Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also, there’s some important stats and steps to know when financing a vehicle. Clark tells you how to short circuit getting ripped off on a car purchase.   Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Vehicle Financing: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark Howard's 4 Travel Rules You Should Follow Right Now How To Pack a Carry-On the Right Way 6 Best Background Check Services How To Get a Gym Membership for Practically Free YMCA of the USA - A Leading Nonprofit Organization Shipt Review: 5 Things To Know Before Your First Order Target RedCard Credit Card Review: Earn 5% Back on Purchases Report: The Average Price of a New Vehicle Credit Unions Gain Top Share Of Auto Lending In U.S. For First Time Ever Car & Driver - How to Get the Best Car Loan Clark Howard's Simple Rule for Refinancing an Auto Loan How To Refinance a Car Loan: A Step-by-Step Guide How to Buy a Used Car in 7 Steps / How to Buy a New Car in 5 Steps Are You Following Clark's Maximum Auto Loan Length Rule? Pirate Ship Review: Pros & Cons of This Cheap Shipping Service Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

Your dining out experience may be getting better as labor shortages ease in some areas, and tech provides new efficiencies in the restaurant business. Plus, hear how drone delivery is expanding. Also in this episode, Clark weighs in on the enlightened self-interest of employers allowing 4 day work weeks and flex scheduling - Win Win.  Tech Efficiencies: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Flexible Work Schedules: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: WSJ: Restaurant Staffers Are Returning to Work After Covid Flight Barrons.com: Robots Are Replacing Workers Lost in the Pandemic. They’re Here to Stay. Walmart Delivery Drones Now Operate in 7 States How and Why To Refinance Your Mortgage: A Step-By-Step Guide Mortgage Refinance Calculator - Clark Howard When to consider a Coverdell ESA to 529 plan rollover 40 HOURS OR 32? 4 DAYS OR 5? Clark.com - CREDIT CARDS 6 Things To Know Before Contacting the National Foundation for Credit Counseling Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

Clark has long despised noncompete clauses for workers. There’s finally a new proposal to do away with them from the FTC. Clark is on board and has some advice for job seekers. Also, there are new rules for IRAs and 401(k)s. Clark clarifies new & forthcoming options.  Covenants Not To Compete: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 New Retirement Account Rules: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: FTC says proposed ban of noncompete clauses would strengthen workers' hand Home equity loans & lines of credit: 7 common questions answered What Is a Secured Credit Card and How Does It Work? CNET: Your IRA and 401(k) Are Changing in 2023: New Rules for Retirement Accounts Required Minimum Distributions: How To Calculate, Rules Tesla deliveries miss estimates due to logistical issues, slowing demand How to Make a Disposable Razor Last 12 Months Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

While recent changes to medical debt credit reporting will help, medical debt accounts for half the negative marks on credit reports, due in part to the medical industry’s resistance to lawful price disclosure under the No Surprises Act - which unfortunately excludes ambulance service. Clark discusses this glaring omission and the role of non-profits in tackling medical debt for consumers. Also, to solve traffic congestion we’re in a never ending quest to widen roads. But in this case, increased supply creates new demand. Clark offers a free market solution.  Medical Debt: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Clark’s Traffic Solution: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Half of ambulance rides yield surprise medical bills. What's being done to protect people? How nonprofits help millions tackle their medical debt How Much Does an MRI Cost (With/Without Health Insurance)? Follow Clark Howard's #1 Rule To Travel Cheap How To Plan a Trip: Clark's Best Travel Tips To Save Money Turo: 5 Things To Know About the Cheap Car Rental Service Widening Highways Doesn’t Fix Traffic. So Why Do We Keep Doing It? How To Find a Good Moving Company Clark.com - Streaming TV Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

