Today’s mandatory arbitration abuses trace back to a law passed a century ago, repeatedly upheld to deny citizens their right to a day in court. Clark shares yet another case in point . Also in this episode- open enrollment is an opportunity to choose among health care plans which offer one of Clark’s favorite tools for long term financial security. Should you opt for an HSA - Health Savings Account? Mandatory Arbitration: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 The Case For HSAs: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Se...
Oct 21, 2024•28 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today, criminal rings are heavily engaged in cell phone theft now, and they’re after your financials. Know what to do before, and after the loss or theft of your cell phone - just in case. Clark Stink s : Segments 1 & 2 Cell Phone Theft: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Best Investment Companies for Investors in 2024 Mortgages Archives - Clark Howard 4 Th...
Oct 18, 2024•29 min
With the recent hurricanes, wildfires, and other natural disasters around the country, Clark has specific advice for home buyers. Also today, as remote work scams proliferate, learn more about how to find legitimate work from home. Flood Insurance: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Legit WFH Jobs: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM Zillow will now show climate risk data on home listings Will Your House Flood? We Ask the Experts When Hurricane Hele...
Oct 17, 2024•35 min
Today, Clark discusses what’s going on with U.S. oil prices from a global perspective, in light of potentially escalating conflicts in the Middle East. Also, Medicare open enrollment is underway. With all the upheaval with Advantage plans this year, it’s more important than ever to understand the changes in your plan, and compare your options. Clark has a valuable resource to help you make the best choice. Oil & Gas Prices: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Medicare DisAdvantage Plans: Segment ...
Oct 16, 2024•33 min
Vigilance shoppers - With the holiday season already underway, sales are coming and going faster, increasing the likelihood of being overcharged - which happens more often than you might think. Clark has tips on how it pays to pay attention. Also today in retail peril - why you DON’T want to save 10% on your purchase if you apply for a store card. Overcharged At Checkout: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Retail Store Cards: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 5 Reasons Sam's Club...
Oct 15, 2024•29 min
In the news we’re seeing stories of travelers stranded and out thousands of dollars, because of the way they booked flights and hotels. Clark explains how to avoid this trap when making your travel plans. Also today, why PBMs - the prescription benefits managers included in many employer insurance programs - are often more costly than self-paying for meds. Clark gives you ways to save more on prescriptions. Warning - Fake Travel Agencies: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 How To Shop Prescriptions:...
Oct 14, 2024•29 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also travelers, Clark has new info on Real ID requirements, electronic driver’s licenses and a great new way to renew your passport. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 New Travel Document Options & Requirements: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: The best deals on TVs available now Credit Score Guide How To Dispute an Error on Your Credit Report and Win How To Ca...
Oct 11, 2024•34 min
Today, Clark has an update from the FDIC in the aftermath of the recent fintech meltdown, including the dangers of “blended banking” and how to spot fake savings account offers. Also - if you are in the market for a house, you may see offers for land contracts or seller financing. Know the downsides of alternative rent-to-own type mortgages Protections For Savers - An FDIC Update: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Beware Lease Purchase Type Home Offers: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on t...
Oct 10, 2024•29 min
Who wants to be a Millionaire? Clark discusses how this level of financial security can be within reach - even for those earning average pay. Also today - given the monumental scope of data breaches, in addition to task number one: freezing your credit - Clark has another tip for securing your identity. We all need to batten down the hatches, and Clark shares an important step to help you do just that. Becoming A Millionaire: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Secure Your Identity: Segment 3 Ask Cla...
Oct 09, 2024•33 min
On today’s Special Edition, Clark welcomes longtime friend and colleague, Jonathan Clements. A London born, Cambridge University graduate, financial writer Jonathan Clements is the founder and editor of HumbleDollar.com and author of "From Here to Financial Happiness," "How to Think About Money" and seven other books. His vast experience and contributions include serving as financial education director and teacher in various capacities, and as the personal finance columnist for The Wall Street J...
