Ever wake up Monday regretting how much you spent over the weekend? Today Clark re-examines the no spending trend through a needs-vs-wants traffic light lens as a smart way to think about spending. Also today - Travelers are being heavily targeted at ATMs & check outs. Clark shares an easy way to protect your wallet and identity when out & about - and why this is necessary now more than ever. Mindful Spending: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 ATM Pickpockets: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4...
Aug 25, 2025•33 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also - Digital pricing is popping up in more supermarkets. Clark discusses how this pricing works, and how the results are turning out to be quite different from his early predictions. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Dynamic Grocery Pricing: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Amazon vs. Walmart: The Price War You’re Probably Losing (and How to Win!) Subscription S...
Aug 22, 2025•35 min
A rapidly changing job market calls for reassessment and thinking outside the box. And maybe outside your town. Clark seeks to help open your mind on 3 fronts in the quest for satisfying employment . Also, 529 Plans just got even better, with new ways to utilize them for non-traditional education. Job Assessment: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 New Possibilities With 529 Plans: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Axios: Where the jobs are How To Find a Job in a Frozen Market 5 m...
Aug 20, 2025•37 min
Why This Retired Couple Is Still 70% in Stocks and Will the Fed Start Lowering Rates? A retired couple in their 80s has big pensions, no debt, and a significant amount of their portfolio in stocks. While traditional wisdom suggests being more conservative with age, find out why they have an “infinite time horizon,” as fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss explains. Also, the Federal Reserve is the engine of the U.S. economy, and its decisions on interest rates have massive ripple effects, from th...
Aug 19, 2025•35 min
In today’s episode, Clark talks about the condo market and what makes it different from the single-family home market . Later, there’s a common, costly fee that may appear on your doctor bill that is generally not disclosed, and charged after treatment. Clark explains what’s going on and how to prevent getting gouged by this. The Condo Market Difference: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Undisclosed Facility Fees: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your...
Aug 18, 2025•32 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today, one major rental car company has now earned the “do not rent” label from Clark. Get Clark’s latest advice on car rentals. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Car Rental Update: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Booking a Cruise? Here Are 5 Ways To Do It for Less You Won't Believe What Clark Howard Says About Wells Fargo Now What Is an HSA Account and How ...
Aug 15, 2025•31 min
Clark has vital, very important advice for fellow travelers regarding insurance . Also today - while tragic disasters bring out the best in people rendering aid, we know that scammers routinely emerge to exploit this attribute, with ploys to steal donations. Clark discusses what to watch out for in a case of disaster when you want to be of help. Travel Health Insurance: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Scams After Disasters: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Travel Insurance Ch...
Aug 13, 2025•26 min
Is the 60/40 Rule DEAD? and Inheriting Money The Right Way Is the 60/40 investing rule dead? Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss tackles this question by looking back at research and revealing what a $500,000 portfolio would look like today. He shares why balanced investing is still critical for a comfortable retirement. Also, with the largest wealth transfer in history underway, Wes provides a reality check on inheriting money. He gives you a simple checklist for receivers and givers to make s...
Aug 12, 2025•47 min
Not all retirement plans are created equal. When it comes to the 403bs many teachers and non-profit workers are offered - the math is wrong. And not all 401(k)s will serve you well. Knowing how to get the most from your investments can mean WAY more money in retirement. Also - It’s rare to find the opposite of shrinkflation, but some retailers and restaurants are filling the value gap - in buckets! Retirement Plan Choice: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Bonus! Buckets Of Coffee: Segment 3 Ask Cla...
Aug 11, 2025•35 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also in this episode, Clark explains a new pricing tactic now in use in the airline industry - and the booking strategies that can help you save more on travel. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 AI Airfares: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How to Deal With Medical Debt Can a Patient Advocate Help With Your Medical Bills? Warning: Watch Out for This Big Ripoff at t...
