Ascend Bank Newsroom

If you’ve ever looked at your credit card statement and thought, “How did I spend that much?” you’re definitely not alone. The good news is that using a credit card responsibly doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple habits and a little planning, you can enjoy the benefits of a credit card without letting debt get out of control.

Ascend Bank is pleased to announce the addition of two seasoned commercial lending professionals, Dawn Sandvoss and John-Paul (JP) Aldi, who have joined the bank as Vice Presidents and Commercial Loan Officers.

Building credit from scratch can feel confusing when nobody really teaches you how it works. The good news is that building good credit doesn’t require being wealthy or taking on a lot of debt. In fact, strong credit is usually built through small, consistent habits over time. If you’re starting fresh after college, here’s a realistic, beginner-friendly guide to building credit the smart way.

When most business owners think about a business checking account, they usually focus on the basics: depositing revenue, paying bills, managing payroll, and keeping everyday finances organized. And while those functions are essential, the right business checking account can offer much more than just a place to store your money.

Choosing the right savings account for your small business might not feel like the most exciting financial decision you’ll make — but it can have a bigger impact than you think. Here’s a straightforward guide to understanding what to look for and how to choose a business savings account that supports your small business goals.

If you’ve ever wondered how much you’re actually supposed to save for emergencies in your 20s, you’re not alone. The advice online can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re balancing rent, debt, and everyday expenses.

Automating your finances doesn’t mean giving up control of your money. In fact, it’s often the opposite. Setting up automatic payments, transfers, and savings tools can help you stay organized, build healthy financial habits, and remove a lot of the day-to-day pressure that comes with managing money manually.

For a lot of people in their 20s, the word “budget” brings up images of strict spending rules, giving up everything fun, or tracking every coffee purchase down to the penny. But a good budget shouldn’t make your life harder — it should make life easier. Here’s a simple, realistic guide to building a budget that works in your 20s and can grow with you over time.