Today Clark focuses on one of the biggest purchases most of us make in life - cars. There are ways to get a vehicle for way less money than most people pay. Also, a look at the pros & cons of so called smart electric meters and time of use plans offered by utility companies - and how to decide which is best for you. Best Low Cost Vehicles: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Smart Meters: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Best new cars in 2025: Consumer Reports reveals top pic...
Mar 17, 2025•32 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Later - the housing market has made a huge turn. Clark spells out several factors creating market shifts both buyers and sellers should take note of. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Current State Of The Housing Market: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Where You Should Never Buy Travel Insurance for a Cruise InsureMyTrip Review: Why We Like It and How to Use It C...
Mar 14, 2025•37 min
With the price of goods in flux, it helps to be in the know to protect your wallet. Clarkies know how Clark uses unit pricing to shop smart at the grocery store. You would think that the bigger the bag, the smaller the unit price. Not so. Clark fills you in on what manufacturers have been doing and what to keep in mind with all purchases moving forward. Also - Travelers be prepared: the Real ID flight requirement domestically, and travel authorizations for entry into Europe are upon us. The Reta...
Mar 12, 2025•32 min
Are you dreaming of an early retirement but worried about making costly mistakes? In this episode, Wes uncovers six critical errors to avoid before taking the leap. With recent trends of companies offering buyouts and encouraging early exits, it's more important than ever to be prepared. Wes explores the shift in retirement expectations, from the traditional model to the modern reality, and discusses how to navigate this changing landscape. Don't let these common mistakes derail your early retir...
Mar 11, 2025•34 min
Clark loves to travel and does so very often. Understandably, many people are nervous about flying these days. Clark discusses airline safety, and how you can save big bucks with discount carriers. Also today - the latest on used car prices. A First Class Spirit Flight: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Used Car Prices: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: After a string of incidents, some flyers are sticking with a surprising carrier: Spirit Southwest Offers Companion Pass as New ...
Mar 10, 2025•32 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today - this weekend marks daylight savings time, and Clark has an important assignment for you that can help ensure your insurance works better for you. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Walk & Talk Home Video: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Free File Fillable Forms | Internal Revenue Service What Is an Annuity, and Why Does Clark Think They Stink? The...
Mar 07, 2025•36 min
Clark shares data showing how far your dollars will go in retirement depending on where you live in the country. The differences from state to state, even within the same region - are remarkable. Also - Clark discusses how tariffs affect the economy and what to prepare for as consumers and as workers The Cost Of Living By State: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Tariffs: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Mapped: How Far $1 Million Gets You in Retirement, by U.S State How To Free...
Mar 05, 2025•34 min
10 Habits of the Happiest Retirees Are you dreaming of a truly happy retirement? Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss reveals the 10 key habits of those who are living their best post-work lives, based on years of research. In today’s Ask an Advisor episode, Wes dives into both the financial and lifestyle choices that make all the difference. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the March 4, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podc...
Mar 04, 2025•35 min
Team Clark has long advised consumers in difficulty with financial institutions to file a complaint at ConsumerFinace.gov . Clark gives his take on what is currently happening with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and how they have served people in the past. Also today - Clarkies know how much Clark loves Costco. But it seems that lots of people love another warehouse club even more. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Survey: Warehouse Club Satisfact...
Mar 03, 2025•33 min
Money doesn’t mean much without health and well-being, and Americans are enjoying one life’s simple pleasures less and less. We know what a hazardous distraction phones can be while driving. But a new study shows this and other distractions impact one’s ability to disconnect and focus on enjoying healthy meals - more important to health than we realize. Also today, a cautionary tale about health insurance plans that don’t comply with the ACA. Banish Phone Distraction: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segmen...
Feb 28, 2025•26 min
Remember when Spam was something that just came in a can? Now, it’s an annoyance that shows up on our phones and in our inboxes on a daily basis. Know how to manage these attempts at fraud. Also today, a follow-up on something Spain is doing that shows huge promise for water supplies around the world. SPAM: A Lot!: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Water Supply Solution: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Stop Spam Calls for Good How To Stop and Report Spam Emails How To R...
Feb 26, 2025•30 min
How much money do you need to retire? Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss outlines two straightforward methods to determine the amount you'll need for a comfortable retirement. Wes walks you through factoring in income streams like Social Security and pensions, alongside your individual spending goals, to arrive at your target number. Also, "doom and gloom" headlines can often dominate financial news. Should you listen? Wes shares his perspective. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and...
Feb 25, 2025•39 min
Today, Clark recommends a simple measure we can take to help protect our financial accounts, and those of our aging loved ones, from fraud. Also - many are looking to book their summer travel, and the airlines are raising prices . Clark shares strategies to bend that price curve in your favor. Trusted Contacts: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Navigating Airfares: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Why You Should Name a Trusted Contact How to protect yourself against financial e...
Feb 24, 2025•29 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also in this episode, changes at Amazon have impacted customer service. Clark discusses what’s going on and what you need to look for when purchasing. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Amazon Customer No-Service: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Get Out of Debt in 7 Steps Credit Card Car Rental Insurance: What You Need To Know The Chase Sapphire® rental car...
Feb 21, 2025•34 min
One of the most popular pages on Clark.com is our Best High Yield Online Savings Accounts article, because we all want to get the most interest on our cash. Capital One was recently accused of cheating customers out of interest rate payments - so how do you ensure you are getting best rates? Also - several high profile celebrities have revealed that they have run out of retirement savings . It just goes to show that it’s not how much you make, but how much you save. Avoid the MPC (Marginal Prope...
