The Clark Howard Podcast

The condo market is struggling around the country, particularly in coastal areas. This creates both opportunity and hazard for potential buyers, and insurance is certainly a factor. Speaking of moving, more and more Americans are moving overseas to save money or retire. Should you become an expat? Clark shares his essential "test drive" rule for anyone considering an international move and breaks down the vital questions you need answered before you commit, concerning taxation, safety, and healthcare. Buying A Condo: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Should You Retire Abroad?: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: The Condo Market Hasn’t Been This Bad in Over a Decade - WSJ 5 Reasons Policymakers Should Prioritize Disaster Resilience Verizon + Openbank Savings Why Does Clark Howard Wear 2 Watches? More Middle-Income Americans Are Trying to Make a New Life Overseas - WSJ Best 529 College Savings Plans By State What's the Best Savings Account for a Teenager? My Social Security: The Free Account Everyone Needs To Set Up Before Retirement Mint Mobile Introduces 5G Home Internet From $30/Month 2026 MLK Day Service Project Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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, the job market is in a lower gear as businesses continue to lay off employees and slow hiring. Clark’s take? There’s an opportunity in the marketplace. If you’ve been laid off or you feel anxious about your job right now, consider Clark’s perspective as a lifelong entrepreneur.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 When 1 Door Closes…: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 7 Money Mistakes You Might Be Making at the Gas Station Is Now a Good Time To Refinance Your Mortgage? Why You Should Avoid These Free Offers From Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile The Best Cell Phone Plan Deals in January Top 7 Ways To Shop Safely Online Costco Travel: 5 Things To Know Before You Book 5 Things to Know About the Costco Car Rental Program SCORE: Free Small Business Mentorship and Resources What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? Where Should I Set Up My Health Savings Account (HSA)? The best deals on TVs available now! Report: The #1 Internet Provider in America Internet Price War: Why Now Is a Good Time To Threaten To Cancel Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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

Today Clark shares an important warning about booking travel - info that could save you from becoming stranded or banned from a major airline. Also - Taking into account our current K-shaped economy, a softening job market, and inflation projections, Clark explains the potential for a “growth recession”, and gives you the classic playbook for an uncertain economy.   Travel Booking Alert: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Survive The Growth Recession: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Warning: The Hidden Danger of Cheap Flights How To Plan a Trip: Clark's Best Travel Tips To Save Money Travel Archives - Clark Howard   /   Today's Top Travel Deals Will TSA PreCheck® Still Be Worth It After New Rule Change? Clark Howard’s Economy Predictions in 2026⁠⁠ Emergency Fund: Everything You Need to Know How To Save Money: Spend Less & Build Your Savings 17 Extreme Money-Saving Tips How Many Bank Accounts Should You Have? - Clark Howard Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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

Is It Time To Sell Berkshire Hathaway? & 5 Predictions for Investors in 2026 In this episode, Clark Howard and Wes Moss dive deep into the legacy of Warren Buffett and what the future holds for Berkshire Hathaway as it enters a new chapter. Wes breaks down the staggering math of Buffett’s success, and Clark discusses the "jockey vs. the horse" theory, questioning if the company can maintain its magic without Buffett at the helm. Also, Wes provides his definitive 2026 market outlook by answering five critical questions for investors. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the January 13, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments!Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So many of us struggle with credit card debt, which can be especially acute after the holidays. Clark shares some eye-opening stats, and a 3 step approach to getting debt under control.  Also, does ordering groceries online save you money, or rip you off? Clark updates the dynamic pricing angle and online options.  Credit Card Debt: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Online Grocery Shopping: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Credit Card Debt Consolidation: 3 Paths To Consider, 2 To Avoid Clark Howard's Credit Card Debt Elimination Strategy How Do You Pay off Credit Card Debt? 6 Things To Know Before Contacting the National Foundation for Credit Counseling How the Capital One-Discover Merger Impacts This Big Clark Credit Card Rule Why You Need To Lock Your Brokerage Account Today Protect Your Brokerage Accounts From ACATS Transfer Fraud 5 Best Grocery Delivery Services Travel Insurance Checklist: 5 Types of Coverage To Consider What Should You Do if Your Insurance Claim Is Denied? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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 - After years of increases, there’s potentially good news on the auto insurance front. Clark looks at industry trends that point to lower costs for car insurance.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Auto Insurance Prices: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Certificate of Deposit (CD): What Is It, Best Places To Open One Clark's Road Trip Hack: Renting a Car vs. Driving Your Own Credit Card Car Rental Insurance: What You Need To Know Should I Buy Additional Insurance From a Rental Car Company? Today's Top Travel Deals Why You Need To Shop Your Auto Insurance ASAP Teslarati: Tesla partners with Lemonade for new insurance program Should You Allow Your Auto Insurance To Monitor Your Driving? How Should I Handle Car Insurance for My Teenage Driver? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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

