There’s a price war going on in the cell phone industry and consumers can win savings! Clark points the way. Also, the South experienced record cold over the holidays causing pipes to burst and costing millions in water damage. No matter where you live, know how to prevent this and what steps to take if you have suffered damage to your dwelling. Cell Plan Deals: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Prevent Busted Water Pipes: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Verizon: Start the Yea...
Jan 10, 2023•29 min
Clark’s first in a series about new tax rules in effect: A GREAT development with 529 plans may change your decisions on how to save for college. Also, Clark covers energy credits in the Inflation Reduction Act. Learn what you may be eligible for, covering heat pumps, solar and more, and why you should take your time! New 529 Plan Rules: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 New Energy Credits: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: NYTimes.com: A Sign That Tuition Is Too High: Some Coll...
Jan 09, 2023•29 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, Clark goes back to basics on credit card debt . If you're committed to paying off debt, Clark smart strategies can help get you to debt free . Clark Stink s : Segments 1 & 2 Credit Card Debt: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Poll: Almost half of Americans are holding on to unused gift cards How To Sell Gift Cards Online for Cash-Clark.com Should I Tip on...
Jan 06, 2023•33 min
Airbnb hired a background check company to vet owners and renters, fueling complaints of unjustified bans, mistaken identity, and no real appeal process. Clark weighs in. Also - planes, trains and automobiles - Clark got caught in the Southwest meltdown , and recounts his 3 day journey to make it home by Christmas. Airbnb Background Checks: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Clark’s Holiday Travel Misadventures: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: USA TODAY: Does Airbnb do criminal...
Jan 05, 2023•35 min
A new year, and many have resolved to work out more. Clark answers the burning question: When do you sign a contract with a gym that obligates you for 1, 2 or 3 years? Get the lowdown on gym membership and the commitment to fitness. Also, hear why younger generations are now more likely to suffer fraud than seniors. Clark counts the ways, and shares how to protect yourself. Commit To Be Fit: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Fraud For All: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Why P...
Jan 04, 2023•31 min
Gift cards are universal but there’s a mistake about half us make with them. Major retailers make hundreds of millions of dollars on gift cards never redeemed. Clark has an assignment for you, including when best to start. Also - “ cash stuffing ” - a new term for a classic idea Clark has long recommended, can teach the real value of real money. Gift Cards: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Cash Stuffing: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Poll: Almost half of Americans are holdi...
Jan 03, 2023•28 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also in this episode, Clark shares a key step to defend your identity and accounts from SIM swapping - the theft of your cell service. Now T-Mobile has a new security feature that helps block this type of fraud. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 T-Mobile SIM Protection: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Welcome to Clark’s Christmas Kids 2022 Clark's 4 Secrets To Sa...
Dec 23, 2022•32 min
Good news this Christmas week - Despite upheaval in some employment sectors, Clark shares indications we are moving closer to economic equilibrium. Gas prices are now lower , including diesel for truckers, and a new report finds online prices declining as well in many categories. Also, the car rental game has gotten tougher for consumers. Companies are becoming more fee aggressive . Know the Clark smart steps for renting a vehicle. The Economy Speaks: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Car Rental Ru...
Dec 22, 2022•28 min
Many loved ones are separated, living in different parts of the country, and that has consequences and remedies worth considering, especially over the holidays. Also, tis the season for identity theft . Clark covers the basics including different types of ID theft and 3 key strategies to protect yourself , including some NEVER EVER rules. Reconnecting This Holiday: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Identity Theft: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Barrons.com: Americans Are Lone...
Dec 21, 2022•30 min
Is it wiser for a family to fund an investment account over a 529 plan ? 529 plans are a slam dunk for a kid definitely going to college. But if there’s uncertainty surrounding attending college, Clark offers 2 alternative ways to save for the best tax outcome. Also, the pharmacy industry is under duress due to staffing shortages. Learn which are the top-ranked pharmacies for customer service. Investment Account Vs 529 Plan: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Best Pharmacies: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Se...