Feb 19, 2025•29 min
Do you want to be a millionaire? Wes dives into the fascinating trend of "mini millionaires" and uncovers the secrets to their success. He explores data from the Federal Reserve and the Wall Street Journal, revealing the common traits of those achieving millionaire status. Are they earning massive salaries? How much does education matter? He breaks down the key factors. Plus, he revisits the timeless wisdom of "The Millionaire Next Door" and how its core principles still apply today. Also, Wes s...
Feb 18, 2025•41 min
Mid February and as resolutions fade, make the choice to double down! Today, the Clark smart way to join a gym, and what to know about health trackers and your privacy. Also - Zelle is not the only payment app to be concerned about. Spotlight on Cash App and the safest way to transfer money. How To Join A Gym: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Payment App Warning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Get a Gym Membership for Practically Free Why Does Clark Howard Wear 2 Watc...
Feb 17, 2025•31 min
Happy Valentine’s Day! One way to help keep love alive is being honest about money matters and talking over financial goals with your partner. Clark talks about different ways couples can navigate finances successfully. Also, the average cost of a wedding has hit a new high! But there are other ways to think about the big day, and beyond. Financial Fidelity: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Wedding Expense: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark Howard's 5 Money Tips for Coupl...
Feb 14, 2025•30 min
So many Americans are taking on side jobs to make extra cash. Clark talks about how important it is to have your scam radar up, and to prepare for the latest tax implications of gig work. Plus, for parents, Clark discusses the state of financial education and ways to give your kids the financial know-how they’ll need throughout life. Legit Gig Work: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Financial Education: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Taking the guesswork out of gigs 30 Easy S...
Feb 12, 2025•31 min
Monthly Pension vs. Lump Sum: The 6% Test and Is the Market Too High To Keep Investing? Should you take a monthly pension or a lump sum payout? That’s a tricky question, but fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss has a simple rule that can help you decide. Also, is it better to invest when markets are high or low? Wes breaks down market records since 1950 and shares his perspective on why investing in an all-time-high market is more important to your money than you may think. Plus, Christa shares ...
Feb 11, 2025•34 min
In today’s episode - It’s a nightmare to feel like you’re in over your head financially. Clark discusses the money traps that accompany our two largest monthly expenses: housing and transportation costs - and how to avoid them. Also - 2025 is bringing back pre-Covid work culture, including more return-to-office mandates. That and other factors mean heavier metro traffic. Clark has a commuter strategy to keep in mind. Housing & Vehicle Costs: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 2025 Traffic: Segme...
Feb 10, 2025•34 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today - Clark discusses what’s behind rising energy costs now and in the future, and the need for a rethink in home building. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Energy Prices & Home Building: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Switch Phone Carriers: 9 Easy Steps How To Fight Fraudulent Bank Account Charges Can I Access My Streaming Service Anywhere in...
Feb 07, 2025•39 min
Many are obsessed with having a perfect credit score . Clark offers a more realistic goal when it comes to your all important credit rating. Also, when things go wrong with travel, you have to fight for your rights. Clark shares strategies that can help you avoid problems in the first place, and discusses ways to advocate for yourself when you do run into a travel problem. Your Credit Score: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Be Your Own Travel Advocate: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on t...
Feb 05, 2025•33 min
Just recently, big news from China jolted the market and the media in the U.S. as a new AI technology entered the field: DeepSeek. In the first part of this episode, fee-only fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss explains how this development will only increase productivity in America and improve our economy. Also, Wes continues to discuss the DeepSeek news and how it is impacting markets and our investments. He shares five keys to stock diversification to help you limit losses and bad returns. P...
Feb 04, 2025•40 min
In today’s episode - Clark has new data on renting vs. buying in terms of long-term net worth and how renters can close the gap. Also, With Valentine’s Day ahead, Clark has good news if you are in the market for jewelry, specifically diamonds. Changes in the marketplace mean deals. Housing: Bridging The Net Worth Gap: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 The Diamond Marketplace: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: The median renter in America has a net worth of $10,400. The median ho...
Feb 03, 2025•31 min
Today - more issues with short term vacation rental sites like VRBO and Airbnb are cropping up. Who should take responsibility when things go wrong ? Know what to be aware of and what to do when the place is not as represented. Also - It’s the best of times AND the worst of times to experience buying a vehicle. Some methods are far more consumer focused than others, which can make a huge difference for your wallet. Vacation Rentals: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Modern Car Buying: Segment 3 Ask...
Jan 31, 2025•32 min
A recent article warns about how the stock market is turning into a casino for many Americans. If you must trade individual stocks, know the hazards, which include capital gains tax. Also today - It’s about to get easier to tell if you are being compensated fairly at work. How new state statutes can work to your advantage. Trading & Betting Addiction: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 New Job Listing Laws: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: More Men Are Addicted to the ‘Crack...
Jan 29, 2025•33 min
Is It Ever Too Late To Save for Retirement? Fee-only fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss has an answer, backed by years of research. Also, a major Social Security change in 2025 is set to positively impact nearly three million people. Wes explains everything you need to know, including who will see an increase in their checks. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the January 28, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit ...
Jan 28, 2025•36 min
When looking for a flight deal, there’s a trick that can save you a lot of money. Clark points to 3 airlines that might not be on your radar, but should be. Also - is your car spying on you? It’s highly likely. And what happens with your data? Clark discusses privacy concerns prevalent today. New Airlines & Destinations: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Vehicular Spying & Privacy Rights: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: NYTimes: Coming to a Tiny Airport Near You: New A...
Jan 27, 2025•31 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also in this episode, how people end up losing money when they change jobs and what you can do about it. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 401(k)s And Changing Jobs: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Do I Really Need To Put Premium Gasoline in My Vehicle? [The Washington Post] New job? You may be leaving behind thousands in 401(k) savings. Changing Jobs? Don’t Make...
Jan 24, 2025•32 min
