At NHI, we believe that you should consider contributing the full amount of 401(k) elective deferral contributions required to receive the maximum employer match offered in your workplace retirement plan as your first priority rather than leaving that money on the table. 401(k) deferrals are an easy way to start early and contribute regularly, with the discipline of payroll deductions.

For many savers, the simplicity and discipline of payroll deduction makes the logical next step to maximize your 401(k) elective deferrals up to the 402(g) annual deferral limit, $16,500 in 2009 ($22,000 if 50 years or older).

If you believe that your tax rates will be lower in retirement than they are now, you may want to prioritize pre-tax vehicles like the Tradition 401(k) or Tradition IRA.