5 smart ways to use $1,000. You’ll see the results in days, not decades. Certificates of Deposit. CD rates are holding near a five-year high. Just follow our buying strategy to make the most of your mid- to long-term savings.

Checking Accounts. There are a lot of types of checking accounts to choose from, but none of them should cost you money. Here's a list of "7 Gotta Haves" that you need to know about before you open your checking account.

Savings Accounts. After paying paltry interest rates for years, the plain old savings account has suddenly become quite lucrative. At some banks, particularly online banks, savings accounts are earning more than most CDs and money market accounts.

Online banks. If you want to earn top returns on your CDs, money market accounts or savings accounts, it’s time consider an online bank. Your savings are insured and signing up is easier than you might think. We’ll show you how to do it.

Individual Development Accounts. You may have never heard of IDAs. But they’re a smart way for low- and middle-income families to triple their savings for a house, to start a business, go back to school or achieve other goals in life.

401(k) Retirement Plans. Our 5 rules for a successful 401(k) will help you sign up, qualify for extra money from your employer, and make the most of your investments.

Individual Retirement Accounts or IRAs. If you’re self-employed, or work for a company that doesn’t offer a 401(k) plan, IRAs are another great way to save for retirement. Our 6 rules for a successful IRA will help you make all the right decisions.

Annuities. There are better ways to save for retirement. The insurance companies who peddle them promise greater security but customers pay dearly for that, collecting a pretty puny check for the amount they’ve invested and the aggravation they’ve endured.

Real estate. Knowing when – or even if – to buy a home can be difficult. But we can help. It’s hard to save all the money you’ll need to put kids through college and successfully retire without one. And it’s no accident that homes quickly become the most valuable thing most of us own.

Reverse mortgages. If your pensions and retirement plans can’t ensure a comfortable income, your home represents another source of savings. Tapping that equity might provide the extra cash you need.

Have a question about your finances? Ask us at editors@interest.com