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The Clark Howard Podcast

The Clark Howard Podcast

2,280 episodes — Page 25 of 46

03.22.21 Gas prices escalate - what's ahead / A purchase & donation warning from Clark’s Consumer Action Center + New banking options

Clark discusses the supply & demand factors affecting the price of gas and what to expect at the pump. / A purchase and donation warning from the head of Team Clark’s Consumer Action Center - Another good reason to check your bank & credit card statements monthly. / The banking sector seems culturally incapable of becoming a customer focused industry. Meet the outsiders making a difference. Ask Clark topics include: Social Security problem: file a complaint through your Office of Constituent Services. / Remote worker non-resident tax issues - Hire a CPA or Enrolled Agent. / How to open a Roth IRA - Target Retirement Funds / Roth vs. traditional 401(k) Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 22, 202125 min

03.19.21 Clark answers his critics on Clark Stinks / Free credit reports extended- the Clark Smart way to monitor your credit

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts and Clark responds. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks / Deadline Extended: Check Your Credit Report Every Week for Free - Clark Howard Clark Stinks & Ask Clark topics include: Cell phone insurance, Airbnb Superhost, Kids & Money -Clark's daddy match, Taxes on individual stocks. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 19, 202127 min

03.18.21 If you were laid off, you may qualify for free COBRA insurance / News about companies you likely use spying on you.

Clark explains who qualifies for the new 6 month COBRA healthcare subsidy and how it works. Also, with so much focus on privacy violations, how Google has become proactive when it comes to tracking you for targeted ads. And you may want to shut down permissions for cell phone carriers engaging in extreme spying. Clark argues for opting in, versus having to opt out. How To Opt Out of T-Mobile’s New Ad-Targeting Policy - Clark Howard Ask Clark topics include: Domain registration 5 & 10 year deals, Free trip to the Bahamas- a rip off since the 1980's, Spotting warehouse club clearance items, WhatsApp privacy changes, Index funds. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 18, 202125 min

03.17.21 The pandemic 1 year later & Covid passports / Electric vehicles are transforming the auto industry

The pandemic 1 year in - Clark discusses the impact of vaccines on recovery and the emerging Covid passport. / Buying vehicles is in transition as electric vehicles gain range and become more affordable. Direct online versus dealer purchases are in play. Why it's riskly buying a new gas engine vehicle now. Ask clark questions include: Vaccination and Covid test form privacy concerns - Credit Freeze, Travel Insurance, Bitcoin IRA or Savings not recommnended, Zillow zestimates. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 17, 202127 min

03.16.21 Fake Amazon reviews are a plague - reading past the con. / Auto price sticker shock -2 sectors where deals can be found.

Clark reveals what's led to bulk purchase of fake reviews on Amazon & how to read between the star ratings. / Almost 30% of new vehicles for sale now cost over $50K! That’s why most people buy used. 2 areas of the used sector have your best bet on price. Ask Clark topics include: Target Date Funds, Peacock Streaming Service Review, Robinhood-SEC Investor Complaint Form, Clark Howard's Special Rule for Refinancing Your Mortgage, Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 16, 202129 min

03.15.21 What We Don't Know Can Harm Us: Credit report errors skyrocket. An assignment / Fraudsters morph phishing tactics & migrate their targets. Clark's key rule is your best defense.

More than half of all consumer complaints filed with the CFPB concern credit report errors, likely related to the bureaus' waiver from CARES Act compliance. Don't wait until this affects your financial life - A Clark smart vigilance assignment - and it's easy. / Pretext phone calls, emails & texts keep coming, ever more sophisticated. Clark's strategy helps keep you 1 step ahead of criminals. Ask Clark topics include: The merchant lied -Clark didn't buy the warranty: Clark's endorsement policy, If you can't pay your credit card bill, The Best Credit Cards for Small Business Owners, Why Entrepreneurs Should Avoid Business Credit Cards, MLMs. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 15, 202124 min

03.12.21 Clark answers his critics on Clark Stinks / Auto insurer trick drives up rates - Clark smart ways to keep premiums down.

