Re: IRA & long-term savings vs. Paying all CC debt?
Hey, it sounds like you are doing great. I agree that you should throw all available money at CC debt. When that's gone (and the cards are cut up or on ice or whatever you have to do to prevent it creeping up again), I like the idea others have expressed of dividing available money between student loan, 401k, and emergency fund. The emergency fund will also get you in great shape to buy a house. I know our E fund saved our butts when as first-time buyers we underestimated the repairs needed to our 70-yr-old house. And you should really have a solid 3-6 months' expenses readily available over and above whatever you're saving for a downpayment.
Altho it makes some financial sense to prioritize killing the student debt as soon as you finish paying off the CC, I think it will help keep you motivated to watch your E fund and 401k grow.
Yes, you have time to save for retirement, but don't wait to start. Inch the percentage up whenever you can, without neglecting other goals.
You're gonna be in great shape. I'm 29--nice to hear of somebody else kicking those Gen X stereotypes about all the spending and playing we're supposedly doing.
|