How to invest safely

The stock market is in turmoil, where should you put your money?

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    
   Be safe with your money

   Never invest money you can't afford to lose. If something happens to this investment money, will your family be okay? If the answer is yes, I have a way to invest money safely, in way that will only earn you money, and never decrease your original investment.

2. 
    
   Your own time frame

   Open a Certificate of Deposit or CD with your local bank or credit union. Shop around, make calls to local banks and find which ones offer the best rates and a term that meets your needs. Remember, most banks have a minimum limit to start your CD, such as $500.00. Some will be
   more, others less. Terms also range from a few months to several years, and if you withdraw your money before your term ends, you may pay a penalty or lose interest.

3. Why it is safe:
   Although the interest rates will normally be under 5%, CDs can be opened and locked in at a percentage you find acceptable. You will never drop under your original investment.
   If you are not locked into a rate, this is still a safe investment. Even if your rate drops from 4.2% to 3.5%, you are still making money on your original investment.

4. 
    
   Safe options for continuing or ending your CD

   You have control:
   When you open a CD, you choose the amount of time that your money will be invested. When your CD term ends, you have the option to roll the money over into a new term if you are satisfied, or to pull out, with your small profit, and take your money elsewhere. There is no hassle of buying or selling, or worrying about taking a loss.

Tips & Warnings

• Be a smart shopper! Find the best rates.
• Don't invest money you need during the term of your CD, leave it until the term is over for the best results.
• This is just friendly advice. Consult your financial advisors, websites or library for more information or a more complete picture of how Certificates of Deposits work.