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9 things on deep discount in May (5 1 25)

9 things on deep discount in May (5 1 25)

Anthony Hazzard
May 01, 2025

Are you planning to catch a flight soon? The REAL ID deadline is approaching fast. Further down this email will explain what you need for compliance.

💵 Today’s Top Stories

9 Things on Deep Discount in May

Notice when you do your laundry that your sheets and towels are getting a little ragged? May is a great month to replenish those items on sale. Also look out for Amazon Pet Day and Memorial Day sales. Read more.

Big Changes Are Coming To Your Social Security Card

Your physical Social Security card is going digital. The SSA is making your Social Security number available to you online in case you lose your card. Here’s why as well as how to access it. Read more.

5 Vacation Scams To Avoid This Travel Season

Travelers are a target-rich environment for scammers. “Be really, really cautious and careful when you do any kind of search for travel deals,” Clark says. Here’s how to protect yourself. Read more.

Should I Accept Direct Deposit for Insurance Money or Wait for a Paper Check?

The insurance company is not your friend, even on a claim. Don’t take the money in this way, Clark says. Here’s how to get the most out of your rights. Read more.

🪪 REAL ID Deadline Looms Next Wednesday

Most of us use our driver’s license as identification when we fly domestically.

However, if your license isn’t REAL ID-compliant, starting May 7, you won’t be able to use it to fly.

This is the final stage of the Real ID Act, signed into law in 2005 on the recommendation of the 9/11 Commission.

A compliant REAL ID typically features a star in the top right corner, which can look different state-by-state. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) goes into detail on which licenses (and stars) are in compliance.

If you’re not in compliance and you attempt to use your driver’s license to fly, starting one week from today, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents will turn you away at the security checkpoint.

Visit your local DMV’s website or go to a physical location near you if you still need to update your license.

📊 Stat of the Day

🚘️ $589: The average monthly lease payment for vehicles in Q1. That’s $150 less than the average new loan payment (and $9 cheaper than leases cost last year). Here’s what Clark thinks about leasing cars.

💰️ Deal Alert: Today’s Top Deals

🎙️ Podcast

From flea markets to Goodwill to boutique stores to now high-end resale markets, now is the time to start shopping secondhand! Clark explains why it’s a great way to stretch every dollar. Also, many Americans are seeing higher power bills. Clark shares two ways we can use solar to lower our bills, and a few evergreen tips to help us save more on utilities.

☎️ 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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