Welcome to a SPECIAL EDITION of  the Clark Howard Show, where our mission is to serve and empower you to make better financial decisions in your life. Today, Clark hits on a few key basic strategies to have more money in your life: They are:
- SPEND LESS: Need vs. Wants and how to tell the difference
- Clark’s strategy to start saving TODAY for retirement - regardless of your age
- SAVE MORE on transportation
- AVOID GETTING RIPPED OFF by protecting your identity and credit
Segment 1: Behavioral - Back to basics on needs vs. wants
Segment 2; Start saving today for retirement

Begin with 1%, or up to an employer match if possible and available 

When you get a raise, pretend you didn’t and increase your contribution


Segment 3: Only buy a car you can afford

If you have to take a loan, 42 months maximum

Compare loans

Consider buying used 


Segment 4: Protect your identity

Don’t ever carry checks or your Social Security card

Your credit is the key to your identity -Freeze your credit! 

Don’t use a debit card

Use virtual card numbers online


Mentioned on the show:

Six Essential Questions to Ask Yourself Before Making a Major Purchase

Advice | Fear of missing out can keep you broke. Fight the spending temptation.

Why are sales so hard to resist? It's your brain, on discounts


How To Save Money: Spend Less & Build Your Savings  /  Save Money Archives


How To Save and Invest the Clark Howard Way

Avoid the #1 Mistake That Car Buyers Make


Clark.com - Buying A Used Car /  How To Buy A Vehicle


Should I Ever Buy Extras Car Dealerships Sell in Their F&I Departments?

How To Prevent, Report and Repair Identity Theft

Do Not Give Your Social Security Number at These Places

7 Items You Should Never Carry in Your Wallet

Why You Should Never Mail a Check

How to Freeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion

Why You Should Never Use a Debit Card To Pay for Anything

The Safer Way To Use Your Debit Card

Virtual Credit Cards: An Online Security Measure Worth Taking?


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Episode transcripts

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