The Clark Howard Podcast

Today, Clark shares a personal story about a sleazy sales call he received from one of the big alarm companies - tied to an internet provider. Also in this episode, pet owners need to understand what’s going on in the veterinary medicine profession so they can choose wisely, and protect their wallets. DIY Home Security: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Veterinary Bills: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: ADT USA Reviews | Read Customer Service Reviews of adt.com Your Guide to DIY Home Security Systems Which Home Security Systems Rank Better Than Ring? Turo: 5 Things To Know About the Cheap Car Rental Service Credit Card Car Rental Insurance: What You Need To Know My Credit Card Offers Some Rental Car Coverage. Why Do I Still Need To Involve My Primary Auto Insurance? Why Your Vet Bill Is So High  /  Is Pet Insurance Worth It? Best 529 College Savings Plans By State Credit Karma Review: Free Credit Score and More at Your Fingertips Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Finding a fiduciary financial advisor who ONLY works for your best interests can be difficult. New regulations may add protections for consumers, but it’s on us to know how to get the best guidance.  Also, Americans have so much stuff that storage units have been overbuilt. If you have a unit, Clark has some money saving advice regarding your monthly fee. Key Warning On Financial Advisors: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Storage Units: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Americans Deserve Straight Retirement Advice. They Work Too Hard for Their Money. NYTimes: Who Can Be Trusted for Retirement Advice? New Rules Strengthen Protections. WSJ: Advisers on Trillions in IRAs Must Now Put Your Interest First What to Do When Your 401(k) Leaves Something to Be Desired How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor - Clark.com What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? The Clark Howard Podcast The Headache at the End of the Costco Gold Rush - The WSJ Should You Buy Gold at Costco?  /  Clark Howard's Advice on Buying Gold NYTimes: Americans Went All-In on Self-Storage. That Demand Is Suddenly Cooling. Storage Unit Prices Keep Going Up. Is There a Better Way To Store My Possessions? The #1 Bill You Should Get by Mail Wirecutter: Stop Stressing About Turning Off the Lights When Leaving the Room! Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode - Clark takes you through the necessary steps for buying a used vehicle, including his number one rule, a key step neglected by a third of all buyers. Also today - are you traveling this summer? Airlines and hotels are changing the rules when it comes to earning points or miles.  How To Buy A Used Car: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Airline & Hotel Points: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: WSJ - Used-Car Sales Have Moved Online—Here’s Why Both Customers and Dealers Are Happy    How To Buy a Used Car - Clark.com How to Buy a New Car - Clark.com Should You Buy an Extended Warranty on Your Car? - Clark.com Salvage Title: What it Means, How it Works - Investopedia American Airlines Is Once Again Changing How Fliers Can Earn Rewards Hotel Resort Fee Lookup Tool Should You Ever Book a Nonrefundable Hotel Room? How Does Booking Travel Through a Credit Card Rewards Program Compare? How To Choose a Tour Company - Clark.com When Do You Need a Travel Agent? Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode - we often see lists of the best auto insurance companies, but now Clark has discovered an industry database for body shops that rates insurers according to how claims are handled. Also, Clark hates covenants not to compete - a labor practice that’s now on the ropes. But the ban is messy. Clark explains.  A New Source For The BEST Auto Insurers: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Non-Compete Clauses: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: CrashNetwork - Top Rated U.S. Car Insurance Companies for 2024 Best Auto Insurance Companies -Clark.com How to Shop for Lower Car Insurance - Clark.com Ascensus Acquires Vanguard’s Small Business Retirement Plans Target Date Funds: Clark’s Favorite Retirement Investment Ban on non-compete agreements sends shockwave across Wall Street [The Washington Post] Groups sue to block FTC’s new rule barring noncompete agreements Workers Celebrating Ban on Noncompetes. Employers Are Ready to Fight. - The WSJ NYTimes: F.T.C. Issues Ban on Worker Noncompete Clauses Businesses face 'seismic shift' after FTC bans noncompetes. Here's what they should do next. Healthcare.gov   /   What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? My 7 Rules for Using Credit Cards - Clark Howard Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode, how loyalty programs affect price decision making and may have you “competing with yourself”. Clark discusses how these programs work across many industries, and what to keep in mind to get the most from them.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Loyalty Programs: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How to Start Investing: 10 Steps for Beginners Should We Worry About the National Debt and Budget Deficits? Will Social Security Run Out? What Is a SEP IRA and Who Is Eligible? Clark Deals - Hotels When Is the Best Time To Collect Social Security?  /  Social Security When? 18 Ways To Save at Walmart  /  Walmart+ Membership Program: 4 Things To Know Loyalty programs may limit competition, and they could be pushing prices up for everyone — The Conversation Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During COVID, many Americans moved far away from their offices, sometimes out of state. Clark talks about how super-commuters are making it work. Also, Clark gets back to basics on something he hates: annuities. Know which type may actually be useful and which ones are to be AVOIDED at all costs!  Super-Commuting: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Sold Not Bought - Annuities: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: The rise of the super-commuter The Best Unlimited Hotspot Plans Visible Announces New Annual Plans: Save up to $145/Year Visible Review: 5 Things To Know Before You Sign Up Using Cellular Data Internationally: Buying a Local SIM Card InsureMyTrip Review: Why We Like It and How to Use It How To Choose the Best Charities for Your Donations What Is an Annuity, and Why Does Clark Think They Stink? The Only Two Exceptions to Clark Howard's Annuity Rule What Is a 1035 Exchange? Definition and How the Rules Work Why I Think Medicare Advantage Plans Stink - Clark Howard Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Investing continues to evolve and a new way some fiduciary financial advisors are charging for services could save you money. Know your options to make an informed choice for financial services. Also, before you sign up for expensive dental work, think twice & take Clark’s advice. Flat Fee Financial Advisors: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Wisdom Teeth- AVOID Unnecessary Dental Work: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Flat Fee Shops Attempt to Shake Up Financial Advising Advice-Only Network // Flat Fee Advisors 3 Places You Should Never Invest Your Money What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? Target Date Funds: Clark's Favorite Retirement Investment How to Advocate for Yourself at the Dentist How getting a second opinion can stop you being ripped off — The Conversation Yes, your smart TV is spying on you – Here's how to stop it GM Stops Selling Driving Data to Insurance Companies How to Buy a New Car in 5 Steps Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our everyday payment decisions, many choose Apple Pay or Google Wallet on our phones. Consumer behavior studies show the more convenient the payment method, the more we spend. Don’t let tap to pay, tap you out! Also today - we are finally seeing the results of people wanting to do more in person. Clark discusses how this is affecting some industries, including food delivery.  Phone Tap To Pay (More): Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 The Ghost Of Kitchens Past: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Using your phone to pay is convenient, but it can also mean you spend more Cash Envelope System: How It Works 10 Best Free Checking Accounts in April 2024 AT&T Data Breach: Take These Steps To Protect Your Information How to Freeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Ghost Kitchens Are Disappearing, Squeezed by Demand and Complaints Warning for Cell Phone Users: Do Not Use Public Charging Stations What Is a Thrift Savings Plan? Costco vs. Sam's Club: What Is the Difference? Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you feel about targeted ads following you around online? Companies are dreaming up new ways to track us - even when we have our TV show paused! Also, job prospects are great for teens this spring and summer. Now is the perfect time for young people to enter the workforce.  Targeted Ads Ubiquitous: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Teen Jobs: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Google Pledges to Destroy Browsing Data to Settle ‘Incognito’ Lawsuit Why Walmart bought TV-maker Vizio for $2.3 billion - Axios Is that ad following you around the internet creepy or kind of cool?  Roku Explores an Insidious Way to Serve up Commercials Via Idle HDMI Inputs | Sound & Vision Roku forcing 2-factor authentication after 2 breaches of 600K accounts Fighting back against harmful voice cloning RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE BROKER COMMISSIONS ANTITRUST SETTLEMENTS If you recently sold your home, you might get part of your realtor fee back NAR settlement: Here's what to know about payouts for commission lawsuits Teens Are Spending Less This Year. Where Their Allowances Are Going. CPI Inflation Calculator  -  Value of $1.60 from 1971 to 2024 Charles Schwab Review 2023: Pros & Cons No Surprises Act Cheapest Way to Rent a Car: Expert Tips Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode, why buying a gift card is now tantamount to lighting a $20 bill on fire.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Gift Card Draining: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Military and Veterans Guide: Free Resources for Your Finances How To Protect Your Home From Being Stolen by Squatters Florida lawmakers pass bill to revoke squatters' rights How to Lower Your Property Taxes in 4 Easy Steps Chinese Organized Crime’s Latest U.S. Target: Gift Cards What Is a CD Ladder and When Is It a Good Idea? BBB-File a Complaint Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Clark’s talking about scams and how to avoid them! First, a special warning if you sell or buy items on Facebook marketplace. Later, AI has enabled crooks to clone voices. This is a huge problem, enabling criminals to trick people into thinking they are talking to a relative, or even a boss. What to look out for so you don’t get ripped off.    Facebook Marketplace Scams: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Voice Cloning Cons: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Facebook Marketplace Scams: Everything You Need to Know Banks and Users Warn of Scammers on Facebook Marketplace 4 Common Scams on Cash App, Venmo and Zelle (and How To Avoid Them!) Safer Ways To Send Money Pirate Ship Review: Pros & Cons of This Cheap Shipping Service Number of 401(k) ‘millionaires’ jumped 41% last year, says Fidelity How To Open a Roth IRA / What Are Index Funds? Fighting back against harmful voice cloning What's the Best Way To Donate to a Charity? BBB-File a Complaint How To Dispute a Charge on Your Credit Card Where To Put Your Cash When You’re Saving for a Purchase in Less Than 5 Years Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You have the power to lower your power bills this summer. Clark offers several ways to reduce summer cooling costs. Also, get notable savings with Visible’s new annual plans, plus new disclosures through broadband ‘nutrition’ labels.   Save On AC This Summer: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Visible Deals & New Broadband Labeling: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Save Money on Utilities- clark.com 6 Smart Ways to Cut Your Utility Bills Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit HELOC vs. Home Equity Loan: Similarities and Differences Homeowners Insurance Archives - Clark Howard Company and Rating Search - Best's Credit Rating - AM Best Visible Announces New Annual Plans: Save up to $145/Year Visible Review: 5 Things To Know Before You Sign Up Clark.com - CELL PHONES Broadband ‘nutrition’ labels are coming – here’s what you need to know FCC rolls out mandatory ‘nutrition labels’ for internet providers’ plans Should You Buy an Extended Warranty on Your Car? What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? Fidelity - Health Savings Account | HSA Investment Options Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As promised, today Clark shares his crazy (like a fox!) idea on how to fix the housing crisis.  Also - a warning about buying a code-share airline ticket. Know how code-share tickets work, and often, don’t work.  