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts and Clark responds. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks / 2021 policy renewals are using 2019 mileage to set premiums. Clark explains how to handle this and how to save on car insurance overall. Clark Stinks topics include: Long Term Care Insurance, 6 Things To Know Before You Sign Up for Visible, If you use multiple pharmacies, make sure they each have a list of your meds, JOB CORPS, Spousal Roth IRA, Citi Costco Card benefits still include car rental coverage. Ask Clark topics include: Getting out of debt, Home Warranties, HVAC Freon. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 12, 202127 min

03.11.21 Key advice for home buyers / When should you buy a cell phone service plan?

63% of 2020 homebuyers made an offer on a house - sight unseen. Why a virtual tour is not enough. Half of all cell phone users have never lost or broken a phone, so do you need a service plan? 3 Clark smart ways to protect your phone Question topics include: Additional fees on a used vehicle purchase / Beginner investing / Home refi decision making Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 11, 202125 min

03.10.21 Great new construction methods save builders and buyers big money / Make it stop! Ways to reduce spam calls

Innovative building methods, including 3D printing, are more efficient, cut construction costs and produce highly energy efficient housing. / Sick of spam calls? Clark has some strategies to help eliminate them. Ask Clark topics include: Life Insurance and How to Buy a Used Car in 7 Steps - Clark Howard. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 10, 202127 min

03.09.21 Economic recovery spending warning includes buy now, pay later hazard / Word to post-pandemic entrepreneurs.

Debt looms over intact or improved finances during recovery. Hold any gains and beware the buy now, pay later option on small purchases. 3/4 of users dropped their credit scores. / Picking up the Pieces: Rare opportunity exists to open businesses with less cost and less risk, especially in the restaurant industry. Ask Clark topics include: Car rental insurance, Internet based business phone systems - Ooma & 8x8, Trip Adviser for vacation planning, Do Not Give Your Social Security Number at These Places, Wyze Cam smart security camera for $20 - Clark Deals - Your Guide to DIY Home Security Systems - Clark Howard. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 9, 202129 min

03.08.21 Walmart+ tweaks to compete with Amazon Prime. A Clark smart comparison / How Zillow now brings more certainty to home selling.

If you're convenience and price oriented, Walmart+ shines and is worth checking out. / iBuyers have brought convenience to home selling. Now Zillow brings more certainty to the process. Clark offers a smart approach to selling your home today. Ask Clark topics include: How and Why to Refinance Your Mortgage: A Step-By-Step Guide, How to Get a Mortgage in 8 Steps, Hiring a Fee-Only Financial Planner, What is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor?, ProtonMail is free, encrypted email, WhatsApp's new terms are an invasion of privacy. Alternatives include Signal. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 8, 202128 min

03.05.21 Clark answers his critics on Clark Stinks / Why being a renter may be the smart move now into 2022.

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts and Clark responds. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. / There are major disruptions in the housing and rental markets now. Several factors figure into the current housing crunch. Clark explains what to consider when making the decision to rent or to buy this and next year. Ask Clark topics include: Borrowing from your 401k, Marijuana stocks, Pet Insurance. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 5, 202130 min

03.04.21 Money myths can cost you / Extended warranties - Are the ever worth it?

Just under half of people surveyed believe it's best to leave a balance on a credit card - and other money myths that don't serve you well. / Extended warranties on vehicles - when, where and IF you should ever buy one. Ask Clark topics include: What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One?, 529 Plans. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 4, 202124 min

03.03.21 The 'fast furniture' trend and your wallet. / Flood Insurance changes are on the way. Vital info for homeowners and buyers.

Urbanization and climate changes are increasing flood risks. Premium adjustments are coming from the National Flood Insurance Program as the Feds realign risk levels. It's vital for homeowners and potential buyers to know the risk level of any property. FloodFactor.com - FloodSmart.gov. // Mobile young adults are renting furniture these days - convenient but is this cost effective? Clark tells you how to get the most from your furniture dollars. Ask Clark topics include: W-4 withholding confusion, Community Property, Buying individual stock picks vs. index funds, Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 3, 202124 min

03.02.21 Streaming: The Paramount+ launch deal and DirecTV status / Unemployment expands eligibility- Who is included and application advice.

