A second aspect needs to address whether you will make regular set payments or if you're just planning to put in lumps of cash whenever you can afford it. It's usually a better idea to start by saving regular monthly amounts as it gets you into the rhythm of saving and pretty soon you will find that you don't really notice the amounts going out each month. Here we are unexpectedly in a traumatic situation and we get hit by the double whammy of sudden debt and guilt! If you think it will never happen to you don't be too sure. Think of something as simple as an accident, it doesn't even have to be your fault, and you get hospitalized for a couple of months. They'd sooner help someone who's honest enough to admit a mistake than think you're hiding something. If you're behind on your bills because of being put on short time at work; tell them. If you're looking for a part time job to help you get back on your feet again tell them. They aren't trying to judge you as a person; they simply want to know that they will get their money back. One of the things that can help you is to check out which of the CDs gives you the highest rate using online research. All the CD providing organizations have websites with complete details on how their services work. These financial institutions are very clear on imparting knowledge about their CD products so that they can attract more customers. This can be sometimes overlooked in the excitement of making your first investment but it can have a serious impact on your performance. If you are what is called "risk averse" you will probably be a nervous wreck if you put all your money into high risk shares. By learning to manage your risk levels you can ensure that you only select positions you will feel comfortable with over the medium to long term life of your portfolio. Before asking "how do I get started in the stock market" a better question might be "how much can I afford to lose". A quick dose of reality for some I'm sure but a very necessary one. That is because the truth is that even the most prudent investments carry a degree of risk with them.