Clark’s Housing Market Fix: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Code-Share Airline Tickets: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Why many homeowners feel trapped by low-rate mortgages [The Washington Post] Inflation keeps coming in hot, likely delaying interest rate cuts Biden’s manufacturing industry is expanding. That could be bad for inflation 3 Facts That Help Explain a Confusing Economic Moment 10 Best New Products at Costco in April 10 Secrets All Shoppers Need To Know About Costco Avoid the #1 Mistake That Car Buyers Make Simple vs. Compound Interest: Definition and Formulas Clark.com - How To Buy a Used Car How To Open a Roth IRA Help! Air Canada Ruined Our Trip to Ireland but Won’t Take the Blame. Codeshare Flights Explained - NerdWallet Follow Clark Howard's #1 Rule To Travel Cheap Hopper: Book Travel on Mobile Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The job market has been a crazy ride over the past several years, and job hopping has become commonplace. But is it still a good idea to chase higher pay? How important is stability and loyalty now? Also today - An old idea by legacy retailer Sears, which sold over 70,000 mail-order homes between 1908 and 1942, has resurfaced. Hear how Home Depot is getting in on the affordable housing market. Job Stability: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 House Building Kits: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Does it still pay to change jobs as salary strategies shift? Here's how salary offers are trending for job hoppers as pay settles into 'new regime' The job market has hit a new normal. Here's why everyone hates it. The Cheapest Cars to Insure in 2024 What Are the Cheapest Cars To Insure? (2024 Cost Guide) Robinhood Gold Credit Card: Is It Worth It? Housing market affordability is so strained that Home Depot is selling tiny homes for $63,000   Sears Modern Homes Cancel for Any Reason Trip Insurance: Should You Buy It? What should travelers do with all these cruise credits? Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today, If you love cruising, good news. An old way to get really cheap cruise prices at the last minute is making a comeback.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Cruise Deals: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: The Best Place To Buy a Mattress The Platinum Card® from American Express Review: Is It Worth It? Target Is Rebranding Its Credit Card Program: What You Should Know NYTimes: Standby Cruising: A New Option for Bargain Seekers Kyte Review: Why a Travel Expert Is Impressed by This New Car Rental Service Turo: 5 Things To Know About the Cheap Car Rental Service What Is a Bridge Loan and How Does It Work, With Example New to volunteering? A How-To-Guide to find the right fit Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Right now in the U.S. we have record credit card debt, a huge stressor on so many.  To add insult to injury, supposed credit repair companies make things worse for those struggling to get back on their feet. What you need to know.  Also, Clark translates the scare stories out now about the stock market and offers direction for investors.    Debt Relief Scams: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Investing & Dollar-Cost Averaging: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Americans’ credit scores are falling. That hasn’t happened in a decade Maxed Out: Inside America's Credit Card Debt Crisis -- and What We Do Next NYTimes: Judge Blocks Debt Settlement Company From Resuming Operations Carrying credit card debt? How to avoid debt relief scams How To Send a ‘Drop Dead’ Letter to a Collection Agency 6 Things To Know Before Contacting the National Foundation for Credit Counseling Clark Howard's 2024 Credit Card Debt Elimination Strategy Is an HSA the Best Way To Save for Future Medical Expenses? Will Social Security Run Out? Should investors keep riding the US markets runaway train? Barrons.com: Worried About Investing in a Frothy Market? Try Dollar-Cost Averaging. Should You Sell or Stay Put in the Stock Market? (Clark.com) Best Investment Companies for Investors in 2024 5 of Clark Howard's Most Extreme Frugal Hacks Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today - How the recent credit-card settlement affects merchants and your future transactions. Also, do you need the latest greatest television? Clark explains why buying the latest TV technology is a waste of money. New Credit Card Rules: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Cheap TVs Are Clark Smart: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark Warns Major Changes To Credit Card Rewards Are Coming Soon NYTimes: Credit Card Swipe Fees Are Going Down. Are Points Going With Them? Visa, Mastercard credit-card settlement could save businesses billions Visa, Mastercard settle long-running antitrust suit over swipe fees with merchants Is an HSA the Best Way To Save for Future Medical Expenses? Why Clark Says Everyone Should Have a Dash Cam NYTimes: Tired of Streaming? Free Blockbuster Libraries Offer an Alternative. AAA IDP International Driving Permit Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark recommends renting in a new city or state before you buy there, and has a great example of why to share with you. Also, Clark is very happy to report that the used clothing market is growing 7 times faster in the U.S. than the new market. Buying used is a great way to Spend Less! Rent Before Buying In New Locale: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Secondhand Clothing A WIN: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: New York Post: Florida transplants fleeing in droves over relentless heat, damaging hurricanes The home insurance market is crumbling. These owners are paying the price The $10 Travel Essential Clark Howard Always Packs 5 Best Robo-Advisors in 2023 Who Should Use a Robo-Advisor? Secondhand clothing stores are red hot as consumers look to save money Clark.com  -  CELL PHONES Best Investment Companies for Investors in 2024 10 Best Free Checking Accounts in April 2024 Fidelity Investments Review 2023: Pros & Cons Team Clark Guarantee - Clark Howard Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark recently talked about GM selling off driving data to auto insurers, and 2 of his predictions about this have now come true. That update plus - another invasion of privacy by the insurance industry has come to light, this time impacting homeowners. Also today, college costs continue to skyrocket. Clark explains how this has come about, and what today’s students can do about it. Insurance Spies: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 College Costs: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: GM faces 2nd lawsuit over driver data collection without consent - from Detroit Free Press Insurance companies are using aerial images of homes as a tool to ditch properties seen as higher risk Predatory Lending: How to Avoid, Examples and Protections Should I Keep My Old Car or Buy a New Car? The Average Vehicle Age in America Some Colleges Will Soon Charge $100,000 a Year. How Did This Happen? College will cost up to $95,000 this fall. Schools say it's OK, financial aid can numb sticker shock Biden seeks student debt relief for millions How Do Student Loans Work? 7 Things to Know How To Open a Roth IRA Amazon “Prime Visa” Card Review: 5% Back for Amazon Prime Members A better way to book with points Best Rewards Credit Cards: Top Picks for 2024 Best 2% Cash Back Credit Cards: 8 Options in 2024 Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Speaking of Fridays - working hard or hardly working? There’s a trend of workers cutting out early on Fridays, and it’s not necessarily a bad thing.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Flexible Fridays!: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark.com - TIRES The Basics of Municipal Bonds Travel Archives - Clark Howard /  Travel Archives - Clark Deals We’re Working Less on Fridays, and That’s OK - The Wall Street Journal. Guide to 529 Plans, Saving for College and Financial Aid Rollovers From a 529 Plan to Roth IRA: What to Know Balanced Fund: Definition, Investment Mix, Examples Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dollar stores and other discounters are reconfiguring. Clark clears media confusion surrounding closures and discusses what makes some discount retail operations more successful than others. Also - If you want job stability with a pension, this job sector wants you! Dollar Store Closures: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Who Offers A Pension?: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Dollar stores are shutting down across America. They did this to themselves 99 Cents Only Stores to close all 371 spots in 'extremely difficult decision,' CEO says - USA TODAY Dollar Tree Raises Max Price to $7: Which Items Will Cost More? Clark Howard's 5 Money Tips for Couples How to Freeze Your Child's Credit Research shows federal workers are effective and committed, not subversive — The Conversation [The Washington Post] The government has a workforce crisis. One of its best-kept secrets can fix it. Portfolio Lender: Meaning, Overview, Pros and Cons Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark updates EV deals with Tesla now in the mix. Also, what to know about digital wallet options including Paze, a new entry from the big banks. Tesla Deals: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Digital Wallets: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What’s wrong with Tesla? [The Washington Post] Ready or not, self-driving semi-trucks are coming to America’s highways Should You Take Your Pension in a Lump Sum or Monthly Payments? Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation: Home Page Best Secured Credit Cards for 2024: Top Picks for Building or Repairing Credit Why Clark Says You Should ‘Ignore’ Paze as Trendy New Payment Option The Family Digital Wallet Is A $26 Billion Deposit Opportunity For Banks NYTimes: The Youths Have Spoken: Wallets Are Lame. Go Digital. Millions of small businesses have a new reporting requirement. Here's what to know. Bogleheads Investing Advice and Info Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Often at checkouts, we’re asked to donate to a cause by rounding up our payment or contributing one dollar. How do you decide when to give? Also, as a result of giant hospital systems buying up practices, you may be charged a significant “facility fee” at doctors appointments. Be ready by asking the right question in advance. Plus, out-of-network charges are being manipulated by private equity, costing patients more. Checkout Charity: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Medical Facility Fees: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Choose the Best Charities for Your Donations What's the Best Way To Donate to a Charity? That spare change you donate at checkout is adding up to millions for charities A Simple Trick To Paying Off Your Credit Card Faster How To Open a Roth IRA This Small U.S. City Was Just Named the Best Place to Retire With No Savings. The Best Places to Retire in the World Hospitals Are Adding Billions in ‘Facility’ Fees for Routine Care - The WSJ NYTimes: In Battle Over Health Care Costs, Private Equity Plays Both Sides NYTimes: Health Insurers’ Lucrative, Little-Known Alliance: 5 Takeaways NYTimes: Insurers Reap Hidden Fees by Slashing Payments. You May Get the Bill. What Is a Backdoor Roth IRA? CarEdge | Buy, Sell, and Protect New & Used Cars - CarEdge Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark discusses filing an extension and what to do if you don’t have the money to pay income taxes. Also, many of us are dealing with sky-high valuations of our property, and Clark has a personal story to tell. Filing A Tax Extension: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Property Tax Appeals: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Tax return extensions: Why you should (or shouldn't) do it and how to request one When Are Taxes Due? Important Tax Dates in 2024 The IRS has 940,000 unclaimed tax refunds from 2020 that are about to expire. Is one of them yours? Advice | IRS has $1 billion in 2020 tax refunds. Time is running out to collect. AT&T Reset 7.6 Million Customers’ Passcodes After Data Breach - The WSJ NYTimes: AT&T Resets Millions of Passcodes After Customer Records Are Leaked Everything to Know About the Alleged AT&T Data Leak: What You Can Do to Protect Yourself How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Best 529 College Savings Plans By State What Brokerage Do You Recommend for First-Time Investors or Kids? The ‘Echo Housing Boom’ is here 3 Places You Should Never Invest Your Money What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? How To Open a Roth IRA Best Investment Companies for Investors in 2024 Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. And today Clark revels in listener reprobation for his rank, malodorous missteps on a slew of topics - for the entire podcast. Ah the smell of it!   Mentioned on the show: Best Rewards Credit Cards: Top Picks for 2024 Reps demand answers to U.S. Postal Service delays across state, country Want To Guard Your Privacy Online? Search the Web With DuckDuckGo Best Travel Credit Cards: Top Rewards Picks for 2024 American Express Credit Cards Clark Predicts Traditional 401(k)s, IRAs Will Cease To Exist Within a Decade Target Drive Up Review: How Target Grocery Pickup Works How Do Student Loans Work? 7 Things to Know Follow Clark Howard's #1 Rule To Travel Cheap 5 Things To Know Before You Buy Costco Clothes When Is the Best Time To Collect Social Security? Will Social Security Run Out? My Social Security: The Free Account Everyone Needs To Set Up Before Retirement Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Clark shares an important warning for anyone who has a relative or friend in a nursing home, assisted living, hospital or any other medical facility. Also - Self-checkout seemed like a great idea, until stores realized how much theft was occurring. Expect to see some changes in this area.  Medical Facilities Payment Scheme: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Retail Self-Checkout: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Why a financial regulator is going after health care debt 3 Things to Know Before You Lease a Car TrueCar | New & Used Cars for Sale | Car Pricing & Reviews Electrek | EV and Tesla News, Green Energy, Ebikes, and more Carfax Electric Car Lease Deals Which Are The Cheapest Electric Cars To Lease? How to Shop for Lower Car Insurance Best Auto Insurance Companies and Some of the Worst Best And Worst Homeowners Insurance Companies Submit a complaint | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau New York Post: Target to limit self-checkout to 10 items as stores trend away from the technology amid concerns of theft New York Post: Dollar General drops self-checkout at hundreds of stores to reduce theft 5 Reasons Sam's Club Is Better Than Costco Getting a Ton of New Credit Card Offers? Here’s What You Need To Do Should I Freeze My Credit With Innovis, SageStream, CoreLogic and LexisNexus? