The Clark Howard Podcast - podcast cover

The Clark Howard Podcast

Clark Howardwww.clark.com
Save more and spend less is more than just a motto for money expert Clark Howard; it’s a way of life. Clark and his crew — Team Clark — are on a mission to empower people to take control of their personal finances by providing money-saving tips, consumer advice, hot deals and economic news to help everyone achieve financial freedom. Clark is a nationally syndicated radio talk show host and a consumer reporter for television stations around the country. His podcast, The Clark Howard Show, receives more than one million downloads each month and is a hub for listeners to get valuable advice on-demand any time. Clark answers questions on the most popular business and consumer topics including; how to buy a cars, financing a home, retirement planning, shopping for insurance and getting the most out of your savings. Join the conversation and submit your question to www.clark.com/askclark . Clark spearheads two free resources — Clark.com and ClarkDeals.com — to encourage consumers to save more, spend less and avoid ripoffs.
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Episodes

03.25.21 Employment: Upcoming job rotation brings opportunity plus, hybrid working / Defrauded students can reapply for loan forgiveness.

JOBS: Microsoft Survey Says - Over 40% of workers want to quit their jobs. This creates job rotation moving forward, and new opportunity. Also, the pros & cons of remote working as the hybrid return to work evolves. / Student loan mills feeding for-profit schools left a trail of disaster for borrowers cheated out of an education. Now these borrowers can reapply for student loan forgiveness . Check out affordable training opportunities including Google Certificates . Ask Clark topics include:...

Mar 25, 202128 min

03.24.21 Clark updates the pandemic economy as vaccinations take hold plus - travel news

Clark discusses proceeding with caution after vaccination, herd immunity and economic recovery. Step by step the economy will gain strength as people get out and about more. Expect stronger economic activity as we move through 21. / Today, Royal Caribbean is taking reservations for a June cruise out of the Bahamas with no U.S. stops. It's a start for cruise travelers. But beware "phantom booking" with cruise lines - a Clark warning. Bookings are up overall in the U.S. as people prepare for summe...

Mar 24, 202125 min

03.23.21 How and why the gas tax will change / New furniture shortages call for a Clark smart strategy.

With the rise of hybrids and electric vehicles, the gas tax for road maintenance has got to change. Some states are already going about mileage taxation. Clark explains what's around the bend. / An industry disrupted brings sticker shock to new furniture showrooms. Clark has a better way to feather your nest... Ask Clark topics include : Save on car insurance / Pay per mile car insurance rates / DOT.gov Consumer Complaint / 3-D Printed Homes / How to buy a used car Want more money advice? Sign u...

Mar 23, 202125 min

03.22.21 Gas prices escalate - what's ahead / A purchase & donation warning from Clark’s Consumer Action Center + New banking options

Clark discusses the supply & demand factors affecting the price of gas and what to expect at the pump. / A purchase and donation warning from the head of Team Clark’s Consumer Action Center - Another good reason to check your bank & credit card statements monthly. / The banking sector seems culturally incapable of becoming a customer focused industry. Meet the outsiders making a difference. Ask Clark topics include: Social Security problem: file a complaint through your Office of Constit...

Mar 22, 202126 min

03.19.21 Clark answers his critics on Clark Stinks / Free credit reports extended- the Clark Smart way to monitor your credit

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts and Clark responds. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks / Deadline Extended: Check Your Credit Report Every Week for Free - Clark Howard Clark Stinks & Ask Clark topics include: Cell phone insurance , Airbnb Superhost , Kids & Money -Clark's daddy match, Taxes on individual stocks . Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices...

Mar 19, 202127 min

03.18.21 If you were laid off, you may qualify for free COBRA insurance / News about companies you likely use spying on you.

Clark explains who qualifies for the new 6 month COBRA healthcare subsidy and how it works . Also, with so much focus on privacy violations, how Google has become proactive when it comes to tracking you for targeted ads. And you may want to shut down permissions for cell phone carriers engaging in extreme spying. Clark argues for opting in, versus having to opt out. How To Opt Out of T-Mobile’s New Ad-Targeting Policy - Clark Howard Ask Clark topics include: Domain registration 5 & 10 year d...