Paramount+ launches this week. Check out the lineup and see if the promotion for early subscribers is right for you. Also, why you may see DirecTV prices go higher. / Unemployment Insurance has expanded eligibility by executive order. Depending on state, delays continue. Clark has application advice to facilitate the process. Ask Clark topics include: Home Internet, Best Online Banks, How much cash should you keep at home. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 2, 202126 min

03.01.21 Timing is Everything: An Important deadline for small business owners / Booking your next travel adventure.

PPP - This time is different. For the next 9 days, businesses with less than 20 employees can apply exclusively. Non-banks, meaning credit unions and fintechs, play fair. This money IS available with loan forgiveness if eligible. / Clark advises on when & how to book air travel for later this year into early 22 - before prices go "sky high" with increased demand. And, should you should consider cruises? Ask Clark topics include: Resource for entrepreneurs - SCORE.org, T-Mobile Money is awesome, The Southwest Companion Pass. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 1, 202124 min

02.26.21 Clark answers his critics on Clark Stinks / A trend in the supermarket industry that can save you up to 50%

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts on the site with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. / Transformation in the supermarket industry is creating major savings opportunity for you. Clark points to your lower cost options. Ask Clark topics include: Should I Stop Paying My Student Loans Right Now? - Clark Howard / ABLE accounts: A tax-free way for parents of disabled kids to save for the future-Clark Howard Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 26, 202125 min

02.25.21 Privacy Protection: WhatsApp alternatives / The Kroger data breach part of something deep - your assignment

Facebook owned WhatsApp is changing terms of service allowing them to invade privacy. Clark's warning and alternatives. Also, the Kroger data breach is part of an overall massive breach affecting many companies. Resist breach fatigue and freeze your credit if you haven't yet. Ask Clark topics include: Bill reduction services, Robocalls, Credit cards ditching car rental coverage. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 25, 202127 min

02.24.21 The Power of the Pivot-Knowing where your transferable skills are needed. Also, your options when your employer doesn't offer a 401K match or any retirement account.

The Power of the Pivot: Job demand is up in some areas. Clark offers guidance on finding active job categories and transferring your skill set outside the box. Some who have pivoted have increased their incomes. Also, when your employer offers no retirement plan or match, Clark gets you started on handling your own future financial security. -How to Open a Roth IRA - Clark Howard. / Ask Clark topics include: Trekz earbuds, employer 401K security freeze, The dangers of Zelle. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 24, 202126 min

02.23.21 A new way to invest that doesn’t involve buying stocks hyped on Reddit. Also, a new charge is appearing on bills of all kinds. What to watch for.

Clark recommends long-term investing and welcomes Marcus Invest from Goldman Sachs for small investors, akin to Wealthfront & Betterment. Also, PPE cost money and the charges are being passed on to you. Be aware when paying extra. Ask Clark topics include: Timeshares and Credit Cards. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 23, 202126 min

02.22.21 Car buyer update for new and used vehiciles / A stand out cell phone plan

How Ford's new Blue Advantage car buying program stacks up to CarMax & Carvana and why now isn't the time to buy a new vehicle. / Verizon's discounter Visible has an improved plan that could save you major money. 6 Things to Know Before You Sign Up for Visible - Clark Howard Question topics include: Canadian savings accounts, 10 Ways to Save on Prescription Drugs - Clark Howard, the Bumped app has changed, Why You Should Never Sign Up for Overdraft Protection - Clark Howard. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 22, 202124 min

02.19.21 Clark answers his critics on Clark Stinks / Jobs that pay a great starting salary for college grads

Christa shares Clark Stinks posts on the site with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. A poll finds many teens and young adults believe a high school education is enough to earn a decent living. Generally, more education is needed for stable employment, via state technical schools and/or colleges. Clark lists the best paying jobs out of college and explains you don't have to go into massive student loan debt to earn a college degree. Question topics include: Amazon reviews / Finding a reputable home appraiser / Credit card application denial - Credit reports Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 19, 202127 min

02.18.21 Renters' Rights and the Mortgage Forebearance extension / Auto theft and breakins-Prevention

Rule changes for renters and home buyers have occurred. Renters facing eviction have rights, but must verify economic hardship and follow procedure. Clark explains what forebearance now exists for FHA, Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac mortgage holders and payment strategies. Crimes stats are up. Extra measures you can take to help prevent car theft and break-ins Ask Clark topics include the virtual mailbox in the absence of a physical home address, how to protect the Schwab debit card Links mentioned: CDC form to avoid eviction for apartment renters / Hello Landlord – by SixFifty / Federal Register Notice: Temporary Halt in Residential Evictions to Prevent the Further Spread of COVID-19 | CDC. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 18, 202125 min

