Maximize 401(k) Employer Match First

Capturing the full employer match delivers an instant 50-100% return on your contribution, outperforming all other retirement strategies by offering a guaranteed risk-free gain. For example, a 100% match on the first 6% of a $100,000 salary means $6,000 in free money annually. This foundation outpaces #2, the Roth Conversion Ladder, which requires upfront tax payments and years of planning. With automatic payroll deductions, it requires no active management and compounds aggressively over time. Failing to max the match is leaving a 50-100% return on the table, a mistake no other strategy can compensate for. Starting at age 30 with a $6,000 annual match and 7% growth yields over $600,000 by age 65.