Mar 18, 202126 min

03.17.21 The pandemic 1 year later & Covid passports / Electric vehicles are transforming the auto industry

The pandemic 1 year in - Clark discusses the impact of vaccines on recovery and the emerging Covid passport. / Buying vehicles is in transition as electric vehicles gain range and become more affordable. Direct online versus dealer purchases are in play. Why it's riskly buying a new gas engine vehicle now. Ask clark questions include: Vaccination and Covid test form privacy concerns - Credit Freeze , Travel Insurance , Bitcoin IRA or Savings not recommnended, Zillow zestimates . Want more money ...

Mar 17, 202127 min

03.16.21 Fake Amazon reviews are a plague - reading past the con. / Auto price sticker shock -2 sectors where deals can be found.

Clark reveals what's led to bulk purchase of fake reviews on Amazon & how to read between the star ratings. / Almost 30% of new vehicles for sale now cost over $50K! That’s why most people buy used. 2 areas of the used sector have your best bet on price. Ask Clark topics include: Target Date Funds , Peacock Streaming Service Review , Robinhood- SEC Investor Complaint Form , Clark Howard's Special Rule for Refinancing Your Mortgage , Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily news...

Mar 16, 202130 min

03.15.21 What We Don't Know Can Harm Us: Credit report errors skyrocket. An assignment / Fraudsters morph phishing tactics & migrate their targets. Clark's key rule is your best defense.

More than half of all consumer complaints filed with the CFPB concern credit report errors, likely related to the bureaus' waiver from CARES Act compliance. Don't wait until this affects your financial life - A Clark smart vigilance assignment - and it's easy. / Pretext phone calls, emails & texts keep coming, ever more sophisticated. Clark's strategy helps keep you 1 step ahead of criminals. Ask Clark topics include: The merchant lied -Clark didn't buy the warranty: Clark's endorsement poli...

Mar 15, 202124 min

03.12.21 Clark answers his critics on Clark Stinks / Auto insurer trick drives up rates - Clark smart ways to keep premiums down.

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts and Clark responds. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks / 2021 policy renewals are using 2019 mileage to set premiums. Clark explains how to handle this and how to save on car insurance overall. Clark Stinks topics include: Long Term Care Insurance , 6 Things To Know Before You Sign Up for Visible , If you use multiple pharmacies, make sure they each have a list of your meds, JOB CORPS , Spousal Roth IRA , Citi Costco Card benefits still include car rental cov...

Mar 12, 202128 min

03.11.21 Key advice for home buyers / When should you buy a cell phone service plan?

63% of 2020 homebuyers made an offer on a house - sight unseen. Why a virtual tour is not enough. Half of all cell phone users have never lost or broken a phone, so do you need a service plan? 3 Clark smart ways to protect your phone Question topics include: Additional fees on a used vehicle purchase / Beginner investing / Home refi decision making Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices...

Mar 11, 202125 min

03.10.21 Great new construction methods save builders and buyers big money / Make it stop! Ways to reduce spam calls

Innovative building methods, including 3D printing, are more efficient, cut construction costs and produce highly energy efficient housing. / Sick of spam calls? Clark has some strategies to help eliminate them. Ask Clark topics include: Life Insurance and How to Buy a Used Car in 7 Steps - Clark Howard . Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices...

Mar 10, 202127 min

03.09.21 Economic recovery spending warning includes buy now, pay later hazard / Word to post-pandemic entrepreneurs.

Debt looms over intact or improved finances during recovery. Hold any gains and beware the buy now, pay later option on small purchases. 3/4 of users dropped their credit scores. / Picking up the Pieces: Rare opportunity exists to open businesses with less cost and less risk, especially in the restaurant industry. Ask Clark topics include: Car rental insurance , Internet based business phone systems - Ooma & 8x8 , Trip Adviser for vacation planning, Do Not Give Your Social Security Number at...

Mar 09, 202129 min

03.08.21 Walmart+ tweaks to compete with Amazon Prime. A Clark smart comparison / How Zillow now brings more certainty to home selling.

