<prompt> Human: Okay, Im owed 39,000 in back pay. Correct me if Im wrong - will come out to 23,400 after taxes. I know CDs are less risky, but I am young and can tolerate risk. I will use the money as a down payment for a house in 3 - 5 yrs. I wanted to invest in an index fund for maybe the first 2 years and then park it in a CD.  <response>: What will you do if the market crashes next year? If youre withdrawing in 2-5 years, it doesnt matter how old you are. Your risk tolerance is probably not high. 