The Clark Howard Podcast

Re-Thinking Retirement: A Smarter Way To Phase Down & Best Places To Buy Eyeglasses Retirement is supposed to be the ultimate reward after decades of hard work, but for many, the reality doesn’t match the expectation. Whether it’s financial pressure from inflation and living expenses or simply missing the routine, activity, and social connections of a job, going cold turkey from 40 hours a week to zero isn't working for everyone. Clark breaks down why traditional retirement might need a rethink and explains why he’s a huge fan of "phased retirement." Also, Clark takes on the notoriously overpriced eyewear industry. From $800 price tags at big cartel chains down to $80 options for essentially the same pair, the price gap is staggering. We cover the latest findings on where to get the absolute best value on prescription glasses and contact lenses. Clark shares where you should – and should never – buy your next pair so you can strike the perfect balance between price, quality, and service. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the October 26, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark.    Tiered Retirement: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Prescription Glasses & Contacts: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Charles Schwab Review: Pros & Cons - Clark Howard SIM Card Swapping: The Dangerous Cell Phone Scam Everyone Needs To Know About How To Freeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion BBB-File a Complaint Submit a complaint | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau The Best Places To Buy Eyeglasses The Cheapest Places To Buy Contact Lenses Report: Top Vehicles Most Likely To Last 250,000 Miles Mortgage Recast: What It Is, How It Works Mortgage Recast Calculator - Clark Howard Is a HELOC a Good Idea? The Simple Answer - 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. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Winter heating bills won’t be pretty, especially in markets that rely on oil for heat. What can you do now to prepare?  Taking control of monthly expenses comes down to knowing where the real price traps are hiding. Clark unpacks the latest updates on winter heating trends and shifting food prices to help you make smarter financial decisions. First, discover why home heating oil prices are squeezing homeowners, how steady natural gas supplies are offering relief, and why simple home fixes can keep your home warm without breaking the bank. Then, Clark exposes what is really happening behind the scenes at the supermarket. While store-brand basics and produce are becoming more affordable, brand-name junk food and processed snacks climb in price as manufacturers test how much shoppers are willing to pay. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the October 21, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark.       Winter Heating: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Grocery Price Update: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Save Money on Utilities - Clark Howard 10 Ways To Lower Your Heating Bill - Clark Howard  Energy Advice for Owners of Older and Historic Homes Is a Costco Executive Membership Worth It? - Clark Howard These 4 Credit Cards Maximize Costco Purchases in 2026 United's Credit Card Is Most Expensive Airline Card: Is It Worth It? Best Airline Credit Cards for 2026: Are They Right For You? What Credit Card Should I Get – Find Your Perfect Credit Card (free Clark.com tool) Robinhood Touts $3,000 in Annual Benefits for New Platinum Credit Card How to Save Money on Groceries: 22 Clever Ways - Clark Howard 10 Ways You're Wasting Money on Groceries - Clark Howard Clark’s Secrets to Beating Sky-High Airfares and New Hidden Fees SkyScanner.com How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion 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. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Artificial intelligence is creating unprecedented risks for your retirement savings, with AI-driven fraud causing massive financial losses across the country. Deepfakes and voice-cloning technology have become so advanced that scammers can effortlessly mimic real people, leaving brokerage firms and financial institutions vulnerable to fraudulent transfer instructions. Clark has recommendations to help secure your life savings. Also, navigating finances as a couple can be challenging, especially when partners enter a relationship with different money habits, debt, or savings. While maintaining completely separate bank accounts can breed distrust and weaken marital bonds, combining everything without a strategy can cause friction. Clark explains how to practice a balanced approach built on trust. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the October 19, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark. Protect Retirement Funds: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Couples Finances: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How to Protect Your Retirement Savings From AI Scams and Cyber Threats Why You Need To Lock Your Brokerage Account Today Warning: A Devastating Bank Impersonation Scam Is Draining Life Savings in Minutes These Are the Biggest Scams That Cost Seniors the Most Money Best Online Banks: Free Checking and High-Interest Savings Accounts Joint or separate bank accounts? One choice is bad for your marriage The Financial Checklist Every Couple Needs To Know - Clark Howard  How To Open a Roth IRA What Is the Highest Credit Score? - Clark Howard How To Improve Your Credit Score in 5 Key Areas - 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. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Secret Hospital Price Lists Exposed & Simple Cart Trick That Saves You Money Healthcare costs are skyrocketing, and with health insurance prices expected to jump even higher, taking control of your medical expenses is vital. Clark shares a radical workaround to save thousands on life-saving brand-name medications, plus a powerful free tool at hospitalpricingfiles.org that unveils secret hospital price lists so you can comparison shop non-emergency tests and procedures before you pay. Plus, as holiday shopping starts earlier than ever, impulse buying can easily destroy your budget. Clark warns against signing up for retailer promotional alerts that trigger emotional spending on wants instead of needs. He shares a favorite strategy to protect your wallet: the 24-hour cart rule. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the October 14, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show.    Submit your questions: Ask Clark. Medical Expenses: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Online Shopping: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: The Free Tool That Exposes Hidden Hospital Costs Hospital Price Files Finder   /   CMS - Hospital Price Transparency Americans Losing Access to Cheap Gray-Market Prescriptions From Canada - WSJ⁠ 10 Ways To Save Money on Health Care - Clark Howard  [WP] Here’s why emotions drive you to spend — and how to stop the habit The Secret Perk of Abandoning Your Online Shopping Cart Even Clark Howard Falls for This Sneaky Retail Trap – Are You Doing It? My 7 Rules for Using Credit Cards - Clark Howard How To Dispute a Charge on Your Credit Card - Clark Howard Why You Should Never Pay for Travel with a Debit Card 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. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With gas prices squeezing wallets, you might be tempted to trade in your current ride for a fuel-efficient hybrid or EV. However, making a permanent financial decision based on a temporary spike in gas prices can cost you thousands in the long run. Before you swap keys to save on fuel, make sure the math actually works for your budget. Also, Clark sets the record straight on a viral Walmart rumor. Stores are rapidly replacing paper price tags with digital shelf labels, leading some to believe Walmart is tracking individual phones to dynamically surge prices as you walk down the aisle. What’s really going on here? Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the October 12, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show.  Submit your questions: Ask Clark. Gas Prices & Your Car: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Digital Pricing Transition: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Should You Buy a New Car Because of Gas Prices? How To Save Money on Gas: 24 Ways - Clark Howard Clark Howard's 'Half-Tank' Strategy To Save on Gas 7 Money Mistakes You Might Be Making at the Gas Station The Best and Worst Days To Buy Gas in 2026, According to GasBuddy Why the Best Price on Your Next Car Is Getting Harder to Find How To Buy a Used Car - Clark Howard How to Buy a New Car: 5 Smart Steps To Get the Best Deal The Best Car-Buying Services - Clark Howard Clark Howard Debunks New Walmart Shopping Myth Walmart+ Membership Program: 4 Things To Know - Clark Howard Why You Should Never Mail a Check - Clark Howard  Safer Ways To Send Money: Clark Howard’s Rules for Protecting Your Cash 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. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Interest rates are up, and Clark addresses how to maximize savings, and what mortgage rates mean for the housing market.  The giant monster mega banks are paying an insulting 0.01% on savings accounts, essentially a zero return. What rate should you be looking for elsewhere? Meanwhile, the housing market shifts yet again as 30-year mortgage rates hit 7%, crushed by geopolitical instability and inflation. However,  there’s a clear silver lining for potential buyers: high rates have stalled the market, forcing sellers into price cut capitulation. If you can afford the monthly payment, buying at a significantly lower purchase price now and refinancing down the road when rates drop is an enormous long-term advantage. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the October 7, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show.  Submit your questions: Ask Clark. Save More - Shop Bank Rates: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Mortgage Rates & Housing Capitulation: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 5 Places You Can Get 4.5% or More on Your Savings Right Now 16 of the Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts in October 2026 High-Yield Savings Account (HYSA) Calculator How To Open a Roth IRA 5 Free Streaming Services All Cord Cutters Should Have 6 Things to Know Before You Rely on Free Streaming TV High Mortgage Rates Are Pushing Home Prices Down: Here’s the Silver Lining for Buyers Mortgage Refinance Calculator – With Cash Out and Points Credit Score Guide - Clark Howard Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: 6 Things To Know 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. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cut Your Bills by DIYing & Protect Yourself From This Devastating Online Scam "Necessity is the mother of invention"—that classic adage takes on new meaning under today’s cost pressures.  