<prompt> Human: I understand the tax implications and caps on each type of account. Im wondering if there is something Im missing? My 401k has some fees associated with it, but my IRA through E-Trade has transaction costs as well.  <response>: The order of operations I observe goes as follows, assuming you already have an emergency fund:1. If employer offers match, fund 401k up to match.2. Fully fund Roth IRA, unless youre in a bracket above 25 in which case an argument can be made for using a traditional IRA, depending on how you believe tax rates will change in the future. IRAs offer all the benefits of a 401k but with additional flexibility and control.3. Fund 401k up to cap.4. Fund taxable accounts or other tax-deferred or exempt account for specific purposes such as a 527 for your or your familys education.Three and four are interchangeable depending on your priorities saving for your kids education may be a higher priority for you than saving for retirement during a certain period. 