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The membership business model has overtaken retailers large and small. Clark compares offerings from Target, Walmart, Amazon and 2 warehouse clubs, with a directive for consumers. Also, as if timeshares aren’t bad enough, organized crime is now getting into the resale scam game. Retail Memberships: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Cartels Target Timeshares: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Barrons: Delivery Is Retail’s New Game. How the Players Stack Up. Target Is Rebranding Its Credit Card Program: What You Should Know Costco vs. Sam's Club vs. BJ's Wholesale: Which Is Best? How To Manage Your Monthly Subscriptions To Save Money Parent PLUS loans can be a debt trap. Here's a loophole Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR) Annual Updates to the Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR) Plan Formula for 2023-2024 Income-Driven Repayment Plans What Are the Tax Consequences of Debt Settlement? NYTimes: A Mexican Drug Cartel’s New Target? Seniors and Their Timeshares Clark.com - Timeshares How To Sell, Cancel or Get Rid of Your Timeshare 5 Steps To Getting a Good Deal on a Hotel Room How To Plan a Trip: Clark's Best Travel Tips To Save Money  Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During the pandemic, many people decided to buy or adopt a dog. Due to changing circumstances, many former “pandemic puppies”  are now in need of homes, presenting an opportunity for would-be pet owners. Also today, scams have morphed over the decades and exploded with technology. It pays to be savvy to the latest permutations of tech imposter scams. Pandemic Puppies Fill Shelters: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Tech Scams: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Survey: 91% of dog owners have experienced financial stress over the cost of pet ownership - USA Today       Clark.com - Is Pet Insurance Worth It? 10 Things Homeowners Insurance Doesn't Always Cover Discover Free Checking Account - No Fee Cashback Debit The Safer Way To Use Your Debit Card New tech support scammers want your life savings Never move your money to “protect it.” That’s a scam What’s a verification code and why would someone ask me for it? Will your bank or investment fund stop a transfer to a scammer? Probably not Did you get a call or text about a suspicious purchase on Amazon? It’s a scam 16 of the Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts What Is a SEP IRA and Who Is Eligible? Best Investment Companies for Investors in 2024 Southwest - Transferable Flight Credits Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Much in the news lately - houses overtaken by squatters, or stolen through title theft. Clark discusses which homes are most vulnerable and what to be aware of as a homeowner. Also today, why credit card rewards are not always worth it. Clark discusses how reward cards work, and what it takes to reap the benefits.  Anti-Squatter Statutes: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Credit Card Rewards: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How to Protect Your Home From Deed Theft    New York Post: NYC couple are sued by squatters who allegedly took over their $930K investment home and won’t leave: ‘It’s absolutely absurd’ Home Title Lock: Is It the Same As Home Title Insurance? How To Protect Your Home From Being Stolen by Squatters Are Indexed Universal Life Insurance Policies a Good Option or a Scam? Why You Should Never Mail a Check The deceptive math of credit card rewards: Spending for points doesn't always make sense - USA TODAY Clark.com - Credit Cards Should You Ever Book a Nonrefundable Hotel Room? BBB-File a Complaint 7 Rules for Buying a Cheap Car With Cash Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode, a handful of automakers are selling their customers down the river and it’s an inexcusable invasion of privacy that impacts insurance premiums.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Automakers Selling Driving Data: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: PenFed Power Cash Rewards Visa Signature® Card Review: Up to 2% Unlimited Cash Back When Should You File a Claim on Your Homeowners Insurance? What Is a SIMPLE IRA and How Does It Work? What Is a SEP IRA and Who Is Eligible? Best Investment Companies for Investors in 2024 What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? How To Pack a Carry-On the Right Way 4 Things You Should Always Pack in Your Carry-On Should You Allow Your Auto Insurance To Monitor Your Driving? New York Post: Your car is secretly spying on you and driving your insurance rates through the roof: report NYTimes: Automakers Are Sharing Consumers’ Driving Behavior With Insurance Companies What Is a C.L.U.E Report and Its Impact on Your Insurance How to Dispute Your C.L.U.E. Report How To Open a Roth IRA How to Buy a New Car in 5 Steps Study: The 10 Best New Cars for the Money Rollovers From a 529 Plan to Roth IRA: What to Know Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With more employers saying they no longer require a college degree for employment, Clark discusses the importance of a college education for your career long-term. And for the 2/3rds of adults without a degree, Clark shares valuable occupational tools. Also, relief is in sight, as price cutting from 2 major retailers may influence the market overall.  College Degrees And Employment: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Retailers Announce Price Cuts: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: More employers now say they’re willing to hire workers without a college degree. But is that playing out?  New Tool Matches Your Skills With High-Paying Local Occupations Occupational Mobility Explorer 6 things you need to know before donating your used vehicle TheStreet: Costco shares a new pricing policy members will love New York Post: Ikea makes bold promise to continue price cuts in US — here’s why Cell Phone Protection: These Credit Cards Will Replace Your Stolen or Damaged Phone 5 Steps To Getting a Good Deal on a Hotel Room Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The percent of income we save, our savings rate - is the key indicator of financial health. So how are we doing right now? Also - How much exercise do you really need to make a difference in your health, and ultimately your wallet? Only 25% of Americans get the recommended amount of exercise. New data reveals what a big difference the minimum requirement can make for those who are mostly sedentary. American Savings Rates: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Arise From The Couch: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Americans are saving less and spending more. Could that raise the risk of recession? Bankruptcy filings are on the rise. Here's why an even bigger surge is looming. Why 'Buy Now, Pay Later' Worries Clark Howard My Credit Card Offers Some Rental Car Coverage. Why Do I Still Need To Involve My Primary Auto Insurance? Car Rental Insurance: Everything You Need To Know How Much Exercise Do You Need? More Than You Think—But Every Little Bit Helps. Donor-Advised Funds: The Benefits and Drawbacks Vanguard Charitable: Home What Is Black? Uber Black Car Service Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The U.S. has become the world’s premier oil producer. As we plan our summer road trips, Clark explains how this status along with global factors affect gas prices. Also, how developing technology in vertical farming can cleanly help feed the planet. Summer Gas Prices: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Vertical Farming Solutions: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: U.S. government tells Americans: ‘We’re producing more crude oil than any country, ever’       America's Oil Boom / AAA Gas Prices Surging gas prices just hit a significant milestone Ask Clark: Is the 4% Retirement Rule Still Accurate? What Is the 4% Rule for Withdrawals in Retirement and How Much Can You Spend? All-In-One Mortgage: Definition, How It Works, Pros & Cons This ‘GigaFarm’ in the desert could produce 3 million kilograms of food What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? Fidelity - Health Savings Account | HSA Investment Options Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark discusses the risks you face with security cameras in your home. Also in this episode, Clark has talked about how to hire a financial planner, but what about becoming one yourself? There’s now a greater demand for financial planning services with jobs in this field expected to grow in the next decade. Security Cameras & Your Privacy: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Financial Planning Careers: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: That security camera & smart doorbell you’re using may have some major security flaws [The Washington Post] Knockoff doorbell cameras from Amazon, Walmart aren’t safe Why We've Stopped Recommending Wyze Home Security Devices at CNET Should I End My Authorized User Status With My Parents’ Credit Card Now That I’ve Established Credit? How Many Credit Cards Should I Have? Homeowners Insurance Archives - Clark Howard How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor Financial planning careers are open for business What Should I Do With My 401(k) at My Old Company? What Is a 403(b) and How Does It Work? What Are Index Funds? How ‘Buffer’ ETFs Can Cushion a Major Market Selloff Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today, Recent data proves the point: You CAN achieve financial independence, habitually building reserves by living on less than what you make and investing wisely. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Financial Independence: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Your money could fall into the wrong hands if you don’t update this crucial information Wills & Funerals Archives - Clark Howard Dealerships Begin Swimming In Vehicle Inventory - Here Is Who's Drowning - AutoSpies Target launches new paid membership program in a bid to drive sales at a time of cautious spending Homeowners Insurance Archives - Clark Howard Number of 401(k) ‘millionaires’ jumped 41% last year, says Fidelity Clark.com SAVINGS TABLE   /   How To Open a Roth IRA Home Equity Loans & Lines of Credit: 7 Common Questions Answered 6 Tips for Hiring a Contractor Target Date Funds: Clark's Favorite Retirement Investment How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Baggage How To Pack a Carry-On the Right Way Travel Archives - Clark Howard   /   Travel Archives - Clark Deals Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You may have heard about Wendy’s experimenting with “surge” pricing. This was a miscommunication about dynamic demand pricing. Clark explains. Also today, Clark discusses when you should NOT trust AI and what to know about Google search results.  Dynamic Demand Pricing: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 AI’s Troubled Infancy: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Surge Pricing Is Coming to More Menus Near You - The Wall Street Journal. Wendy's 'dynamic pricing' drew backlash, but experts say the concept is here to stay Wendy’s Makes It Clear After Backlash: No Surge Pricing - The Wall Street Journal. Safer Ways To Send Money How Many Bank Accounts Should You Have? - Clark Howard How To Avoid ATM Fees Best Credit Cards With No Foreign Transaction Fees in 2024 5 Money Tips To Know Before You Travel Abroad [The Washington Post] TurboTax and H&R Block now use AI for tax advice. It’s awful. AI is not ready for primetime   A Fake Bill Ackman Is Scamming Investors Out of Millions on Facebook - The WSJ Five Biggest Frauds To Watch Out for in 2024 The Free Tool You Should Be Using Before You Fill a Prescription at CVS or Walgreens GoodRx Review: 10 Things To Know Before You Use GoodRx Will Mark Cuban's Prescription Company Really Save You Money? 10 Ways To Save on Prescription Drugs Clark Deals - Today's Best Deals of the Day Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark has news for parents and grandparents saving for a child’s college education. Also in this episode, reversals in the auto industry are landing many existing car loans underwater. What to do if you are upside down in a car loan. 529 Plan Update: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Upside Down Vehicle Loans: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Use the 529 Grandparent Loophole to Maximize College Savings Best 529 College Savings Plans By State Rollovers From a 529 Plan to Roth IRA: What to Know Target Date Funds: Clark’s Favorite Retirement Investment How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor Car values plummet, putting car loans underwater More car owners are underwater on loans because of lower trade-in values What Is Gap Insurance? Definition, How It Works, When to Buy How to Buy a Used Car in 7 Steps Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In medicine today, there’s ongoing conflict between insurers and providers and we’re caught in the middle. This necessitates a clear directive for you before you go to any doctor appointment. Also -  In free enterprise capitalism, what is core and key for enduring success?  Clark shares a case in point. Assignment: Reverify Medical Network: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 A Requirement For Success: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: [The Washington Post] How your in-network health coverage can vanish before you know it  ‘They’re Freaking Out’: Letters Warn Patients They Risk Losing Their Doctor - The WSJ What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? Ask Clark: What Is a Backdoor Roth IRA?   /   What Are Index Funds? NYPost: Dollar General store briefly shuts down after entire staff quits over 7-day work weeks, ‘lack of appreciation’ NYTimes.com: Walmart Wants to Teach Store Managers Compassion Warning: Read This Before You Sell I Bonds Vanguard - Bonds: Diversify Your Portfolio and Earn More Credit Score Guide What Type of Medical Alert Device Should I Buy for My Husband? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

