The Clark Howard Podcast

While Congress has made it easier than ever to access 401(k) funds through hardship withdrawals, this can be a dangerous trap for your future self. Losing out on decades of compounded interest has long-term consequences. Before you hit retirement savings to cover a financial bump, use the Team Clark 401(k) Loan Calculator to see the true cost of that withdrawal – it might just convince you to find another way to bridge the gap.  Also, Clark breaks down how Amazon has partnered with vehicle brands in new markets, offering another option for more streamlined car buying. Know how to bypass the gimmicks and games to get a fair price on your next vehicle.

401(k) Loans: Segment 1

Ask Clark: Segment 2

The Car Buying Process: Segment 3

Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

Is a 401(k) Loan a Good Idea? Almost Never - Clark Howard


401(k) Loan Calculator (Clark.com)


Clark Howard's Special Rule for Refinancing Your Mortgage

Why Clark Says You Should ‘Ignore’ Paze as Trendy New Payment Option


Why You Should Never Store Your Payment Information Online


Top 7 Ways To Shop Safely Online - Clark Howard

Why Amazon and Costco May Be The Best Ways to Buy Your Next Car


The Best Car-Buying Services - Clark Howard


Report: 4 Used Electric Vehicles Under $25,000 - Clark Howard


What Mileage Should I Target on a Used Electric Vehicle?


CR - Used Hybrids & EVs Ratings 

SIXT+ | Your Car Subscription


Should You Ever Lease a Car? - Clark Howard 

Clark.com resources:

Episode transcripts


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Clark Howard & Wes Moss: Your Top Money Questions Answered!

In this special episode, Clark Howard and Wes Moss join forces to answer real-world money questions from people just like you. No jargon, no fluff – just actionable advice to help you reach your goals faster.

Mentioned on the show:


Roth 401k Calculator - Clark Howard


Roth vs. Traditional 401(k): What's the Difference? - Clark Howard

Why Clark Howard Is Obsessed With Roth for Retirement Savings


Backdoor Roth IRA: How High Earners Can Still Contribute

All this and more on the May 12, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.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

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In today’s real estate market, you can get burned trying to “flip” homes. The reality of today’s market means the math rarely works for the average investor. Clark explains when we’ll see a healthy environment for investment. Also - The job market is wide open for those willing to roll up their sleeves. Despite foreboding headlines warning of grim prospects for graduates, young people are finding employment more easily than expected. This is especially true for teens looking for summer work. Due to labor shortages in the hospitality and restaurant industries, jobs are readily available. Clark discusses  where the summer (and year round) jobs are now. 

Real Estate Investing: Segment 1

Ask Clark: Segment 2

Where The Jobs Are: Segment 3

Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:


Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage or Invest?  /  Calculator - Clark Howard

Why Your Teen Needs a Summer Job


Jobs Archives - Clark Howard


Authorized User vs. Joint Account Holder - Clark Howard

How To Prevent, Report and Repair Identity Theft - Clark Howard

How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion


Who Controls Gas Prices in the US? / NYT: Why Gas Prices Go Up Fast & Fall Slowly


How To Save Money on Gas: 23 Ways - Clark Howard


Don't Get Dinged at the Gas Pump by This Visa and Mastercard Policy


Are You Getting the Best Discount Possible on Your Gas?


Clark Howard's 'Half-Tank' Strategy To Save on Gas 

Clark.com resources:

Episode transcripts


Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark

Clark.com daily money newsletter


Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

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Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks.   Also, deciding whether to throw extra cash at your mortgage or funnel it into the stock market is one of the most debated dilemmas in personal finance, especially now that nearly a quarter of homeowners are carrying rates at 6% or higher. While Clark despises debt and champions the psychological freedom of owning your home free and clear, it’s vital to balance that achievement with the mathematical reality of long-term financial security. Clark offers guidelines for creating your financial priorities, including Team Clark’s new Pay Off Mortgage or Invest Calculator, to help make sure your money is working as hard as possible for the future.


Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2

Financial Priorities: Segment 3

Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:


What’s the Total Value of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Perks?


Top 10 Perks of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card 

Report: How Much You Need To Save in Each State To Retire Comfortably


Best Prepaid Cards: Top Debit Card Alternatives - Clark Howard 


Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage or Invest? - Clark Howard 


Pay Off Mortgage or Invest Calculator (Clark.com)


When You Should (and Shouldn't) Use a 529 Plan - Clark Howard

Best 529 Plans by State: How Clark Howard Picks the Top College Savings Plans


How To Buy Term Life Insurance in 7 Easy Steps - Clark Howard


Best Term Life Insurance Companies, Plans & Coverage

Clark.com resources:

Episode transcripts


Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark

Clark.com daily money newsletter


Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

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Health care costs in America have reached a breaking point, with many being forced to drop costly medical insurance entirely. But whether you’re insured or paying out of pocket, you have more power than you think. Today, Clark discusses a key practice you can incorporate to help  manage the high cost of health care. Also, we are currently in a period of intense retail instability. Clark explains how your gift cards can become worthless overnight, so in the interest of not wasting money - Clark has an urgent assignment for joyful spending - of gift cards that is. 

Healthcare Cost Strategy: Segment 1

Ask Clark: Segment 2

Use Or Lose Gift Cards Stat: Segment 3

Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:


Health care sticker shock has become the norm, but talking to your doctor about costs can help you rein it in — The Conversation⁠

What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? - Clark Howard

Are Extended Warranties Ever Worth It? - Clark Howard

How to Freeze Your Child's Credit - Clark Howard

Why You Need To Use Your Gift Cards ASAP - Clark Howard

10 Secrets All Shoppers Need To Know About Costco - Clark Howard

Ting: Fire Prevention & Power Outage Alerts

How To Lower Your Property Taxes in 4 Steps - 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