Make sure you have all of your financial accounts organized . Today people change jobs frequently, often leading to a confusing menagerie of retirement accounts. Streamlining investments helps you manage a sustainable retirement, and helps prevent losing track of savings. Also today, travel warnings about booking tours and cruises . Those industries have had a lot of instability. Clark offers some tricks of the trade for smart booking including the best way to pay, and a NEVER NEVER rule about t...
Aug 22, 2023•29 min
Clark points to a job sector seldom considered, where you can potentially make good money in a wage war - plus benefits. Also, for buyers, sellers and renters alike, Clark delivers a housing market update, including where things are headed. A Rewarding Job Sector: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Housing Update: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show US Job Openings Fall to Lowest Level Since 2021, Layoffs Ease Mounting job vacancies push state and local governments into a wage war f...
Aug 21, 2023•27 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Later, 20% of credit card users have heavy revolving debt, accounting for ¾ of the money banks make from cards. Few such users know their debt amount or interest rate, an oversight banks have exploited. If you’re carrying credit card debt, Clark has an assignment that could help you achieve being debt FREE. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Credit Card Debt: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segme...
Aug 18, 2023•28 min
The dominance of plastic and electronic forms of payment has made it more difficult to teach kids money basics. Not using real cash makes money seem like an infinite resource. Spending cards with parental controls has been the marketplace answer with fees attached. Clark discusses a new free offering from Chase. Also, renting goods is trending stronger these days, as all types of subscriptions are getting more expensive. Taken all together, these things can eat up your wallet over time. Clark br...
Aug 17, 2023•31 min
Credit cards are a massive expense for businesses. The U.S. has the highest merchant fees in the world, so many merchants pass on the expense to customers. Clark tells you how Visa is fighting back, and what this all means for both merchants and consumers. Also today, Clark - aka The Man From Roth - shares the considerable merits of the ROTH versions of 401(k)s and IRAs. Roths are the superior choice yet - underutilized. Credit Card Surcharge Decisions : Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Roth Power...
Aug 16, 2023•26 min
NFL football! Clark discusses the new Verizon deal on NFL Sunday Ticket and what you’ve got to know before kick off! Also - good news for fellow travelers - the deal has changed on domestic airfare. Verizon’s NFL Sunday Ticket: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Domestic Airfares: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Clark.com - Verizon Offers Customers Free NFL Sunday Ticket With a Catch 4 Things To Know Before You Buy a Digital TV Antenna YouTube TV Releases NFL Sunday Ticket Prici...
Aug 15, 2023•26 min
Clark lends perspective on the vehicle market before, during, and now post Covid. What potential car buyers need to know about the manufacturer-to-dealer pipeline now, for both new and used vehicles - including EVs. Is now the time to buy? Clark’s crystal ball reveals a clear answer. Also, something wealthy folks do to help stretch every dollar. Vehicle Market Update: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Diggin Deep Discounters: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Dealers have cars an...
Aug 14, 2023•30 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today, higher home prices and interest rates make saving for a down payment a big challenge that can take a decade to accomplish. So families are stepping in to help young adults buy their first home. Clark talks about the most effective way to do this, and has some definite thoughts on co-signing. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Family Assisted Home Buying: Segment 3 Ask Clark...
Aug 11, 2023•33 min
There are cultural differences when it comes to handling money and we in the U.S. aren’t known as champion savers… YET. If building savings for financial security eludes you, Clark has a two part plan to get you on track. Even if you carry debt, follow Clark’s simple start now, and ultimately rewrite your financial future. Also - Clark gives an overview of the rapidly changing streaming landscape and your choices. With prices on the rise, Free Ad Supported TV or FAST TV is gaining in popularity....
Aug 10, 2023•31 min
If you’re trying to decide whether to buy a home now or wait, beyond pre-approval are several cost considerations to add to your decision process. Clark discusses some of the basic costs of owning a home so you go in with a realistic budget for the expected AND the unexpected. Also today, when doing an online search , there’s something you’ve absolutely got to lookout for, or it can hit you hard in the wallet. The FULL Cost of Home Ownership: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 A KEY Internet Search ...