02.17.21 Stock trading tax issues + index funds / Employment prospects as the economy recovers

If you must do high-frequency stock trades, Clark gives you the tax-smart way to proceed and explains the beauty of index funds. / Surprising news and Clark smart direction on the job front. Clark answers your questions: Youth banking accounts / How to spot a car wrap scam / WYZE home security Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 17, 202126 min

02.16.21 Vaccine scams are proliferating- can you spot them? / A new way to save on high cost generic drugs

The Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company offers more affordable versions of expensive generic drugs / Vaccine fraudsters are after your money and personal information. Clark explains the red flags to look out for. Clark answers your questions: Sports programming on streaming channels - check T-Mobile Tuesdays for free MLB. / Kill A Watt electricity usage monitors / Able Accounts / HSA Accounts Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 16, 202126 min

02.15.21 State & local revenues not terrible / Ponzi fraud is booming

Clark explains how state and local revenues are faring so far in the pandemic. Ponzi schemes are alive and well. Know how the game is played, so you don't get played. The Ponzi Scheme Blog. Clark fields questions on 3 to 5G security system monitoring / How tax credits on electric vehicles work. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 15, 202125 min

2.12.21 Clark Stinks; Payment apps like Venmo and Cash App need to serve customers better!

Christa shares the Clark Stinks posted on the web and shares with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. The CFPB has launched a probe into Venmo's debt collection practices. Clark tells you what you need to know about using these payment apps so you don't lose money. Question topics include: cable company problems and where to get a nice mattress for a reasonable price. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 12, 202126 min

2.11.21 People are being taxed for fraudulent unemployment benefits; Foreclosure moratorium extended

The Consumer Action Center is being inundated with calls from listeners getting a 1099G form indicating that they are being taxed on unemployment benefits even though they never signed up for unemployment! Clark tells you how to handle it if you get one of these forms in your mailbox. President Biden just extended the moratorium on foreclosures. Clark discusses what you should do if you need as a homeowner or a tenant. Question topics: buying plane tickets now, tax on stock market earnings, contributing to a target-date retirement fund. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 11, 202126 min

02.10.21 The high cost of chasing tech; Life insurance for younger adults in the age of Covid

How much it would cost if you bought all Samsung or Apple have to offer? Life insurance gains relevance for those under 40. Clark discusses the best kind of life insurance and how to buy it Question topics: Pretext scam calls claiming to be from Amazon / Paying off a mortgage early / A lawyer as executor / First credit cards / Credit versus debit cards for online purchases. Mentioned Links: How to Buy Term Life Insurance in 7 Easy Steps Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 10, 202125 min

02.09.21 Harmful, false posts about people online; The cheapest home security system

Google yourself to see what is out there about you. Revenge posting can be harmful to job seekers and to relationships. Clark discusses ways to minimize the damage. How self-install security systems have evolved - Wyze introduces the cheapest security system and monitoring. Clark question topics include: When to rent before buying a home and when to accept a collections resolution offer Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 9, 202126 min

02.08.21 Who Are the REAL bargain retailers; Protect yourself from proliferating phone scams

To stretch your dollar further, it's important to shop in the right places. Bargain retailers: Online versus in-store when you're trying to Save More. 1 in 5 people have lost money to a phone scam in the past 12 months. Clark talks about how to protect yourself and your loved ones. Clark question topics include: Free state tax filing, printers and ink cartridges, ditching an annual fee credit card, & internet while traveling. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 8, 202127 min

02.05.21 Clark Stinks; February deals and the best Presidents' Day bargains

Christa shares the Clark Stinks posted on the web and shares with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Many Presidents' Day deals are being touted. How to know what's a real deal and what's not in the month of February. Clark explains how to save on prescription medication Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 5, 202125 min

02.04.21 Future of the stock market; Chase credit card terms; Clark's Amazon saga update

Clark's latest take on the GameStop and other market mania and what it means about the future of the stock market. Clark fields questions about Chase's new credit card policy, social RobinHood and security numbers, buying a new car, buying a car on eBay, charitable donations. Links mentioned in this episode: Clark.com article on Stock Trading and Investment Apps: https://clark.com/personal-finance-credit/investing-retirement/best-investment-apps/ Clark.com Credit Freeze Guide: https://clark.com/credit/credit-freeze-and-thaw-guide/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 4, 202125 min

