08.17.26 Renters Face New Junk Fees / Tap-To-Pay Scam Warning

Finding an affordable rental was hard enough, but now landlords are taking a cue from hotels and airlines by hitting tenants with hidden junk fees. From mandatory charges for bundled trash pickup and overpriced cable to outrageous $200 monthly add-ons just for working from home, these unexpected fees inflate the cost of living. When apartment hunting, Clark urges us to check for this specific list before committing to a lease.

Meanwhile, tap-to-pay remains one of the safest ways to shop using digital tokenization, but scammers have found a clever way to exploit your generosity. Fraudsters posing as street solicitors for fake charities are asking people to tap their phones to donate, only to take the device and quietly alter a $20 donation into a $200 charge. Clark shares what you need to know to protect your wallet.

Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the August 17, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your opinions or questions: Ask Clark.

• Renter Junk Fees: Segment 1
• Ask Clark: Segment 2
• Phone Tap-To-Pay Alert: Segment 3
• Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

• The rent was already high. Then came the $200 work-from-home fee -USA TODAY
• Clark Deals: Today’s Top Travel Deals
• How To Use Priceline To Save on Travel - Clark Howard
• Military and Veterans Guide: Free Resources for Your Finances
• Cheapest Way to Rent a Car: Expert Tips - Clark Howard
• Costco Travel: 5 Things To Know Before You Book - Clark Howard
• USA TODAY: Tap to pay is convenient. These 6 steps can protect your money
• Empower Review: How It Works, Pros & Cons - Clark Howard
• Best Budgeting Apps in 2026: Our Top 7 - Clark Howard
• Clark.com Calculators

Clark.com resources:

• Episode transcripts
• Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark
• Clark.com daily money newsletter
• Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

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