If you work remotely, you may be part of something that is going to make housing cheaper for all. Clark explains how Covid migration drove housing prices up, but longer term, is having the opposite effect. Also, something new - again - CD ladders. Clark explains how this saving technique can work for you in the current and foreseeable rate environment.  Remote Work & Housing: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 CD Laddering: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: The rise of 'Zoomtowns' is going to make home prices and rents cheaper for everyone What Is a Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA)? - SmartAsset.com Cheapest Way to Rent a Car: Expert Tips Auto Europe® Car Rentals - Official Site SavingForCollege:Section 126: Rolling Over 529 Plan Funds Into a Roth IRA What Is a CD Ladder and When Is It a Good Idea? Best CD Rates for January 2023 - Bankrate.com Clark.com - Vehicle Purchase Should I Get Pet Insurance? Clark.com Community Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode - DEALS. Clark shares why January 20th is a key date for deep discounts, what’s on sale and where to find the bargains - including TRAVEL. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Deep Discounts & Deals: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: New Tool Shows Southwest Prices From Google Flights Search Walmart+ Membership Program: 4 Things To Know Google Voice How To Refuse an Inherited Timeshare 10 Things on Deep Discount in January Clark Deals - Today's Best Deals of the Day Why This Is the Best Time To Buy Series I Savings Bonds 5 Things To Know About Series I Savings Bonds Car Insurance Archives - Clark Howard Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

Tax season is upon us with a better staffed IRS expected this year. Clark has a few reminders before you file. Also in today’s show - Clark has always advocated paying off debt. Does that include paying down your mortgage faster? Clark has a formula for determining that, and advice for prioritizing where to put any extra funds you may have.    Tax Reminders: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Funding Priorities: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Why You Should Start Preparing for Tax Season Now What Is an Annuity, and Why Does Clark Think They Stink? What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? What Is a Solo 401(k) and How Does It Work? What Is a SEP IRA and Who Is Eligible? Self employed 401K vs SEP - Investing - Clark Howard Community Mortgages Archives - Clark Howard BBB-File a Complaint Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

With the new year comes new health insurance deductibles, and many are feeling it when filling prescriptions. Learn why employer prescription plans are your frenemy - and what Mark Cuban is doing in the world of prescription medications. Also in this episode, what constitutes being wealthy? Clark discusses how people perceive and self-assess wealth in the U.S., knowing the difference between reality & headlines, and the role of lifestyle in determining wealth.  Rx Costs: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Defining Wealth: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drugs Expands To Employers In Quest To Disrupt Big Pharma Will Mark Cuban's Prescription Company Really Save You Money? Clark.com Prescription Drugs How Investors Define 'Wealthy' Might Surprise You - Barron's Are You Rich? The Answer May Surprise You Fidelity Youth Account - Any Good? - Clark Howard Community Fidelity Youth Account Fidelity Investments Review 2022: Pros & Cons Best Homeowners Insurance Companies and Ones To Avoid  Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

Various factors are contributing to a shortage of college students, forcing many schools to cut tuitions and reevaluate their relevance. This as state supported trade, technical and community colleges are challenged to better align curriculum to the needs of the workplace. Clark discusses the transformation in higher education, its value, and your new negotiating power. Also, Clark has the latest installment of the crimes and fines of Wells Fargo - a “bank” you’d do well to forego. Transformation in Education: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Again With Wells Fargo: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Best 529 College Savings Plans By State What Is a Roth 401(k) and How Does It Work? How To Get the Best Price Possible Shopping Online NYTimes: Wells Fargo to Pay $3.7 Billion Over Consumer Banking Violations WSJ-Wells Fargo Reaches $3.7 Billion Deal With Regulators Over Consumer Banking CFPB Orders Wells Fargo to Pay $3.7 Billion for Widespread Mismanagement of Auto Loans, Mortgages, and Deposit Accounts | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Credit Karma Review: Free Credit Score and More at Your Fingertips Clark.com Community Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

We've all been victims of customer-no-service. So how do you effectively complain and resolve an issue? Persistent patience and various resources including a new service. Also, do you have things gathering dust you now regret buying? Take the “closet test” and learn to defeat the tactics behind impulse buying. Customer No-Service Resources: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Prevent Buyer’s Remorse: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Liz Weston: How to complain and get results Cutting through customer service doom-loops by calling in a ‘Karen’ Elliott Advocacy - karens for hire Clark’s Consumer Action Center Moving.org General Complaint Form Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration BBB-File a Complaint Best Online Banks: Free Checking and High-Interest Savings Accounts How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor Garrett Planning Network: Home Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode, with the new EV tax credits, is this the year to buy an electric vehicle? Clark goes over the important considerations around this major decision. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 EV Tax Credits & Update: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4   Mentioned on the show: 5 Things To Know About Series I Savings Bonds Inflation for goods fell while inflation for services increased 7 Items You Should Never Carry in Your Wallet Report: Top Vehicles Most Likely To Last 200,000 Miles Uni - One Toll Pass. 19 States. These Big Banks Are Finally Doing Something About Zelle KENTUCKYBoard of Pharmacy KASPER Questions Here’s what you need to know about the new EV tax credit for 2023 Tesla deliveries miss estimates due to logistical issues, slowing demand What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? The worst insurance in the world How To Buy Term Life Insurance in 7 Easy Steps  Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

