Should I stop contributing to my 401(k) to pay off debt?

Usually contribute at least enough to get the full employer match first, then attack the debt — because the match is an instant 50% to 100% return you can't beat anywhere else. Beyond the match, it's a math and behavior question. If you're carrying high-interest debt like credit cards at 20%+, paying that down often outperforms investing, so it can make sense to pause contributions above the match and throw everything at the balance. For low-rate debt such as a mortgage or subsidized student loans, keep investing because your long-term returns likely exceed the interest cost. Never cash out or borrow from the 401(k) to pay debt — the taxes, penalties, and lost growth usually make it backfire. Resume full contributions the moment the toxic debt is gone. Compare payoff scenarios at wealthserene.com/tools/debt-payoff.