The Clark Howard Podcast

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 insurance guide 8 Free or Cheap Cybersecurity Tips for Travelers 12 Keys To Keeping Your Home Wi-Fi Network Safe and Secure Introduction to Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) 10 Ways To Save on Prescription Drugs How to Buy a New Car in 5 Steps Costco Car Buying Program: 4 Things To Know Before You Sign Up 10 Common Job Search Scams 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

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 Propensity to Consume) trap that has drained dry even the wealthiest of earners. Make More On Savings: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Retirement: Running On Empty: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Capital One Accused of ‘Cheating’ Customers Out of $2 Billion Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts - Clark.com High-Yield Savings Account (HYSA) Calculator How To Open a Roth IRA Best 529 College Savings Plans By State What Is an HSA Account 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 Advertisers: policygenius.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 shares three powerful investing lessons from an interview with the legendary John Bogle, founder of Vanguard. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the February 18, 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: Wes Moss, CFP® Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Watches? 13 of the Best Free Workout And Fitness Apps Consumer Reports - Your Exercise Bike Knows a Lot About You & Doesn't Keep Every Secret IRS Direct File Expands to Millions More Taxpayers 9 Free Federal and State Tax Filing Services for 2025 Cash App Ordered To Pay Millions for Fraud, Security Issues Safer Ways To Send Money - Clark.com 6 Things To Know Before You Buy Gas at Costco Wholesale 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

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 Couples How Couples Can Get on the Same Page About Money 6 Things To Know Before Contacting the National Foundation for Credit Counseling How To Spot and Avoid Gift Card Scams The One and Only Exception to Clark Howard's 'No Gift Card' Rule How To Talk to Your Partner About Money Before Marriage SAVE Money On Your Wedding Marriage, money and happiness: A timeline I Need Plane Tickets for an International Trip. Should I Buy Now or Wait? 5 Steps To Getting a Good Deal on a Hotel Room 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

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 Side Hustle Ideas Is One Medical Membership for Prime Members Better Than a Health Concierge? Amazon One Medical - Portland OR How to Find a Geriatric Care Manager / Senior Planning NHTSA safety | Check for Recalls. Save Lives. Why You Should Never Use a Debit Card To Pay for Anything How To Buy Term Life Insurance in 7 Easy Steps 4 Types of Term Life Insurance Companies Explained Discover it® Cash Back Review: Earn Rotating 5% in Top Categories Credit Karma Review: Free Credit Score and More at Your Fingertips 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

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 your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the February 11, 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: Wes Moss, CFP® Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Submit a complaint | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau The Safer Way To Use Your Debit Card Why You Should Never Use a Debit Card To Pay for Anything MEFA (Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority) College Cost Projector Tuition Inflation - Finaid How to Take the Car Keys Away From Unsafe Elderly Florida Drivers How To Buy a Used Car 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 - 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 the U.S. and Internationally? IRS Direct File Expands to Millions More Taxpayers 8 Free Federal and State Tax Filing Services for 2025 5 Reasons Why This Is the Best Time of the Year To File Your Taxes Why this Boston homeowner doesn’t pay anything to heat his house 10 Ways To Lower Your Heating Bill / How To Save Money on Utilities How To Get a Free Credit Report / 4 Ways To Get Your Free Credit Score How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? 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

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 the show: What Is a Good Credit Score? How To Improve Your Credit Score in 5 Key Areas Why You Don’t Need an 800 Credit Score Credit Karma Review: Free Credit Score and More at Your Fingertips How Long Will It Take for My Credit Score To Go Up if I Missed a Payment? File a Consumer Complaint / Air Travel Service Complaint | secure.dot.gov Do You Get Better Prices on Hotels From Third-Party Sites or by Booking Directly? How To Find Cheap Flights in 3 Easy Steps Follow Clark Howard's #1 Rule To Travel Cheap Going™ | Formerly Scott's Cheap Flights | Flight Subscription 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