This time of year tax forms start landing in your mailbox. Clark clears the confusion and misinformation around the IRS’s Direct File vs Free File offerings. Also, a topic sure to generate a lot of Clark Stinks - Clark’s opinion on why you should wait until age 70 to take social security - with two exceptions. Tax Filing Changes: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Social Security: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: IRS Direct File won't be available next year. Here's what that means for taxpayers Which Documents Should You Keep and for How Long? How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Will Social Security Run Out? When Is the Best Time To Collect Social Security? Wait Until 70 to Claim Social Security. Don’t Let These Myths Convince You Otherwise Where Should I Set Up My Health Savings Account (HSA)? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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

Are You Wealthy? Use These Numbers To Find Out & Simple Math Behind Millionaires Are you curious how your net worth compares to the rest of the country? Wes Moss dives into the latest data from the Federal Reserve’s Study of Consumer Finances and top financial institutions to paint a clear picture of wealth in America today. Also, Wes helps to draw the roadmap for the next generation of millionaires. Inspired by the wisdom of the Clark Howard community, Wes outlines a simple, repeatable blueprint for financial freedom. By focusing on patience and the power of consistent contributions, reaching a seven-figure nest egg is more achievable than ever. Whether you are starting with $1,000 a month or aiming to max out your 401(k), we show you how a few decades of discipline can transform your financial future and put you on the path to becoming a "financial force of nature." Mentioned on the show: Retirement Calculator Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the January 6, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Never assume a hospital bill is correct. What’s the first thing to ask for? Clark discusses how to handle these bills, and a new way to help get a hospital bill reduced. And speaking of reduced bills, how about a lower heating bill? Clark shares some new innovations to help you Spend Less on home energy.  Lower Hospital Bills: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Lower Energy Bills: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Patient uses AI to reduce hospital bill by 83% - HumbleDollar AI is helping patients fight insurance company denials Can a Patient Advocate Help With Your Medical Bills? Are Extended Warranties Ever Worth It? This paint-like coating lets buildings collect water from the air I tried a sleek new window heat pump that can be installed in less than an hour 10 Ways To Lower Your Heating Bill What Is Service Line Insurance and Do I Need It? Scam Alert: How To Avoid Home Title Theft Home Title Lock: Is It the Same As Home Title Insurance? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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 kicks off the new year discussing how you can rethink your buying decisions moving forward.  And of course, Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks.  Rethink Buying Decisions: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Clark Stinks: Segments 3 &4 Mentioned on the show: NYT: Shoppers Turn to Discounts and Debt, but Not Just for Holidays Is Borrowing Money With Affordable Payments To Buy Nice Things Really So Bad? How to Save Money on Groceries: 22 Clever Ways How to Shop for Lower Car Insurance How Often Should You Re-Shop Insurance? Life Insurance Archives - Clark Howard How To Get the Best Price Possible Shopping Online Backdoor Roth IRA: How High Earners Can Still Contribute 5 Tips To Protect Your Digital Privacy Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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

