I'll second the 401k match comment. If you're not putting in the amount that's getting you the maximum company match, you're doing yourself and your future a disservice. It's one of the only risk-free returns you'll ever be presented with, so take advantage of it. If you're stretched thin and can't see yourself being able to afford it, I'd do some serious consideration on what your priorities are and make sure you're not choosing immediate gratification in some other aspect of life where you could be able to cut back to make those additional contributions to your 401k instead. It's that important, as is a firm understanding of the time value of money and compound interest.

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