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This answer is from Pay off credit card vs. contribute to 401k?

David R Hanson
FiLife Contributor
about a year ago

Hi Jonellyjojo,

First, I apologize for not responding earlier to your question. For some reason I wasn't able to see it until just now.

In general, capturing the "match" that an employer provides to 401k contributions is an extremely good idea. Not only do you have money compounding tax-deferred (or, in Roth 401ks, tax-free) during your working career, but you have extra employer money working for you as well.

Once that match is "maxed out", the decision of how to prioritize becomes less obvious. My own advice would turn on the specifics of your situation, especially balances, interest rates, and current available credit usage on your credit cards.

That you asked this question shows that you're trying to set financial priorities. Having taken that step, I would encourage you to go further and think about putting together a financial strategy--including concrete, attainable goals-- that incorporates commendable priorities like paying down credit card debt and saving for retirement.

If you wish to follow up with more specifics, I will happily share some more concrete reactions--and this time my reply should be much more timely.

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