Aug 09, 2023•35 min
Real estate agent commissions are increasingly controversial with two massive class-action lawsuits underway. Would you sell your home yourself or use an agent? We have the results of our poll on that question. Also today, Clark talks about different areas that have been really expensive, but are now becoming more affordable. Knowing the 'zig-zag' principle can help you save more. Clark.com Poll: Real Estate Agents: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Price Drops: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Menti...
Aug 08, 2023•30 min
Overall, our expectations of when we want to retire aren’t matching up with our savings. Many of us lament we’re not really on track for retirement. Clark revisits the basics to help get you there, and has a challenge for you, regardless of your age. Also, there are great deals on certain electronics now. Clark shares key buying tips. Your Retirement Track: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Save On Electronics: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Investing & Retirement Archives...
Aug 07, 2023•30 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, did you hear about the ponzi scheme that involved manure conversion to energy? It’s a hard lesson about investing. Clark shares how the mass movement for private placement investments came about - and became a green light for con artists. Clark Stink s : Segments 1 & 2 Private Placement Investment WARNING: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Amazon Scam Warn...
Aug 04, 2023•33 min
People tend to carry a lot of embarrassment, shame and or anger around debt and other financial mistakes. Counselor Clark would like a word with you…. Also, water bills are up by about 50% over the last several years. Clark discusses the factors leading to this increase and what you can do about it. Facing Debt: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Rising Water Bills: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show The Hill: Americans are hiding their credit card debt Clark.com - Credit Card Debt...
Aug 03, 2023•32 min
Vanguard. There have been lots of complaints about this golden child lately. Clark shares the pioneering background of what is now the second largest investment house in the world, and how the company appears to be going through a midlife crisis. Also today, Clark has an update on the cost of apartment rental and the add-on fees to be aware of. An Issue With Beloved Vanguard: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Apartment Rental Update: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Vanguard Fac...
Aug 02, 2023•29 min
The U.S. is beginning to catch up when it comes to money transfer. Clark explains the deal with FedNow. Also, you may be overlooking a simple and inexpensive way to save big bucks on cooling your home this summer. What Is FedNow: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 SAVE on Air Conditioning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show What Is FedNow? Banks’ Newest Fed Headache: Nonstop Instant Payments A Retirement Tax Break That Ends the Fear of Outliving Your 401(k) What Is the Largest Home...
Aug 01, 2023•31 min
The extreme shortage of skilled workers is affecting everything from car and home repairs to medicine. Clark discusses 2 aspects of the structural labor shortage in the U.S. Also today, Clark has Costco news to share, and addresses several questions and complaints from your emails. The Skilled Labor Shortage: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Costco Membership News: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show WSJ - Why Is It So Hard to Get a Plumber to Even Call You Back? Nurses Have Had E...
Jul 31, 2023•28 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, overwhelmingly the people who should have a will do not. The recent saga surrounding the will of Aretha Franklin is a valuable lesson for us all. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Making A Will: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Costco vs. Sam's Club Credit Cards Comparison: Which Is Better? Credit Card Car Rental Insurance: What You Need To Know YouTube TV Re...
Jul 28, 2023•35 min
A trend you may have noticed - stores and restaurants are opening later and/or closing earlier. Post Covid we’re seeing new patterns. Also, from the Supreme Court decision to the latest in loan forgiveness, Clark has an update on student loan debt. Sooner Than Later Service: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Student Loan Update: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show America Is Becoming a Nation of Early Birds Resy - Book Your Reservation Your Guide to DIY Home Security Systems 6 Thin...
Jul 27, 2023•28 min
Have you seen the ads for a device that Elon Musk supposedly invented to cut electric bills? Clark tells you if that’s for real, and discusses some exciting upcoming options for power to your home. Also, believe it or not it’s time to shop back to school items. Clark points to some exceptional deal categories and shares shopping strategies. Energy Savings & Backup Power: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Back To School Shopping: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Fact Check: E...
