New AI voice scam threatens your life savings (10 19 26)

💵 Today’s Top Stories

How to Protect Yourself From the New AI Voice Scam Threatening Your Life Savings

“My voice is my password. Please verify me.” Ever heard that prompt when you call your bank or brokerage? It’s not safe anymore because of AI, Clark explains. Here’s how to lock down your accounts with extra security layers. Read more.

DoorDash Driver Average Pay Per Hour in 2026

Here’s how much money the average DoorDash driver makes per hour in 2026 according to Glassdoor. Team Clark also tested the app a few years ago. Read more.

Secret Perk of Abandoning Your Online Shopping Cart

So much of what we buy is stuff we want, not stuff we need. Eliminating impulse buying is critical if you want to protect your money during this prolonged period of high inflation, Clark explains. These two strategies can help. Read more.

Hertz Is Offering a 100,000-Mile Warranty on Used Cars: Is It Worth It?

Historically, Clark warns against buying used cars from rental car companies. But Hertz just sweetened the deal for customers. Is it enough to impress Clark into changing his mind? Read more.

💸 Ask Clark

Ask Clark Howard

Podcast | YouTube

On his podcast, Clark Howard answers real reader questions on money, credit, debt, retirement, travel, and more, along with co-host Christa DiBiase.

Today's question

Derek in New Jersey asks:

"I recently joined Walmart+ for the free delivery, but since you still have to tip the driver, it’s not completely free. How much do you tip, Clark? Do you use a flat rate or a percentage?"

Clark's answer: There really is no right answer to this, but I can tell you what I do. We order a lot of same-day delivery from BJ's Wholesale Club, where we pick a two-hour window and pay a flat annual rate for unlimited deliveries. You tip the drivers just like you do with Walmart+.

I usually just tip 15%. Why? Honestly, there’s no real logic behind it; 15% is just the historical benchmark, so that's what I default to. Is that what I should be doing? I don't know — it's a tough issue, and I'd love to hear feedback on what Derek and I should be doing for these delivery services.

It’s interesting because Amazon doesn't have tips for standard deliveries coming in a couple of hours, though they do for grocery orders. Sam's Club is a bit different too. If you’re a Plus member, shipping is free on orders of $50 or more, but for direct delivery, I believe tipping is involved. I haven't used Sam's Club delivery myself, but the whole world of tipping has gotten very confusing lately.

Submit a question for Clark

📊 Stat of the Day

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🏠 7.40%: According to Freddie Mac, 30-year mortgage rates are 7.40% (unchanged from 7.40% last week) and 15-year rates are 6.71% as of October 15, 2026.

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🎙 Podcast

It’s time for "Clark Stinks!" Christa reads the latest "Clark Stinks!" submissions and Clark responds. Also, even if oil and jet fuel prices drop, major U.S. airlines warn that fluctuating costs mean high airfares are here to stay for the foreseeable future. With flight delays and unpredictable pricing making winter travel tricky, flexibility and preparation are key. Clark breaks down his top strategies for beating high airfares and making your travel budget go further.

Watch the Full Episode

☎ 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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