Little-Known '3.6 Rule' for a Happy Retirement & Is the Job Market Good or Bad? Wes Moss dives into the critical connection between social capital and financial security, revealing a surprising "magic number" from his 2025 Money and Happiness in America Study. While most people focus strictly on their 401(k), the data shows that intentionality in your social life is just as vital as intentionality in your investments. Also, Wes breaks down the latest labor data to determine if the "Goldilocks" era of employment is here to stay. With the unemployment rate ticking up to 4.6%, Wes looks past the headlines to analyze the Employment-Population Ratio, which remains strong. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the December 30, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments!Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two days from now will be a busy night for Uber and Lyft. Know how to find the best deal when you need a ride.  Also today, risky mortgages are becoming popular again. Get Clark’s best advice for buying or refinancing a home.   Save On Ride Services: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Risky Home Loan Resurgence: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: [The Washington Post] I tested 80 Uber and Lyft rides and found a powerful way to save Axios: America's big robotaxi rollout Do I Need To Unfreeze My Credit To Shop for Car Insurance? Is Now a Good Time To Refinance Your Mortgage? Do You Get Better Hotel Prices From Third-Party Sites or by Booking Directly? How To Save on Travel With Google Flights Clark Howard's Digital Wallet Strategy Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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 Secret to Affordable Healthcare & Will Mortgage Rates Go to 5% Soon? Wes Moss reveals a critical, little-known healthcare secret that can save early retirees, job-leavers, and other Americans thousands of dollars a month on medical coverage before age 65. Hear the incredible story of Rebecca, who thought she was stuck paying $2,500/month for COBRA but discovered a way to slash her premium to less than $200 through the ACA, thanks to enhanced subsidies. Wes walks through how to use free resources to save big. Also, Wes breaks down the latest Fed rate cut and explains why it may not mean cheaper mortgages. Mentioned on the show: Calculator: ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credit National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the December 23, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Criminals are working overtime to separate you from your money this holiday. Today, hear about the fake online merchant reps ripping people off - and why you should discontinue a common ecommerce practice permanently. Also, Clark updates where we are with gas prices and the factors influencing what you pay at the pump.  Fraud Alerts: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Gas Prices: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark’s Christmas Kids 2025 ⁠Why You Should Never Store Your Payment Information Online 5 Things To Know About the Navy Federal cashRewards Plus Card Best Credit Cards to Use at Walmart in 2025 Be Careful with Strategies to Lower Healthcare Costs How To Save Money on Gas: 23 Ways Clark's Road Trip Hack: Renting a Car vs. Driving Your Own Why Clark Howard Refuses To Rent a Car From Hertz Cheapest Way to Rent a Car: Expert Tips How Long Should I Save Pictures of My Car Rental? Do You Get Better Hotel Prices From Third-Party Sites or Direct Booking? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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 today’s episode:  What if you still haven't completed your holiday shopping? Will you have to pay more this close to Christmas? Yes AND No.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 11th Hour Retail Strategy: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark’s Christmas Kids 2025 Why Every Family Needs a Code Word The Best Phone Plan For You - Compare Phone Plans Costco vs. Sam's Club vs. BJ's Wholesale: Which Is Best? Warehouse Clubs Archives - Clark Howard Best Free Password Managers: 10 Top Picks Credit Card Car Rental Insurance: What You Need To Know What Can I Safely Use for Peer-to-Peer Payments? 15 Financial New Year's Resolutions for 2026 Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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

How far are you willing to go to save money?  We asked our Clarkies to share their best tips and you sure represented! Today we share our  Clark Daily Newsletter survey results on the topic of frugality. Also - is home ownership still the American dream? It’s complicated. Clark discusses the decision factors involved in the largest purchase we ever make. How do you build wealth and where does a home fit into it? Frugality Hacks: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Weighing Homeownership: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: WSJ: The Lengths Americans Are Willing to Go to Make Every Penny Count Clark Daily Newsletter survey results Why You Should Re-Shop Your Cruise Booking a Cruise? Here Are 5 Ways To Do It for Less Is Chase Sapphire Reserve® Worth It? The median age of a first-time homebuyer in America just hit 40 years old 7 Ways To Invest In Real Estate Clark Deals   /   Clark’s Christmas Kids Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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

How To Feel Good About Spending in Retirement & Big Changes to Your 2026 Taxes Are you a lifelong saver struggling to spend your retirement nest egg? You're not alone! Many people who successfully save a significant amount face a major psychological hurdle when it comes time to shift from an accumulation mindset to a distribution (spending) mindset. Wes Moss breaks down how to overcome the psychological barrier of watching your retirement balance go down and how to finally feel good about enjoying the money you worked so hard to save. Also, Wes tackles the most timely and impactful tax changes coming up, including a checklist of six critical actions to consider before the end of the year to potentially lower your tax bill for 2026. Mentioned on the show: How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor  Best Financial Advisors in 2025 Year-End Tax Moves Worth Your Time IRS Announces New Tax Brackets and Other Changes for 2026 What Brokerage Do You Recommend for First-Time Investors or Kids? Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA): What It Is and How It Works Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the December 16, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode - Brokerage accounts lack legal protection. Clark explains how criminals have figured out how to target brokerage and retirement accounts, and 2 steps you can take to protect your invested life’s savings. Plus - More doctor’s offices are moving to digital paperwork, but patient uptake is surprisingly low. Know the advantages of having electronic medical records.  Safeguard Your Investments: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Electronic Medical Records: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Protect Your Brokerage Accounts From ACATS Transfer Fraud Her Stocks Were Quietly Stolen From Her I.R.A.  What Can I Safely Use for Peer-to-Peer Payments? Costco Tire Center: 5 things to know about before getting new tires When Is the Best Time of Year To Buy Tires? Here's How Long Your Home Appliances Should Last Report: The #1 Appliance Brand for Customer Satisfaction Axios: Ditching the clipboard: Wellstar patients can check in digitally Do Not Give Your Social Security Number at These Places ⁠How To Get the Best Price Possible Shopping Online⁠ Secret Pricing Tricks Companies Don’t Want You To Know ⁠How To Use Camelcamelcamel ⁠Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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 today’s episode: Take it to the limit - the new retirement account limits. Clark has updates and advice to enhance your retirement saving strategy. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Retirement Planning 2026: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Citi Double Cash® Card Review: 5 Things To Know in 2025 5 Things To Know About the Citi Strata Premier Card Cell Phones - Clark.com Can I Use HSA for DPC? Yes, Starting January 2026! Rechargeable Batteries: Are They Worth It? The Best Place To Buy Cheap Batteries 401(k) limit increases to $24,500 for 2026, IRA limit increases to $7,500 Why Clark Howard Is Obsessed With Roth for Retirement Savings My Social Security: The Free Account Everyone Needs To Set Up Before Retirement Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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

Is now the time to refinance your mortgage? Only if you meet certain criteria. Clark breaks it down.  Also - Are you with what Clark calls a Giant Monster Mega Bank? If so, you may be paying fees you don’t have to! Clark’s overview of the banking industry makes it clear, the regional, super regional and giant banks are not your wallet’s friend. Hear how people are migrating their money in a way that’s comfortable for them - a method called “soft switching”.  Mortgage Refi Guidelines: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Banish Bank Fees: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How and When To Refinance Your Mortgage: A Step-By-Step Guide Mortgage Refinance Calculator - With Cash Out and Points What Can I Safely Use for Peer-to-Peer Payments? How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion How To Switch Banks in 4 Simple Steps Best Online Banks: Free Checking and High-Interest Savings Accounts Best Cash Management Account: Comparing Vanguard, Fidelity, and Schwab Costco Travel: 5 Things To Know Before You Book When Do You Need a Travel Agent? Clark's Christmas Kids Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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