A money-market fund typically offers better interest rates compared to standard interest-paying savings and checking accounts.

But money-market accounts usually come with terms different from a savings account, such as specific balance minimums and an account-withdrawal limit.

If you'd like to learn more about money-market accounts or compare the going rates, these websites might prove useful:

• Bankrate.com: Features money-market average rates and news. bankrate.com/brm/rate/mmmf_home.asp

• Financial Web: Compares the differences between a bank money-market account and savings account. finweb.com/banking-credit/general-banking-credit/bank-money-market-account-vs-savings-account.html

• Money Rates: Details the advantages of saving through a money-market account. money-rates.com/advancedstrategies/moneymarket/start_your_savings_program_with_a_money_market_account.htm

• Simple Debt Free Living: Offers good, brief overview of how money-market accounts work. simpledebtfreeliving.com/moneymarketaccount.html

• U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission: Provides an overview of money market fund basics. sec.gov/answers/mfmmkt.htm