Dec 20, 2022•30 min
Despite increased wages , average earnings have not kept pace with inflation. Since the initial pandemic layoffs, labor force participation has gone down meaningfully, especially among men , while job opportunities with training and higher wages abound. Clark tells you how to bid your wages up in this evolving economy. Also, teaching youth about money now needs to include crypto, which can be challenging to understand much less explain. Hear Clark’s explanation of digital currency , & the pr...
Dec 19, 2022•29 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also in this episode - lots of people would like to retire early , but how do you know if you are really ready? Clark talks through 2 major areas to consider, before making that big decision. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Retirement Readiness Considerations: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What Clark Howard Thinks of 'Crypto Winter' After Big Crash Virtual Cr...
Dec 16, 2022•36 min
This is the week for appreciating service providers with holiday tipping - more of an art than a science. Needed guidance found here. Also, Clark has a prediction about new heat pump, solar and EV tax credits, and reasons you should take your time approaching these incentives. Holiday Tipping: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Energy Tax Incentive Advice: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Holiday Tipping: Who To Tip and How Much The no-stress guide to holiday tipping Holiday Tip...
Dec 15, 2022•30 min
When applying for a credit card, knowing your approval odds is a great tool being offered more often. But therein lies hazard. Household debt is rising at the fastest rate since 2007 as credit card debt soars. Also in this episode, Clark lays out 2 main reasons home prices have been going up beyond the general rate of inflation since before the recent run ups, and offers a partial remedy for home buyers to consider as home prices now moderate. Credit Card Debt: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Hou...
Dec 14, 2022•30 min
Amazon has a new virtual health clinic . Clark explains the tie-in with Amazon Pharmacy and how this limited service works. Also, there’s a battle royale over pricing between manufacturers and retailers that goes way back and has recently gotten bigger. When shopping online, ever wonder why you often can’t see the price until you put the item in your cart? Clark explains what’s really going on and how to proceed. Amazon’s Virtual Health Clinic: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Manufacturer Pricing...
Dec 13, 2022•29 min
Has your power company offered you a “special deal” that they say may save you money? Because it’s become much more complicated to provide kilowatts, power companies are trying to shift capacity burden to consumers via time of use meters and certain incentives. Clark shares how this could end up costing you more. Also, what’s better for your investments - actively managed mutual funds or index funds? A new study reveals some facts about investing you may not be aware of that can affect your outc...
Dec 12, 2022•32 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also in this episode: Reading is fundamental and a bit of a lost art due to technology. Yet, it’s technology that can make the enriching and relaxing endeavor of long-form reading all the more convenient - and sometimes FREE . Clark helps you discover your e-book options. Clark Stink s : Segments 1 & 2 Free E-Books: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark Howar...
Dec 09, 2022•29 min
The news just gets worse for travelers dealing with airline customer no service. Clark cites heavy fines against airlines for non refund of tickets on canceled flights, and discusses how you can avoid high baggage fees . Also in this episode: Grocery inflation is beginning to ease, item by item and Clark shares a money saving example in the meat department, and why using a “reverse shopping list” is key to spending less. Airline Fees: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Supermarket Savings: Segment 3...
Dec 08, 2022•31 min
With the price of cars still up there, your money should buy reliability. Clark runs down highlights from new Consumer Reports rankings . Also in this episode: Like a game of Twister, corporate pandemic pivots left some in better stead than others. Many tech companies over expanded and it’s coming back to haunt those companies, their employees and customers . Reliable Car Brands: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Corporate Pandemic Fallout: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Cons...
Dec 07, 2022•35 min
This December the shelves are stocked and there are still deals to be had. Clark talks friendly prices in toyland and for clothing , laptops and appliances. Also this episode: Medical providers of all types are promoting instant credit . Clark explains why these credit plans are bad medicine - financially. Holiday Deals: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Medical Credit Plans: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Axios: The end of the end of HELOC Home - Elliott Report How To Reach ...
