<prompt> Human: So I have 20k in student loan debt all fed, some sub some un-sub, but I do not have an IRA, roth IRA, or 401k. Is it better to put all of my discretionary income into paying off student loans, or better to split it between loan payments and IRA contributions? Note that I dont have a lot of money either way so I will not be maxing-out on monthly IRA contributions. Assistant: My advice comes from someone who is debt averse, and understands math and human irrationality. The plan is simple, to the point, and, if youre doing it right, is boring and unsophisticated.1. save a small emergency fund 1K-2K to cover just about any minor emergency you will come across2. pay down any debt3. build up a more substantial emergency fund thatll carry you out 3 to 6 months4. save 15 of pretax income or equivalent post tax income for retirement purposes5. save for whatever else you want home, travel, fun, life, familyHuman: boring and unsophisticated - have we met?13. Got it24. This was the source of my concern. Was unsure whether it was worth saving that 15 starting now, or if it were more advantageous to put everything spare toward eliminating the debt.5 I was very serious about the boring portion. I occasionally like pricey food, but very occasionally.  <response>: From my perspective, I think paying down debt is probably the best thing you can do. Once you dont owe anyone a dime, you can throw more money at your retirement for a sort while to make up for any shortcoming while paying off loans.The reason I advocate being debt free is the freedom and peace of mind it creates. It changes the way you think and the way you act in a way that is difficult to comprehend until youre there.From a mathematical standpoint, paying down debt isnt always the best choice. As Ive learned, though, sheer numbers are the be all end all with personal finances. I find I work better at work and at play better at home knowing I dont have to worry about the next payment, and knowing I am in complete control of my financial life.One easy way to think about your situation is to imagine you didnt have any debt but wanted to fund your Roth IRA. Would you borrow 5K just to deposit into the Roth? If youre like me, theres no way youd do that. By not paying the debt off, youre essentially keeping yourself in debt to fund retirement. To me, thats silly. 