2.3.21 Do you need an 8k TV!?; Here's what you should do if you've fared well through this pandemic

In recent years we've been buying 4k tv's even though there isn't much content delivered in 4k! But the tv manufacturers are now starting to sell us on 8k televisions. Don't buy the hype. Now you can get 4k programming over the air with an antenna for free! The pandemic has made the wealth inequality in our country worse than ever. If you've fared well during the pandemic, think about how you can care for others who haven't. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 3, 202127 min

2.2.21 How vaccines will affect employment and travel; Paramount+ prelaunch discount

Being vaccinated will be a green light for both employment and travel moving forward. Employers seek to reduce liability risk. Vaccination comes with digital verification and will be required for travel. With more and more streaming products hitting the market, how do you decide which ones to sign up for? Sometimes prepaying will get you a better deal. That's the case with the new Paramount+ prelaunch discount Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 2, 202131 min

2.1.21 Producer Joel announces his departure; The pandemic has changed the way you should think about auto insurance.

Producer Joel is moving on to pursue his own podcast called How To Money full time. He and Clark discuss Joel's venture and the current real estate market for potential landlords. The pandemic has reduced how much we drive and Clark recommends rethinking auto insurance to include companies that charge by the mile (Metromile) and/or track driver distance and performance. The trade-off of privacy for more accurate pricing can reduce costs for you and improve industry pricing practices overall. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 1, 202129 min

1.29.21 Clark Stinks; How people are handling stimulus funds

Christa and Joel share the Clark Stinks posted on the web and share with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. New stats reveal how Americans are spending stimulus funds. For many, the money is vital to survival. For others, it's been used to pay down debt and increase savings, which in turn will contribute to economic recovery gradually, starting mid-year. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 29, 202129 min

1.28.21 Where Americans are moving right now; Retailer closings mean you need to use your gift cards now

A new report from Uhaul shows which states Americans are moving to and which states people are leaving. The top 3 states don't have a state income tax! But it turns out that one of the largest reasons that people are moving is to find cheaper housing. And if you are moving, Clark tells you what to watch out for when hiring a moving company. Godiva announced that it will be closing all of its US and Canadian locations. Don't worry, you can still buy your Godiva chocolates elsewhere. But there's a lesson in this for consumers - use your gift cards ASAP. Retailers and restaurants are feeling the pain right now, so make sure to locate and use any gift cards in your possession soon so that you aren't left with worthless plastic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 28, 202129 min

1.27.21 Gamestop & the stock market; How to sign up for healthcare if you lost your job

Despite store closings, Gamestop stock has climbed rapidly as young investors bid up the value. Clark believes this is a bubble that could burst and hurt you if you're investing in a speculative way. The Biden administration is set to reopen the healthcare exchange so that those uninsured by job loss have viable healthcare options. Clark explains purchasing a compliant policy at Healthcare.gov versus buying a non-compliant policy that offers inferior coverage. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 27, 202128 min

1.26.21 Higher mortgage rates are coming; Medical tourism is rebounding in a big way

Mortgage rates are likely to rise in the coming months. Clark thinks that we'll see rates rise modestly in 2021. So if you're looking to refinance, do it sooner rather than later! Americans are getting back on board with medical tourism even though we're still in the middle of the Covid pandemic. If you are willing to travel, you can save big money by getting medical or dental work in another country. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 26, 202127 min

1.25.21 Buy a used car with a 30-day return policy; Food delivery app fees are absurd and they hurt restaurants

Carmax has a generous new return policy. You have 30 days now to drive that used car before you are stuck with it for good. Carmax and Carvana are reaping the rewards of being more consumer-friendly. Food delivery apps can cost you an additional 40%. Clark says that you should opt to order directly from your favorite restaurants and choose to pick your food up instead of using the major apps. This saves you money and keeps more of that cash in the restaurant's hands as well. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 25, 202126 min

1.22.21 Clark Stinks; How to avoid losing your FSA funds

Christa and Joel share the Clark Stinks posted on the web and share with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Clark talks about the new rules about how to avoid losing unused money that you've set aside in your FSA. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 22, 202125 min

