The value of a dollar changes dramatically depending on when you can take control of the dollar and invest it.  The critical variable in the time value of money is time.  Inflation consistently destroys the purchasing power of a dollar.  Thus, a year from now, a dollar will be worth slightly less than it is today.  It cannot be stressed enough that waiting too long to invest or leaving your money in a low return savings account will only make the power of the money you have weaker.  The possibilities and opportunities available to you will make the reasoning behind regular savings accounts and not investing seem ridiculous.