Creating Websites and Graphics

ok so I have this picture I have removed the background and everything that needs removed so I have the "checkered background" that shows it is transparent. But when I try to save it I get a message about save settings and it will be merged, then when I open it back up it has a background again. How do I save the image so that there is no background where I do not want one.
Thanks.
Lesli

Oh and my siggy is really outdated sorry. Anyone who remembers me I had my third baby Nov 1, 2008. He is why I have not been on here as much. I am trying to make a new siggy all by my self. HAHA. ;)

You need save as a Pspimage or png.
If your image has 2 or more layers you save as pspimage.
so the layers stay unmerged.

You save as.png to keep your transparent background
if you have just a pic with no layers
You go file import as png wizard.
Make sure you check the keep transparent bacground box
when you save as .png.

Jpg doesnot support transparent backgrounds
or layers
which is why you are getting the merged layers message
and losing your transparent background.