<prompt> Human: I know a common theme on this subreddit is to max a 401k every year after things like emergency fundhigh interest debt are taken care of; however, I was running some numbers and wanted some feedback. Im 22, and starting at my first job making 63,500 in August. They do an employer match of 100 up to 4.5 of my salary. So, to max the 401k I would need to contribute about 28 of my salary only 23.5 out of my check due to the match. I used a 401k calculator to see what would happen if I went the rest of my life without raises contributing that amount, and the end result was being able to withdraw what equates to 84,000 accounting for inflation. If I go down to contribute 13.5 of my check for a total of 18 contribution, then I still end up being able to withdraw 54,000 annually, which is almost my salary now and I would not have a mortgage to contend with at that point in my life. Given this, and the fact that over time I will probably be getting more than 3 raises this is being conservative. In computer science with a degree from Georgia Tech, is it wise to not max my 401k from the start? I can financially handle that much money being taken out of my paycheck each month; however, I can get my student loans paid off faster and more aggressively save for a down payment on a house. Thanks for any help! Edit: Thanks for all the responses. Im responding to some, but I never expected this many replies. General consensus Im seeing is that its super personal. Im actually doing this for my boyfriend, so Im going to sit down and show him three paths to choose from and what these lead to in terms of retirement accounts, student loans being paid off, lifestyle, and other savings goals:-4.5 401k contribute to get the match, then 5,500 in a Roth IRA -10 401k contribution, then 5,500 in a Roth IRA - Max 401k  <response>: No, you dont have to max the 401k if you have other goals like reducing debt or buying property. But you should at least contribute 4.5 to get the maximum match. However, while youre playing around with calculators, do some simulations of starting to save aggressively at 22, then taking an 8-year break in your 30s, vs. waiting to save aggressively until age 30. Compound returns are your friend... 