You should never invest in a product you don't understand. Here are suggested questions for you to ask an investment advisor at your bank or savings institution, and why his or her answers are important:

What types of investment products would be suitable for my needs? Your advisor is likely to recommend different investments, depending on your priorities.

What are the chances I could lose money? Know if you are the kind of person who doesn't want to take chances with your savings or if you are willing to take higher risks in exchange for the possibility of higher returns. "Remember that all investments contain some degree of risk," says Amy Aulthouse Mitchell, an FDIC securities specialist. Also, ask your investment advisor about any potential penalties for early withdrawal from an investment.

Who should I contact if I have questions? Get the address and phone number for customer service at the institution if you discover a discrepancy or some other problem with your account, says Kate Spears of the FDIC's consumer affairs division. See For More Help or Information Regarding the Array of Products Available for tips about how to get help or information from the FDIC and other government regulators.