Aug 08, 2025•33 min
Today, Clark explains the “ Trump Account ” for newborns - including how the account works and how best to manage one. Later - Get the lowdown on something we all need to protect ourselves from - cell phone sim swapping fraud. Trump Accounts: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Warning: Sim Swapping: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Don’t Make This “Trump Account” Mistake Should You Start a 'Trump Account' for Your Child? What Is Umbrella Insurance and Do You Need It? ...
Aug 06, 2025•29 min
Catch-Up Secrets for Savers 55+ and Does the 4% Rule Really Work? Are you 55 or older and feeling behind on retirement savings? Or perhaps you're wondering how to make your money last once you do retire? Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss dives deep into crucial strategies for those 55 and up, including powerful "catch-up" contributions for your 401(k), IRA, and HSA that can add thousands to your nest egg. Also, Wes also reveals the often-debated but incredibly powerful 4% rule, explaining why...
Aug 05, 2025•41 min
In an ongoing breach of ethics to the lasting detriment of consumers, many subscription services make it virtually impossible to cancel . So there’s something you need to do before signing up for anything. Also - Clark breaks down IRS reporting requirements on payment apps -which aren’t becoming more stringent after all. If you’re a vendor, small contractor or do business via payment app, know what will trigger a 1099. Click To Cancel? We Wish: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Payment Apps & 1...
Aug 04, 2025•32 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also in this episode, a Christmas pricing preview - and word to Amazon Prime loyalists about new pricing , and cheaper alternatives. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Amazon Price Changes: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Why You Should Never Mail a Check / What Is FedNow? What Is a Roth 401(k) and How Does It Work? Social Security Survivor Benefits Amazon Raised P...
Aug 01, 2025•32 min
With car insurance rates escalating, many people are serious about shopping around for a better deal. Clark offers guidance for lowering that bill. Also, a topic of great interest to Clark and vital to us all: Energy and the factors affecting how much we pay. Save On Auto Insurance: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Energy Diversity: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Why You Need To Shop Your Auto Insurance ASAP Best Auto Insurance Companies and Some of the Worst How to Shop...
Jul 30, 2025•28 min
Are You Richer Than You Think? and This Little-Known Strategy Can Save You a Ton in Taxes Do you feel rich? Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss breaks down how to calculate your “rich ratio” and reveals surprising signs you're wealthier than you realize. Plus, discover the little-known NUA rule – a potential tax-saving strategy that could save you thousands on your 401(k)! Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the July 29, 2025 Ask an Advisor e...
Jul 29, 2025•32 min
Today - Clark discusses how retailers and consumers are handling inflation. To deal with higher prices, we’re changing how & where we shop . It works! Also, it's more important than ever to be on guard because scam attempts are nearly constant. Clark alerts you to some of the latest scams so you don’t get ripped off. Offset Inflation: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Most Common Scams: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 10 Ways You're Wasting Money on Groceries Axios: Store ...
Jul 28, 2025•27 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also in this episode, Clark discusses some unusual developments happening with air travel right now, including lower fares to Europe, and explains how reshopping advance bookings can save frequent flyers big money. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Airfares to Europe: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 12 Things You Never Knew You Could Get From Your Local Library ...
Jul 25, 2025•31 min
To save more, it’s important to tackle the “monthlies” - those bills that come due month after month. Today, Clark discusses how the cable monopoly is weakening and now you have more affordable choices for home internet . Also, a big monster mega bank with a lengthy rap sheet, formerly referred to by Clark as “criminal enterprise posing as a bank” - seems to have emerged from the dark side. Save On Home Internet: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Wells Fargo’s New Start: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segmen...
Jul 23, 2025•27 min
10 Financial Myths That Are Costing You Money Are you falling for common financial myths that are holding back your wealth? Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss debunks 10 prevalent financial misconceptions that could be costing you big time! 10 Investing Myths That Are Costing You Money Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the July 22, 2025 Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask . We hope you...
