The Clark Howard Podcast

You bought it, you wore it once, then sent it back. Maybe you just changed your mind. In addition to online purchases necessitating more returns, there are those gaming return policies. Clark predicts how this challenge for retailers will become costlier for consumers. Also - Is now a good time to tackle a home improvement project? There’s something going on in the market you need to know. Retail Returns Costly: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Home Improvement Decision Making: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 15 Items That Can't Be Returned to Amazon 3 Reasons You Should Never Book a Nonrefundable Hotel Room The Only Reason You Should Make an Improvement to Your Home Americans delay home improvements in latest blow to US housing market Certificate of Deposit (CD): What Is It, Best Places To Open One What Is a CD Ladder and When Is It a Good Idea? CD Ladder Calculator - Clark Howard How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Best Time To Take Social Security and Why Target Date Funds Are Good, but Not Perfect What’s the best time to take Social Security? Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss breaks down several scenarios to help you optimize your Social Security check. Also, target date funds have long been a popular option as a “set it and forget it” easy button for investing. Wes shares why this “TV dinner” of investing is a good – but not perfect – option. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the July 15, 2025 Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes, in which Christa and Wes discuss investing and retirement savings in depth. Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes: BOOKS BY WES MOSS / Wes Moss, CFP® Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark has recommended shopping for auto insurance as rates keep rising. But it’s also important to know how some insurers are tracking you surreptitiously to set rates, while others offer voluntary programs, or usage-based premiums to earn discounts, which can be a benefit or punishment. Later - Clark is in favor of businesses setting credit card surcharges in the U.S. as they do in other countries, but some gas stations have been caught charging outrageous amounts, and you need to be aware before you go to the pump. Save On Auto Insurance: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Credit Card Surcharges On Gas: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Is Your Smartphone Making Your Car Insurance More Expensive? How to Shop for Lower Car Insurance Do I Need To Unfreeze My Credit To Shop for Car Insurance? Best Auto Insurance Companies and Some of the Worst Best Travel Credit Cards: Top Rewards Picks for 2025 Best Cash Back Credit Cards Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature® Card Review: Invest with 2% Cash Back Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also, Clark offers perspectives on the current job market with advice for those seeking employment, including recent high school and college grads. Plus, for those soon heading into college, hear Clark smart advice for graduating with a solid employment path. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 The Value Of Working While In School: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: ETF vs. Mutual Fund: Which Investment Is Better? What Are Index Funds? / What Is an ETF? Best Auto Insurance Companies and Some of the Worst Protect Your Money From Sneaky Card Skimmers Monarch Money Review: Is This Budgeting Tool Worth the Price? Empower Review: How It Works, Pros & Cons Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After the pandemic, the cruise industry came roaring back. But the tide is turning. Today - Clark smart direction for cruise travelers. Also, there are innovative methods of building much-needed housing in the U.S. awaiting wider adoption. Clark has an impressive case in point - courtesy of Brooklyn. Cruise Update: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Affordable Housing: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Why You Should Re-Shop Your Cruise Booking a Cruise? Here Are 5 Ways To Do It for Less Where You Should Never Buy Travel Insurance for a Cruise The Only Way You Should Pay for a Cruise How To Find Cheap Flights in 3 Easy Steps 5 Money Tips To Know Before You Travel Abroad This Brooklyn apartment complex was built like a Lego set Are Solar Panels Worth it? 3 Things To Consider Before You Get Solar Panels Ask Clark: How Should I Replace My Prepaid Bluebird® American Express®? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Avoid This Potentially BIG Roth Blunder and 3 Keys to Happy Retirement Success Don't make this potentially HUGE Roth mistake! Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss reveals a little-known rule about rolling over your Roth 401(k) into a Roth IRA that could cost you big. If you've only contributed to a Roth 401(k), you need to hear this to avoid a costly blunder with the 5-year rule. Also, Wes recently received a retirement love letter from a couple who are self-proclaimed “happiest retirees on the block.” He shares the letter and the big keys to happy retirement success. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the July 8, 2025 Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes, in which Christa and Wes discuss investing and retirement savings in depth. Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes: BOOKS BY WES MOSS / Wes Moss, CFP® Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From influencers peddling goods to “finfluencers” employing bot farms to push fake posts about hot stocks - schemes and scams are rife on social media, and public users aren’t the ones getting rich. Also today, why you should never take a health insurance claim denial lying down! Clark explains the denial game, and how most of the time, filing an appeal works in your favor. Social Media Scamdemic: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 APPEAL Health Insurance Denials: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Meta Battles an ‘Epidemic of Scams’ as Criminals Flood Instagram, Facebook - WSJ Tom’s Guide - The Oura ring just got a new rival What Should You Do if Your Insurance Claim Is Denied? No Surprises Act Consumer Advocate Toolkit Health Insurance Archives - Clark Howard Health Archives - Clark Howard Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Clark discusses a disturbing trend underway involving retirement accounts, and explains the best way to use a 401(k). Also, Clark explores the significance of small business in building wealth and influencing the overall economy, including the opportunities provided for workers now facing uncertainty. Steady Retirement Saving: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Small Business: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark.com - INVEST & RETIRE The Only Two Exceptions to Clark Howard's Annuity Rule Immediate Payout Annuity: What Is It and Do You Need It? How to Start Investing: 10 Steps for Beginners 3 Big Retirement Account Changes You Haven't Heard About What Is a SEP IRA and Who Is Eligible? What Is a Solo 401(k) and How Does It Work? How To Buy Term Life Insurance in 7 Easy Steps Homeowners Insurance Archives - Clark Howard How to Shop for Lower Car Insurance How To Send a ‘Drop Dead’ Letter to a Collection Agency Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today - A Clark travel update about what the airlines are doing to get you to pay more for your tickets and what you can do about it. Also, Clark has talked about how the airlines and hotels continuously devalue their miles and points. Now the credit card industry is at it as well. It looks like credit card points are going the way of the airline frequent flyer miles Airline Travel Update: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Travel Credit Card Points: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Thrifty Traveler - US Airlines Are Quietly Hitting Solo & Biz Travelers with Higher Fares How To Find Cheap Flights in 3 Easy Steps / Are Airline Miles Worth It? SeatGuru: Airline Seat Maps, Flights shopping and Flight information GOING - Plan trips. Get alerts. Fly for less Roth vs. Traditional 401(k): What's the Difference? Citi Is Devaluing ThankYou Points: Will It Impact the Double Cash Card? Best Airline Credit Cards for 2025: Are They Right For You? Should I Keep My Old Car or Buy a New Car? How To Sell Gift Cards Online for Cash Best Places To Find Free E-Books Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode - Some banks & brokerages are playing games with your money. Clark discusses how to make sure you’re getting the best rate on savings. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Attention - Savings Rates: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Are Extended Warranties Ever Worth It? Should You Buy an Extended Warranty for Your TV? Here's How Long Your Home Appliances Should Last 6 Things To Know About Series I Savings Bonds New Treasury I Bonds Yield Just Hit 4%. Are They Worth Owning? What Is Umbrella Insurance and Do You Need It? HSA - Clark.com Capital One Agrees To Major Settlement After Accusation of ‘Cheating’ Customers Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts High-Yield Savings Account (HYSA) Calculator Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: 6 Things To Know in 2025 Submit a complaint | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Wills & Funerals Archives - Clark Howard Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Concerned about the economy and looking to save more, many people are turning to warehouse clubs. The price difference is real. But Clark has concerns about what his beloved Costco is up to with a new payment option he does NOT recommend. Also, the debt burden many of us carry is also very real. Clark discusses how people are working on getting out of debt. The Warehouse Club Difference: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Dealing With Debt: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Inflation-weary Americans queue for toilet paper and cheap Bordeaux Warehouse Clubs Archives - Clark Howard Why 'Buy Now, Pay Later' Worries Clark Howard What Is FedNow? / ⁠Clark.com Community - Paze⁠ Why Clark Says You Should ‘Ignore’ Paze as Trendy New Payment Option Debt Archives // Budgeting & Saving Archives - Clark Howard 30 Easy Side Hustle Ideas How to Make Extra Money: 35 Easy Ways How Do Student Loans Work? 7 Things to Know Is It Ever OK To Co-Sign a Loan With a Family Member? What's the Best Savings Account for a Teenager? Fidelity Investments Review: Pros & Cons How To Open a Roth IRA Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Secret to Consistent Investing and Your Financial Safety Net for Any Market Are you tired of "FOMO Freddie" always bragging about his latest hot investment? Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss reveals why chasing market trends is a dangerous game and how sticking to your investment style is the key to long-term success. We'll dive into the perils of FOMO investing and show you what happens when you jump from one "best" strategy to the next. Also, Wes breaks down the critical concept of "dry powder" – what it is, why you need it, and how it acts as your ultimate financial buffer during market downturns. Learn about the different types of liquid safety assets that can protect your portfolio and give you peace of mind, no matter what the economy throws your way. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the June 24, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes, in which Christa and Wes discuss investing and retirement savings in depth. Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes: BOOKS BY WES MOSS / Wes Moss, CFP® Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s a big shift going on in the housing market. Clark explains what this means for buyers and sellers. Also, in this new era of tariffs, know what to keep in mind when purchasing a vehicle and why it’s time to rethink what you’re interested in buying. Housing Market Update: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Vehicle Purchase Considerations: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Save for a House / How To Buy a House in 9 Steps Buying Cars Online vs. Traditional Dealers: What To Know Report: These 10 Vehicles Are the Best for the Money in 2025 New Report: The Safest Car Models for 2025 How To Buy a Used Car / How to Buy a New Car in 5 Steps When Do You Tell a Car Dealership You're Paying Cash? What Condo Owners Need To Know About Insurance 6 Things To Know Before Contacting the National Foundation for Credit