Ways to save...

The vast majority of checking accounts don't pay any interest. What a waste! You should always earn every dime you can on every dollar you deposit: and that certainly includes your checking account. These accounts pay more than nothing, but not as much as money market accounts, CDs, etc. because you can take your money out so easily.

Money market accounts are almost as convenient as a checking account: you can take your money out at any time. Many allow you to write a limited number of checks (e.g. five per month) for a minimum amount ($500 and up is common). Because they're a little less convenient than a checking account, they usually pay a little more interest.

A CD (certificate of deposit) is a step down the convenience scale from a money market account, and a step up the interest ladder. You agree to leave your savings alone for a certain period of time, typically three months to five years. The longer you agree to leave it, the more interest you'll typically earn.

You can put just about any type of investment you want within an IRA (Individual Retirement Account) from the most speculative stocks to insured CDs. If you're looking for speculative stocks, you're on your own. But if you want insured CDs, we've got em!