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

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Rapid Fire Q&A: Roth Conversion Traps, RMD Spending Rules, & Switching Careers To Finance

Welcome to another edition of "Rapid Fire" on Ask an Advisor! Today, Wes Moss is opening up the listener mailbag to answer your direct financial questions. From navigating tricky Roth IRA 5-year rules to deciding the exact order of account withdrawals in retirement, we’re covering real-world strategies to help you retire sooner and smarter.

Mentioned on the show:

• 5 Keys To Be a Successful Investor - Clark Howard
• Should You Sell or Stay in the Stock Market if You Are Retired or Retiring Soon?
• The Order You Withdraw Retirement Money Matters More Than You Think
• Required Minimum Distributions: How To Calculate, Rules

All this and more on the October 20, 2026, Ask an Advisor “Rapid Fire” episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/ask

Discover the research-backed path to a happier retirement – order The Retire Sooner Method by Wes Moss today at retiresoonermethod.com

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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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

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. 

Also,  even if oil and jet fuel prices drop, major U.S. airlines warn that fluctuating costs mean high airfares are here to stay for the foreseeable future. With flight delays and unpredictable pricing making winter travel tricky, flexibility and preparation are key. Clark breaks down his top strategies for beating high airfares and making your travel budget go further.

All this and more on the October 16, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your opinions or questions: Ask Clark.

• Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2
• Winter Travel: Segment 3
• Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

• Why Clark Says You Should ‘Ignore’ Paze as Trendy New Payment Option
• TSA PreCheck® vs. Global Entry vs. CLEAR+: Which Is Best for You?
• Is There a Safe Way to Use Your Debit Card? - Clark Howard
• Follow Clark Howard's #1 Rule To Travel Cheap
• Booked a Flight? This New Tool Will Tell You When the Price Drops
• Today's Top Travel Deals -ClarkDeals  /  Travel Archives - Clark Howard
• Points Path Review: This Free Tool Makes Using Travel Points Much Easier
• Clark Howard’s Secrets to Beating Sky-High Airfares and New Hidden Fees
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card Review: What To Know About the Travel 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

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

Are High-Yield Investments Dangerously Risky? & Why Wes Updated His Thinking on HSAs

Jim Cramer says high yields are dangerous – so is retirement income actually at risk? Wes sets the record straight on high-dividend stocks, interest rates, and how to safely build a yield ladder.

Plus, Wes shares a personal shift in his own financial strategy: why he recently updated his thinking on High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) and how Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can become a triple-tax-free powerhouse for your retirement.

Mentioned on the show: ⁠

• The Overlooked 'Rule of 55' Could Unlock an Earlier Retirement⁠
• TIPS: The Inflation-Proof Alternative to Standard Bonds
• How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor - Clark Howard
• Best Financial Advisors in 2026 - Clark Howard 

All this and more on the October 13, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/ask

Discover the research-backed path to a happier retirement – order The Retire Sooner Method by Wes Moss today at retiresoonermethod.com

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. 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

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks.  Also, is your home insurance company offering free smart tech? It is becoming increasingly common for insurers to send free monitoring devices to prevent two of the biggest – and costliest – headaches homeowners face: electrical fires and water damage. Such offers can be a win-win - for the insurer AND home owner. All this and more on the October 9, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show.

• Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2
• Home Monitoring Tech: Segment 3
• Ask Clark: Segment 4
  

Mentioned on the show:

• 4 Things To Know Before You Buy a TV Antenna - Clark Howard
• How To Watch Local Channels Without Cable - Clark Howard
• Fixed Wireless Internet: Using Your Cellular Service Provider for Home Internet
• 5 Ways To Manage the Massive Run-Up in Insurance Costs
• Easy DIY Upgrades To Save on Home Insurance - Clark Howard
• Free Smart Home Devices From Your Insurer: Is There a Catch?
• The Home Service Clark Howard Says You Should Actually Pre-Pay
• My Auto and Homeowners Insurance Went Up Substantially. Should I Fire My Independent Agent?
• Avalanche vs. Snowball: Which Debt Payoff Method Is Best?
• YNAB Review: 5 Things To Know About the Budgeting Tool
• How To Track, Plan, and Budget for Annual Expenses - Clark Howard
• Best Budgeting Apps in 2026: Our Top 7 - 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

Submit your opinions or questions: Ask Clark.

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

Interest Rate Spike: Panic or Opportunity? & 7 Most Important Ages In Retirement Planning

Why are bond yields climbing so rapidly, and what does it mean for your money? Wes Moss breaks down the massive shift in the $51 trillion U.S. bond market and why higher interest rates might actually be good news for your portfolio. Plus, Wes walks through the seven most important retirement planning ages every investor needs to mark on their calendar.

Mentioned on the show:

• KFF is a nonpartisan health policy organization 
• The Overlooked 'Rule of 55' Could Unlock an Earlier Retirement
• A Simple Rule for When To Take Social Security - Clark Howard
• What Is Umbrella Insurance and Do You Need It? - Clark Howard
• Roth vs. Traditional 401(k): What's the Difference? - Clark Howard

All this and more on the October 6, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/ask

Discover the research-backed path to a happier retirement – order The Retire Sooner Method by Wes Moss today at retiresoonermethod.com
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. 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