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, scammers steal billions of dollars from Americans each year. Clark shares the FTC’s annual summary of top scams, and has a simple rule for avoiding the number 1 scam on the list.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Top Scams & Fraud Schemes: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4...

Millions of workers are leaving open retirement accounts with thousands of dollars sitting ignored or forgotten. If you’ve changed employers over the years, Clark’s has an assignment for you to make sure you get ALL your retirement money! Also in this episode, Amazon has announced their internet service to compete with Starlink. Who wins with the additional options we will have? The consumer! Negl...

For parents who want to keep their kids safe, an SUV is often a popular choice. If you’re considering buying an SUV, Clark has a new report from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety you need to hear first. Also, several states are suing a retailer for overcharging at check-out - a symptom of a systemic problem. Clark has some ways to help you eagle eye your check out prices, and protect your...

Regardless of what happens with economic cycles, there are clear patterns in the job market that spell OPPORTUNITY - if your aptitude matches the need. Clark points the way to jobs that pay, with and without a college degree. Also, we all pay for heavy losses inflicted by shoplifting rings, and now the cost of shoplifting can feel like more punishment, as retailers use various tactics to fight bac...

Travel planning season is here and Clark has good info spanning: airfares and when to travel to get the best prices, Airbnb & VRBO issues, hotel booking and more - so you know before you go. Also - Nobody ever got rich paying Visa or MasterCard 19% interest (or more). Clark addresses discretionary spending that undermines your immediate and distant future. Practices and cognitive biases that get u...

Friday - Clark Stinks day! A chance for Clark to learn from you. Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode - Lump sum spring contributions to an IRA for the prior year are not uncommon, and are right for some earners. But that’s the exception - not the rule. Know the most advantageous way to fund your IRA. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2...

Panic has turned to confusion in the wake of the SVB failure. Clark summarizes how we got here, how it differs from 15 years ago, and how the moral hazard in the system should be fixed. Clark breaks it down to 2 key points, and what individuals and businesses with funds greater than the quarter million FDIC limit should do going forward to secure their funds. Also, Clark tells you what’s behind th...

With full employment and increased turnover happening concurrently, burnout, layoffs and “revenge videos” from ex-employees, it’s a confusing time in the job market. Survey says  80% of those who participated in the great resignation now regret it and are heading back to work. Know the key professional strategies for both finding and leaving a job.  Also in this episode, Clark updates his answer t...

Though moderating, new and used vehicle prices are still high. And among those who bought at peak prices, late payments are escalating. Clark offers an overview of the car market, plus - direction for those upside down in loans and for would-be buyers.  Also, owning smart tech connected devices requiring software services - you buy them, you own them outright, right? What’s the catch? Clark explai...

One area of focus for Team Clark is helping with your monthly expenses including TV and cell phone costs. Clark shares more reasons to save on cell service. New data names cell discounters that offer higher customer satisfaction than the big 3 carriers. Also, shopping for profit: many are having 5 figure success with thrifting resale. Do you have a special skill, experience or interest that can be...

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode, iPhone users are being targeted in a way that puts their entire digital life at risk. But there’s a feature that can help protect you from thieves gaining access to your accounts. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 iPhone Warning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned...

A traditional but long abandoned living arrangement is popular again. Almost 1 in 5 Americans now live in multigenerational households. There are many layers to this, including home design to accommodate wider uses to enhance value.  Also, another reason Clark hates gift cards, and a specific warning about where you buy them. Multigenerational Households: Segment 1 Ask Clark - Bank Failure Follow...

The lay of the land for getaways is changing - Clark shares the keys to saving money on airfare this spring and summer and why a great time for bargain travel lies ahead. Plus, Clark’s updates on passport renewal and airline family seating. Also, as industries emerge from the ashes of the pandemic, we’re seeing increased efficiencies. Clark takes note of changes in the restaurant industry, and - f...

Apple & Google don’t want you to know how to get phone app digital subscriptions cheaper because you taking one simple step costs them commissions. Clark spills - you SAVE. Also - banks are descending like locusts on homeowners fat with equity - with ads to pop that piggy bank! HELOCs are up 50% over a year. Learn the risks, the difference between home equity loans & lines of credit, and Clark’s R...

SPECIAL EDITION - The Failure of Silicon Valley Bank Clark discusses this week’s SVB failure including the strength and scope of this bank, how much of the deposits were insured & the security of funds generally, the impact on businesses and how the federal government has had to step in. Clark also answers initial questions for what will be his ongoing coverage of this event as needed moving forwa...

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode, good news - rents are dropping all over America, but there’s a unique way to pay even less for an apartment that may suit your lifestyle.    Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Standby Apartment Rental: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Clark.com - CRUIS...

So many people dread the experience of walking into a car dealership and trying to negotiate. Information is power. Clark shares how to do the work up front to properly buy a vehicle, and has a NEVER NEVER rule for buying new. Also, the FSA is an awesome benefit, but only if you USE it. A shocking stat you don’t want to be a part of: Half of workers with this benefit lose FSA money. How To Buy A C...

One of the biggest expenses we face is health insurance, and many have turned to medical cost sharing programs & ministries as an alternative to traditional insurance. Clark explains the inherent risks involved with these health care co-ops. Also, a follow up on the Kia and Hyundai theft problems causing auto insurance cancellations for some owners. There are remedies from the automaker which owne...

Many Americans are feeling financial pressure, and are trying to save everywhere they can. This has led to the growth of non buying co-ops across North America. Clark discusses Buy Nothing groups and other ways to reduce spending. Also, Clark tells you why you should go into a LASIK procedure with your eyes wide open, to protect both your vision and your wallet. Know the proper steps to take befor...

Talking about finances has always been a challenge for couples, with new challenges brought on by technology conveniences. It can be an awkward dance discussing money, but it’s vitally important to a relationship. Clark’s guidelines can help get the ongoing conversation started. Also, paper products are costing more, but this time it’s not a supply chain disruption. Hear what’s happening and what...

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also, attendance is down in movie theaters so the industry is trying to reinvent itself with wider offerings beyond popcorn and soda marked up 95%. Preview prices to determine if one-stop dinner & a movie makes for a budget friendly experience.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Movie Theater...

Popshelf is a rapidly expanding, different kind of discount store. Clark checked it out and has a review.  Also, potential home buyers are between a rock and a hard place these days. With rising interest rates, we’re seeing more and more low down payment mortgage offers. Clark walks you through the personal assessment required to make the best decision. Popshelf Review: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segmen...

They’re everywhere online - quizzes and surveys. They may seem fun & interesting BUT - the fun is at your expense. Learn how quizzes are used, and why there’s one question they’re always going to ask. Online content presents challenges. Also in the realm of social media, you’ve no doubt heard of “influencers,” but you may not realize it goes way beyond the Kardashians. There are some very subtle w...

Clark shares how he got started and the life lessons that motivated and inspired him to do what he loves doing today - empowering others to live their best lives. Also - There’s a 1 in 10 chance there’s unclaimed money out there with your name on it. Clark explains how this happens, the third party pitfalls, and how to find it yourself for free.  Clark BIO: Segment 1 Missing Money: Segment 2 Menti...

If early retirement is on your mind, Clark helps you think through some major considerations. Then go bargain hunting with Clark as he walks you through his favorite discounters and spills the secret pricing codes to look for & what they mean. Retirement Compromise: Segment 1 Saving Hacks At Clark’s Favorite Stores: Segment 2 Mentioned on the show How to Retire Early 6 Challenges To Consider if Yo...