You'll need an investment account to buy most investments, including stocks and bonds. Just as there are a number of bank accounts for different purposes — checking, savings, money market, certificates of deposit — there are a handful of investment accounts to know about.

Some accounts offer tax advantages if you invest for a specific purpose, like retirement. Keep in mind that you may be taxed or penalized if you pull your money out early or for a reason not considered qualified by the plan rules. Other accounts are general purpose and should be used for goals unrelated to retirement — that dream vacation home, the boat to go with it or simply a vacation, period. Here's a list of some of the most popular investing accounts.