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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

Aug. 25, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

4 Credit Card Lessons I Learned the Hard Way

Most of us make some mistakes with our credit cards. Check out the learning experiences that cost me money so you know what to avoid.
Aug. 25, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Is It Possible for You to Lose Money in a CD?

CDs are quite safe as far as investments go. But check out two situations that could see you losing money in one.
Aug. 25, 2024 | By Cole Tretheway

America's Income Gap Is Growing. Here's How You Can Leap It

Middle-income households are splitting into haves and have-nots. Find out how many are leaping into the upper class.
Aug. 25, 2024 | By Ben Gran

5 Ways Costco Online Shopping Is Worth the Price of Membership

Can't make it to the local Costco warehouse? Here's why Costco online shopping can help you save big money, even if you don't shop in-person at Costco.
Aug. 25, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

5 Mortgage Mistakes That Could Be Costing You a Fortune

There are a lot of ways to overspend as a prospective homeowner. Read on for mortgage pitfalls to avoid when you're ready to buy a home.
Aug. 25, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

3 Ways the Costco Pharmacy Is Worth the Price of Membership

Prescription drugs sure aren't cheap. Keep reading to learn why joining Costco might be worth it to access pharmacy savings.
Aug. 25, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Can You Save $2 Million for Retirement? Here's How to Find Out

Saving $2 million for retirement may be possible, but it depends on how early you start and how much your income is. Here's what you need to know.
Aug. 25, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

How to Turn Everyday Spending Into Your Next Dream Vacation

You can unlock dream vacations with your everyday spending. Use the right credit card and start earning points today.
Aug. 25, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

I Called Discover to Cancel My Credit Card. Here's How It Convinced Me to Stay

If you decide to cancel your Discover credit card, you might want to call the company first. Find out how this writer got a second bonus on his card.
Aug. 25, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

3 Surprising Facts About Getting Gas at Costco

Most people know Costco has cheap gas, but there's more to know about filling up at the warehouse club. Find out more.
Aug. 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's Why I Wouldn't Open a 3-Month CD Now

A 3-month CD won't serve me well now, and it may not be great for you, either. Read on to see why.
Aug. 25, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

How Many Multimillionaires Are Self-Made? The Answer Will Surprise You

A recent study revealed how many multimillionaires didn't have an inheritance or a wealthy upbringing. Check out the surprising data on self-made multimillionaires.
Aug. 25, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

My Credit Score Isn't Perfect. Here's Why I Don't Care

Perfect credit is great, but it's not necessary to score competitive rates on loans and credit cards. Here's what to focus on instead.
Aug. 24, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

CD Investors Must Come to Terms With 2 Harsh Realities

CD investors have benefitted from high rates, but this isn't actually good news. Here are two truths to reckon with if you want to invest in CDs.
Aug. 24, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

4 Perks of Buying a TV at Costco

Want or need a new TV? Read on to see why you may want to get your next one at Costco.
Aug. 24, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Is the Amex Platinum Card Really Worth It?

The Amex Platinum Card has a hefty price tag. Or does it? Read on to get the inside scoop.
Aug. 24, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

My Credit Score Is Over 800. Here's How I Got There

The fact that my credit score is above 800 isn't an accident. Read on to see why my score is as high as it is.
Aug. 24, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Forget These Common CD Myths. Here's the Truth About CD Investing

Many people believe CDs are risk-free and that you can't lose money -- when in reality that's not the case. Learn the truth about this and other CD myths.
Aug. 24, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

5 Perks of Buying Electronics From Costco

Costco has low prices and offers customer care solutions that few other stores have. Learn why you should consider Costco for your next electronics purchase.
Aug. 24, 2024 | By Devon Delfino

3 Things You Must Do When Your Retirement Savings Reach $1,000,000

Once you hit $1 million in retirement savings, it's time to reevaluate your goals. Read on to learn more about navigating this milestone.
Aug. 24, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Want to Save Money on Your Long-Distance Move? Here's How

Moving isn't cheap -- especially if you're moving a long distance. Read on for one moving expert's top tips to save.
Aug. 24, 2024 | By Ben Gran

Is It a Good Idea To Get Your First Credit Card at Age 18?

Are you afraid that age 18 is too young for your first credit card? Check out a few reasons why age 18 is the perfect time to apply for one.
Aug. 24, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

What Will Savings Account Interest Rates Be in 2025? Here's What We Know

The Federal Reserve is expected to gradually lower interest rates for the next couple of years. Learn what it could mean for your savings account.
Aug. 24, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

You Won't Believe How Many Americans Have Perfect Credit

Perfect credit isn't easy to come by. Read on to see how many consumers have it, and whether you should be pushing yourself to attain it.
Aug. 24, 2024 | By Emma Newbery

In Your 30s and Want to Retire With $2 Million? Here's How

Retiring with $2 million is an ambitious but achievable goal. Find out how much you'd need to invest each month if you want to get there.