There are so many ways in which to invest your money: CDs, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, real estate... Even pork belly futures and gold coins are investments. And there are so many places to put your money: 401(k)s, IRAs, annuities, brokerage accounts, credit unions, and banks. What's right for you?

Well, there's a good financial planning answer to that question: It depends.

There are four main things you need to think about before you can decide how to invest your money:

1. Liquidity Needs. How much money do you need to set aside for emergencies and other short-term goals?
2. Goals & Objectives. What are you trying to accomplish? Do you want to retire early, send the kids through college, buy a house, or simply put some money away for a rainy day?
3. Time Horizon. How long will it be until you need your money?
4. Risk Profile. How much market risk can you tolerate and still be able to sleep nights?