Great news on junk fees, especially when buying concert tickets and booking travel online. New rules will simplify comparison shopping online. Also, AI has shown its potential to be very helpful in many ways. Unfortunately, it’s being used for more sinister purposes that you need to know about.   Junk Fee Transparency: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Beware AI Fakes: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show What you see is what you’ll pay: New law bans ‘junk’ fees on hotel bills, concert tickets, etc. ‘Spending Money to Get Nothing’: The Latest on Resort Fees Opt Out of T-Mobile’s Upcoming Plan Migration Using These Steps ﻿T-Mobile’s Forced Plan Migration: How To Opt Out Auto Europe® Car Rentals - Official Site Tom Hanks Warns of Dental Ad Using A.I. Version of Him [The Washington Post] AI voice clones mimic politicians and celebrities, reshaping reality What Is Umbrella Insurance and Do You Need It? What Are Index Funds? Ask Clark: What Is a Backdoor Roth IRA? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Clark Howard Podcast

10.23.23 Good News On Junk Fees / Beware AI Fake Content

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today, Clark talks about why Buy Now Pay Later, aka Pay in 4 services, have become a disaster for so many, especially Gen Zers.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Pay In 4 Is A Trap: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Best Airline Credit Cards for 2023: Are They Right For You? Select Delta Customers Will Receive a Valuable New Credit Card Perk Cruises for Singles and Solo Travelers Investors criticize federal retirement savings program over new system AnnualCreditReport.com / 4 Ways To Get Your Free Credit Score Safely Order High Security Checks Online - Costco Checks Sam's Club Checks - High Security Checks Costco vs. Sam's Club: What Is the Difference? 10 Best New Products at Costco in October NYTimes: Gen Z Is Poised to Spend More on Debt Than Others. It Could Derail Retirement.   Buy Now Pay Later users: young and well-off but nearing a financial cliff, poll shows New York Fed: Many Buy Now, Pay Later users are financially fragile Vanguard Personal Advisor Review Elliott Report Member's Mark Luggage at Sam's Club Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10.20.23 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / DON’T Buy Now Pay Later

Today Clark goes Back To Basic on auto insurance. Due to gigantic premium increases, more people are going without or buying minimums, which can be risky. Learn what coverage you’ve GOT to have, and how to make decisions regarding collision, comprehensive, and deductibles. Once you figure your coverage, you’re ready to shop insurers. Also, end of life discussions are not easy to initiate, but talks about your own or an aging loved one’s end-of-life care and burial arrangements - making wishes known - deeply benefit all concerned. Determine Your Auto Coverage: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 End-Of-Life Talks: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show 10 Ways To Save Money on Car Insurance Collision vs Comprehensive Car Insurance: Which Do You Need? Bluebird AMEX Prepaid Debit Account Agreement International Travel Tips: 26 Things to Know Before Going Overseas Why You Should Keep Old Credit Card Accounts Open Stop putting off the end-of-life talk with your aging loved ones. Here's what to say What to Discuss With Your Aging Parents as They Get Older Living Will and Durable Power of Attorney: Frequently Asked Questions Wills & Funerals Archives - Clark Howard When Do You Need a Travel Agent? The Only Way You Should Pay for a Cruise Travel Insurance? What You Need To Know Before You Buy Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10.19.23 Auto Insurance: What Do You Actually Need? / End Of Life Discussions

Do you use autopay for credit card bills? If so, Clark has a warning for you. Also, life is about change and that’s surely evident with jobs & career opportunity. Clark looks at the fastest growing jobs today, including college requirements and average pay.  Credit Card Autopay Warning: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Job Growth Fields: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Autopay Is Making Us Worse at Managing Credit-Card Bills - The Wall Street Journal. Automatic Bill Pay: How It Works and How To Do It Safely Clark Howard's Advice Before You Buy a Franchise Watch out for Avis/Budget Fuel charges [Crazy customer support call experience] Here are the best high-paying and fast-growing jobs for the next decade Healthcare.gov What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? How To Switch Banks in 4 Simple Steps Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10.18.23 Credit Cards on Autopay - Pros & Cons / Fastest Growing Careers

Have you given up on guarding your data & privacy online? Help has arrived. Clark reviews a new app from Consumer Reports that works to delete or minimize your digital footprint, managing online privacy for you. Also in this episode, first hand observations on Uber vs. Lyft.  Privacy App- Permission Slip: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Uber Vs. Lyft: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show [The Washington Post] Overwhelmed trying to protect your privacy? A new app does it for you.  The Atlantic’s Guide to Privacy California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) / State Right to be Forgotten Policy Judge Delays CA Data Privacy Law to 2024, says Consumer Watchdog Callable Certificate of Deposit (CD): What it Means, How it Works Best CD Rates for October 2023 - Up to 5.67% - Bankrate Clark.com - Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts Sam’s Club® Mastercard® Review 2022: Earn 5% Back on Gas Purchases China price pressure offers hope of Christmas cheer for western shoppers 9 New Cell Phone Deals in October How to Buy a Used Car in 7 Steps Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10.17.23 Data Privacy Rights In Force With New App / Uber Vs. Lyft

It’s become easy for burglary rings to break into hotel rooms, but there’s also an easy way to protect yourself. Also today, updates on Amazon regarding federal allegations, the Amazon internet service launch, and what consumers need to know about both.  Hotel Room Break-Ins: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Amazon Updates: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Caution: Criminals in California Use Insider Device to Break Into Hotel Rooms - Here's How to Protect Yourself Vacatia - Rent A Timeshare Inside Project Nile: Amazon's secret AI-powered plan to change the way you shop online. The first two Amazon Kuiper satellites are set to launch on October 6 Clark.com - Amazon Report: The #1 Internet Provider in America Going™ | Formerly Scott's Cheap Flights Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10.16.23 Prevent Hotel Room Break-Ins / Allegations & Internet: Amazon Updates

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today, many a tale of woe proves the point: It’s important to have beneficiaries up to date and to understand which takes precedence - a beneficiary designation or a will and trust. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Update Your Beneficiaries: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show AutoSlash Review: How To Save on a Rental Car How To Make Your Online Accounts Accessible When You Die What Do I Need To Do To Make Sure My Financial Affairs Are in Order Before I Die or Become Disabled? Safe Browser Alternatives That Promise Not To Track You Wills & Funerals Archives - Clark Howard Wills versus Trust - Clark Howard Community Who Should Consider Setting Up a Trust? Best Online Will Maker: 5 Free or Cheap Options We Just Got Married. How Do We Blend Our Finances? What Is Long-Term Care Insurance Cost & Coverage Senior Care Archives - Clark Howard Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10.13.23 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / Beneficiaries Vs Wills & Trusts

Scams persist, ubiquitous & unabated. So must our warnings!  Be hip to the latest ways crooks are trying to separate you from your money. Also in this episode - prenuptial agreements are more common these days. Why Clark has a hard time talking about them, and some of  the circumstances that warrant this legal arrangement.  Be SCAM Aware: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Prenups: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show NYT - You’ve Got (Scam) Mail Actors Impersonating Federal Agents Called Seniors. About 12% Handed Over Sensitive Info. How to avoid the No. 1 text message scam putting your money at risk 22 Ways To Save Money on Groceries Flexcar: Your flexible alternative to car ownership Axios: America embraces prenups: 50% of adults open to signing BBB - Amica Mutual Insurance Company Best Auto Insurance Companies and Some of the Worst: September 2023 Someone got so fed up with GE fridge DRM – yes, fridge DRM – they made a whole website on how to bypass it Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10.12.23 New Scam Warnings / Romance Vs Prenups

Clark shares new work-from-home statistics and how that is shifting businesses. Also in this episode: When it comes to your investments, knowing what the fees are in the funds you choose is crucial. The fee difference can translate into huge money you could miss out on in retirement. So investors, Clark has an assignment for you!  Working From Home: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Index Fund Fees: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Axios Chart: Who works from home Even a Booming Economy Can’t Save Atlanta’s Office Market Workplace loneliness is the modern pandemic damaging lives and hurting businesses — The Conversation What Is Umbrella Insurance and Do You Need It? What Are Index Funds? / What Is an ETF? You Might Be Paying Too Much for That Index Fund - The Wall Street Journal. Why You Should Never Invest With a Bank 3 Places You Should Never Invest Your Money Best Investment Companies for Investors in 2023 How To Open a Roth IRA Best Cash Back Credit Cards With No Annual Fee Best Small Business Credit Cards: Top Picks for 2023 Should You Get a Business Credit Card? | When is it Worth it? What Should You Do About Phone Data on an International Trip? The Best Places To Buy Unlocked Phones The Best International Phone Plans International Travel Tips: 26 Things to Know Before Going Overseas Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10.11.23 Working From Home / Index Fund Fees - Your Money Assignment

When buying or selling a home, your choice of a real estate agent is much more important than you may think.  Also today, Clark has good news on the new car purchase front - but it’s a double message. Get the lay of the land on current cost considerations if you’re in the market for a new vehicle.  Choosing A Real Estate Agent: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Buying A New Car: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show How much does real estate agent experience matter? Here's what the data says. The Clark-Approved Way To Invest in Real Estate The Only Reason You Should Make an Improvement to Your Home Annual New Car Ownership Costs Boil Over $12K The Rising Costs of Owning a Car How much does it cost to raise a child? College may no longer be the biggest expense. Clark.com - How to Buy a New Car in 5 Steps Clark.com - How to Buy a Used Car in 7 Steps Costco Auto Program: Deep Discounts on Volvos and Audis Deep Discounts on New Mercedes Benz Cars Should I Keep My Old Car or Buy a New Car? Fidelity Personalized Planning & Advice Review Target Date Funds: Clark's Favorite Retirement Investment Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10.10.23 The Value Of Real Estate Agents / If You Must - Buying A New Car