U.S. real estate commissions have been roughly triple those elsewhere in the developed world. Clark explains how recent settlements in the industry will actually play out over time in terms of commissions. Also in this episode, Clark shares new cruise booking insights based on a recent experience. Real Estate Commissions: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Summer Cruise Deals: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Closing Costs for Buying a Home Have Risen Along With Rates The 6% commission on buying or selling a home is gone after Realtors association agrees to seismic settlement Realtors settlement expected to lower housing prices Five Ways Buying and Selling a House Could Change NYTimes: Powerful Realtor Group Agrees to Slash Commissions to Settle Lawsuits NAR agrees to settle commission lawsuits that rocked the real estate world 'Everything is rising at a scary rate': Why car and home insurance costs are surging Clark.com SAVINGS TABLE Clark.com - CRUISES Should You Ever Book a Nonrefundable Hotel Room? Do You Get Better Prices on Hotels From Third-Party Sites or by Booking Directly? TSA PreCheck® vs. Global Entry vs. CLEAR: Which Is Best for You? Will TSA's New Self-Screening Service Save You Time At The Airport? TSA unveils first self-screening security lane at Las Vegas airport TSA unveils a prototype self-service airport checkpoint security screening system Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today - The travel industry can be unstable. Another cruise line recently shut down. Know Clark’s number one rule for booking travel and protecting your money. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Travel Booking Rule: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Google Fi Wireless: My Experience as a Five-Year Customer (Pros and Cons) The Best International Phone Plans What Should You Do About Phone Data on an International Trip? American Queen Voyages Cancels All Cruises, Shuts Down Operations Best Travel Credit Cards: Top Rewards Picks for 2024 The Only Way You Should Pay for a Cruise Travel Insurance: What You Need To Know Before You Buy Why You Should Never Use a Debit Card To Pay for Anything How To Plan a Trip: Clark's Best Travel Tips To Save Money Should I Buy Additional Insurance From a Rental Car Company? Amex EveryDay® Credit Card Review: 15 Months of Intro 0% APR Credit Card Car Rental Insurance: What You Need To Know Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Special Edition features Wes Moss, host of the Retire Sooner Podcast. Wes is a fiduciary fee only planner, who shares his investing expertise on a range of topics, including listener questions submitted at Clark.com. Warren Buffet & An Overvalued Market: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Stocks & Funds: Decisions: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Wes Moss - Retire Sooner Read Warren Buffett's 2024 annual letter to shareholders Warren Buffett's annual investor letter is out. Here are the biggest takeaways. 3 pieces of investment advice from Warren Buffett's annual letter to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders Clark.com - INVEST & RETIRE Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After the economic turmoil of the past 15 years, many workers struggle financially which affects their well-being and productivity. Clark discusses how employers are addressing this. Also, a huge financial drain on so many, long-term care, is becoming increasingly tougher to insure.  Small Business Retirement Plans: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Long-Term Care Insurance: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Workplace Financial Coaching Has Become Ever More Important Retirement Plans Startup Costs Tax Credit Small Business Retirement Plan Options Fidelity Rewards Credit Card Review: Invest with 2% Cash Back Should You Ever Take a Loan From Your 401(k)? How Mileage Brokers Ruin Miles & Points For Everyone NYTimes: Difficult Choices for Some Long-Term Care Policyholders ‘Financial Ruin Is Baked Into the System’: Readers on the Costs of Long-Term Care   What Is Long-Term Care Insurance Cost & Coverage What Are the Pros and Cons of the Costco Car Buying Program? The Best Car-Buying Services in 2024 Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In researching auto insurance, Clark has discovered some stats about the wide cost differences between various companies that will motivate you to shop auto insurance at renewal time if you're in bill shock. Also, have you noticed car washes popping up all over where you live? Learn what the deal is so you don’t get hosed.  Shopping Auto Insurance Pays: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Car Wash Subscriptions: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: A major auto insurer returns to California — with a 30% price hike How to Shop for Lower Car Insurance Car Insurance Archives - Clark Howard 6 Things To Know and Do Before You Deal With a Home Insurance Claims Adjuster What Should I Do if I Need a Car Right Now? Why Are There Suddenly So Many Car Washes? Are Car Wash Memberships Worth It? How To Create a Will Online  Best Online Will Maker: 5 Free or Cheap Options Who Should Consider Setting Up a Trust? Rollovers From a 529 Plan to Roth IRA: What to Know Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Vehicle inventory is way up for some brands, and this creates an advantage for potential car buyers. Clark shares where the deals are. Also - There’s a shift going on with the U.S. energy supply and the way it’s provided. Clark has advice on the best play for your wallet based on the changes going on. New Car Deals: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Renewable Energy: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Dealerships Begin Swimming In Vehicle Inventory - Here Is Who's Drowning - AutoSpies Car Prices Are Finally Coming Down. It Looks Like a Buyer’s Market. How to Buy a New Car in 5 Steps Warning: Why You Should Never Buy Visa Gift Cards What Is an ABLE Account? WSJ: U.S. Renewable Power Growth Is Setting New Records on the Back of Federal Support  Best Term Life Insurance Companies, Plans & Coverage NYTimes: She Ordered an Ashtray and Got a Can of Tuna Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today, Clark discusses an important factor for many that is purposely ignored by credit card review sites - interest rates on cards. How do you find the best deal?  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Best Credit Card Rates: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How to Choose the Right Dog Rescue Group 4 Things To Know Before You Sign Up for YouTube TV The Platinum Card® from American Express Review 2023: Is It Worth It? How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor Should I Buy Additional Insurance From a Rental Car Company? My Credit Card Offers Some Rental Car Coverage. Why Do I Still Need To Involve My Primary Auto Insurance? NYTimes.com: Looking for a Lower Credit Card Interest Rate? Good Luck. CFPB - Credit card data: Small issuers offer lower rates Why Are More People Using Small Banks And Credit Unions? Navy Federal Visa cashRewards Card Review: Cash Back Credit Card Credit Union vs. Bank: What's the Difference? Home Equity Loans & Lines of Credit: 7 Common Questions Answered 6 Things To Know Before Contacting the National Foundation for Credit Counseling How one couple paid off $40K of debt in 24 months Clark Howard's 2024 Credit Card Debt Elimination Strategy Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Regarding your heart health, Clark shares news of a non-invasive test you can do routinely that can be very telling. Also in today’s show, Clark gives you the lay of the land for potential home buyers and sellers this spring, including buyer incentives on new builds.  Taking Heart Health In Stride: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 The Spring Home Buying Season: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Gait speed is one of your vital signs, so make sure yours is OK Frontier Discount Den  /  Kids Fly Free Waiting for the Spring Selling Season to Buy or Sell a Home? That May Be Delayed Stamps.com - Postage On Demand How Can I Find Out Why My Credit Score Just Dropped? 4 Ways To Get Your Free Credit Score Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What are you paying for home internet? One provider that was low cost has now raised its prices. Clark tells you how to shop around for the best price based on your particular internet needs. Also- there’s a segment of the population long ignored when it comes to financial literacy. Clark discusses this gap and how to fix it.  SAVE MORE On Home Internet: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Financial Literacy For Senior Women: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: T-Mobile quietly raises Home Internet monthly price to $60 for new customers Internet Archives - Clark Howard UPGRADE - Cash Rewards Elite Card There’s a financial literacy gender gap − and older women are eager for education that meets their needs — The Conversation Investing & Retirement Archives - Clark Howard What Is a Roth 401(k) and How Does It Work? How To Open a Roth IRA Target Date Funds: Clark's Favorite Retirement Investment What Is a Solo 401(k) and How Does It Work? What Is a SEP IRA and Who Is Eligible? 3 Simple Ways To Delete Your Google Data Want To Guard Your Privacy Online? Search the Web With DuckDuckGo 13 Steps To Keeping Your Email Safe and Secure 16 of the Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts What Are Index Funds? / Clark.com SAVINGS TABLE How Much Should You Have Saved for Retirement by Now? Best Investment Companies for Investors in 2024 Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s a lot of talk and concern about traditional 401(k)s and IRAs going away. Clark explains. Also in this episode, baggage fees are rising again, increasing the cost of flying for customers. What to know before you get to the airport.  Future 401(k)s & IRAs: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Airline Baggage Fees: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark Predicts Traditional 401(k)s, IRAs Will Cease To Exist Within a Decade Do Not Give Your Social Security Number at These Places How Many Bank Accounts Should You Have? - Clark Howard 16 of the Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts Best Investment Companies for Investors in 2024 United Airlines is also raising its checked bag fee. See by how much. - USA TODAY Get Ready for $40 Luggage Fees - The Wall Street Journal. NYTimes.com: How to Pack for a Two-Week Trip With One Small Suitcase How To Pack a Carry-On the Right Way 4 Things You Should Always Pack in Your Carry-On Best Travel Credit Cards: Top Rewards Picks for 2024 Best Cash Back Credit Cards With No Annual Fee in 2024 Should You Ever Buy Travel Medical Insurance? 6 Best Apps To Save Money on Groceries Flipp – Flyers, Shopping List, Weekly Ads | Flipp Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Junk fees are being imposed all over the place in all manner of ways these days. A new California law is going to end that practice in the state, with nationwide implications. Meantime, your Clark smart approach to purchases can help protect your wallet. Also - First TurboTax, now H&R Block is in trouble for pressuring customers to overpay. There’s a better way! Anti Junk Fee Law: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Tax Filing: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What does a service fee ban mean for diners? Expect higher menu prices — a lot higher Inflation is cooling, but small businesses are still suffering NYTimes: It’s a Great Deal, Before the ‘Drip Pricing’ ENERGY STAR® | Department of Energy FTC says H&R Block pressures people into overpaying for tax prep New York Post: H&R Block used deceptive ads, pressured users into overpaying, deleted tax data: FTC FTC finds TurboTax “free” is not free for most 8 Free Federal and State Tax Filing Services for 2024 Free File: Do your taxes for free | Internal Revenue Service Direct File | Internal Revenue Service When Should You Get an Accountant To Do Your Taxes? Why co-signing a loan can be bad on almost every financial level New York launches probe into nationwide AT&T network outage 16 Items To Pack in Your Financial Emergency Kit Amateur Radio Service / Amateur radio National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode: New data on US worker productivity and why this is good news for our economic growth and well-being.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 American Productivity: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Free Advice: Clark's Consumer Action Center - Clark Howard Fidelity - Automated investing: How to save and invest more Credit Karma Review: Free Credit Score and More at Your Fingertips How To Monitor Your Credit How is the U.S. Postal Service governed and funded? How to sell your house by owner Google Fit NYTimes.com: Can America Turn a Productivity Boomlet Into a Boom? What Is Term Life Insurance? The Power of Compound Interest: Calculations and Examples Always Ask Your Pharmacist the Price of Your Prescription Without Insurance 7 Things To Know About Costco Pharmacy Save On Prescription Drugs - Clark.com Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Banks are heavily exposed to the troubled commercial property market. Clark discusses what this means for small businesses and individuals.  