Dec 06, 2022•25 min
Following a PR disaster and Senate hearings, the banks that created fraud-riddled Zelle are coming to the reform table . Clark describes testing going on now , soon coming to consumers. Also, the current state of holiday shipping is not what Clark predicted. Potential Zelle Reform: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Holiday Shipping: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: These Big Banks Are Finally Doing Something About Zelle Best Credit Cards for Students: Top Picks for 2022 My Soci...
Dec 05, 2022•29 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, the short term rental market keeps going through changes channeled through Airbnb & VRBO themselves, and by local governments , directly affecting rental property decisions and renter experiences. Clark shares recent examples of both, including what Airbnb is doing to regain trust in the marketplace. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Airbnb Changes: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segm...
Dec 02, 2022•32 min
The Costco Citi Visa card is eliminating one of its best benefits starting January 1st. Get Clark’s card benefit workaround. Also, if you’ve ever kicked yourself for not canceling a free trial subscription or an automatic renewal , you are not alone. Learn how to manage subscriptions and avoid the built-in hassles of free trials. Costco Citi Visa Benefit Cut: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Clark Savvy Subscription Management: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Citi Removes Imp...
Dec 01, 2022•30 min
How much can you save at Costco vs traditional supermarkets? You may be surprised! Clark also has an important warning issued by the USPS concerning how you mail cards and packages. Clark shares tips for more secure mailing & bill pay - and tells you the one thing you should NEVER carry with you because if it’s stolen, YOU could end up in jail. Clark’s TV Grocery Study: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Holiday Postal Alert: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: CNET-Costco Shop...
Nov 30, 2022•28 min
Survey says: The slowest fast food lines belong to the most popular fast food place. And a serious innovation for workers at one of these restaurants is a big success. Also - Job mobility in the modern era has created the problem of stranded 401(k)s getting cashed out. If you’ve got one or more old 401(k) accounts, a new financial portability service can help consolidate your retirement funds. Fast-Food Report: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 401(K) Transfers: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Menti...
Nov 29, 2022•30 min
New warnings if you have a leased car or are trying to buy a vehicle . Dealers are getting desperate, and some are using dirty tactics you need to know about. Also, it’s go time for holiday shopping and Clark has several excellent tips for how to save while shopping online this holiday season, plus shipping and store pick-up advice. Vehicle Purchases & Lease Buyouts: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Clark Smart Online Shopping: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Car dealers ...
Nov 28, 2022•30 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, Clark shares another reason to change your grocery shopping habits if you haven’t yet. Learn just how you’re being played if you are extremely brand name loyal. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Big Brand Price Hikes: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How to Save Money on Car Insurance Should I Buy an Extended Warranty on Tires? TireBuyer: 5 Things To Know Be...
Nov 18, 2022•31 min
FTX Crypto has gone bust, and there are lots of questions about where millions in client money has gone. Clark explains what has happened with FTX and other crypto exchanges and what’s next. Learn Clark’s NEVER NEVER rule for crypto. Another rip off - Scams against people age 60 and over are up 40% in the last 2 years. And that’s only what’s reported. The scams add up to $Billions stolen, and criminals work overtime during the holidays. What to look out for to protect yourself and loved ones. Th...
Nov 17, 2022•28 min
Get Clark’s take on where mortgage rates are heading, plus great news about how lenders will determine your creditworthiness for a mortgage in the future. Also - The way future energy is discussed needs to be broader, based in the marketplace. A major natural gas company is integrating solar into the mix. How cool is that? Clark knows! Mortgage Rate Outlook: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 The Future of Energy: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Mortgages Sold to Fannie, Freddi...
Nov 16, 2022•26 min
The importance of choosing a financial adviser wisely can not be emphasized enough, and Clark has even more proof. Learn what to avoid , and when & how to hire a real financial planner. Also, the ongoing labor shortage is leading to adaptive innovations by American companies. Clark discusses manufacturing and automation as businesses adjust to labor force conditions - and what these changes will look like for consumers. Financial Advisers: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Labor Shortage Adapta...
Nov 15, 2022•34 min