High prices are driving many to look for creative ways to stretch a dollar, from scoping out everyday deals to embracing DIY projects. Instead of relying on expensive professionals for every task, leaning into basic home skills, repairs, and crafting can keep hard-earned money in your pocket – and possibly evolve into a profitable side hustle.  Also, Clark exposes the dangerous mechanics behind online romance scams. Criminals are using a calculated playbook to target victims of every age group, from vulnerable young adults to lonely hearted seniors. It is critical to stay vigilant, recognize the warning signs, and keep a close eye on friends and relatives to ensure nobody falls victim to these costly emotional traps. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the October 5, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark. DIY For Dollars!: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Anatomy of a Romance Scam: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: [The WP] As high prices persist, some Americans are cutting back on spending I Made Some Money Selling an Old Digital Camera. Here’s HowHow to Sell Your Stuff on Facebook Marketplace - Clark Howard Facebook Marketplace Scams: Everything You Need to Know Citi Double Cash® Card Review: 5 Things To Know in 2026 Daejon Love case highlights online romance scams: Research reveals scammers’ tactics – and how to defend against them — The Conversation NYTimes: Costco, Kayaks and Netflix: Medicare Advantage’s Perks Get Scrutiny Check These 3 Boxes Before Applying for Premium Travel Cards Best Travel Credit Cards: How To Find the Perfect Fit for Your Spending Unclaimed Money: How To Find and Claim Missing Funds for Free  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. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alert: Bank Imposter Scam Draining Life Savings & Shocking Truth About Travel Costs Right Now Clark exposes a dangerous financial scam that is draining people’s entire life savings and explains why your protections might not apply if you fall for it. Financial imposter scams are becoming sharper and more sophisticated. Clark shares the single mandatory step you must take whenever you receive an urgent alert from a fraud department to keep your hard-earned money safe. Plus, if you're planning a vacation, Clark reveals why shoulder season travel savings have practically vanished this year and what's really driving up the cost of your next trip. From soaring fuel prices to weakening dollar values, cruise lines and airlines are feeling the pinch and passing the expenses on to you. Learn where you can still find genuine travel deals if you’re willing to shift your strategy on the calendar. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the September 30, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark. Saving Your Life’s Savings: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Travel Update: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Warning: A Devastating Bank Impersonation Scam Is Draining Life Savings in Minutes These Are the Biggest Scams That Cost Seniors the Most Money This type of scam cost Americans half a BILLION dollars last year Why Now Is the Best Time To Buy a New Mattress — With One Major Catch The Best Place To Buy a Mattress - Clark Howard If ‘fall is really the new summer,’ are there any autumn travel deals left? International eSIM: The Best Way to Stay Connected | GigSky eSIM for Cruise Ships: Stay Connected at Sea 5 Steps To Getting a Good Deal on a Hotel Room - Clark Howard The Safe Way to Reshop Your Travel Deals and Save Hundreds  Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts   /   Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Best Free Streaming Services in 2026: Movies and TV for Cord Cutters The Best Phone Plan For You - Compare Phone Plans - Clark Howard What Credit Card Should I Get - Clark Howard  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How To Inflation-Proof Your Portfolio & The Free Account Everyone Needs To Set Up Before Retirement Navigating your investments as you age can get confusing, especially when rising interest rates make traditional bond funds a scary prospect. While young investors can comfortably ride out stock market volatility, those approaching their late 50s and beyond need a more balanced portfolio to protect their hard-earned money. Instead, consider Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) as a powerful, inflation-proof alternative to standard bonds, as Clark explains. Also, there is an urgent security measure you need to take right now – no matter your age. Many people assume they don't need a MySocialSecurity account until they are ready to retire, or they worry the program won't exist in the future. Clark walks us through why it’s so crucial to open an account as soon as possible. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the September 28, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark. Bond Alternative: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Your Social Security: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: TIPS: The Inflation-Proof Alternative to Standard Bonds - Clark.com Long-Term Treasuries: What a 5% Return Means for Your Money Empower Review: How It Works, Pros & Cons - Clark Howard My Social Security: The Free Account Everyone Needs To Set Up Before Retirement How Can I Estimate My Social Security Benefit? - Clark Howard The Best Car-Buying Services - 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. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Your Internet Provider Ripping You Off? & How Clark Finished College Fast To Save Money Are you still paying the "inertia tax" on your home internet? As giant cable megamergers reshape the market, big providers are steadily jacking up prices on customers who stay on autopilot – just like old landline companies did decades ago. Clark reveals how to break free from the cable monster. Plus, with student loan interest rates soaring and college costs out of control, Clark breaks down the growing trend of 3-year bachelor's degree programs. Drawing on his personal experience of rushing through undergrad to save cash, Clark explains how accelerated and reduced-credit degree options are helping students bypass massive debt, slash room-and-board expenses, and keep their financial futures on track. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the September 23, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show.  Submit your questions: Ask Clark. Clark Smart Home Internet: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Save On College: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark Howard's Tips To Save Money on Home Internet in 2026 Report: The #1 Internet Provider in America - Clark Howard Fixed Wireless Internet: Using Your Cellular Service Provider for Home Internet Internet Archives - Clark Howard Mint Mobile Deal: Unlimited Plan & Home Internet for $45/Mo. Your Discover Card Is Migrating to Capital One: What to Expect  What's Going on With Federal Student Loans? | NEA The number of colleges getting rid of student debt is growing  Home Equity Loan Calculator - Clark Howard When You Should (and Shouldn't) Use a 529 Plan - Clark Howard  Best 529 College Savings Plans By State 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. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The banks are at it again, and Clark wants to make sure you don't fall into a dangerous debt trap. Home equity levels are at record highs as financial institutions aggressively push homeowners to tap equity with HELOCs and cash-out refinances to pay off credit cards or fund lifestyle expenses. Clark explains why turning your home's equity into high-interest debt is a massive financial risk, how it mimics the harmful bank tactics of 20 years ago, and why keeping your low fixed-rate mortgage intact is critical for long-term stability. On the auto front, while major manufacturers continue prioritizing high-margin luxury vehicles over budget-friendly models, smart options still exist. Clark highlights nine major auto brands still averaging under $40,000 per sale, and reveals why the absolute best financial move you can make today is simply keeping your current vehicle on the road as long as possible. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the September 21, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show.  Submit your questions: Ask Clark. Home Equity Guidelines: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 New Vehicles Under $40,000: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Is a HELOC a Good Idea? The Simple Answer - Clark Howard  Which Documents Should You Keep and for How Long?  China Extends 240-hour Visa-Free Transit Policy Coverage to 55 Countries Report: The Average Price of a New Vehicle - Clark Howard  New cars cost nearly $50K. Here are 5 brands for under $40K -USA TODAY How To Buy a Used Car - Clark Howard When Should I Drop Comprehensive and Collision Coverage? The Center For Auto Safety Lemon Law Tips  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. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark drops an urgent warning for vehicle owners regarding a massive spike in auto insurance claim denials. If you let a friend, colleague, or extended family member borrow your vehicle to run a quick errand, you could be setting yourself up for financial disaster. Also, a sleazy car insurance tool has made an AI video of Clark endorsing its product. This is happening all over social media. Clark tackles the explosion of sophisticated AI-generated scams plaguing social media platforms like Facebook. From deepfake videos using Clark’s own voice and image to pitch bogus insurance products, to fake ads offering unbelievable discounts on luxury goods, scammers are leveraging advanced technology to trick you out of your hard-earned money. Clark shares how you can protect your wallet, spot counterfeit deals, and why you need to adopt a healthy sense of skepticism—not cynicism—whenever you see trusted public figures or targeted ads popping up in your feed. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the September 16, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark. Who Gets To Drive: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 AI Targeted Scam Ads: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Best Auto Insurance Companies and Some of the Worst⁠ ⁠Credit Card Debt Consolidation: 3 Paths To Consider, 2 To Avoid⁠  ⁠Clark Howard's Credit Card Debt Elimination Strategy⁠ ⁠Simple Trick To Pay Down Credit Card Debt Quicker - Clark Howard⁠ ⁠Modern Scams are Getting Harder to Spot. Here's What to Do⁠ ⁠TSA PreCheck® vs. Global Entry vs. CLEAR+: Which Is Best for You?⁠ ⁠How I Set My Teens Up for Retirement in 5 Minutes - Clark Howard⁠ How To Open a Roth IRA 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. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices