I am looking to invest some money should I go with a savings account or invesment account?

I have some money that I would like to put away for use a couple of years down the line and don't know if I should go with a financial consultant or just open a savings account at my bank?

A bank can offer you a CD, or Certificate of Deposit, that is protected against loss by the federal government. However, you won't make as much as you *might* if you invested in a mutual fund, stock, or bond. Your risk tolerance is the most important part of your equation. If you can tolerate risk, look at a mutual func that is rated as 5-star by Morningstar. If you can't handle risk, go to your bank and open a CD. Don't beat yourself up over whatever decision you make.

You can use it as an emergency fund in a Savings or Money Market account if your plan is to use it at a later date. If you are saving for reitirement, you need to invest in a Roth IRA.

I prefer scratch offs as opposed to quick-picks.

An occasional bet on an underground dog fight is also acceptable.

If you are looking for a modest, guaranteed return that will likely beat inflation over the next few years, and you don't need access to the money, then go online and get a high rate CD that will mature when you think you will need the money. Higher rates of return will likely require higher risk, such as putting it in an equity index fund, but it could just as easily go down rather than up. CDs are safe and simple and earn more than a savings account and you will sleep fine at night.

banks are so boring and they are profiting from your fear of the market.

Bank cd's and savings are not investments, they are a parking place for idle money.

"you are looking to invest some money", not park it. so take some risks that are inherent with investing, do your home work, do the math and jump in.

A big dumb high yield mutual fund from someplace like schwab would beat the bank, for crying out-loud.

If this is your emergency fund, I'd open an ING direct or Emigrant Direct account online (4.5 and 5.05% apy respectively). Your money will be liquid and safe. Going with a financial consultant may give you more options, both taxable and taxfree.

Open a brokerage account at Zecco and invest in Sony, Microsoft, Nintendo, Apple and Yahoo!