Today Clark puts interest rates in perspective, discussing where they’re headed and the impact of the national debt on rates.  Also today: The home reliability market for power. Utility scale batteries are providing more reliable, lower cost backup power. And batteries are paying a role for home interruptions as well. What to know about battery alternatives to diesel & whole house generators Interest Rate Assessment: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Home Battery Generators: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Once Unthinkable Bond Yields Now the New Normal for Markets 9 Best Free Checking Accounts in October 2023 What Are Repositioning Cruises and Why Take One? Giant Batteries Helped the U.S. Power Grid Eke Through Summer Should I Rent My Roof To a Solar Panel Company for Income? Community Solar worth it? - Clark Howard Community Are Solar Panels Worth it? 3 Things To Consider Before You Get Solar Panels Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10.09.23 Interest Rates Are Normal / Battery Generators For Backup Power

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode, as a prolific energy producer, US prices tend to be lower than elsewhere in the world. Yet, here comes that high power bill. The good news is, there are several improvements you can make to reduce the amount of energy needed for heating & cooling.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Lower Heating Bills: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Should You Buy an Extended Warranty on Your Car? Why We’re Pulling Our Recommendation of Wyze Security Cameras Clark Howard's 4 Travel Rules You Should Follow Right Now Should I Buy an AirTag for My Checked Airport Luggage? Big Change Announced for Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card Is Medical Tourism Right for You? [The Washington Post] How to use window coverings to boost your home’s energy efficiency  10 Ways To Lower Your Heating Bill   /   How To Save Money on Utilities Are Solar Panels Worth it? 3 Things To Consider Before You Get Solar Panels Best 529 College Savings Plans By State Where Should I Look for a Great Deal on a Cruise in 2023? When Do You Need a Travel Agent? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10.06.23 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / Home Energy Savings

It’s now easier than ever to monitor your credit reports for free, but there are a few pitfalls to be aware of. Also in this episode - Living in an HOA community is a choice about 1/4th of homeowners have made. Homeowners associations can be great, but can also pose problems. Believe it or not, you can lose your home to one if you’re not careful.  Free Credit Reports: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Homeowners Associations: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show Credit Bureaus Announce Big Changes for Credit Reports How To Monitor Your Credit / Dispute an Error on Your Credit Report and Win 4 Ways To Get Your Free Credit Score Credit Karma Review: Free Credit Score and More at Your Fingertips The Jello Exercise - YouTube Looking to Lower Your Funeral or Cremation Costs? Join a Non-Profit Memorial Society How Do I Make Sure My Financial Affairs Are in Order Before I Die or Become Disabled? When the Homeowners Association Comes for Your Home Why You Need To Re-Shop Your Car Insurance Right Now What Is a Thrift Savings Plan? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10.05.23 Free Credit Reports - The Right Way / Eyes Wide Open On HOAs

It’s a frustrating game - appealing a denied medical claim. They’re counting on you to give up. Don’t. Clark shares the best approach and strategies. Also, housing market conditions remain hostile for first time home buyers. Some sources say now is the time to buy. Clark offers a different opinion, and direction moving forward.  Health Insurance Claim Appeal: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 First Time Home Buyers: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show I Set Out to Create a Simple Map for How to Appeal Your Insurance Denial. Instead, I Found a Mind-Boggling Labyrinth. What Should You Do if Your Insurance Claim Is Denied? Health Insurance Guide / Health Insurance Archives - Clark Howard 10 Ways To Save on Prescription Drugs 40% More Savings on Nearly 200 Medications at Walgreens with GoodRX A 3% Mortgage Rate in a 7% World? This Startup Says It Can Do That Best 529 College Savings Plans By State Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10.04.23 DENIED: Appealing A Health Insurance Claim / Word To First Time Home Buyers

Out of the massive and ongoing losses of the pandemic, many people reassessed their lives and livelihoods. This reset has led to a wave of new businesses. Clark discusses how this is outstanding for the American economy, the hope and hazard of entrepreneurship - and the upstart scammers that startups must look out for. Also today, are you obsessed with your fitness devices? This can become a problem for some… including Clark.  Small Business: Pride & Peril: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Fitness Devices: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show The Pandemic Small-Business Boom Is Fueling the US Economy Vetting a business or coaching opportunity before you buy in How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor Your Fitbit and Apple Watch may wind up hurting you Yes, your smart TV is spying on you – Here's how to stop it Save $30 with a new Costco membership Homeowners Insurance Archives - Clark Howard California changes homeowner's insurance to repair the market Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10.03.23 Post Pandemic Entrepreneurs / Overkill: Fitness Device Obsession

Save more and spend less is more than just a motto for money expert Clark Howard; it’s a way of life. Clark and his crew — Team Clark — are on a mission to empower people to take control of their personal finances by providing money-saving tips, consumer advice, hot deals and economic news to help everyone achieve financial freedom. Clark is a nationally syndicated radio talk show host and a consumer reporter for television stations around the country. His podcast, The Clark Howard Show, receives more than one million downloads each month and is a hub for listeners to get valuable advice on-demand any time. Clark answers questions on the most popular business and consumer topics including; how to buy a cars, financing a home, retirement planning, shopping for insurance and getting the most out of your savings. Join the conversation and submit your question to www.clark.com/askclark . Clark spearheads two free resources — Clark.com and ClarkDeals.com — to encourage consumers to save more, spend less and avoid ripoffs.

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The Clark Howard Podcast

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