Also, facial recognition and biometric digital ID is becoming more prevalent, transforming your airport experiences. This brings both convenience and privacy concerns.  Clarkonomics: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Travel Biometrics: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Bad property debt exceeds reserves at largest US banks IntraFi - CEDARS Why Big Banks Are a Bad Place for Your Cash Best Investment Companies for Investors in 2023 How To Open a Roth IRA When Do You Need a Travel Agent? Booking a Cruise? Here Are 5 Ways To Do It for Less Facial Recognition: Coming Soon to an Airport Near You TSA PreCheck® vs. Global Entry vs. CLEAR: Which Is Best for You? 5 Money Tips To Know Before You Travel Abroad What’s the Best Way To Exchange Dollars for Foreign Currency? MouseSavers.com: Disney discounts, deals & coupons guide Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A wonderful culture shift has taken place. Younger generations are becoming rich, and not through hitting the lottery or buying hot stocks. There are simple ways to make this happen, and we have a new tool at Clark.com to help you see how much you can save over time. Also today, bargains keep getting better! Target is getting more competitive with a storewide discount brand. Youth Saving & Investing: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Target’s New Discount Brand: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark.com SAVINGS TABLE Want to retire with a million bucks in the bank? Here's one tip on how to do it. - USA TODAY WSJ.com: These Teenagers Know More About Investing Than You Do Wealth Inequality by Age in the Post-Pandemic Era How Much Should You Have Saved for Retirement by Now? How a summer job could turn you into a millionaire Investing & Retirement Archives - Clark Howard Understanding Velocity Banking, and How It Helps You Rapidly Pay Down Debt What Is Homeowners Insurance? Target creates its cheapest in-store brand as consumers are squeezed Target's new low-cost brand dealworthy gives bargain hunters a new department to shop at with prices lower than $1. The Best Car-Buying Services in 2024 / How to Buy a Used Car in 7 Steps 5 Reasons Sam’s Club Is Better Than Costco Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More than 40% of homeowners carrying a mortgage right now are over age 65. Clark discusses the implications of this obligation in terms of interest rates, loan term lengths and home prices. Also, how much can you trust a website’s chatbot? Air Canada recently got into trouble over its AI bot. What you need to know about AI in the information space, including a NEVER rule about searches.  Having A Mortgage At Age 65+: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 AI Chatbot & Search Warning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: NYT Keeping a Mortgage After 65: A ‘No Brainer’ or a Big Risk? Best Cell Phone Plans in 2024: The Cheapest Plan for Every Need Term Life vs. Whole Life Insurance: Understanding the Difference What Is Term Life Insurance? How To Buy Term Life Insurance in 7 Easy Steps Best Investment Companies for Investors in 2023 Best Auto Insurance Companies and Some of the Worst Why You Need To Re-Shop Your Car Insurance Right Now Homeowners Insurance Archives - Clark Howard New York Post: Air Canada ordered to refund passenger after ‘misleading’ conversation with site’s AI chatbot 5 Money Tips To Know Before You Travel Abroad What’s the Best Way To Exchange Dollars for Foreign Currency? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’ve recently sold I Bonds and/or receive 1099s, Clark has an important tax tip for you. Also today - Clark discusses some employment cross currents in play now to keep in mind as you survey the job market, and for employers to be aware of as they seek workers. I Bond Tax Tip: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 What Workers Want: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Should You Sell Your I Bonds Right Now? Making Money on I Bonds Was Easy. The Tax Paperwork Isn’t. - The Wall Street Journal. How to Freeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion How getting a second opinion can stop you being ripped off — The Conversation Americans want more control over when they work, not just where  Employee salary expectations are evolving — and escalating a threat for businesses How to find a job you’ll actually like Workers are spending a lot of money returning to the office — and it's raising turnover risks [The Washington Post] The best times to book cheap flights for every vacation season Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a SPECIAL EDITION of  the Clark Howard Show, where our mission is to serve and empower you to make better financial decisions in your life. Today, Clark hits on a few key basic strategies to have more money in your life: They are: - SPEND LESS: Need vs. Wants and how to tell the difference - Clark’s strategy to start saving TODAY for retirement - regardless of your age - SAVE MORE on transportation - AVOID GETTING RIPPED OFF by protecting your identity and credit Segment 1: Behavioral - Back to basics on needs vs. wants Segment 2; Start saving today for retirement Begin with 1%, or up to an employer match if possible and available  When you get a raise, pretend you didn’t and increase your contribution Segment 3: Only buy a car you can afford If you have to take a loan, 42 months maximum Compare loans Consider buying used  Segment 4: Protect your identity Don’t ever carry checks or your Social Security card Your credit is the key to your identity -Freeze your credit!  Don’t use a debit card Use virtual card numbers online Mentioned on the show: Six Essential Questions to Ask Yourself Before Making a Major Purchase Advice | Fear of missing out can keep you broke. Fight the spending temptation. Why are sales so hard to resist? It's your brain, on discounts How To Save Money: Spend Less & Build Your Savings  /  Save Money Archives How To Save and Invest the Clark Howard Way Avoid the #1 Mistake That Car Buyers Make Clark.com - Buying A Used Car /  How To Buy A Vehicle Should I Ever Buy Extras Car Dealerships Sell in Their F&I Departments? How To Prevent, Report and Repair Identity Theft Do Not Give Your Social Security Number at These Places 7 Items You Should Never Carry in Your Wallet Why You Should Never Mail a Check How to Freeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Why You Should Never Use a Debit Card To Pay for Anything The Safer Way To Use Your Debit Card Virtual Credit Cards: An Online Security Measure Worth Taking? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode - Clark has serious reservations about the breakdown of standards in the hotel industry, especially when it comes to booking a room. There’s important new info to be aware of when planning travel.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Hotel Booking Warning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 15 of the Best Free Workout And Fitness Apps How To Get a Gym Membership for Practically Free 6 Things to Know About the SilverSneakers Program for Seniors Food Expiration Dates: What You Need To Know Food Product Dating | Food Safety and Inspection Service Should I Pay Off Debt, Save Money or Invest? Warehouse Clubs Archives - Clark Howard Do You Get Better Prices on Hotels From Third-Party Sites or by Booking Directly? Where You Should (and Should Not) Book Your Next Vacation How Often Does Clark Book Travel Via Capital One Travel When It’s Often More Expensive? 5 Steps To Getting a Good Deal on a Hotel Room Should You Ever Book a Nonrefundable Hotel Room? Investopedia - Retirement Planning: Strategies, Tools, Choices Retirement Planning: Strategy, Savings and Income Fidelity Investments | Retirement Guidance Education | Retirement Plan Services - Schwab Workplace Invest & Retire - Clark.com What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor How to Freeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion How To Create a Safe Password Ambulance rides can be costly — and consumers aren't protected from surprise bills Habitat for Humanity - Clark Howard Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A common mistake car owners make is facilitating the rise in auto theft. There are 2 things you can do to protect your wheels. Also today - After the health club failures of 20 & 21 the industry roared back and stayed strong through 23. New stats show that trend is now reversing, which will affect the offers you’ll see. Clark explains the best way to handle gym membership to protect your wallet.  Car Theft Prevention: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Gym Memberships: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How one city took on rising car thefts — and brought the numbers down 10 Ways To Save Money on Car Insurance How To Open a Roth IRA Credit Card Car Rental Insurance: What You Need To Know Non-Owner Car Insurance: Who Needs It? - Investopedia What Is Umbrella Insurance and Do You Need It? How To Get a Gym Membership for Practically Free Should You Buy Out Your Leased Car? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scammers are using a new tactic to get to you and your money, and it’s up close & in person.  Also, the days of working for one company for an entire career are long gone. Clark discusses creating financial stability in an age marked by inconsistent and unstable employment. FBI Scam Warning: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Job Uncertainty & Your Savings: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: When cybercrime leaves the web: FBI warns that scammers could come right to your door - USA TODAY Consumer Reports Lists Ten Most Reliable Cars [The Washington Post] This fridge hack can slash your food waste The myth of men’s full-time employment — The Conversation How To Save Money: Spend Less & Build Your Savings How Much Money Do I Need in My Emergency Fund? How To Find Cheap Flights in 3 Easy Steps The Best Place To Buy a Mattress  How Can I Get Rid of My Old Mattress Cheaply? 10 Best Restaurant Apps for Fast Food Deals Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark discusses “nonprofit” hospitals and two crucial steps to take if you get a large hospital bill. Also today, there are multitudes of properties bought for the sole purpose of renting them out, but the rules of the game keep changing. To protect your finances, follow Clark’s rule for buying investment properties. Negotiate Hospital Bills: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Short Term Rental Property: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Nonprofit hospitals have an obligation to help their communities, but the people who live nearby may see little benefit — The Conversation Have medical debt? Anything already paid or under $500 should no longer be on your credit report When Do You Tell a Car Dealership You're Paying Cash? Palm Springs capped Airbnb rentals. Now some home prices are in free-fall Use of cameras and recording devices - Airbnb Help Center How To Open a Roth IRA How Many Credit Cards Should I Have? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A common text scam just attempted to infiltrate Clark’s own company. Hear how that turned out! Also today,  a warning if you receive packages from online retailers, and the one thing you need to do immediately when you do receive an item.  Text Scam Targets Companies: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Retail Return Fraud: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Do Your Boss a Favor and Don't Fall for a Gift Card Scam - ITRC Think you know what the top scam of 2023 was? Take a guess What Brokerage Do You Recommend for First-Time Investors or Kids? What's the Best Savings Account for a Teenager? Hot Water Recirculation Systems Streaming TV - Clark.com NYTimes: She Ordered an Ashtray and Got a Can of Tuna Types of Health Insurance Plans Should You Ever Decline a Credit Limit Increase? How To Increase the Credit Limit on Your Credit Card Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today, do you or someone you know have a safe deposit box? Clark has a very important warning if the answer is yes.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Unsafe Deposit Boxes: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 6 Things To Know About Series I Savings Bonds Should You Sell Your I Bonds Right Now? When Is the Best Time To Collect Social Security? Which Home Security Systems Rank Better Than Ring? Clark Howard's Simple Steps To Get Better Customer Service The US Sun: A judge dismissed my lawsuit against Chase when $100,000 & a $10k necklace vanished – years later I saw it on TV Is a Safe Deposit Box Really Safe? How Should I Handle Car Insurance for My Teenage Driver? 5 Steps To Getting a Good Deal on a Hotel Room Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

