<prompt> Human: Im 28 years old, live in TN if that matters at all, and my current employer offers 401K but its employee contribution only. I have been told by several people that if the employer doesnt contribute its not worth it do invest in a 401K compared to other options, such as an IRA of sorts. Im married with three children, have an income of around 45kyr, and plan on setting up with my current employer pretty much permanently. My home is modest, but paid for. Me and my wife live pretty comfortably, as cost of living here is the cheapest Ive ever heard of.Im kind of in the dark as far as retirement plans go, I dont know much besides the generalized YOU NEED TO PUT BACK - YOU NEED TO SAVE, and since Im almost 30 years old and have nothing as of now, Id like to get on the ball and start something.So.. point me in the right direction, rpersonalfinance , share your wisdom.. whats the best plan for me? Note - Im writing this as I walk out the door for the day, but will try to answer any questionscomments on mobile as I can. Thank you all for reading this.  <response>: I have been told by several people that if the employer doesnt contribute its not worth it do invest in a 401K compared to other options, such as an IRA of sorts. That is not correct, but it depends somewhat on your 401ks fund choices. With your income a Roth IRA is probably a better option strictly financially speaking, but the contribution limits to a Roth are less than 13rd that of the maximum 401k contribution. 