Freelancing and side gigs are becoming the norm for many Americans between jobs or looking to make more money. Get Clark’s tips on how to find legit jobs and set up your side business. Later, how would you like a bank loan at 200%? Predatory lending is happening on a national scale, hurting lots of people - and it’s legal. Clark explains how this came about and what you should know to avoid this trap.  Freelancing & Side Gigs: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Predatory Loan Warning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4   Mentioned on the show: IRS says it will delay requirement to report $600 in gig work on taxes There are more than 70 million freelancers in the U.S.—here’s how they can raise their rates LA Times - If you’re looking for a side hustle, avoid these job sites January is often a big month for layoffs. Here's what to do in a worst case scenario As tech layoffs surge, nonprofits are calling SideHusl - Find the Best Money Making Option for You T-Mobile Introduces New SIM Protection Feature How To Freeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Credit Karma Review: Free Credit Score and More at Your Fingertips How To Prevent, Report and Repair Identity Theft How 4 small Utah banks have taken their 'predatory lending' national. It's all thanks to state law, critics say The Cheapest Places To Buy Contact Lenses SIPC - Securities Investor Protection Corporation Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

Clark gets back to basics today to help you determine if you need a budgeting app and which one may work best for you. Also in this episode, the streaming giants are losing subscribers and money so changes are on the way. Get Clark’s take on what to look out for to protect your wallet, and what to know about free TV.  Budgeting Apps: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Streaming Changes & Free TV: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4   Mentioned on the show: How Safe Are Budget Tracking Apps and Software? Clark.com Best Budeting Apps Clark.com Mint Review; Clark.com PocketGuard Review; Clark.com YNAB Review; Clark.com Honeydue Review; Clark.com Mvelopes Review Saver's Credit: How To Get Free Money To Save for Retirement 2023 and Beyond: Clark Howard Predicts the Future of Streaming TV Streaming TV's Party Is Over. Now Comes the Hangover Upgrades in Free Over-the-Air TV Are Making It Better Live TV Streaming Channel Tool Freevee Review: What You Should Know About Amazon’s Free Streaming Service 4 Things To Know Before You Buy a Digital TV Antenna How To Watch Local Channels Without Cable How To Find Cheap Flights in 3 Easy Steps No Surprises Act - CMS Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

There’s a price war going on in the cell phone industry and consumers can win savings! Clark points the way. Also, the South experienced record cold over the holidays causing pipes to burst and costing millions in water damage. No matter where you live, know how to prevent this and what steps to take if you have suffered damage to your dwelling. Cell Plan Deals: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Prevent Busted Water Pipes: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4   Mentioned on the show: Verizon: Start the Year with more savings. Switch to Verizon for just $25 per line. Guaranteed for 3 years. Boost Infinite Early Access: New $25 Monthly Unlimited Postpaid Phone Plan Boost $25 per month and includes intl calling from US Best Cell Phone Plans in 2023: The Cheapest Plan for Every Need 7 New Cell Phone Deals in January NYTimes.com: In Much of the South, Subfreezing Weather Crippled Water Systems Popmoney Pros and Cons What Is a CD Ladder and When Is It a Good Idea?   Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

Clark’s first in a series about new tax rules in effect: A GREAT development with 529 plans may change your decisions on how to save for college. Also, Clark covers energy credits in the Inflation Reduction Act. Learn what you may be eligible for, covering heat pumps, solar and more, and why you should take your time!  New 529 Plan Rules: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 New Energy Credits: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4   Mentioned on the show: NYTimes.com: A Sign That Tuition Is Too High: Some Colleges Are Slashing It in Half Families can make a tax-free rollover from 529 plans to Roth individual retirement accounts starting in 2024 SavingForCollege:Section 126: Rolling Over 529 Plan Funds Into a Roth IRA BBB-File a Complaint Why This Is the Best Time To Buy Series I Savings Bonds Rewiring America - How much money will you get with the Inflation Reduction Act? [The Washington Post] 3 ways to tap billions in new money to go green - starting this month How To Pack a Carry-On the Right Way Shipt vs. Instacart: Which Grocery Delivery Service Is Better? 6 Best Grocery Delivery Services Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also, Clark goes back to basics on credit card debt.  If you're committed to paying off debt, Clark smart strategies can help get you to debt free.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Credit Card Debt: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4   Mentioned on the show: Poll: Almost half of Americans are holding on to unused gift cards How To Sell Gift Cards Online for Cash-Clark.com Should I Tip on a Cruise? What Clark Howard Thinks of 'Crypto Winter' After Big Crash Best Free Password Managers: 7 Top Picks How To Create a Safe Password Clark.com How To Get Out of Debt in 7 Steps Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards: Top Picks for 2023 6 Things To Know Before Contacting the National Foundation for Credit Counseling Have you joined Clark's 'Ditch Your Debt' Facebook group yet? Ditch Your Debt - Clark Howard Community How To Improve Your Credit Score by 100 Points in 30 Days Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

Airbnb hired a background check company to vet owners and renters, fueling complaints of unjustified bans, mistaken identity, and no real appeal process. Clark weighs in. Also - planes, trains and automobiles - Clark got caught in the Southwest meltdown, and recounts his 3 day journey to make it home by Christmas. Airbnb Background Checks: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Clark’s Holiday Travel Misadventures: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4   Mentioned on the show: USA TODAY: Does Airbnb do criminal background checks? Yes. Policy sparks backlash among consumers [The Washington Post] Long a fan favorite, Southwest’s model now faces questions NYTimes.com: The Shameful Open Secret Behind Southwest’s Failure Costco Travel: 5 Things To Know Before You Book The Only Way You Should Pay for a Cruise How To Use 'Vacations To Go' To Find Bargain Cruises Should I Tip on a Cruise? Taxes - Clark Howard Community How To Open a Roth IRA U.S. Bank Savings Account Rates - Bankrate 8 of the Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts in 2022-Clark.com Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

A new year, and many have resolved to work out more. Clark answers the burning question: When do you sign a contract with a gym that obligates you for 1, 2 or 3 years? Get the lowdown on gym membership and the commitment to fitness. Also, hear why younger generations are now more likely to suffer fraud than seniors. Clark counts the ways, and shares how to protect yourself.  Commit To Be Fit: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Fraud For All: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4   Mentioned on the show: Why Planet Fitness hasn’t raised its $10 monthly gym price in 30 years WSJ: How Old Do You Feel? The Answer Can Reveal a Lot About Your Health, Scientists Say WP - To live longer, pick up the pace just three minutes a day, study shows Follow the 'Minute Rule' to make exercise a daily habit How To Talk to Your Partner About Money Before Marriage Clark Howard's 5 Money Tips for Couples Fraud reports and losses: Not just a grandparent's story What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? NFCC - National Foundation for Credit Counseling - Home Should I Get an Umbrella Insurance Policy? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

Gift cards are universal but there’s a mistake about half us make with them. Major retailers make hundreds of millions of dollars on gift cards never redeemed. Clark has an assignment for you, including when best to start. Also - “cash stuffing” - a new term for a classic idea Clark has long recommended, can teach the real value of real money.  Gift Cards: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Cash Stuffing: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4   Mentioned on the show: Poll: Almost half of Americans are holding on to unused gift cards How To Sell Gift Cards Online for Cash-Clark.com 5 Things To Know About Series I Savings Bonds How to Budget With a Cash Envelope System Axios: Cash stuffing is back How to Save Money on Car Insurance Money Challenge: How To Save $2,023 in 2023 - Clark.com Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode, Clark shares a key step to defend your identity and accounts from SIM swapping - the theft of your cell service. Now T-Mobile has a new security feature that helps block this type of fraud. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 T-Mobile SIM Protection: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Welcome to Clark’s Christmas Kids 2022 Clark's 4 Secrets To Save Money on Your Laundry What Is a Solo 401(k) and How Does It Work? Self employed 401K vs SEP - Investing - Clark Howard Community How an AARP Membership Can Save You Money How To Store Your Important Financial Documents Online 7 Best Free Cloud Storage Options in 2022 SIM Card Swapping: The Dangerous Cell Phone Scam Everyone Needs To Know T-Mobile Introduces New SIM Protection Feature TmoNews: T-Mobile implementing a new security feature for SIM swap requests BBB-File a Complaint Clark.com resources Episode transcripts 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