CDs - Are they still a good deal? Given where inflation and interest rates are heading, Clark explains that we’ve arrived at a tipping point for savers, and how to best put your money to work. Also, a report has come out about the best supermarkets in the country. What makes them great? It’s a factor you may not think about.  The SAVE MORE CD Strategy: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Best Supermarkets: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: The Best CD Rates for February 2024 Why you should open a CD this February - CBS News What Is a CD Ladder and When Is It a Good Idea? 16 of the Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts in February 2024 Municipal Bond: Definition, Types, Risks, and Tax Benefits How Many Bank Accounts Should You Have? - Clark Howard Credit Cards Could Swipe Department Stores’ Profits - The WSJ. Should You Get a Store Credit Card? Supermarkets - The American Customer Satisfaction Index CNBC - Costco has replaced Trader Joe’s as America’s favorite supermarket American Customer Satisfaction Index 6 Best Apps To Save Money on Groceries 22 Ways To Save Money on Groceries 10 Ways You're Wasting Money on Groceries How To Use Camelcamelcamel Google Fi Wireless: My Experience as a Five-Year Customer (Pros and Cons) The Best International Phone Plans Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the big phone companies plan big price increases, smaller competitors are taking a bigger share of the marketplace. Clark shares easy ways to keep costs down.  Also, you’ve heard of getting a second opinion when it comes to medical procedures, but did you know that getting a second opinion in all sorts of consumer areas can save you big bucks? SAVE on Cell Phone Service: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Get A Second Opinion: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Comcast, Charter add subs; survey finds consumers very open to MVNOs T-Mobile Eyes Price Hikes As AT&T, Verizon Set to Raise Rates in March Best Cell Phone Plans in 2024: The Cheapest Plan for Every Need What Is Owner's Title Insurance and Do You Need It? Home Title Lock: Is It the Same As Home Title Insurance? Counterfeit Stamps How getting a second opinion can stop you being ripped off — The Conversation Brushing Scam – United States Postal Inspection Service “Brushing” Scam Indicates a Serious Problem for Victims How Can I Make Freezing a Young Person's Credit Less Risky? Should You Make Your Child an Authorized User on Your Credit Card? Credit Karma Review: Free Credit Score and More at Your Fingertips Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Venmo is publicly sharing your info. Clark has a special privacy check up for Venmo users. Later - collectively entrepreneurs set a new record last year. Get Clark’s take on entrepreneurship and its value for the economy.  Venmo Privacy Check: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 On Entrepreneurship: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Venmo privacy settings to change now How To Make Your Venmo Transactions Private 4 Common Scams on Cash App, Venmo and Zelle (and How To Avoid Them!) Want To Guard Your Privacy Online? Search the Web With DuckDuckGo 5 Tips To Protect Your Digital Privacy Protect Your Identity Archives - Clark Howard Should You Allow Your Auto Insurance To Monitor Your Driving? Mile Auto | Pay-Per-Mile Car Insurance Entrepreneurs Opened More Businesses in 2023, Setting a New All-Time High on Yelp Sell My Car – Autotrader What Is an ETF?  -  What Are Index Funds? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new hotel fee is showing up for something a lot of people aren’t even using. How to book a room without getting ripped off. Also, knowledge is power when it comes to navigating funeral costs. The FTC has a new warning out about shady practices in the funeral industry that take advantage of grieving families.  Hotel Rates + Junk Fees: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Funeral Home Rip-offs: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Hotel parking fees take a turn for the worse How to spot hidden resort fees when you're booking travel Why Structured Notes Might Not Be Right for You What Is Full Coverage Car Insurance? NYTimes: F.T.C. Warns Dozens of Funeral Homes to Provide Accurate Costs to Callers How the Funeral Industry Got the FTC to Hide Bad Actors Alert: Funeral Home Scam Targets Grieving Families Funeral Consumers Alliance: Home - Clark.com - Funeral Planning How to have that end-of-life financial discussion with your elderly loved ones Funeral Consumers Alliance - Wills & Funerals Archives - Clark Howard You Can Save Big Money on Caskets at Costco, Walmart and Amazon Low-Cost Cremation Services: 5 Things to Know  Funeralocity - Lantern - Cake - Parting - Empathy 4 Things To Consider Before You Buy a New Cell Phone Buying a Cell Phone at Costco Wholesale: 4 Things To Know Should You Buy Cell Phone Insurance? Cell Phones & Smartphones Archives - Clark Deals Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today - many employers are offering a new benefit which may eliminate the need to choose between paying down student loans and saving for retirement.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 The New Student Loan/401(k) Benefit: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Find Cheap Flights in 3 Easy Steps Going™ | Formerly Scott's Cheap Flights Airfarewatchdog: Cheap Flights & Airline Tickets Estate and Gift Tax FAQs | Internal Revenue Service 15 of the Best Free Workout And Fitness Apps What Is an ETF? A Simple Trick To Paying Off Your Credit Card Faster NYTimes: A New Perk for Some Student Loan Borrowers: A 401(k) Match More companies embracing benefits aimed at student loan debt SAVE Repayment Plan Offers Lower Monthly Loan Payments Best Budgeting Apps in 2024: Our Top 5 What Is a Flexible Spending Account? How to Teach Young Kids About Money Fidelity Investments Review 2023: Pros & Cons  Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cruise travel is way up and with it, problems with associated trip insurance. Learn what could go wrong, and Clark smart rules for cruise travel. Also today, a follow up on Visa Vanilla gift cards and the “draining” scam that left so many people with useless plastic. Cruise Trip Coverage Warning: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Vanilla Gift Card Scam: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: NYTimes: Help! I Missed a Cruise and the Cruise Line’s Own Travel Insurance Won’t Pay. Where You Should Never Buy Travel Insurance for a Cruise Clark.com - CRUISES / Clark.com - TRIP INSURANCE How To Plan a Trip: Clark's Best Travel Tips To Save Money 401(k) Match: What Is It, How It Works 401k Calculator With Match - Clark Howard New York Post: Visa is sued over ‘Vanilla’ gift card scam known as ‘draining’ What Is an ETF? Should We Worry About the National Debt and Budget Deficits?   Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy Valentine’s Day! Where did we traditionally receive Valentine’s Day cards? The mail! There’s a big problem with our mail delivery service, and something is going to have to give. Also today, Amazon is in a fight for its life with competitors and the resultant clothing price war presents opportunity for you.   USPS Mail Delays: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Clothing Price War: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Mail freeze: Latest frigid weather is adding to the postal service's delivery woes - USA TODAY   NYTimes.com: Mail 3 Days a Week? Idea Meets Resistance in Britain. How to sell your house by owner What you should know before selling your home without an agent Selling your home yourself? Here’s how an ‘Agents Protected’ sign can help you Heard on the Street: Amazon Can’t Afford a Race to the Bottom - The Wall Street Journal. Clark Deals - Clothing Why You Need To Check Your PayPal Account for Automatic Payments 5 Steps To Getting a Good Deal on a Hotel Room PlugShare - EV Charging Station Map - Find a place to charge   Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Valentine’s Day coming up tomorrow, it’s a good opportunity to give couples advice on how to avoid one of the most common things we fight over - money differences. Also today - Assumable mortgages allow qualifiers to potentially buy a house with one of the great rates that existed over the past few years. There’s a new site to help you find those homes for sale.  Couples & Money: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Assumable Mortgage Resource: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: NYTimes.com: Financial Questions to Discuss Before Moving In With Your Partner New Love for Older Adults: Don’t Make the Same Financial Mistakes 42% of Adults Have Committed Financial Infidelity. Have You? 10 Steps for Having Better Money Conversations With Your Spouse What is an LLC? Limited Liability Company Structure and Benefits Defined What Is Umbrella Insurance and Do You Need It? Best 529 College Savings Plans By State Rollovers From a 529 Plan to Roth IRA: What to Know Assumable Mortgage: What It Is, How It Works, Types, Pros and Cons A back door to a 3% mortgage rate? This startup has a plan to unlock housing market affordability  What's Clark's Opinion on the Greenlight Prepaid Debit Card for Kids? Cruises - Clark.com / Costco Travel: 5 Things To Know Before You Book Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Communities are popping up around the country that make it feel like you are living at the beach, without the high cost of insurance and upkeep. Sound too good to be true? It’s not. Also, excellent news to share concerning teens and finance.  Lagoon Communities: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Teen Work Ethic: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Their Home Has Water Views and a Sandy Beach—and It’s Nowhere Near the Ocean 401(k) Rollover: What You Need To Know & Options Target Date Funds: Clark's Favorite Retirement Investment Travel Insurance: What You Need To Know Before You Buy Clark Calls Out Favorite Credit Card for 'Classless' New Policy [The Washington Post] Gen Z is bringing back the part-time job More States Now Require Financial Literacy Classes in High Schools Best Investment Companies for Investors Can a Patient Advocate Help With Your Medical Bills? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today - So many of us are addicted to our smartphones and there are new devices and methods to help us break the habit and be more present. The discipline to ditch your phone for periods of time may improve your quality of life. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Phone-free Quality Time: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 12 Things You Never Knew You Could Get From Your Local Library Streaming TV - Clark.com Best Free Password Managers: 7 Top Picks / 5 Tips To Protect Your Digital Privacy 3 Big Retirement Account Changes You Haven't Heard About Financial Independence, Retire Early: What You Need To Know About the ‘FIRE’ Movement Is Temu Legit? 4 Things To Know My Cable Company Is Raising Prices Unless I Enroll in Auto-Pay. Is It Safe? How to Get Free Virus, Spyware and Malware Protection Phone-free and loving it: Why Yondr usage is spiking at schools, concerts, and soon, maybe, your living room Why Toilet Paper Has Gotten So Expensive 529 rollover to Roth IRA: A guide to conversion - CNN Free (or Cheap) College for Retirees in All 50 States How to Buy a New Car in 5 Steps Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

U.S. consumers pay more for prescription drugs than anywhere else on the planet, especially for vital brand medications that are not yet sold as generics. Clark explains this price disparity, reports on Florida’s move to import from Canada, and shares how you can save on meds today. Also - How Walmart is giving its workers a stake in the game and why that is good for business.  Save More On Meds: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Employee Ownership: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Florida Is First State Allowed to Import Drugs From Canada in Bid to Reduce Costs 10 Ways To Save on Prescription Drugs - Clark.com Exchanging Dollars for Foreign Currency Home Equity Loans & Lines of Credit: 7 Common Questions Answered Simple Interest Loans: Do They Exist? Rule of 78: Definition, How Lenders Use It, and Calculation NYTimes: Walmart Offers Store Managers Company Stock to Make Them Feel Like ‘Owners’ The #1 Difference Between 'Super Savers' and Average Savers 6 Steps To Eliminate Credit Card Debt in 3 Years or Less Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Because of the pandemic, many employees are entering a corporate office environment for the first time, and companies are having to do special training to help them adjust. Clark has some advice for these new workers. Also today - After a period of punishing inflation, consumers are finally in the driver’s seat on prices. How? Clark explains our collective power in the marketplace.  Workplace Etiquette: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Consumers Rule: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: We don't know how to behave in the office anymore, bosses say. The solution? Charm school  Why Sharing Your Layoff Publicly Feels So Good - The Wall Street Journal. Credit Card Car Rental Insurance: What You Need To Know Hertz is selling 20,000 electric vehicles to buy gasoline cars instead A Different Kind of Price War: Grocers vs. Big Food Makers Mortgage Recasting: What It Is And How It Works Accessible Travel Website Launches Major Expansion The future of U.S. train travel is here—and it’s not on Amtrak Where You Should (and Should Not) Book Your Next Vacation Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some reports estimate overall food waste at near 40%! That’s MONEY tossed away! There’s a simple way to help you SAVE MORE food & thus - stretch your grocery dollars. Also, Clark discusses options for those with I Bonds purchased at inflation’s peak, now with diminishing returns, and why I Bonds are still a good deal now.   Reduce Food Waste: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 I Bond Strategy: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: [The Washington Post] This fridge hack can slash your food waste Is a Costco Membership Worth It? (Pros and Cons From 10 Readers) Your Guide to DIY Home Security Systems T-Mobile 5G Home Internet: 5 Things To Know Before You Sign Up How to Buy a Used Car in 7 Steps Should You Sell Your I Bonds Right Now? 6 Things To Know About Series I Savings Bonds Vehicle History Report Scam: If You're Selling, Listen Up 7 Things To Know Before You Use Zelle 4 Common Scams on Cash App, Venmo and Zelle (and How To Avoid Them!) Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bad news makes news, creating general pessimism and a negative outlook on the world at large. But there’s so much good in the world that goes unheralded. Clark shares some reasons to be optimistic. Also today, colleges are competing to fill enrollments. Clark shares strategies to help you stretch every college dollar, including asking for a 4 year incentive package.  