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. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the February 4, 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: Wes Moss, CFP® Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 homeowner’s net worth is $400,000 Should You Take Your Pension in a Lump Sum or Monthly Payments? What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? Best Financial Advisors De Beers amasses biggest diamond stockpile since 2008 financial crisis Verizon administrative settlement payments are nowhere near $100. Here's why Should You Respond to Class-Action Lawsuits? How To Sell, Cancel or Get Rid of Your Timeshare Why Vacation Clubs Are Even Worse Than Timeshares 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 - 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 Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How short-term vacation rentals use a decades-old internet law to dodge safety concerns National Registry Of Unclaimed Retirement Benefits How To Find Missing or Lost Retirement Accounts - Clark.com AI Lured Me Into a Car Dealership. That’s Where Things Broke Down Amazon is officially in the online car sales business Why You Should Never Use a Debit Card To Pay for Anything How To Avoid ATM Fees How To Switch Banks in 4 Simple Steps Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 APELLA WEALTH - Advice For Life Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Cocaine’ of the Stock Market - WSJ How To Open a Roth IRA 5 Steps To Getting a Good Deal on a Hotel Room How Long Should I Save Pictures of My Car Rental? Most Americans Feel Good About Their Job Security but Not Their Pay New laws are coming for job listings. Many employers aren't prepared Credit Card Car Rental Insurance: What You Need To Know Is Chase Sapphire Reserve® Worth It in 2024? Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: 6 Things To Know The Platinum Card® from American Express Review 2024: Is It Worth It? How To Choose the Best Charities for Your Donations Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 APELLA WEALTH - Advice For Life Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is it ever too late to start saving 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 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: Wes Moss, CFP® Read Wes’ 5 Keys To Be a Successful Investor APELLA WEALTH - Advice For Life Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Airlines How To Find Cheap Flights in 3 Easy Steps How To Prevent, Report and Repair Identity Theft What Is a Credit Union? / Credit Union vs. Bank: What's the Difference? Submit a complaint | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Should You Get a Store Credit Card? Is your car spying on you? What it means that Tesla shared data in the Las Vegas explosion Best Cash Back Credit Cards With No Annual Fee in 2025 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, 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 This Costly Retirement Mistake How to Start Investing: 10 Steps for Beginners How To Open a Roth IRA Best 529 College Savings Plans By State 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 - Consumer spending has steadily become a larger part of the economy over the years. Tech and the ability to shop online has made the problem of shopping addiction substantially worse. Clark shares some simple steps you can take to avoid overspending online. Speaking of the internet - Clark has changed the way he goes online when away from home. You’ll want to hear his recommendations to protect your privacy and your money. Shopping Triggers: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Public Wi-Fi Warning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: The Biggest Money Mistakes To Avoid in 2025 Why Clark Says It's Time To Dump I Bonds Why You Might Be Paying Your Credit Card Bills All Wrong Best Phone Plans: Get Exactly What You Want at the Cheapest Price Best Unlimited Data Plans in 2024: Starting at $25 for One Line The Best Unlimited Hotspot Plans The Best International Phone Plans Google Fi Review: My Experience as a Five-Year Customer (Pros and Cons) What Is a 403(b) and How Does It Work? How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor How Much Does a Financial Advisor Cost? What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? 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

According to research, the median happy retiree needs $700,000 to get to retirement. But how do you get there? That’s where stocks come in. In this episode of Ask an Advisor, fee-only fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss explains why stocks (mostly) are so important to your portfolio and the “dry powder” you need to stay confident in the market. Later in the show, Wes talks about FOMO (fear of missing out) Freddy and why you should ignore him at all costs when looking at your investments. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the January 21, 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: Wes Moss, CFP® Read Wes’ 5 Keys To Be a Successful Investor 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 - what a lawsuit against Ameriprise can teach us all about saving and investing. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Savings Rate Rip Offs: 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? Travel Insurance Checklist: 5 Types of Coverage To Consider 4 Things To Know Before You Buy a Digital TV Antenna T-Mobile 5G Home Internet: 5 Things To Know Before You Sign Up Best Credit Cards for Students: Top Picks for 2024 Barrons: Ameriprise Asks Judge to Toss Clients’ Cash-Sweep Lawsuit 17 of the Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts in January 2025 High-Yield Savings Account (HYSA) Calculator MyCredit Guide - American Express Submit a complaint | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau 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