Full Show: Clark Stinks! and Energy Bill Shock Coming Soon

It’s time for "Clark Stinks!" Christa reads the latest "Clark Stinks!" submissions and Clark responds. Also, temperatures have been cold across the United States, and energy bills are up, up, and away. But it’s more than winter weather causing this increase. Clark explains what’s going on and how we should help our neighbors if they can’t afford their bill.
All this and more on the February 7, 2025, episode of The Clark Howard Show.
Submit your questions for the show here: clark.com/ask
01:07 - Clark Stinks - Are Standalone MRI Facilities Reliable? A licensed MRI tech shares why hospital scans may differ and why some facilities refuse outside scans.
04:12 - Clark Stinks - The Hidden Hassle of Switching Cell Providers One listener shares their complicated experience switching carriers to save money.
06:58 - Clark Stinks - Is Cheap Cell Service Worth It? A listener explains why paying more for Verizon's reliability works better for their area.
08:39 - Clark Stinks - Hospital Billing Transparency Debate A listener argues that government insurance underpayments drive private insurance costs higher.
11:24 - Clark Stinks - Credit Card Fraud Disputes: 60-Day Rule Clarified Is there a time limit to dispute fraudulent charges?
12:54 - Clark Stinks - Safer Public Wi-Fi with VPNs A listener explains how VPNs can protect you while using public Wi-Fi.
14:21 - Clark Stinks - WinCo Tips: Debit Only & Bag Your Groceries A listener highlights key shopping quirks at WinCo stores.
15:30 - Clark Stinks - IRS Direct File Limitations Can’t use it if you itemize or contribute to an IRA? A listener breaks down the fine print.
17:10 - Clark Stinks - Who Should Pay Rental Application Fees? A listener argues landlords should cover background check costs, not renters.
Clark Stinks - Clark's Christmas Debt Plan Critiqued A listener says 10 months of credit card interest is a mistake, not a solution.
20:20 - Energy Bill Shock Coming Soon
27:16 - Ask Clark - 401(k) vs. IRA Matching Should you prioritize an IRA with a match over extra 401(k) contributions after maxing out your employer match? Andrew weighs in.
29:23 - Ask Clark - Annual Credit Reports Not Working? Dan from Georgia seeks answers about issues with Experian and Equifax's free credit reports for 2025.
31:33 - Ask Clark - Fidelity Advisor Suggests an Annuity Taylor shares concerns about a Fidelity advisor recommending a $748,250 annuity and questions their fiduciary status and incentives.
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