Dare To Be Optimistic: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 College Cost Strategies: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Reasons to be optimistic in 2024 — despite everything SmileDirectClub is shutting down. Where does that leave its customers? [The Washington Post] Colleges are finally turning the corner on enrollment Education Archives - Clark Howard How To Sell A Car - Clark Howard Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks.  Also today  - Staying fit doesn’t have to involve costly memberships. Clark shares his affinity for fitness trackers, and how inexpensive they can be.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Fitness Trackers : Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Costco vs. Sam's Club: What Is the Difference? How Donor-Advised Funds Are Changing Philanthropy WSJ - Your Smartphone Can Have Two Lines. Here’s Why You’d Want That. The Best International Phone Plans CR - Best Fitness Trackers of 2024 4 Truly Free Fitness Apps To Keep You In Shape All Winter 15 of the Best Free Workout And Fitness Apps (clark.com) At 93, he’s as fit as a 40-year-old. His body offers lessons on aging. ‘How is this even legal?’ Planet Fitness user asks after being forced to go in person simply to shut down account  How To Increase the Credit Limit on Your Credit Card Delta Update: Airline Announces Key Changes to SkyMiles Overhaul Going Just Announced a Big Change to Its Free Membership Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The stock market has hit record highs lately, which means investors can become misdirected by  “recency bias”.  What could go wrong?  Clark explains some market realities to keep in mind and the value of diversification. Also today, with tax season upon us make sure you know about tax filing options that are free. Investment Strategy: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Free Tax Filing: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Save and Invest the Clark Howard Way Wall Street hits record high following a 2-year round trip scarred by inflation - from USA TODAY NYTimes: After a Rip-Roaring 2023, the Markets Are Taking a Breather 10 Things You Must Know About Bull Markets Best Travel Credit Cards: Top Rewards Picks for 2024 What Brokerage Do You Recommend for First-Time Investors or Kids? Amazon - uni-ball 61255 Signo Gel 207  Black Ink Micro Fine Dozen Why You Should Never Mail a Check 8 Free Federal and State Tax Filing Services for 2024 IRS Free File: Free State and Federal Tax Filing Options for 2024 IRS set to launch its free tax filing pilot program. Here’s how it will work The Washington Post: How to file your taxes free, no matter your income or age The IRS doesn't send tax refunds by email or text TurboTax Can No Longer Advertise Products as Free, F.T.C. Says FTC finds TurboTax “free” is not free for most How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor Advice-Only Network   /   Flat Fee Advisors How To Plan a Trip: Clark's Best Travel Tips To Save Money National Unclaimed Property Day How To Find and Claim Missing Money in Your Name Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Credit card debt is up 50% in the last 3 years with default rates on the rise, as higher interest rates exacerbate the problem. What would Clark do? Also today, many people have been waiting for the market to normalize before buying a vehicle. Clark shares good news and smart approaches to the purchase of both new and used cars.  Credit Card Debt Strategy: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Car Buying Update: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: NYTimes.com: Lugging Credit Card Debt Into 2024? Now’s the Time to Make a Plan. Credit card delinquencies surpass pre-pandemic levels Why debt settlement companies are the wrong way to deal with high credit card debt 6 Things To Know Before Contacting the National Foundation for Credit Counseling CREDIT CARD DEBT - Clark.com What Fee Level Does Clark Consider Acceptable For a Company 401(k)? How To Open a Roth IRA What Is a Thrift Savings Plan? 2024 will be the best year to buy a new car since 2019, economist says USA TODAY: Buying a car? FTC reveals crackdown on illegal scams to save you money The new CARS Rule: What you need to know The Best Car-Buying Services in 2024 How to Buy a New Car in 5 Steps / How to Buy a Used Car in 7 Steps What Are the Pros and Cons of the Costco Car Buying Program? Avoid the #1 Mistake That Car Buyers Make Credit Card Car Rental Insurance: What You Need To Know Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark offers a primer on the 3 basic types of funds - Mutual, Index, and the fastest growing area of investing: ETFs.  Also, there is a new rule for health insurers when you need medical preauthorization approval for treatment or a procedure.  And it’s about time.  Back To Basics: ETFs: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 New Rules On Medical Preauthorization: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How to Invest in ETFs for Beginners  What Is an ETF?  Clark.com INVESTOPEDIA - Mutual Funds  /  Index Funds  /  ETFs Medicare Medical Savings Account (MSA) Plans Health Insurers Must Streamline Prior Authorization Decisions, New Rule Says - The WSJ Businesses Are Making Me Pay the Credit Card Processing Fee. Should I Pay Another Way? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’re doing the work of saving,  how much interest are you earning? Some banks pay next to zero. Clark has an assignment for you. Also, Clark celebrates a “trendlet”  he hopes will become a full fledged trend - actual customer service.  Max Return On Savings: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Customer Service Lives: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: WSJ.com: They Thought Their Money Was in High-Interest Accounts—They Got Paid Peanuts 16 of the Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts in January 2024 How To Open a Roth IRA- How To Buy a House in 9 Steps Brick-and-mortar retail is back, but without the gimmicks IKEA U.S. announces plans to open 4 new-format stores in 2024 & shares FY23 progress What Is Term Life Insurance?  /  How To Buy Term Life Insurance in 7 Easy Steps Clark.com - Latest Life Insurance Why You Need To Use Your Travel Points Right Now 8 Free Federal and State Tax Filing Services for 2024 When Should You Get an Accountant To Do Your Taxes? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today - Costco vs Sam’s and how Sam’s Club is using tech to make the customer experience easier.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Sam’s Club Scan & Go: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 401(k) Match: What Is It, How It Works Here’s why electric cars don’t go as far in the cold EVs work fine in the cold in Norway. Here’s how they do it The housing solution ‘hidden in plain sight’ that Maryland and Mississippi are embracing How Do I Find Out the Exact Discount for Bundling Home and Auto Insurance? The Best International Phone Plans Is My Phone Unlocked? Here’s How To Know – iPhone and Android BringFido: Pet Friendly Hotels & Dog Travel Directory 7 Things To Know About Costco Pharmacy Clark Says These Streaming Changes Are Top Money-Saving Moves in 2024 Costco crackdown of membership sharing reaches next level The US Sun: ‘Catch up,’ Costco shopper tells store after rival Sam’s Club makes customers’ lives easier with receipt check change.   Sam’s Club Scan And Go / NYTimes: At Sam’s Club, a Human Will No Longer Check Your Receipt at the Door Clark Deals - TVs Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While other crime is down post-pandemic, vehicle vandalism & theft rises. Clark discusses the great value of vehicle sentry cameras for prevention and recording of vehicle accidents and crimes. Also today - Alarmist headlines of layoffs and AI killing jobs don’t give you the full picture. Clark lends perspective on the nature of employment historically involving change, and the job growth happening now.  Vehicle Sentry Devices: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Where The Jobs Are: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: This go-to tech gadget is like the Ring camera - but for your cargo bed - USA TODAY An Easy Way To Protect Your Truck From Theft Is AppleCare+ worth buying for your new Apple device? Clark Deals - Tablets Best Budgeting Apps in 2024: Our Top 5 Axios: Job market surprise: Construction employment is booming Remote Workers Are Losing Out on Promotions - The Wall Street Journal. HELOC Calculator - Clark Howard Can I Use a Target Date Retirement Fund for Intermediate Savings? What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, a Red Alert if you have a checkbook in your possession. Check theft is soaring at a time when people are writing fewer checks. Clark explains the weak links in the system, and the safest way to pay your bills. Also, the rising costs of homeowners insurance hits especially hard in areas prone to flooding, fires, and other environmental concerns. Know the additional steps to take concerning insurance BEFORE you buy a home.  Check Fraud Prevention: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Homeowners Insurance - Assessing Risk: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: NYTimes: We Can’t Stop Writing Paper Checks. Thieves Love That. NYTimes: Stolen Checks Are for Sale Online. We Called Some of the Victims. The New York Times: What to Know About Writing Checks While Preventing Fraud How To Roll Over a 529 Plan to a Roth IRA The Artist's Way Where to Buy a Vacation Home Safe From Climate Risks Want to know if your future home might flood? These states are requiring disclosure. Climate Check - How Will Climate Change Affect Your Property? Donor-Advised Fund Definition, Sponsors, Pros & Cons, Example Why Big Banks Are a Bad Place for Your Cash How To Sell, Cancel or Get Rid of Your Timeshare Why 'Buy Now, Pay Later' Worries Clark Howard Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

QR Codes have become fertile ground for criminals to load viruses and steal from you. Know how to avoid this now prevalent hazard. Also today, the big cell phone companies have made it incredibly expensive to use your phone when traveling outside the U.S. Hear Clark’s latest advice on how to handle this. QR Code Warning: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 International Calling: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: NYTimes.com: That QR Code You’re About to Scan Could Be Risky, F.T.C. Warns How QR codes work and what makes them dangerous – a computer scientist explains — The Conversation Scammers hide harmful links in QR codes to steal your information Is Temu Legit? 4 Things To Know Credit Karma Review: Free Credit Score and More at Your Fingertips How To Monitor Your Credit Dividend Reinvestment Plans (DRIPs) - Stocks - Investopedia How to Make a Disposable Razor Last 12 Months NYT - Come Home With Memories, Not a Shocking Phone Bill The Best International Phone Plans Travel Insurance: What You Need To Know Before You Buy InsureMyTrip Review: Why We Like It and How to Use It Cancel for Any Reason Trip Insurance: Should You Buy It? What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark shares insights on how to Spend Less from a recent price study comparing behemoth retailers. Later - home and auto insurance is becoming more expensive and increasingly hard to purchase. How to be proactive vs reactive.  Retail Giant Price Comparison: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Home & Auto Insurance Increases: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Amazon vs Walmart: Who Has the Cheapest Grocery Prices? The One and Only Exception to Clark Howard's 'No Gift Card' Rule Financial Fasting Can Trim the Fat From Your Spending The WSJ - Buying Home and Auto Insurance Is Becoming Impossible  Best Auto Insurance Companies and Some of the Worst: December 2023 Why You Need To Re-Shop Your Car Insurance Right Now How to Shop for Lower Car Insurance How To Open a Roth IRA Acorns Review: How It Works, Pros & Cons 6 Things To Know Before You Sign Up for Tracfone Wireless Visible Deal: Unlimited Service for $20 Monthly for Two Years Best Cell Phone Plans in 2024: The Cheapest Plan for Every Need Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today - do you use apps to get points & free items at restaurants? Are there app tricks going on to get us to spend more money? A current lawsuit calls this into question - but the real issue is larger. What to know about app stored payment systems.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Restaurant & Retail In-App Payments: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark Howard's Simple Steps To Get Better Customer Service When Is the Best Day and Time To Call Customer Service? Clark's take: Why everyone should have a dash cam Clark Deals - Dashcams What Is Umbrella Insurance and Do You Need It? How to clean a washing machine and how often to do it Travel Archives - Clark Howard / Travel Archives - Clark Deals Ask Clark: What Is a Backdoor Roth IRA? A new complaint claims Starbucks’ app traps customers in a cycle of spending 10 Best Restaurant Apps for Fast Food Deals 16 of the Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts in January 2024 What Is a SEP IRA and Who Is Eligible? What Is a Solo 401(k) and How Does It Work? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Generation X in particular has faced unique challenges preparing for retirement. Clark talks about the factors involved and what this age group can do as they near their 60’s and beyond. Also today, in some states, housing prices have gone up 50% in the last 5 years. One solution Clark loves - composite, factory-built manufactured home building, is gaining traction in some places, but uptake will require cultural shifts. Gen X Retirement: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Manufactured Homes: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Gen Xers Ask: ‘Can I Afford to Retire?’ PEW Research - Older Workers Are Growing in Number and Earning Higher Wages ‘Flextirement’ is the future of work   Parents Are Spending Retirement Savings to Help Boomerang Children: FCC Affordable Connectivity Program Clark.com CAR RENTAL The housing solution ‘hidden in plain sight’ that Maryland and Mississippi are embracing Everything You Need To Know About Polybutylene Pipes How to Get a Mortgage in 8 Steps Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark discusses his recent heart procedure, shares the good news of his progress and thanks all for the heartfelt well wishes he received. Also in this episode, if you’re looking to upgrade the size of your TV, there are some incredible deals out there right now. Clark points the way. Health Update: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Big TV Deals: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark.com - STREAMING TV Live TV Streaming Channel Tool Everything seems more expensive, so why is a big new TV cheaper than ever? Clark Deals - The best deals on TVs available now 10 Ways To Save Money on Car Insurance Car Insurance Archives - Clark Howard Google Fi Wireless: My Experience as a Five-Year Customer (Pros and Cons) The Clark Howard Podcast Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, a dose of Clarkonomics. Clark shares his views on the state of the economy, including energy production and the stock market looking ahead. Also, you may have noticed fewer options when it comes to goods you buy, like toilet paper and paper towels. Clark explains how the pandemic forced new adaptive efficiencies in manufacturing, and why this is good for consumers Clarkonomics: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Retail: Less Choice - Lower Prices: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: US wage growth, once an inflation risk, may be the prop a soft landing needs A lot of things are getting cheaper. Here's why you probably haven't noticed. The Federal Reserve will cut interest rates 6 times in 2024 as the economy shows clear signs of cooling down, ING says Opec+ now controls barely half of oil market, says IEA Surging U.S. Oil Production Brings Down Prices and Raises Climate Fears Should You Buy an Extended Warranty on Your Car? WSJ - Covid Slashed Consumer Choices. This Is Why They Aren’t Coming Back. This Clark Howard Credit Card Rule Could Prevent a Nightmare Scenario About Clark Howard Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wishing you a peaceful and uplifting MLK Day. Please enjoy this Best Of episode. Clark returns tomorrow with new ways to Save More, Spend Less and Avoid Getting Ripped Off! The auto insurance industry is in a world of hurt and aggressively raising rates. Clark explains the factors involved and what you can do to help keep your costs down. Also today, life expectancy is a roll of the dice but generally, people are living longer. There’s a little known and very smart way to avoid outliving your money - longevity insurance.  Auto Insurance Bill Shock: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Longevity Insurance: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Clark Howard: Habitat for Humanity - Clark Howard Car Insurance Archives - Clark Howard What Is Umbrella Insurance and Do You Need It? Best Travel Credit Cards: Top Rewards Picks for 2023 Marketwatch - Can you answer this crucial retirement-planning question? Most people can’t. Want to live to 100? "Blue Zones" expert shares longevity lessons in new Netflix series Clark.com: Longevity Insurance: What Is It and Do You Need It? How To Open a Roth IRA Clark.com - Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts Target Date Funds: Clark's Favorite Retirement Investment Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today -  Abandoned Places should NOT include your old 401(k). And big employers don’t want them. So new rules place this money at risk. Clark explains what’s happening now, and how to safely move your money. Don’t let it slip away!  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Forgotten 401(k)s At Risk: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What Is an ABLE Account? Why Did My Car Insurance Go Up? Best Free Password Managers: 7 Top Picks How To Make Your Online Accounts Accessible When You Die Best 529 College Savings Plans By State Upside App Review: 6 Things To Know Before You Sign Up Your Old 401(k): Out of Sight, Out of Mind and Out of Money 401(k) Rollover: What You Need To Know & Options 3 Places You Should Never Invest Your Money Best Travel Credit Cards: Top Rewards Picks for 2024 Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: 6 Things To Know Why Clark Thinks These Are the Best 2 Travel Rewards Cards The Platinum Card® from American Express Review Where To Buy the Best Cheap Printer Martin Luther King, Jr., National Day of Service Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The IRS has been in the news for waiving penalties from prior tax years AND people are getting surprise tax bills. That has brought about a slew of companies advertising tax debt relief. Know what applies to you, and why you shouldn’t take the bait for “debt relief”. Also in the news, the lawsuit against Vanguard over its target date funds is moving through the courts. Know what role TDFs play in your portfolio and where they should NEVER be placed.  Tax Penalty Changes: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Vanguard’s Target Date Funds: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: [The Washington Post] IRS is waiving $1B in penalties. Beware of tax debt relief companies. IRS Zaps Nearly $1 Billion in Penalties for Taxpayers - The Wall Street Journal. Surprise Bill Coming to Those Who Underpay Taxes  When Should You Get an Accountant To Do Your Taxes? How to Freeze Your Child's Credit Should You Make Your Child an Authorized User on Your Credit Card? Is Pet Insurance Worth It? What You Need To Know Before You Buy How To Create a Will Online Living Will and Durable Power of Attorney: Frequently Asked Questions Clark Howard's 5-Point Annual Checklist You Should Follow Lawsuit Over Vanguard’s Target-Date Funds Can Proceed, Judge Rules Target Date Funds: Clark's Favorite Retirement Investment Frequently Asked Questions on Gift Taxes What Is a Roth 401(k) and How Does It Work? Best Budgeting Apps in 2024: Our Top 5 Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark explains the real purpose of owning gold, and, should you decide to - the best way to include it as an asset. Also - One way to save money in the new year? Cancel subscriptions! Clark revisits subscription creep, and how streaming and other services can add up to big bucks. Many people forget to cancel free trials, and worse, many companies make it difficult to cancel.  GOLD! Yes Or No: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Subscription Creep & Streaming Services: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Costco sold more than $100 million in gold bars last quarter Clark Howard's Advice on Buying Gold Debt Archives - Clark Howard Best And Worst Homeowners Insurance Companies: December 2023 This metro woman built a tiny home and dumped her mortgage The high cost of subscription binges: How businesses get rich off you forgetting to cancel - USA TODAY  Americans Are Canceling More of Their Streaming Services The streaming wars reached a stalemate in 2023, but here are 6 trends that will define 2024  Axios: Hello TV bundles, our old friend New York Post: NY AG Letitia James sues SiriusXM: Service made it intentionally ‘hard to cancel subscriptions’ Clark.com - STREAMING TV Visible Deal: Unlimited Service for $20 Monthly for Two Years When Should You Get an Accountant To Do Your Taxes? Scams & Rip-Offs Archives - Clark Howard Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The big pharmacies are folding under the pressure of competitive pricing. How to insure you pay less for prescriptions. Also today, Clark updates the state of the economy and interest rates, with guidance on how savers can lock in higher rates for longer. He also has an important warning about how to spot fake CDs.  Rx Pricing Changes: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 CD Rates & Saving Strategy: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: NYTimes - CVS Says It Will Change the Way Its Pharmacies Are Paid WSJ.com: CVS Plans to Overhaul How Much Drugs Cost Axios: CVS' drug price transparency push  /  Axios: CVS blows up PBM model CVS is shaking up drug pricing. You can thank Mark Cuban Walgreens Launches Digital Tool To Help Save On Prescription Costs 10 Ways To Save on Prescription Drugs Will Mark Cuban's Prescription Company Really Save You Money? What Is a 403(b) and How Does It Work? Target Date Funds: Clark's Favorite Retirement Investment How To Find and Claim Missing Money in Your Name Now May Be the Time to Lock In High Interest Rates on Your Savings What Is a CD Ladder and When Is It a Good Idea? 16 of the Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts in January 2024 FDIC.gov / 3 Places You Should Never Invest Your Money IntraFi Network Deposits: ICS and CDARS Services from IntraFi He Stole Hundreds of iPhones and Looted People’s Life Savings. He Told Us How. Apple's New iOS 17 Security Feature Blocks Opportunistic iPhone Thieves Apple unveils new security feature to safeguard against thieves Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you have holiday gifts you plan on taking or sending back, you need to know how return policies have changed, and act quickly. Clark explains. Also today, companies should emulate a recent move by a major airline to help employees with their finances.  Restrictive Return Policies: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Delta’s Emergency Savings Fund: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: WSJ.com: Retailers Enlist AI in Fight Against Returns Return Policies Have Gotten More Annoying This Holiday Season - The WSJ Holiday Returns: Guidelines and Return Dates for Major Retailers How To Get a Gym Membership for Practically Free Retirement Accounts Are the New Emergency Funds Delta offers employees $1,000 for emergency savings, 33,000 sign up The Best Place To Buy a Mattress Amica - Get a RV & Trailer Quote Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode, there’s a real danger of scams when job searching online. Clark let’s job hunters know what to look out for and the rules of the road to employment.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Job Scams: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What Is the Highest Credit Score? What Is a Thrift Savings Plan? WSJ - Auto Dealers Find Savings by Buying Cars Off the Street Turo: 5 Things To Know About the Cheap Car Rental Service Capital One Walmart Rewards® Card: Get 5% Back on Online Purchases Best Credit Cards for Shopping Rewards (Clark.com) Is the Target RedCard Credit Card Worth? Searching for a job to work remotely? Avoid scams and identity theft Legitimate Work From Home Jobs – How to Find Them (Clark.com) Should I Prepay for My Funeral? Clark Howard's Important Advice on Funeral Planning Wills & Funerals Archives - Clark Howard SIPC - Securities Investor Protection Corporation Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The resolution to spend less can yield multiple benefits and there are various approaches. Clark explores a method called financial fasting. Also today, the U.S. is slowly adopting a method to simplify taxes, used by most other developed countries. See if this free online direct tax filing service called Direct File could work for you. Financial Fasting: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 IRS: Direct File: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Financial Fasting Can Trim the Fat From Your Spending What Is Umbrella Insurance and Do You Need It? How To Find Cheap Flights in 3 Easy Steps 13 States Sign On to IRS Direct File Pilot Program IRS plans to launch free tax filing pilot program in 13 states next year Will an IRS Tax Prep Service Replace H&R Block or TurboTax? 4 Things You Should Always Pack in Your Carry-On Should You Buy an Extended Warranty on Your Car? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark shares good news about his favorite type of retirement account. Also in today’s show, advice for used car buyers includes new tax incentives that just went into effect.  New Roth IRA Limits: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 The Used EV Tax Credit: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Looking to save in a Roth IRA next year? Here's what you need to know. - from USA TODAY How To Open a Roth IRA IRS provides tax inflation adjustments for tax year 2024 Best 529 College Savings Plans By State 529 rollover to Roth IRA: A guide to conversion Visible Review: 5 Things To Know Before You Sign Up Visible vs. Verizon Wireless: Plans, Pricing, Data and More Edmunds: Best used electric vehicles under $25,000 13 Secret Saving Hacks at Costco, Sam's Club and BJ's Wholesale What Home Security Camera Does Clark Prefer Ahead of Amazon’s Ring? How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re back and ready to talk about how you can save more, spend less, and avoid rip-offs in 2024! Up first - your cell phone bill! Cell phone rates are going up at twice the rate of inflation because we’ve gone from 4 national providers to 3. Clark has ways to help you SAVE. Also, know what to expect this year if you’ve been worried about paying tax bills on money received through Venmo, PayPal, Cash App, or other payment services. Save On Cell Phone Service: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Payment App Tax Rule: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Mobile phone bills up 5% over last year: doxo Best Cell Phone Plans in 2024: The Cheapest Plan for Every Need CELL PHONES - Clark.com / STREAMING TV - Clark.com How To Watch the Top Video Streaming Services for Under $100 per Year Best Budgeting Apps in 2024: Our Top 5 IRS delays reporting rules for users of Venmo, Cash App and other payment apps How To Save Money With Google Flights Top Travel Deals - Clark Howard Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices