The Clark Howard Podcast 01.12.26 A Plan For Credit Card Debt / Online Grocery Prices
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Jan 12, 2026 Struggling with credit card debt? Discover a three-step strategy to regain control and a smart approach to minimize interest with quick payments. Dive into the pros and cons of online grocery shopping, as dynamic pricing and quality concerns come under scrutiny. Learn how services like Walmart Plus and Amazon Prime can save you cash, while Clark also highlights the hidden fees in international shipping. Plus, get tips on navigating insurance denials and understanding travel insurance coverage amidst strikes.
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Record Consumer Debt And New Debt Types
- U.S. consumer debt has returned to record highs after pandemic paydowns and six years of inflation.
- Buy now, pay-later and widespread interest-driven borrowing pushed many households back into high-cost debt.
Three-Step Plan To Tackle Credit Card Debt
- Write down every debt, the balance, the creditor, and each interest rate to see the full picture.
- Stop using credit cards if you carry balances and then attack debts with a targeted payment plan.
Use Extra Payments And Frequency To Cut Interest
- Pay minimums on all accounts but throw every extra dollar at the highest-rate card.
- Make payments more than once a month to reduce daily interest and shorten payoff time dramatically.