The Clark Howard Podcast

Vaccines have changed the recovery equation much sooner than thought and employers are moving up reopening offices. Many bosses don’t trust employees working remotely and miss control. Many workers love the flexibility of working from home and have choices to make. Pros, cons, exceptions and company culture considerations in the hybrid work debate. / Clark reviews the Citizen app. Will he continue past his free trial? Recently, someone was falsely accused due to the app. Citizen responded well to the now resolved incident. Ask Clark topics include: How to Teach Young Kids About Money / 5 Ways To Get Your Free Credit Score / Should You Buy an Extended Warranty on Your Car? / Fidelity Investments Review 2021: Pros & Cons / The FIRE Movement \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. / Fintechs are bringing about enormous change. Forget banking fees, minimum balance requirements, check cashers & payday lenders. Legit services are available for all. App based and online banks, the best credit unions - are great alternatives. The DNA of traditional banking is hostile to those who don’t have big balances. Welp, you don’t need them either. Chime Review: Pros & Cons of the Bank Challenger - Clark Howard Clark Stinks & Ask Clark topics include: Rule of 752: How Small Expenses Can Destroy Your Budget / 7 Major Expenses in Retirement (and How to Reduce Them!) / Google Photos / Is It Wise To Sign My Credit Card on the Back? / How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor / Roth IRA / Roth vs. Traditional 401(k) - What Is a Roth 401(k) and How Does It Work? - Clark Howard \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

National 529 Day - Millions have 529 plans to save for college with tax free growth for qualified spending. Be aware 529 Plans vary. Many states roll in a state tax deduction for contributions up to a certain limit. Clark tells you which plans to eliminate and about the recent regulatory change involving grandparent owned plans. / Would you leave a $20 bill languishing in a drawer or toss it out? Gift cards are real $$ disguised as ….. gift cards. Time to use ‘em or lose ‘em. There’s $800M in gift cards never redeemed for a single major retailer. What? Retailers love this “breakage” which is pure profit for them. A Clark smart assignment. Ask Clark topics include: Asking for a credit increase - How To Improve Your Credit Score by 100 Points in 30 Days / TURO - How to Make Extra Money / Travel Planning / EvaluateLifeInsurance.org \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Deadline to Savings: June 8 - The video streaming world is in huge transition. Mergers signal industry consolidation. Philo - still the cheapest - is going up but Clark tells you how to avoid the price increase. See if Philo would work for you. // Why does Clark call cryptocurrency fake? Clark describes cryptocurrency in theory vs practice, the government restrictions and the fundamental value of electronic money. What to expect if you play in crypto today. Ask Clark topics include: The New Washington State Long-Term Care Act - Coldstream Wealth Management - WA Cares Fund / Long-Term Care Insurance / These Credit Cards Offer Car Rental Insurance Benefits / Mortgage Refinance Calculator / SIM Card Fraud & How to Stop It / Submit a complaint | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau / CarMax Review \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shopping auto insurance: Ideally, you need to compare to find the best deal. Clark breaks down auto insurance shopping services, highlights The Zebra, helps you navigate the lead generation aspect and understand independent vs captive insurance agents. You can do this! // There are many pitfalls with online ads and purchasing - tactics used by companies to bait you into buying services and goods you don’t want or need. Know when you’re being manipulated online. Ask Clark topics include: 7 ways small business owners can reduce their tax bill / Will a Hybrid Car Save You Money? There's An Easy Way to Find Out \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The “side gig” economy is the real deal, and some people are making 6 figures being their own boss. It’s a great time for those with specialized skills to make money freelancing. - SideHusl - Find the Best Money Making Option for You // Americans have paid off a great deal of credit card debt. Credit card banks are getting desperate and making generous offers. Even if you have no credit score, you may be in a better position than you think. Ask Clark topics include: Use Google Navigation to avoid tolls or a multi-state toll reader / Life Insurance - EvaluateLifeInsurance.org / Fidelity Investments Review 2021: Pros & Cons / Roth vs. Traditional 401(k): What's the Difference? - Clark Howard Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. / Nearly 1 in 4 Americans have 0 in their rainy day account. How to get this done after the whiplash of 2020? Clark gives you the little steps that build life habits, including starting a savings account and Roth IRA to gradually build your savings. Clark Stinks & Ask Clark topics include: Locast / How To Watch Local Channels Without Cable / How to Make a Disposable Razor Last 12 Months / 5 Reasons Why Home Insurers Will Fire You as a Customer / What's the Deal With Dogecoin? / Your Guide to DIY Home Security Systems - Ring Security System Review - Clark Cam: Ring Security System Installation - YouTube / Fidelity’s Pitch to America’s Teens: No-Fee Brokerage Accounts - WSJ - For kids under 13 set up & monitor a credit union savings account with debit card / update this crucial beneficiary information \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the pandemic, many have been forced to work from home. Now that offices are starting to re-open, do you want to go back in person? Survey: Would you rather work from home or get a $30K raise? Employees say no contest... / Survey: 71% expect significant increases in the value of homes, placing real estate investing over stocks. Why this optimism may be misplaced: Reversion to mean. Investment real estate right now doesn’t work. If you're not buying real estate for the right reason, you may very well get burned. Ask Clark topics include: How to Buy a House in 9 Steps / 5 Sneaky Ways to Improve Your Credit Score / Insurance Policies Homeowners Need To Get and the Ones To Skip \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Venmo, Tik Tok and Security: Payment App Rules - Don’t use them to pay strangers and beware hackers. Plus, PayPal has attached a social feature to Venmo. Unless you override it, people can see your payments - Why this is risky and what you can do about it. And, should you log in with social apps? / 37 Million of us are traveling over the Memorial Day weekend. Driving tips to ease the way. Ask Clark topics include: How to Sell Your Car in 5 Steps - Clark Howard / Costco Travel / Travel Archives - Clark Howard \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The average price of a used car is up 17%; new cars are up 10% over the last year. If you’re in a car lease that’s ending, Clark has a strategy your wallet will love. / Lab created diamonds are chemically identical to diamonds dug from the earth. The price is the bigger difference. Plus, there are environmental and humanitarian advantages. But there’s something you should do before you give this gift…. Ask Clark topics include: Credit Cards / Fraudulent Unemployment Claims / Google Flights / Scott's Cheap Flights | / What's the Deal With Dogecoin? \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark wisdom on life-long learning, the transient nature of work, pursuing your passion and being true to yourself, staying relevant in a fulfilling vocation, your approach to money and finding satisfaction and joy in life. / There’s an important deadline you need to know about. There are just days left to take advantage of an incredible free photo storage offer. Ask Clark topics include: Replacing lost key fobs affordably / Emergency Fund Complete Guide: How Much & Where / 7 Emergency Expenses and How Much to Budget for Them / How to Switch Banks in 4 Simple Steps \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. / An update on net neutrality. The cable monopoly is being broken piece by piece. Internet service choice is coming. Clark explains how this is comparable to cable’s monopoly over pay TV being crushed in the marketplace. Clark has a video streaming challenge for you and helps you SAVE money by comparing streaming services all in one place! Best Streaming Services: Every Option Explained - Best Live TV Streaming Services Clark Stinks & Ask Clark topics include: Cell Phones Archives / 5 Easy DIY Auto Repairs You Can Do Today / Authorized User vs. Joint Account Holder \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott Keyes, founder and chief flight expert of Scott’s Cheap Flights joins Clark to talk about myriad aspects of travel now and moving forward. Essential listening for travelers as 2 experts convene. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The prevalence of cyberattacks and the nature of the east coast oil pipeline attack - A Clark smart warning and actions you can take. / You must file taxes, or at least file an extension - whether you can pay or not. 90% can prepare and file taxes for free, yet only 7% do. Clark shows the way. Also, $1.3B unclaimed 2017 tax refunds could disappear next week. Get your money. Ask Clark topics include: GasBuddy / Do Not Get a Big Tax Refund Check / Know the Rules for Roth 401(k) Rollovers / Group Homes an Alternative for Seniors Who Can't Age in Place \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s an ongoing series of Facebook messenger scams. Facebook identities are taken over by crooks who use familiarity to commit affinity fraud. What you should out for. / Clark backs out of a long gas line in California & pays the price. What should you know about summer driving? Clark explains ‘backwardation’ in terms of where gas prices are, why, and where they’re headed. Ask Clark topics include: Homeowners Insurance / Hearing Aids / Apple Credit Card Review / Best Cash Back Credit Cards \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Money talk ain’t pillow talk but it works to save a marriage…. There’s pent up demand to throw weddings, but be prepared to take the leap by talking money before the nuptials. Clark describes one of the greatest flashpoints in the first 3 years of marriage, and the nature & importance of ongoing money & goal conversations. / If you too like to squeeze out every last bit of toothpaste & other products, you’re on the right track. Housing and cars are our biggest expenditures. We can also attend to spending at the margins, part of the saving mentality. Clark also speaks to another part of the ‘spend less that you make” credo, to create more freedom and serenity in your life. Ask Clark topics include: When does a 0% purchase plan make sense / How to Freeze Your Child's Credit / Credit Union National Association | CUNA / Clark’s Bottom Line on Bitcoin / When Should You File a Claim on Your Homeowners Insurance? \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. / The job picture could not be more different than 1 year ago. Now employers are desperately looking for workers across many categories. For the class of 20 - this could be reset time. The key to getting good work is personal contact, not just sending out resumes. Network with people. Digital methods are a process of elimination. People hire people. Clark Stinks & Ask Clark topics include: Costco vs. Sam's Club vs. BJ's Wholesale / Sam's Club membership deal- Clark Deals / Streaming TV / A Guide to Nondeductible IRA Contributions / Ooma / Credit Score Guide / Aldi - Clark Howard / 401(a) vs. 401(k): What's the Difference? / uShip | Shipping Made Easy / Clark's 'Ditch Your Debt' Facebook group \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear Clark’s 30 year standard method for dealing with lifestyle debt, and how using plastic triggers a kind of euphoria while keeping you from ‘feeling the spend’. / Better Banking - Chime has eliminated the junk fees and pain points of traditional banks. Low credit score? The Chime Credit Builder secured Visa card gives you control in a unique way. Also consider the Petal card for this purpose, or a credit union fresh start card. Ask Clark topics include: American Kennel Club / Blue Cross Blue Shield Settlement / How Much to Tip During the Coronavirus Pandemic / Which Documents Should You Keep and for How Long \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

MVNO Mint Mobile has a plan for individual high data users for $30 a month. Clark offers details on this deal and others. / We’re living longer and may need to rethink our retirement age. Clark describes a phase in strategy that can really change the economics of your retirement years. Ask Clark topics include: The Best Place to Order Checks Online / 15-year mortgage / These Chromebooks less than $200 / laptop deals / Hybrid Financial Advisors / Full-Service Financial Advisor vs. Hybrid Robo-Advisor \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Want to sell your timeshare? An former inside scammer reveals how they find you and get inside your wallet - No sale. / Survey says: Most Americans want government-backed job training over handouts. Lifelong training is essential to a dynamic economy wrought by ever changing technology. Ask Clark topics include: Home | Costco Travel / Digital Receipts | Paperless Receipts | CVS / Debit vs. credit | Pros, cons and $ protections / What Is a Flexible Spending Account? / 529 Plans: The Best Places to Invest Your Education Savings - Clark Howard \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PROMISES BROKEN: One privilege of military service is student loan forgiveness. But the U.S. Dept of Education rejected 94%, just like public service loan forgiveness was largely rejected. This must be fixed. Congress talks a good game about valuing the military. The country must fulfill its promises to those who serve. / CRACKING THE CASE: How pandemic unemployment compensation has been looted, even from people who had their credit frozen, costing taxpayers $billions. Ask Clark topics include: How to know if you qualify for student loan forgiveness / Booking a Trip For This Summer or Fall? Your Flights Will Change / How To Prevent, Report and Repair Identity Theft / 5 Sneaky Ways to Improve Your Credit Score \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. / Labor shortages and last minute code changes are forcing manual processing of 2020 taxes. Refunds are delayed. Clark’s got a suggestion for those who routinely get refunds. Clark Stinks & Ask Clark topics include: Best Laser Printers for Your Home Office - Consumer Reports / How to Get a Mortgage in 8 Steps / 6 Things to Know About Refinancing Your Mortgage / Which Documents Should You Keep and for How Long? / Robinhood Review: Pros, Cons & Who Should Use It \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The housing shortage has pushed home prices to an all time peak. Clark speaks to fears of a real estate market crash and explains how the market is likely to play out. PLUS, a key rule for home buyers today. / Uber and Lyft are good economic indicators of the employment market and there’s a labor shortage in many different categories to explore. Some employers are desperate to hire. This will be a great summer for teen employment. Ask Clark topics include: How to Find a Good Moving Company / uShip | Shipping Made Easy / Certified Professional - The Travel Institute / Payment Apps / 401(a) Plan Definition \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s a streaming standoff between Roku and YouTube. What was once a cable issue is now spilling over into the streaming world. Streaming TV Archives - Clark Howard / Auto industry game changer is set to ground 'the grind'. HUGE news in the new car buying industry is not being widely reported - something Clark believes will absolutely change the way you buy a new car in the future. Ask Clark topics include: How to Find the Best Deal on Cheap Internet Service / Google Fi Review / T-Mobile Expanding 5G Network To Offer New Home Internet Service / Verizon 5G Home Internet Expands Service to More Cities / Cell Phones Archives - Clark Howard / How to Buy a Used Car \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark clarifies the zone between full service and self service investing and describes the 3 hybrid discounters to help you choose what’s best for YOU! And - the KEY to buying financial advice. / Why now the labor shortage in restaurant industry and how tech will fill the gap. Be prepared to be greeted by a robot. New technologies being rolled out mean less interaction with servers. Ask Clark topics include: Life Insurance - Clark.com / 529 Plans / How To Prevent, Report and Repair Identity Theft / Freeze Your Credit - Clark Howard Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Word to high frequency traders - Clark’s journey with Robinhood and its imitators has been arduous of late. The timeline and tax takeaway is news for investors… How to avoid the tax backlash. / Cable companies, previously one of your wallet’s arch enemies, are now becoming heroes in the cell phone industry. How cable companies can save you money on your cell phone bill. Ask Clark topics include: Comparing Hybrid Financial Advisors: Vanguard vs. Schwab vs. Fidelity / How to Stop Robocalls for Good / Best Landline Alternative | Ooma / Zillow's Zestimate Accury | Zillow / The #1 thing you need to do if you use PayPal, Venmo or Zelle for payments - Clark Howard \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts from the site with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. / What happens if you lose your Covid vaccination card? It happened to Clark! Ideas to protect your card. Clark Stinks & Ask Clark topics include: Paying Contractors: Don’t pay big cash up front, make a progress payment agreement / Lazer printers can be a smart choice / The Best Places To Buy Eyeglasses / E-ZPass Group / Vanguard Mutual Fund Profile / How To Open a Roth IRA - Clark Howard \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The full fare airlines have pivoted to leisure routes and Southwest has launched a fare sale cycle. Clark travel advice includes flight cancellation, the rental car problem and hotel prices. / The same blood test cost one cancer patient 800% more at a hospital than it did at a doctor’s office. Large hospital systems are hostile to price competition. Clark updates the battle for price transparency & explains how to handle a medical test or procedure referral. Ask Clark topics include: Using GoodRx / Submit a complaint | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau / Check warehouse clubs to buy generators / Getting the Best Car Rental Deal - AutoSlash Review / HSA Accounts / Spot hidden resort fees when booking travel \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark talks