Oct 08, 2024•35 min
Recently Clark discussed how appealing auto insurance claims can lead to big savings. The same holds true for health insurance - and now there’s a tool to help you make a successful appeal of a denied claim . Also today, HOAs can be very controversial. Clark shares a story with a lesson about a ridiculous action by an aggressive HOA. Appeal Health Insurance Denials: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 HOA Pros & Cons: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What Should You Do if You...
Oct 07, 2024•29 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also in this episode, many people are wary of increasing automation in vehicles, but there’s a vital upside to this new technology. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Automated Vehicle Safety: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Big Change to the Sam's Club Rewards Program Why Clark Is Prepared To Break His 'No Debit Cards' Rule What Is Umbrella Insurance and Do You N...
Oct 04, 2024•30 min
Mortgage rates are a main concern for prospective home buyers, but Clark has other important considerations that make a huge difference in how much you’ll pay over time. Also, according to the Journal of Alzheimer’s Association, in addition to being the fourth largest cause of death for people age 70 and older in the U.S., dementia costs an estimated $80 billion per year. The good news is - there are preventative steps we can all take. Shopping A Mortgage: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Preventi...
Oct 03, 2024•31 min
Did you hear about the clever woman who sent an AirTag to herself to catch a mail thief? These devices are proving handy for a lot of reasons. Also, what is the best energy source we have in the United States? That’s a trick question. Clark explains. Tracking Devices: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 American Power Production: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: California woman fed up with stolen mail sends Apple AirTag to herself to catch thief Best 529 College Savings Plans By...
Oct 02, 2024•30 min
Clark shares two creative ways to save money on travel . Speaking of travel, do you have vacation time remaining this year? Clark discusses the importance of getting away! Car & RV Rental Deals: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Vacation Time: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: One Way Specials | Cruise America How To Find Cheap Flights in 3 Easy Steps FCC.gov- File A Complaint Companies are budgeting billions for an employee benefit that's increasingly unused Vacation Tips f...
Oct 01, 2024•29 min
Mortgage questions are up since the Fed Rate cut. Clark discusses what to expect with interest rates, and other factors that figure into cost effective strategies for home buyers and those considering refinancing. Also, it’s not too early to start thinking about the holidays and your budget. What to expect from retailers in terms of October & November deals and seasonal hiring. Mortgage Update: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Holiday Outlook: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the sh...
Sep 30, 2024•28 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, the tourism industry has been on a rollercoaster since the pandemic, with revenge travel peaking this past summer. Overwhelmed, Europe has been dishing out some backlash against tourists. So Clark has “zig-zag” advice for planning your next overseas adventure. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Destination Considerations: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 529 ...
Sep 27, 2024•38 min
In today’s episode - Clark recently saw a quote from one of the stars of “Shark Tank” about how much we waste money on daily habits, offering a new way to think about spending categories to locate areas where you can - Spend Less. Also, biometrics are clearly here to stay, and they can be a big positive for security. But what are you willing to give up, and how secure is your secure information? Daily Spending: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Biometric Security: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Men...
Sep 26, 2024•32 min
New vehicle pricing is down. But the overall cost of ownership is up and AAA has the numbers. The daily cost difference between vehicles will blow your mind. Also, new data charts life expectancies compared to healthcare spending per capita. Clark looks at how the U.S stacks up compared to other countries. New Cars: The Cost Of Ownership: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 U.S Healthcare Spending: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Report: The Surprising Cost of Owning a New Car S...
Sep 25, 2024•34 min
When it comes to medical bills, ask and you shall receive a discount - in many cases! Clark shares the success stats on some strategies to be aware of when you open that medical bill. Also - the FBI has issued warnings about a serious crime called ‘ Jugging ’ spreading across the country. What to know to protect yourself. Dealing With Medical Bills: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 ATM Safety Warning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Got an unaffordable or incorrect medical bi...
