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💵 Today’s Top Stories
Want to consider, or at least daydream, about a place where the cost of living is less than $1,900 a month and there’s little property crime? These 10 (mostly Midwestern) cities are the best options. Read more.
Clark consistently saves big on rental cars by using this strategy. But you absolutely cannot prepay for your rental car or else it won’t work. Read more.
YouTube TV cost $35 a month when it launched in 2017. Now a base subscription is $83. Clark dumped it. In it for the long haul? Consider these strategies to keep your bill manageable. Read more.
Did you know there’s an insurance version of a credit score based on claims you filed? And it affects how much you pay for your insurance premiums? Read more.
✈ Visiting the United Kingdom? You’ll Need More Than Your Passport
Planning to visit the United Kingdom? Starting Wednesday, you will need to apply and pay for a special digital permission.
It’s called an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). It costs £16 (about $21.59 U.S. dollars) now, though it will increase to £20 (about $26.98).
From Feb. 25, 2026, forward, carriers (airlines, ferries, etc.) must check that you have a valid ETA before allowing you to board. If you don’t have one, you can be refused boarding.
The ETA requirement applies to 85 visa-exempt countries like the United States, Canada, most European Union countries, Australia, Japan and more. It’s a travel permit that allows you to travel toward entry into Great Britain (you’ll still go through normal border checks).
Previously, there was a “soft launch” and a grace period since it launched in October 2023. But that ends Wednesday.
You can apply via the UK government service at GOV.UK – or via the UK ETA mobile app. Make sure you use an official channel. Third-party sites could be scams or overcharge you.
“While most people currently get a decision automatically in minutes, it is recommended to allow 3 working days to account for the small number of cases that require additional review,” the GOV.UK website instructs.
This is just the latest additional fee for tourists to several prominent U.S. vacation destinations, especially in Europe. It’s a good idea to research any possible fees and permissions if you plan to travel out of the country.
📊 Stat of the Day
🚘 28%: Share of new auto loans originated in January that stretched beyond 72 months (six years). That’s up 4% year-over-year. Clark recommends never going beyond 42 months.
💰 Deal Alert: Today’s Top Deals
🎙 Podcast
It’s time for "Clark Stinks!" Christa reads the latest "Clark Stinks!" submissions and Clark responds. Also, crypto is a hot investing topic. Whether you view it as the future of finance or a digital gamble, one thing is certain: the volatility is extreme. Clark explains if this belongs in your portfolio, along with his #1 rule.
☎ 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.