gas prices and other increases he didn’t see coming. What’s happening and what you can do about it to protect your wallet. / Peloton has seen huge growth during the pandemic. Now they're refusing to recall their treadmills despite a call from the CPSC to do so. Clark discusses corporate behavior and treadmill safety. Ask Clark topics include: Get started with Medicare / Umbrella Insurance Policy / Ibotta Review / Costco extended warranty / Series I Savings Bonds - TreasuryDirect - Individual - Series I Savings Bonds \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dwellings are the largest expense we have and a key determinant of financial health. Clark describes obstacles to and different types of ADUs - accessory dwelling units - a win-win for landlords and renters. / The trucking industry is short of drivers and pay is going up. Many companies provide training. Also, the Federal Reserve reports small businesses have been far more resilient than anticipated and there is less dislocation than feared. Learn how the table is set for a really strong small business recovery. Ask Clark topics include: Paying cash to a contractor / Lumber costs / Guide to DIY Home Security Systems / Costco members: Ring wireless 10-piece security kit for $180 - Clark Deals / How to Freeze Your Credit / How to Buy a Used Car / Petal Card Review: A Good Option for First Credit Card? \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3 class action lawsuits found game developers and content providers violating the law, tracking and building profiles on children. We need punitive legislation and parental oversight. There are programs to help parents monitor and limit their children online. / Two years ago, as a board member of the Prostate Cancer Foundation, Clark first heard of liquid biopsies, blood tests with DNA screening for cancers and potentially the Holy Grail of diagnostics. Clark updates the progress of this testing, where it is now in the marketplace and its cost history. The biggest problem remains the avoidance of medical care. Regular check ups make a big difference. Ask Clark topics include: Is silver a good investment for you? / Termite Bonds - recommended / All SCOTTeVEST Travel Jackets / How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor / Schwab automated investing with unlimited guidance | Charles Schwab \\ Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts from the site with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. There are significant changes for individuals and families that buy their own compliant health insurance policies. A special enrollment period extends through August on Healthcare.gov. If you have a tight income and don’t have health insurance, Clark explains why you should apply now and double check for subsidies. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Home buyers are squeezed right now, having to pay more. Clark discusses the supply problem and the logic behind his new rule on your ownership cycle. / Extended service contracts, insurance coverage and warranties on electronics & appliances is a key profit push for retailers. Clark explains what type of insurance you actually should have. Plus, why Clark is neutral on vehicle warranties and what he recommends. Ask Clark topics include: Going solar / Home remodeling / Replace a lost Social Security card / Identity theft / Car Insurance // Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark reviews the new Best Buy membership program as they compete with the bigs - Amazon Prime, Walmart+ & Costco. Retailers are challenged to connect in new ways. CVS and Walgreens are also offering memberships. / Clark & Christa are testing out T-Mobile’s home internet. Hear their verdict on this flat rate alternative to traditional home internet. Simultaneously, more zip codes in the U.S. are able to get Starlink internet from SpaceX, offering high speed unlimited data, soon to blanket the nation. Ask Clark topics include: How to Open a Roth IRA / Index Annuities / Target Retirement Funds / How to Freeze Your Credit / Google Flights // Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re always being tracked online but there are browsers and extensions to help protect privacy. Clark has tested a couple and reports on ease of use. / How most of us buy a car is a giant rip off. Clark explains how the game is played and how to obtain - or refi your loan the right way. Ask Clark topics include: Deferred Compensation Definition / How to Open a Roth IRA / Investing Guide / FDIC: Deposit Insurance FAQs / Best Online Banks / Travel Insurance / Should You Buy Out Your Leased Car? / Charles Schwab Bank Debit Card Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re seeing more focus on how to reach and teach young people about