Counseling Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we celebrate Clark Howard’s birthday and the many accomplishments he’s inspired - starting with Clark’s own telling of his life’s trajectory into an ongoing mission of service. And in the second half of the podcast, a sampling of the many appreciations Clarkies sent in to celebrate him today. It may be Clark Stinks day, but on this birthday he comes out smelling like a high dollar rose bought on sale! About Clark: Segments 1 & 2 Clark Stinks-Special BD Edition: Segments 3 & 4 Mentioned on the show: About Clark Howard Clark Howard: Habitat for Humanity Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Data centers are creating higher demand for electricity and the cost is falling on consumers. Power bills could reach record highs this summer. Clark has two recommendations to help lower your energy bills. Speaking of summer, have you planned out your vacation days yet? Clark talks about the importance of time away from it all. Home Cooling: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Take Your PTO!: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Save Money on Utilities 7 Things Discover Cardholders Can Expect After Capital One Merger My 7 Rules for Using Credit Cards - Clark Howard How Many Credit Cards Is Too Many? How To Prevent, Report and Repair Identity Theft 5 Money Tips To Know Before You Travel Abroad Best Way To Exchange Dollars for Foreign Currency Best Credit Cards With No Foreign Transaction Fees in 2025 10 Clark Howard 'Never, Not Ever' Rules To Protect Your Money Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Secret Rule To Access Your IRA Early and Top 9 Things That Bring Joy in Retirement If you want to retire early, this rule can help! Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss breaks down the often-misunderstood Rule of 72(t). Discover how this IRS exception can allow you to access your IRA funds before age 59 ½ without incurring that hefty 10% early withdrawal penalty. Also, Wes dives into groundbreaking research on what truly brings joy and purpose in retirement. Wes shares surprising (and not-so-surprising) truths from his latest study of over 1,200 Americans. He reveals the top categories that consistently lead to a more purposeful and joyful post-career life. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the June 17, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes, in which Christa and Wes discuss investing and retirement savings in depth. Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes: BOOKS BY WES MOSS / Wes Moss, CFP® Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today - you may have heard about the boy who ordered 70,000 lollipops on Amazon. A reminder for parents to childproof devices to protect your accounts from plundering toddlers! Also, the stakes are higher now when renting a car. There’s a new inspection practice you must be aware of to protect your wallet. Childproof your devices: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Car Rental Warning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Prevent This $4,000 Oopsie From Happening to You Budgeting Basics: What You Need To Know To Get Started Free Budget Worksheet: The CLARK Method to Create a Monthly Budget Military and Veterans Guide: Free Resources for Your Finances How Long Should I Save Pictures of My Car Rental? How Can I Fight an Unfair Rental Car Charge? New Report: Best and Worst Car Rental Companies in America Cheapest Way to Rent a Car: Expert Tips How To Get a Free Credit Report The Best International Phone Plans TALK2ME 25 ULTRA MINI Portable PoC Walkie-Talkie Set Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today, an easy, low tech solution to the porch pirate problem. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Porch Pirate Solution: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Will Social Security Run Out? Sell Stuff Online: The Best Sites and Apps Shared Equity Mortgage: Meaning, Pros and Cons, FAQs Avoid Porch Pirates With These Delivery Options From Amazon, UPS, FedEx and USPS How a Promising Home Hack Is Stopping Porch Pirates Every Time Best budget road bikes 2025 6 Things To Know About Series I Savings Bonds What Is an ABLE Account? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A CNET survey has found the average consumer is paying close to $200 more per year for internet than a year ago. Today, paying for home internet service no longer has to be expensive. New choices have emerged to help you SAVE MORE. Also, bait & switch junk fees have been rampant - on hotels, tickets, services and more. But new rules are helping to change that in some quarters. Clark shares tips for getting the full price before you make buying decisions. Home Internet Options: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 All In Pricing: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark's Tips To Save Money on Home Internet in 2025 Airbnb will now show total prices by default What the Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees means for you The 12 Best International Carry-ons, Tested and Reviewed What Is a 403(b) and How Does It Work? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do Retirees Need To Track Stock Earnings? And This Rule Can Help You Retire Early If you're a retail investor or a happy retiree, should you be paying attention to corporate earnings? Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss dives into why earnings matter for both individual stock owners and index fund investors. Discover how the overall earnings of the S&P 500 influence market trends and whether you need to obsess over every quarterly report. Also, Wes breaks down the "Rule of 55," a lesser-known strategy that could help you access your retirement money sooner without penalties. Most people know about the Rule of 59 1/2, but Wes reveals the specific qualifications and conditions for utilizing the Rule of 55 with your 401(k). Learn how this rule could accelerate your path to retirement! Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the June 10, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes, in which Christa and Wes discuss investing and retirement savings in depth. Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes: BOOKS BY WES MOSS / Wes Moss, CFP® Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices