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- Clark Biweekly 7 28 25
Clark Biweekly 7 28 25
Sally McDonald
July 28, 2025
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💵 Today’s Top Stories
 | You and I like finding a deal on a hotel as much as Clark. (OK, let’s be honest, almost as much.) Does that mean we should book through the hotel or through a travel site like Priceline? Read more. |
 | Credit cards come with so much fine print. Here are some things you need to know that credit card issuers try to bury inside the pile of legal jargon. Read more. |
 | The iPhone is a super computer with incredible but overwhelming features. Here’s how to make your device easier to use, including how to speed up charging and block unwanted callers. Read more. |
 | Did you know that standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover damage from floods, earthquakes, mold and more? Find out what else is on the list and what you should do about it. Read more. |
 | Buckle up, Southwest Airlines fans. There are even more changes coming for your favorite airline. Here’s everything you need to know. Read more. |
🏠️ Today’s Current Mortgage Rates
According to Freddie Mac, 30-year mortgage rates are 6.74% and 15-year rates are 5.87% as of July 24, 2025. The following chart shows the 30-year mortgage rate trend over the last year.
✈️ Reminder: Always Check Into Your Flights Early
The Navigator newsletter gave everyone a good reminder recently, and today we’re going to piggyback off of that reminder: check in early for your flights.
Yes, even now that Southwest seating no longer is a free-for-all.
Reason No. 1: Airlines sometimes overbook flights.
Flight demand has softened a bit lately. But airlines still are overbooking flights on occasion in an attempt to squeeze value out of every last seat on the airplane.
“If you’re the last to check in, you’re the first to be bumped,” The Navigator writes.
Also, if your airline is offering sweeteners in order to get volunteers to take a later flight, the first people who check in may get the first email offers.
Reason No. 2: You’re less likely to get stuck with a middle seat.
No one wants to be jammed between strangers on a long (and/or international) flight, especially if you’re flying alone with no chance your armrest buddy is a family member or friend.
Check in earlier and your odds are better.
Most flights still allow you to hand-pick a better seat, but it sometimes can be expensive.
You may be able to get away with checking in as early as 30 minutes before departure for a domestic flight when you aren’t checking a bag. But don’t wait, even if you arrive at the gate last minute.
Download the airline’s app and check in early. Typically you may do so 24 hours in advance of your flight time.
📊 Stat of the Day
💰️ $27 billion: The surplus that the United States government managed in June due to “a sharp increase in receipts” related to tariffs. The number in May: -$316 billion. So the U.S. flipped from a huge deficit to a small profit. Customs duties increased 301% year-over-year.
💰️ Deal Alert: Today’s Top Deals
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🎙️ Podcast
It’s time for "Clark Stinks!" Christa reads the latest "Clark Stinks!" submissions and Clark responds. Also, dreaming of a European getaway? Now might be your chance! Clark explains the drop in transatlantic airfares, revealing why airlines are struggling to fill seats and what that means for your wallet. He'll share the unbelievable prices he's seeing for fall travel and a crucial tip for re-shopping your existing flights!
☎️ Need Money Help?
The Team Clark Consumer Action Center is a free helpline that can help you navigate your money questions. Call 636-492-5275. Visit clark.com/cac for more information.
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