EUGENE, Ore. -- Layoffs, disappearing 401(k)s, companies filing for bankruptcy.  It's enough to make you pull your money out of the bank and stuff it in your mattress until the economy recovers.

But that is the last thing anyone should do right now, said David Bonebrake, a certified financial planning professional.

He says the two most important things people can do right now--or at any time--is save and invest.

Bonebrake says a good goal is to save 10 to 30 percent of your paycheck.  If you can't manage that right now, save as much as you can manage.  Your ultimate goal is to build up a cash reserve to sustain your family for 36 months, although Bonebrake admits that will be a challenge right now.  He says a nine month cash reserve is a good idea, since that's how long it takes most layoff victims to find a permanent job or new career. 

"You just have to have the discipline to pay yourself," he said.  "You're the first and most important bill that you have."

Once you have that cash reserve, put two months worth in your checking account.

The rest should be invested, so it's not "lazy money," said Bonebrake.  If it's not earning interest at least at the rate of inflation, then cash sitting in an account actually loses you money.

Bonebrake recommends putting the rest of your cash reserve in a low risk money market account.  There are different types of money market accounts, but the type that invest in U.S. Treasuries carry the lowest risk.

You can think of a money market account as a short term investment.  You can pull some or all of the money out with no penalty and they typically offer returns at least on par with inflation.

For long term savings, Bonebrake urges folks to consider the stock market.  If you have the money and feel comfortable with it, right now is the perfect time to invest.  Research companies and invest in ones you find reliable.

"Now is the time to be investing, when things are on sale," said Bonebrake.  "It seems people come to me and want to invest when markets on high and things aren't on sale any longer, and that's not the time to invest."

Finally, keep contributing to your 401(k) -- and don't even think about taking any cash out.

If you're looking for a financial planner, look for one who is certified.  Also, check him or her out with the Better Business Bureau, the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Financial Planning Association.