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1.Grab Your Employer's Match If you're offered a 401(k) at work, put at least enough of your salary in it--most commonly 6%--to qualify for the full matching contribution from your employer. If you dislike the investment choices in your 401(k), hold your nose and contribute anyway; you may be able to roll your money into an IRA that gives you more choice. Decide whether to contribute even more to your 401(k) after taking the next two steps.