Sep 24, 2024•29 min
Buying a used car can be the wild, wild west. There are many pitfalls to be aware of, and brands to target because of their reliability. Clark shares Consumer Reports reliability ratings. Also, there’s real opportunity around the country for renters to pay less if you're willing to shop. And at renewal time, many landlords are offering rewards for paying rent on time and other gimmicks to retain your lease. But are these rewards worth it? Buying A Used Car: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Apartme...
Sep 23, 2024•29 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today, auto insurance rates increased by almost 20% last year. Will these increases continue? Clark explains how we got here, the state of the industry, and what you can do to keep costs down. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Auto Insurance Industry Changes: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Should I Buy Additional Insurance From a Rental Car Company? Scam Al...
Sep 20, 2024•34 min
Clark has tips for mortgage and other loan shoppers, including advice about credit inquiries, and the importance of OptOutPreScreen in your life. Also, when it comes to establishing credit, it’s important to get it right the first time. Clark shares credit building know-how for young adults & college students. OptOutPreScreen: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Establishing Credit: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: The trigger effect: Homebuyers face another challenge when ap...
Sep 19, 2024•32 min
Today, a warning about hotel frequent stay programs. Hotel points have been significantly devalued. Clark breaks down who should be brand loyal and who should not bother. Also, Clark has an update on something he’s talked about on the show - laundry detergent sheets . So do they work? Hotel Rewards Downgraded: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Update: Laundry Detergent Sheets: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: WSJ: The Loyalty Reward Downgrade Has Come for Hotel Guests Best Trav...
Sep 18, 2024•28 min
Today - we are going back to basics on saving. Recent stats are cause for concern about consumer spending and our average saving rate. Also, there’s a surge in Ponzi schemes stealing hundreds of millions from would-be investors. Clark relates real accounts of recent schemes and the red flags to look out for. Saving-First And Automatically: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Ponzi Schemes: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Americans’ Savings Rate Plummets Amid Summer Spending How ...
Sep 17, 2024•31 min
Today, Clark discusses the two main problems with gift cards and what one state is trying to do to prevent gift card scams. Also in this episode, the scourge of ATM fees. Learn where they are the highest , and how you can avoid paying them. Gift Card Problems & Reforms: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Avoiding ATM FEES: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Gift Card Scams | Consumer Advice / Gift Cards - Clark.com The Nation’s First Law Protecting Against Gift Card Draining H...
Sep 16, 2024•34 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today, Clark clears confusion surrounding new rules with real estate agent commissions for home buyers and sellers. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 New Rules On Real Estate Agent Commissions: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Want job security in this uncertain market? A surprising trend is paying off Pronounce Names What Is an Annuity, and Why Does Clark Th...
Sep 13, 2024•36 min
Today, Clark hosts digital advisor Kim Komando to discuss online security including passwords, followed by answers to some tech questions. Komando On Tech Security: Segment 1 Clark Asks Kim Your Tech Questions: Segment 2 Mentioned on the show: 5 Tips To Protect Your Digital Privacy Keeper Security: Password and Secrets Management 1Password: Top-Rated Password Manager for Personal … Dashlane: Password Manager for Home, Mobile and Business What are passkeys? Everything you need to know about the d...
Sep 12, 2024•31 min
Consumers have demanded lower prices and we’re seeing results! Manufacturing is slowing due to oversupply in many categories. Clark tells you where prices are trending down, and which retailers have responded to consumer signals in the marketplace with lower prices. Also today, with the arrival of fall sports - a big warning about something that could make your money disappear if you aren’t careful. Buying Opportunity: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Sports Gambling Warning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: ...
Sep 11, 2024•32 min
Team Clark is getting many questions about the recent massive data breach, possibly the second largest breach in history and one that includes social security numbers. Find out what you need to do about the National Public Data Breach . Also, Clark discusses how there’s a right way and a wrong way for companies to implement dynamic pricing. Evidently, some companies are taking the practice way too far. Data Breach Guidance: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Dynamic Pricing: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Seg...
Sep 10, 2024•33 min
