Table of Contents
Introduction xi
Help Me Now, Clark: Improve Your Personal Finances in One Week 1
Cars 23
Doing Your Research Before a Purchase
Financing and the Purchase Process
Leasing
Maintenance and Repair
Computers and Internet 43
Buying Electronics and Accessories
Getting Online
Maintenance and Repair
Staying Safe Online
Consumer Issues 63
"Clark Smart" Consumerism
Entertainment
Groceries
Resolving Disputes
Retail
Seasonal
Education and Jobs 85
Student Life
Career Center
Entrepreneurs and Small Business
Health and Health Care 103
Save Money on Prescriptions
Get the Most for Your Health Care Dollar
Dealing with Insurance Issues
Diet, Fitness, and Health
Elder Issues
Homes and Real Estate 123
Before You Buy
Once You're in the Home
Renting
Energy and Appliances
Insurance 149
Auto Insurance
Health and Related Insurances
Home Insurance
Life Insurance
Personal Finance 169
Banks and Budgeting
Credit Cards and Credit Use
Identity Theft
Investing and Retirement
Taxes
Telephones and Television 201
Phones and Mobile Devices
Landline and VoIP
Television
Travel 217
Accommodations
Air Travel
Car Rentals and Other Transportation
Timeshares
Protecting Your Wallet on the Road
Clark's Graveyard 241
Important Websites 246
Acknowledgments 252
Index 253