1.21.21 Free tax filing is open on the IRS website now; Getting paid to get vaccinated

IRS free file is the place to go for most people who have an AGI of less than $72k. And you can file your 2020 tax return today if you want - although the IRS won't start processing returns until mid-February. Clark just got his first round of vaccine. Some employers are paying employees to get vaccinated. What started with Dollar General has now expanded to other employers who are offering different amounts of money if their employees will get in line to get theirs. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 21, 202127 min

1.20.21 Annuity options will soon be available in your 401k; As streaming prices rise, how you can pay less

Clark is not a fan of annuities. But they are going to be available in many 401k's this year. Clark tells you what you should do when you see them as an option in your workplace retirement account. Streaming prices have skyrocketed in recent years! Clark talks about recent changes in the streaming space and how you can find stuff to watch without breaking the bank. Ask Clark topics include budgeting advice for a college sophomore, are the payment apps like Cash App secure, work from home tax breaks, and amending a tax return. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 20, 202123 min

1.19.21 High shipping costs lead to generous return policies; Buy now & pay later grows in popularity

Bigger retailers like Amazon and Walmart are letting customers keep less expensive items they are returning a whole lot more these days. That's because the cost of shipping has become prohibitive. The Australian trend of buying something and paying for it in installments is now happening regularly on US websites. Most of these companies don't even charge you interest. Clark says that these installment loans are a reasonable option if it doesn't cause you to buy more than you should. Ask Clark topics include alternatives to overdraft protection, home title lock, renting a home out on Airbnb, and moving into a camper to pay off debt! Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 19, 202127 min

1.18.21 How to file your taxes for FREE; The best online banks you should consider having an account with

Clark discusses how most people can file their taxes without paying a dime. He also talks about how eligible Americans can get the earned income tax credit. Simple bank was an excellent online bank. But it's going away. So Clark talks about which online banks are worth considering if you're looking to move your money. Ask Clark topics include issues with a home solar system, which rewards credit card is best, how to cut down on your home energy use, and whether it makes sense to add your child to your credit card as an authorized user or not. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 18, 202125 min

1.15.21 Why some borrowers are missing out on student loan forgiveness; Clark Stinks

Some borrowers aren't getting their student loans forgiven by the federal government because of confusing requirements. That is not ok. Clark talks about what the government should do to improve the process for borrowers and help them get their loans forgiven in a straightforward way. Christa and Joel share the Clark Stinks posted on the web and share with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Ask Clark topics include will all student loans be forgiven, why Clark recommends waiting to tap 529 plans until later in your college career and is it wise to invest money that you are saving to purchase a home. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 15, 202128 min

1.14.21 The jobs recovery has stalled out; Clark's take on Bitcoin's volatile ride

The newest jobs report was not looking very good as unemployment levels rose in December. Clark talks about how to navigate employment in the current economy. Also, the folks at Clark.com have updated the work from home guide which can help you find solid employers offering remote employment. Clark is not a fan of Bitcoin. And the recent volatility in the cryptocurrency arena hasn't changed his mind. Listen to this before you put any of your money into cryptocurrencies. Ask Clark topics include getting life insurance as a single parent, companies forcing you to choose auto bill pay, saving up for a new car, and what to consider when building a new home. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 14, 202124 min

1.13.21 How to get fewer annoying robocalls + The appliance shortage is still raging

Robocalls are the worst! And it feels like we're getting bombarded with them more frequently now. Clark talks about how to curb those annoying calls to bring more zen back into your day. Many appliances still remain in short supply because of factory shutdowns due to Covid. That means that if you are in search of an appliance it'll be harder to find a deal on the one you want. But Clark has some tips to help you out! Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 13, 202122 min

1.12.21 The FAFSA gets simplified + Parental guilt causes financial insecurity by taking out PLUS loans

There will be some major changes to the FAFSA for the upcoming school year and parents are going to be thankful for them. Clark talks about the elimination of the expected family contribution and what that means when you are applying for financial aid for your child. Parents are taking on way too much debt for their kid's higher education! PLUS loans are sabotaging their retirement. Clark discusses what you should do instead of taking out those toxic loans. Want more money advice? Sign up for Clark’s free daily newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 12, 202123 min