If you're convenience and price oriented, Walmart+ shines and is worth checking out. / iBuyers have brought convenience to home selling. Now Zillow brings more certainty to the process. Clark offers a smart approach to selling your home today. Ask Clark topics include: How and Why to Refinance Your Mortgage: A Step-By-Step Guide , How to Get a Mortgage in 8 Steps , Hiring a Fee-Only Financial Planner , What is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor? , ProtonMail is free, encrypted email , WhatsApp's new ...

Mar 08, 202129 min

03.05.21 Clark answers his critics on Clark Stinks / Why being a renter may be the smart move now into 2022.

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts and Clark responds. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . / There are major disruptions in the housing and rental markets now. Several factors figure into the current housing crunch. Clark explains what to consider when making the decision to rent or to buy this and next year. Ask Clark topics include: Borrowing from your 401k , Marijuana stocks , Pet Insurance . Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter ! Learn more about your ad choic...

Mar 05, 202130 min

03.04.21 Money myths can cost you / Extended warranties - Are the ever worth it?

Just under half of people surveyed believe it's best to leave a balance on a credit card - and other money myths that don't serve you well. / Extended warranties on vehicles - when, where and IF you should ever buy one. Ask Clark topics include: What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? , 529 Plans . Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices...

Mar 04, 202125 min

03.03.21 The 'fast furniture' trend and your wallet. / Flood Insurance changes are on the way. Vital info for homeowners and buyers.

Urbanization and climate changes are increasing flood risks. Premium adjustments are coming from the National Flood Insurance Program as the Feds realign risk levels. It's vital for homeowners and potential buyers to know the risk level of any property. FloodFactor.com - FloodSmart.gov . // Mobile young adults are renting furniture these days - convenient but is this cost effective? Clark tells you how to get the most from your furniture dollars. Ask Clark topics include: W-4 withholding confusi...

Mar 03, 202124 min

03.02.21 Streaming: The Paramount+ launch deal and DirecTV status / Unemployment expands eligibility- Who is included and application advice.

Paramount+ launches this week. Check out the lineup and see if the promotion for early subscribers is right for you. Also, why you may see DirecTV prices go higher. / Unemployment Insurance has expanded eligibility by executive order. Depending on state, delays continue. Clark has application advice to facilitate the process. Ask Clark topics include: Home Internet , Best Online Banks , How much cash should you keep at home . Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter ! Le...

Mar 02, 202126 min

03.01.21 Timing is Everything: An Important deadline for small business owners / Booking your next travel adventure.

PPP - This time is different . For the next 9 days, businesses with less than 20 employees can apply exclusively. Non-banks, meaning credit unions and fintechs, play fair. This money IS available with loan forgiveness if eligible. / Clark advises on when & how to book air travel for later this year into early 22 - before prices go "sky high" with increased demand. And, should you should consider cruises? Ask Clark topics include: Resource for entrepreneurs - SCORE.org , T-Mobile Money is awe...

Mar 01, 202125 min

02.26.21 Clark answers his critics on Clark Stinks / A trend in the supermarket industry that can save you up to 50%

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts on the site with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . / Transformation in the supermarket industry is creating major savings opportunity for you. Clark points to your lower cost options. Ask Clark topics include: Should I Stop Paying My Student Loans Right Now? - Clark Howard / ABLE accounts: A tax-free way for parents of disabled kids to save for the future-Clark Howard Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter ! Learn more abo...

Feb 26, 202126 min

02.25.21 Privacy Protection: WhatsApp alternatives / The Kroger data breach part of something deep - your assignment

Facebook owned WhatsApp is changing terms of service allowing them to invade privacy. Clark's warning and alternatives. Also, the Kroger data breach is part of an overall massive breach affecting many companies. Resist breach fatigue and freeze your credit if you haven't yet. Ask Clark topics include: Bill reduction services, Robocalls , Credit cards ditching car rental coverage. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone...

Feb 25, 202127 min

02.24.21 The Power of the Pivot-Knowing where your transferable skills are needed. Also, your options when your employer doesn't offer a 401K match or any retirement account.

The Power of the Pivot : Job demand is up in some areas. Clark offers guidance on finding active job categories and transferring your skill set outside the box. Some who have pivoted have increased their incomes. Also, when your employer offers no retirement plan or match, Clark gets you started on handling your own future financial security. - How to Open a Roth IRA - Clark Howard . / Ask Clark topics include: Trekz earbuds , employer 401K security freeze, The dangers of Zelle . Want more money...

Feb 24, 202126 min

02.23.21 A new way to invest that doesn’t involve buying stocks hyped on Reddit. Also, a new charge is appearing on bills of all kinds. What to watch for.

Clark recommends long-term investing and welcomes Marcus Invest from Goldman Sachs for small investors, akin to Wealthfront & Betterment. Also, PPE cost money and the charges are being passed on to you. Be aware when paying extra. Ask Clark topics include: Timeshares and Credit Cards . Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices...

Feb 23, 202126 min

02.22.21 Car buyer update for new and used vehiciles / A stand out cell phone plan

How Ford's new Blue Advantage car buying program stacks up to CarMax & Carvana and why now isn't the time to buy a new vehicle. / Verizon's discounter Visible has an improved plan that could save you major money. 6 Things to Know Before You Sign Up for Visible - Clark Howard Question topics include: Canadian savings accounts, 10 Ways to Save on Prescription Drugs - Clark Howard , the Bumped app has changed, Why You Should Never Sign Up for Overdraft Protection - Clark Howard . Want more mone...

Feb 22, 202124 min

02.19.21 Clark answers his critics on Clark Stinks / Jobs that pay a great starting salary for college grads

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts on the site with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . A poll finds many teens and young adults believe a high school education is enough to earn a decent living. Generally, more education is needed for stable employment, via state technical schools and/or colleges. Clark lists the best paying jobs out of college and explains you don't have to go into massive student loan debt to earn a college degree . Question topics include: Amazon reviews / Finding ...

Feb 19, 202127 min

02.18.21 Renters' Rights and the Mortgage Forebearance extension / Auto theft and breakins-Prevention

Rule changes for renters and home buyers have occurred. Renters facing eviction have rights, but must verify economic hardship and follow procedure. Clark explains what forebearance now exists for FHA, Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac mortgage holders and payment strategies. Crimes stats are up. Extra measures you can take to help prevent car theft and break-ins Ask Clark topics include the virtual mailbox in the absence of a physical home address, how to protect the Schwab debit card Links mentioned: ...

Feb 18, 202125 min

02.17.21 Stock trading tax issues + index funds / Employment prospects as the economy recovers

If you must do high-frequency stock trades, Clark gives you the tax-smart way to proceed and explains the beauty of index funds. / Surprising news and Clark smart direction on the job front. Clark answers your questions: Youth banking accounts / How to spot a car wrap scam / WYZE home security Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices...

Feb 17, 202126 min

02.16.21 Vaccine scams are proliferating- can you spot them? / A new way to save on high cost generic drugs

The Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company offers more affordable versions of expensive generic drugs / Vaccine fraudsters are after your money and personal information. Clark explains the red flags to look out for. Clark answers your questions: Sports programming on streaming channels - check T-Mobile Tuesdays for free MLB. / Kill A Watt electricity usage monitors / Able Accounts / HSA Accounts Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visi...

Feb 16, 202127 min

02.15.21 State & local revenues not terrible / Ponzi fraud is booming

Clark explains how state and local revenues are faring so far in the pandemic. Ponzi schemes are alive and well. Know how the game is played, so you don't get played. The Ponzi Scheme Blog . Clark fields questions on 3 to 5G security system monitoring / How tax credits on electric vehicles work. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices...

Feb 15, 202125 min

2.12.21 Clark Stinks; Payment apps like Venmo and Cash App need to serve customers better!

Christa shares the Clark Stinks posted on the web and shares with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . The CFPB has launched a probe into Venmo's debt collection practices. Clark tells you what you need to know about using these payment apps so you don't lose money. Question topics include: cable company problems and where to get a nice mattress for a reasonable price. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone....

Feb 12, 202127 min
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