[asmos7]

so the absolute worst is cash in something like a savings/checking account. You're interest rate will be less than 1/2% so in this case you're losing ~5% per year. You're best bet is low fee index funds that mirror the entire US market. VTSAX through Vanguard is a great choice. Your money now keeps it's purchasing power b/c you no longer own money, you own stocks and when prices go up stocks are just another good that also goes up in price so your dollars now track inflation.