Jul 26, 2023•28 min
Savers! The window is closing on long term CDs. Clark fills you in on what you can do now to maximize money put aside for saving, vs for investing. Put your money to work the right way. Also, money saving takeaways from Clark’s summer vacation including car rental and currency practices. 5 Year CD Rates Now: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Lessons Abroad- Clark’s Summer Vacation: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show The Window To Open a 5-Year CD Is Closing Soon What Is a CD and S...
Jul 25, 2023•34 min
Clark has important information on receiving a free or very affordable college education, including state based aid, reimbursement programs, Income Share Agreements, second level state universities and pricing resources. Also, how would you like to make extra money renting out your car? More competition is entering this field, and it could be good for your wallet. Affordable College: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Renting Out Your Car: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show [The Wa...
Jul 24, 2023•29 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also in this episode, how to save someone’s life using a simple household item. Clark Stink s : Segments 1 & 2 CPR: Taking The Plunge: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show American Express Send & Split with Venmo & PayPal Ask the Doctor: Are eggs risky for heart health? Eggs: Are they good or bad for my cholesterol? Intake of up to 3 Eggs per Day Is Associa...
Jul 21, 2023•35 min
Good news consumers! A new law changes the rules for 3rd party sellers on online marketplaces such as Amazon & Walmart. Clark covers what you need to know about these sellers, and the problem with online purchasing via your phone. Also today, long-term care insurance is cost prohibitive for most. Still, advance planning is a smart idea. Know what elder care options exist today and potentially in the future . Online Seller Disclosure: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Long-Term Care: Segment 3 A...
Jul 20, 2023•27 min
Homeowners insurance is getting more difficult to get or keep, even in states beyond FL & CA. Clark explains industry challenges and what homeowners can do about this growing problem. Also - What you don’t know can hurt you. Recent CFPB data show complaints against the credit bureaus roughly doubled in one year, highlighting the importance of being vigilant about your credit report accuracy. Homeowners Insurance Reset: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Credit Bureau Complaints: Segment 3 Ask Cl...
Jul 19, 2023•30 min
With the second wave of summer travel upon us, Clark has an update on mid to late summer travel prices . Also in this episode, Clark looks at the likelihood of recession as a normal part of a free market, how it would compare by historical measures, the negative and positive effects on the economy, and what you need to know if the economy does slow. Summer Travel Update: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Recession Explainer: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show [The Washington Post]...
Jul 18, 2023•27 min
As back-to-school season approaches, Clark shares opportunities to help students begin to establish credit . Also today, from fully remote to hybrid work, to mandatory return to the office - employers are reevaluating the remote option, leaving some employees with serious decisions to make. Building Student Credit: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Remote Work Dilemma: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Best Credit Cards for Students: Top Picks for 2023 A Simple Way To Help Your K...
Jul 17, 2023•25 min
Please enjoy this Best Of episode. Clark returns from travel adventures July 17th. Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, Clark explains the difference between hard inquiries and soft hits to your credit report, and other factors that affect your credit report and score. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Credit Report Inquiries: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Follow Clark Howard's #1 Rule To Tra...
Jul 07, 2023•32 min
Please enjoy this Best Of episode. Clark returns from travel adventures July 17th. One major key to financial freedom is avoiding ruinous fraud. Recent reporting shows ponzi schemes up 70% over the year, so it’s vital to be aware of what’s coming at you through various channels. Clark’s primer on what to look out for includes incoming alerts and what NEVER to click on. Also, hotel brand consistency has given way to sales considerations in the industry overall, devaluing brands. Know what this me...
Jul 06, 2023•27 min
Please enjoy this Best Of episode. Clark returns from travel adventures July 17th. Many took the wrong lesson from the speculative fever of 2020-21. As meme stock & crypto frenzy stoked message boards, people drove values up, and many ended up with heavy losses. Gambling & speculation should never be confused with investing. Understand the power of DULL and other lessons from a tortoise investor. Also, a booming scam area - FAKE search results and FAKE ads on social media with links to F...
Jul 05, 2023•31 min
