Retirement account order of operations

With a 401(k), IRA, HSA, Roth, traditional, and maybe a taxable brokerage to choose from, 'where do I put the next dollar' becomes a real question. Here's the consensus order for most people.

The order

1. 401(k) up to the full employer match. Free money — always first.
2. Pay off high-interest debt (anything above ~7%).
3. Fully fund an HSA if you have a high-deductible health plan. Triple tax-advantaged, best account that exists.
4. Max a Roth IRA if eligible ($7,000 in 2026, $8,000 if 50+). Tax-free growth for life.
5. Finish maxing the 401(k) up to the $23,500 limit.
6. Backdoor Roth IRA if your income is above the direct-contribution limit.
7. Mega backdoor Roth if your plan allows (advanced).
8. Taxable brokerage for anything beyond retirement caps.
9. 529 plans, I-bonds, and other goal-specific vehicles as applicable.