<prompt> Human: I keep reading that there is no point investing in a company 401k if they dont match and that you should just start an IRA. Wouldnt it make more sense to use the 401k and then the IRA as you can invest much more combined - 18,000 vs 5500?  <response>: Invest the 5500 in an IRA first, because it will most likely have better investment options and lower fees, then invest the rest in your 401k. If you can invest 23,500 total, it is a moot point; just fill up both. 