What's the smartest order to use tax breaks if I can only fund some accounts?

When cash is limited, a widely used priority order captures the biggest tax wins first. Start with any 401(k) match, that's an instant 50%–100% return. Next, max an HSA if you have a high-deductible plan, since it's triple tax-advantaged. Then fund a Roth or traditional IRA depending on your bracket, followed by the rest of your 401(k) up to the $23,500 limit. After that, consider a 529 for college, a taxable brokerage account, or, for high earners, a backdoor or mega backdoor Roth. The logic is to grab free money and the most tax-efficient dollars before lower-value ones. Don't forget the Saver's Credit if your income qualifies, it stacks on top of these. Your ideal order depends on goals and bracket; map it at wealthserene.com/goals/reduce-taxes.