Show Notes
How To Inflation-Proof Your Portfolio & The Free Account Everyone Needs To Set Up Before Retirement
Navigating your investments as you age can get confusing, especially when rising interest rates make traditional bond funds a scary prospect. While young investors can comfortably ride out stock market volatility, those approaching their late 50s and beyond need a more balanced portfolio to protect their hard-earned money. Instead, consider Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) as a powerful, inflation-proof alternative to standard bonds, as Clark explains.
Also, there is an urgent security measure you need to take right now – no matter your age. Many people assume they don't need a MySocialSecurity account until they are ready to retire, or they worry the program won't exist in the future. Clark walks us through why it’s so crucial to open an account as soon as possible.
Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the September 28, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark.
Bond Alternative: Segment 1
Ask Clark: Segment 2
Your Social Security: Segment 3
Ask Clark: Segment 4
Mentioned on the show:
TIPS: The Inflation-Proof Alternative to Standard Bonds - Clark.com
Long-Term Treasuries: What a 5% Return Means for Your Money
Empower Review: How It Works, Pros & Cons - Clark Howard
My Social Security: The Free Account Everyone Needs To Set Up Before Retirement
How Can I Estimate My Social Security Benefit? - Clark Howard
The Best Car-Buying Services - 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
More from The Clark Howard Podcast
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.
Rapid Fire Q&A: Roth Conversion Traps, RMD Spending Rules, & Switching Careers To Finance
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.
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks.
Secret Hospital Price Lists Exposed & Simple Cart Trick That Saves You Money