money. There’s collateral damage due to lack of financial education. Some high school programs exist. TikTok is now offering financial teachings of the basics of personal finance. Starting at age 6, the more parents can talk to kids and teach by example about saving and making money decisions, the better. // Tax policy in the U.S. is a ridiculous mess, and changing all the time. How we do taxes should be non-partisan. But taxes are used to settle scores to the great harm of individuals and economic growth. If Clark ruled the land, how he would make taxes more equitable and understandable. Ask Clark topics include: Guide to DIY Home Security Systems - Wyze Cam smart security camera for $20 - Clark Deals / Taxes Archives - Clark Howard / Experian Boost Review / Free Advice: Clark’s Consumer Action Center - Clark Howard // Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts from the site with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. A new federal law allows employers to pay toward employee student loan debt or for a portion their education, through 2025 - tax free for the recipient, deductible for the employer. Clark explains this voluntary benefit - a win-win. Clark Stinks & Ask Clark topics include: Consumer Reports- printers / Two-factor authentication with Cash App / Insurance subrogation / Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Historically, 529 plans owned by grandparents negatively impacted the student’s financial aid profile. That changes this fall. Clark explains the new FAFSA rule, and the WRONG way to set up a 529 account. / The Facebook data breach involves more than half a billion people around the world. What info criminals have and what you need to do to protect your identity and your wallet. Freeze Your Credit. Security is not part of the principle architecture of how the internet works, leaving each website to protect its info. Advice for website owners who collect personal information. Ask Clark topics include: Student loans: start with federal borrowing / 7 Best Ways to Save for Retirement in Your 50s / Best Credit Cards for Extended Warranty / Online education / Authorized user / Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Economic fallout from Coronavirus: Clark explains why, as we enter economic recovery, a homeless problem appears. Also, auto loan delinquencies are up. Clark's NEVER rule for car buying. / Jobs are roaring back in the U.S. - Why this decade could be a golden age for workers. Ask Clark topics include: Clark's Maximum Auto Loan Length Rule / How To Spot Financial Abuse of an Elderly Relative or Friend - Clark Howard / How to Buy a New Car / How to Buy a Used Car / How to Open a Roth IRA / Credit Freeze // Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New reviews of affordable printers indicate great improvement. The HP business model means high prices for ink. Epson and Brother have that option, plus, more costly printers requiring very low cost ink which saves big$ over time. / Car rental prices have spiked in many areas. Clark has some workaround strategies to use until costs normalize. Ask Clark topics include: Charitable Gift Annuity / 7 Things To Know Before You Buy Gas at Costco Wholesale / How to Stop Robocalls for Good - Combating Spoofed Robocalls with Caller ID Authentication | FCC / Is a Home Warranty Worth the Money? / Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new debt collection rule may kick in this November allowing collectors to contact consumers via email, text and direct messages on social media, with no frequency limits. Regardless, it’s essential to know your rights with debt collectors. Clark offers some key rules to help protect your credit. / As we transition from traditional pay TV to streaming, we can end up paying more if we’re not careful. Are you topping $100 a month? Do you watch every service you’re signed up for? A Clark assignment. Ask Clark topics include: How to Deal With Medical Debt / Identity Theft Guide - Clark Howard / The Best Car-Buying Services in 2021 / Disability Insurance / Companies That Buy Houses for Cash // Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts and Clark responds. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks / Glorified Vending Machines: Unstaffed robotic cooking centers, sometimes seen in airports, are coming to neighborhoods - open 24/7 with reduced labor costs. Meanwhile, convenience store operators realize they can’t live by gasoline sales anymore, with gas sales declining as people migrate to electric vehicles. Chains are experimenting with affordable fresh food offerings. Clark Stinks & Ask Clark topics include: PODS for interstate moves / How Many Credit Cards Should You Have? / How to Find and Choose a Financial Advisor / Vehicle Buying Guides / Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark attempts to explain NFTs (with an assist from SNL) & blockchain and gives his take on this novel craze. Also, fully vaccinated, Clark’s back in stores and finds himself spending ...more OR less? Ask Clark topics include: ETF Guide / HSA - Health Savings Account / Amazon MTurk Review / Save on dental care / Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One effect of the pandemic has been forced early retirement for many. Only 38% of the workforce is 55 and older. Why employers are working against their own self interest and that of the U.S. economy when they discriminate against older workers. Short term thinking makes for short lived companies. Companies that stand the test of time treat workers well. / A first for Clark - renting storage. What you can learn from his process. Ask Clark topics include: Refinancing a car loan / Appliance purchases / Unemployment insurance fraud / The Airline & Hotel Pandemic Vouchers that May Prove Worthless-WSJ - Be flexible / Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The beauty of automatic enrollment into retirement plans for employees, and why Clark loves target retirement funds. / How Clark got scammed! - Almost. Yet another reason to check your statements. Ask Clark topics include: 529 Plans / Submit a complaint | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau / Toddler Saved By Anti-Choking Device / Home insurance unjust denial - File complaint with your state insurance department. / Car rental prices escalate -Turo - Getaround. / Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hospital systems have conspired to prevent prodcedure & surgery price comparison. Clark explains how they skirt the law, and why hospitals remain the biggest problem with the cost of healthcare. / Fraud hacks into Venmo, CashApp and Zelle have become a massive problem, with no customer service. Clark explains a way to keep your primary account from being drained by crooks. Ask Clark topics include: Custodial Roth IRA / Authorized credit card user - Petal Card / Best and Worst Home Insurance Companies / Amex Send & Split with Venmo & PayPal: Send Money and Split Purchases / Car Rental Ireland / Betterment / Military & Veterans Guide / Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts and Clark responds. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks / It would be pennywise to retire the penny. Clark counts the ways. Clark Stinks & Ask Clark Topics include: T-Mobile needs a reset / Tire Rack / Your Guide to DIY Home Security Systems / National Guard and Reserve Benefits / How to Find a Good Moving Company / Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

JOBS: Microsoft Survey Says - Over 40% of workers want to quit their jobs. This creates job rotation moving forward, and new opportunity. Also, the pros & cons of remote working as the hybrid return to work evolves. / Student loan mills feeding for-profit schools left a trail of disaster for borrowers cheated out of an education. Now these borrowers can reapply for student loan forgiveness. Check out affordable training opportunities including Google Certificates. Ask Clark topics include: How to open a Roth IRA / Monthly recurring charges - file a BBB complaint / AARP College Grants - Scholarships for Senior Citizens / How to Get a Power of Attorney From a Jail Inmate / IRS-Get An Identity Protection PIN / Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark discusses proceeding with caution after vaccination, herd immunity and economic recovery. Step by step the economy will gain strength as people get out and about more. Expect stronger economic activity as we move through 21. / Today, Royal Caribbean is taking reservations for a June cruise out of the Bahamas with no U.S. stops. It's a start for cruise travelers. But beware "phantom booking" with cruise lines - a Clark warning. Bookings are up overall in the U.S. as people prepare for summer travel. Look at travel in and near the U.S. as quarantine requirements continue. Ask Clark topics include: HSA Accounts / Index Funds / Credit Freeze / Travel Safety / Home equity loans and HELOCs / Credit Cards / Home Owner's Title Insurance / Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the rise of hybrids and electric vehicles, the gas tax for road maintenance has got to change. Some states are already going about mileage taxation. Clark explains what's around the bend. / An industry disrupted brings sticker shock to new furniture showrooms. Clark has a better way to feather your nest... Ask Clark topics include: Save on car insurance / Pay per mile car insurance rates / DOT.gov Consumer Complaint / 3-D Printed Homes / How to buy a used car Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices