The Clark Howard Podcast

Consumers are often told they must use authorized service dealers to maintain a warranty. Not so. What you need to know about parts and repairs. Also, T-Mobile and Apple are utilizing advances in satellite technology to expand communication world-wide, initially facilitating emergency alerts. Clark explains this new safety net, and where this tech is headed.  The Truth About Warranties: Segment 1...

The average American is spending around $15 more a day - all things being equal vs. a year ago. Clark updates the economic lay of the land including housing, gasoline, service businesses and jobs - in global context as we endure inflation rotation. Also, if you’re considering moving, there are new considerations that are absolutely vital now. Homeowners insurance has become a complete wildcard. Cl...

Many failed to file taxes in 2019 and/or 2020. Well the IRS will forgive those penalties, IF you can hit a fast approaching deadline. Already paid the penalty? More good news. Clark explains. Also, big players like Amazon and CVS are getting into the healthcare industry. But Walmart Health Centers offer unique services and savings to more people.  IRS Cuts Late Filers A Break: Segment 1 Ask Clark:...

There’s a right way to use standing desks, and to deal with a traditional sitting desk job - to improve your health. Clark explains. Also - Inflation and supply shortages have made buying used much more popular. Clark shares the secondhand market’s best categories, and a new offering from Walmart - to help you save more.   Sit-Stand Desks: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Explore the Resale Market:...

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also - Clark shares some valuable resources for those considering trade school and apprenticeship programs towards a new solid career path.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Trade School & Apprenticeship Resources: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Cancel for Any Reason -...

We’re here to help you avoid rip-offs and scams. Pretext, aka imposter & impersonation scams comprise the top rip-offs and they come in many forms. Be in the know so you don’t get taken. Also, credit card interest rates haven’t been this high since the 1990s - while the banks are pushing offers to get you hooked. Solicitations are as sky high as interest rates. They want to own you!  Impersonation...

Transformational shifts are underway in how we buy and own homes.. There’s a home improvement boom in progress around the country, but timing is everything. Get Clark smart about when to renovate and how to choose a contractor. And - Now hear this! The average price of hearing aids in the U.S. is around $2700, compared to $200 in the rest of the world. The long awaited end of this pricing cartel w...

The airline industry has been a mess, stretched thin by labor shortages as the travel industry rebounds. Thanks to DOT and public pressure, for the first time in 40 years passengers have a clear guide to their rights when flights are canceled or delayed. Clark walks you through the new DOT - Airline Customer Service Dashboard and what YOU need to do when grounded. Also, a worker warning: Why you n...

Rents have increased dramatically in a short period of time, the biggest rise since the aftermath of WWII. Clark explains how we got here today and the idea of rent control, plus, some good news on the rental front. Also - Is renting out your car on a peer-to-peer platform to make extra money a good idea? Clark breaks down the pros and cons.  The Rental Housing Outlook: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segmen...

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also - Recent stock market volatility has many worried about their retirement. In the short term, markets go through downturns - as they should. Clark addresses these concerns based on the long term play and your proximity to retirement.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Market Fears-Retirem...

School is in session and many teens worry about having enough extracurriculars on their activities resume. But there's another very important route for students that should be top of mind. Also, learn why people are rediscovering gyms now and some guidelines for selecting the right gym for you.  For Students: A Key Extracurricular: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Selecting A GYM: Segment 3 Ask Clar...

Clark shares a personal story concerning something every parent worries about - their teenager having a car accident. Also - with mortgage rates rising, there‘s an old tried & true strategy many Americans are unaware of - that could save big bucks on interest: the assumable, non-escalating mortgage.  Teen Drivers & Accident Ethics: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Mortgage Strategy: Segment 3 Ask Cl...

Retailers have been fighting from behind since March 2020. Suddenly supply chains are moving and stores have goods aplenty. In a time of inflation - we have never seen before deals in many categories this September. Clark calls out the buys for early holiday shopping. Also, Federal student loan forgiveness - what eligible student and parent borrowers need to know about how the program will work -...

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also, this year Clark recommends extra early holiday travel planning AND early shopping and shipping. Know when to expect shipping hikes and the bargain months for online shopping & delivery.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Holiday Shipping: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the...

After a chaotic summer, the outlook for fall travel looks better on every front. September is your cue to start planning holiday travel this year. Get Clark smart advice on how & when to book, avoiding the 4 most expensive travel days, and whether you need travel insurance. Also, Labor Day signals a good time to update job market trends. Clark discusses “unlimited vacation” & taking time off, as w...

Text message scams keep coming and keep morphing. Know what the latest barrage looks like - deploying new ways to hook you into getting ripped off. Also, high mortgage rates can be avoided when conditions are right for a family member to make the loan. Learn how to lend to loved ones without the tax consequences. New Text Message Scams: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Family Loans & Taxes: Segment...

People are being hoodwinked by paid influencers on social media. Clark shares how this often works with podcasting, unbeknownst to you, the listener. Also, Amazon Prime has a new option for payment that gets Clark’s seal of approval - part of a trend of added perks for retail memberships.  Undisclosed: Podcast Influencers: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Amazon Prime Layaway: Segment 3 Ask Clark: S...

Saving money on streaming TV is an area of expertise at Clark.com. Clark has industry news explaining the current streaming landscape AND a new FREE Channel tool! You may be shocked to find out what free TV is available where you live. Also - Thinking of selling your home? The housing market has definitely slowed past the peak of the market. So it’s back to the normal playbook - the Clark smart wa...

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also, overlooked and extremely important, including for college students, is renter’s insurance. Clark tells you how to get it for a DEAL. Plus, important advice on condo insurance. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Renters Insurance: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Care...

The big banks persist in paying no real interest on savings. Meanwhile Clark just got 3.3% on a CD from his credit union. Several money market & online savings accounts are paying over 2%. Don’t let inertia be your enemy. Move that money. Also - what destroyed Sprint is a big lesson for companies tracking and ranking their employees. Workers should know - across industries and with the rise of rem...

Market forces have increased supermarket costs by 13% over the past year, while restaurant price increases have gone up roughly half that. Clark shares how it can actually be more cost effective to eat out at times. Also, there’s been public backlash against airlines shrinking seat size and now there’s an FAA comment period as to whether they should regulate how much space passengers get. Clark we...

Reported this year - tragic loss of life due to hotel carbon monoxide poisoning. Clark has a new safety device every traveler should consider. Plus a way to avoid a massive home insurance claim. And - Find out the “mandatory option” that has sent the automotive press into outrage at GM. 2 Important Alert Devices: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 GM Outrage: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned o...

New meds are the most expensive ever. 8 of 13 new drugs cost over $200K per year! Clark explains how the big pharma game is played, generic vs “defensive” combo drugs & shares his workarounds for saving. Also - what we pay for cell service can make a big difference in our finances and today there are many ways to reduce cost without compromising service. Clark has great news for your wallet from 2...

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also - Many are choosing artificial turf for their lawns. The practice is booming worldwide due in part to extreme drought conditions. Clark gives you the pros & cons. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Artificial Lawns: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark.com - Invest...

Inflation has made us smarter about shopping. People are changing their buying habits. Learn how much you can save buying store brands. Also, find out the average retirement age for the typical American worker - and why this terrifies Clark. Inflation Defense: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Your Retirement Age: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Fidelity Youth Account How To Ope...