, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

6 Affordable Ways Stay-at-Home Parents Can Boost Their Savings

Are you a stay-at-home parent feeling financial strain? Making a few changes could allow you to save money. Find out how to stretch your dollars further.
April 17, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

These 2 Credit Cards Have Shockingly Generous Perks With No Annual Fees

These cards aren't as feature-packed as some of the more expensive ones on the market. Keep reading to learn why they're worth considering.
April 17, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

I Only Earn $50,000 a Year. Can I Still Build Up a Retirement Fortune?

You may be surprised at how much retirement savings you can amass on a modest income. Read on to learn more.
April 17, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Here's What Happens if Your Savings Account Balance Is Too High

It's good to have money in savings, but not too much. Read on for a few big downsides you could face if you do.
April 17, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

This Change to My Family's Health Insurance Costs Us Thousands Per Year

My healthcare bills are higher due to a health insurance change. Read on to see how I'm coping with it.
April 17, 2024 | By Ben Gran

3 Reasons to Get an Airline Credit Card Even if You're Not a Frequent Flyer

Even if you only fly a few times per year, the best airline credit cards can give you better travel experiences. See how to make it happen.
April 17, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's What Happens to Your Auto Insurance When You Move to a New State

Relocating? Read on to see how it might impact your auto insurance rates.
April 17, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Get a $40 Costco Shop Card With This Deal for New Members

Don't miss this StackSocial Costco membership deal. New members who buy a Costco Gold Star membership for $60 will get $40 to spend at Costco. Find out more.
April 17, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Interest Rates May Fall This Year. Try This to Keep Your High Rate

The Federal Reserve has signaled it wants to cut interest rates in 2024. Find out why opening a CD account might be a good idea.
April 17, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Why the 'YOLO' Approach to Personal Finances Is Better Than This Other Idea

Are you "doom spending" out of fear, or making "YOLO economy" decisions based on love of life? Here's how to strike the right balance.
April 17, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Does a Balance Transfer Always Make Sense When You Owe Money on Multiple Credit Cards?

Juggling credit card balances? Before you rush to do a balance transfer, consider some alternatives. Here's why.
April 17, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

This Unique Checking Account Doesn't Pay Interest -- It Does Something Even Better

Some online checking accounts have a modest APY. Keep reading to see how this Discover account offers a more valuable perk.
April 17, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Bought a Car in the Last Few Years? You May Really Need This Kind of Insurance

Used car prices peaked and fell, which means many people owe more than their car is now worth. Here's what this means for auto insurance.