Jul 22, 2025•42 min
We all have to eat, but these days, eating out can eat up your wallet. Many Americans are adjusting their food spending habits, and Clark has some tips for you. Also, for those who regularly mail out packages, Clark discusses options for reliable, affordable shipping. Food Savings: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Clark Smart Shipping: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Axios: 1 big thing: Home cooking Costco vs. Sam's Club vs. BJ's Wholesale: Which Is Best? Warehouse Clubs...
Jul 21, 2025•31 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, Clark discusses upcoming opportunity in the car market, and answers the question: should you buy an EV now before the tax credit expires on new and used electric vehicles . Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 An EV Purchase: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark Howard's Take on the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Changes Aerolopa - Making sense of airline seating pl...
Jul 18, 2025•33 min
You bought it, you wore it once, then sent it back. Maybe you just changed your mind. In addition to online purchases necessitating more returns, there are those gaming return policies . Clark predicts how this challenge for retailers will become costlier for consumers. Also - Is now a good time to tackle a home improvement project? There’s something going on in the market you need to know. Retail Returns Costly: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Home Improvement Decision Making: Segment 3 Ask Clar...
Jul 16, 2025•28 min
Best Time To Take Social Security and Why Target Date Funds Are Good, but Not Perfect What’s the best time to take Social Security? Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss breaks down several scenarios to help you optimize your Social Security check. Also, target date funds have long been a popular option as a “set it and forget it” easy button for investing. Wes shares why this “TV dinner” of investing is a good – but not perfect – option. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives ...
Jul 15, 2025•41 min
Clark has recommended shopping for auto insurance as rates keep rising. But it’s also important to know how some insurers are tracking you surreptitiously to set rates, while others offer voluntary programs , or usage-based premiums to earn discounts, which can be a benefit or punishment. Later - Clark is in favor of businesses setting credit card surcharges in the U.S. as they do in other countries, but some gas stations have been caught charging outrageous amounts , and you need to be aware be...
Jul 14, 2025•26 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, Clark offers perspectives on the current job market with advice for those seeking employment, including recent high school and college grads . Plus, for those soon heading into college, hear Clark smart advice for graduating with a solid employment path. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 The Value Of Working While In School: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: ...
Jul 11, 2025•33 min
After the pandemic, the cruise industry came roaring back. But the tide is turning. Today - Clark smart direction for cruise travelers. Also, there are innovative methods of building much-needed housing in the U.S. awaiting wider adoption. Clark has an impressive case in point - courtesy of Brooklyn. Cruise Update: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Affordable Housing: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Why You Should Re-Shop Your Cruise Booking a Cruise? Here Are 5 Ways To Do It ...
Jul 09, 2025•30 min
Avoid This Potentially BIG Roth Blunder and 3 Keys to Happy Retirement Success Don't make this potentially HUGE Roth mistake! Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss reveals a little-known rule about rolling over your Roth 401(k) into a Roth IRA that could cost you big. If you've only contributed to a Roth 401(k), you need to hear this to avoid a costly blunder with the 5-year rule. Also, Wes recently received a retirement love letter from a couple who are self-proclaimed “happiest retirees on the ...
Jul 08, 2025•36 min
From influencers peddling goods to “finfluencers” employing bot farms to push fake posts about hot stocks - schemes and scams are rife on social media, and public users aren’t the ones getting rich. Also today, why you should never take a health insurance claim denial lying down! Clark explains the denial game, and how most of the time, filing an appeal works in your favor. Social Media Scamdemic: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 APPEAL Health Insurance Denials: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Ment...
Jul 07, 2025•32 min
Today, Clark discusses a disturbing trend underway involving retirement accounts, and explains the best way to use a 401(k). Also, Clark explores the significance of small business in building wealth and influencing the overall economy, including the opportunities provided for workers now facing uncertainty. Steady Retirement Saving: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Small Business: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark.com - INVEST & RETIRE The Only Two Exceptions to Clar...
Jul 02, 2025•32 min
