05.13.26 The True Cost Of 401(k) Loans / A New Era in Auto Sales

The Clark Howard Podcast

Clark Howard

Business, Investing, Entrepreneurship

4.6 • 5.2K Ratings

🗓️ 13 May 2026

⏱️ 33 minutes

🔗️ Recording | iTunes | RSS

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Summary

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 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

Transcript

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0:00.0	Martha listens to her favorite band all the time.
0:03.0	In the car,
0:04.0	gym,
0:06.0	even sleeping.
0:08.0	So when they finally went on tour,
0:10.0	Martha bundled her flight and hotel on Expedia
0:12.0	to see them live.
0:13.0	She saved so much she got her seat close enough
0:15.0	to actually see and hear them.
0:17.0	Sort of.
0:19.0	You were made to scream from the front row.
0:21.7	We were made to quietly save you more.
0:24.1	Expedia, made to travel.
0:26.4	Savings vary and subject to availability.
0:28.1	Flight inclusive packages are at all protected.
0:31.3	Head to the coast in Abercrombie's latest summer drop.
0:35.0	It's short season.
0:36.3	And their new C-Fade shorts add the perfect wash look to your fit.
0:40.3	They're so easy to throw on and pair with everything in your closet.
0:44.2	Complete the look with a new shirt and your set.
0:47.3	Prep for summer with Abercrombie in the app, online, and in stores.
1:02.5	Thank you. and in stores. It's my pleasure to welcome you to the Clark Howard Show.
	...

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