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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 23, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Costco Secrets That Could Help You Save Big

Eager to save extra money at Costco? Read on to see how.
April 23, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

My Friend Used a Credit Card to Cover a Big Expense Instead of Her Emergency Fund. Here's What It Cost Her

It can be scary to tap your emergency savings. But read on to see why doing so is generally your best move financially.
April 23, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Having Kids Makes Travel More Expensive. Here's How We Save on Our Trips

Having kids makes it harder to travel due to the cost. Read on for tips to save.
April 23, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

I Improved My Credit Score by 28 Points in 2 Minutes. Here's How

The average credit score is 714. Linking a few accounts to your credit file could improve yours.
April 23, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

This Is the Average Weekly Allowance Parents Give Their Kids. How Does Yours Compare?

How do your allowance practices stack up against other parents'? Read on to find out.
April 23, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Never Do This if You're a Busy Mom Trying to Pay Off Debt

It's a good idea to pick up a side gig if you're a mom who's eager to shed their debt. But there's one gig you should aim to avoid. Read on to learn more.
April 23, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

3 Interest-Bearing Bank Accounts That Could Cost You in the Long Run

Earning interest on your savings is great, but some accounts offer you more than others. Here are three to stay away from.
April 23, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The Downside of Being a Single Retiree -- and How to Beat It

Being single can be tough financially at any stage of life -- including retirement. Read on for ways to cope with being on your own as a senior.
April 23, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Worried Interest Rates Will Keep Rising? These 3 CDs Could Be Your Best Bet

A bump-up CD can be an excellent way to protect against the possibility of rising rates. Read on to learn how.
April 23, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

How to Get the Business-Class Experience Without Paying $3,000 for It

Business class is amazing, but the price puts it out of reach for many travelers. Check out an easy hack to get the business-class experience for much less.
April 23, 2024 | By Ben Gran

These 3 Drawbacks of 'Loud Budgeting' Might Hold You Back From Saving Money

Loud budgeting and saving money shouldn't make you lonely. See how to fight FOMO and avoid downsides of loud budgeting with creativity and a sociable spirit.
April 23, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

The Downside of Not Planning for Healthcare Costs Before Retirement

If you don't research and save for healthcare costs ahead of retirement, you may get thrown for a serious loop. Read on to learn more.
April 23, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Ranked: Top HYSA Options for College-Bound Teens

Ready for college? Keep reading for three excellent high-yield savings accounts that can help you get in the habit of saving money.
April 23, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

4 Little-Known Perks That Financially Benefit Stay-at-Home Parents

It's not easy for families to live on one income, but there are some benefits to doing so. Read on to find out a few financial perks for stay-at-home parents.
April 23, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's How Much You Might Save on a $300,000 Mortgage if You Pay It Off in 15 Years

A 15-year mortgage is a lot cheaper than a 30-year one -- if you can afford the higher monthly payments. Read on to learn more.
April 23, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

The 3 Fastest Ways for Stay-at-Home Parents to Secure Their Children's Financial Futures

You can take several steps to give your children financial stability. Discover the fastest ways for stay-at-home parents to secure their children's financial futures.
April 23, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Why I Don't Care About Airlines' Elite Status, Even Though I'm a Frequent Flyer

Frequent flyers with elite status can get lots of complimentary benefits. Here's why it's not always worth the hassle, even if you fly often.
April 23, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Should You Join Costco if You're Already an Amazon Prime Member?

Doubling up on an Amazon Prime and Costco membership might work to your benefit. Read on to see why.
April 23, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

I Always Fly Business Class. Here's What I Look for When Booking My Flights

Flying business class is a great way to upgrade your travel experience. Learn what to look for when booking business class, so you can make the most of it.
April 23, 2024 | By Dana George

3 Fast, Cheap, and Effective Hacks for Stay-at-Home Parents to Save Money

Money-saving hacks are important for most households, especially homes with a stay-at-home parent. Learn three helpful ways to save.
April 23, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

If You Do One Thing Before Starting Your Small Business, Do This

Do you hope to become a small business owner? Make sure you're fully prepared before you start a business. Here's what you can do first to prepare better.
April 23, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Ways to Make the Most of Your Aldi Shopping in 2024

Shopping at Aldi could save you money. Read on for these tips to maximize your shopping experience.
April 23, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

4 Lies You've Been Told About Your Credit Score

There's lots of misinformation out there about credit scores. Check out some of the most common credit score lies so you know what not to believe.
April 23, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Reasons Not to Renew Your Costco Membership This Year

Costco memberships can offer a lot of value. But read on to see why it may not make sense to renew yours.
April 22, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

15% of Workers Experienced a Salary Reduction in the Past Year. Here Are 4 Ways to Cope With One

Having your salary reduced can have a big impact on your personal finances. Read on for ways to manage lowered wages.