Putting money into your company retirement plan (401k, 403b and so on) is like paying yourself first, but on steroids. Your company deducts your contribution from your paycheck, so it swoops straight into your retirement account. That contribution isn't as painful as it looks because it's tax deductible, so you may get money back at tax time.

If you're getting a late start on retirement saving, don't despair. Even the over-50 crowd can beef up their retirement savings.

Many companies match a portion of your contributions, which is the best deal in town. If you can't contribute the maximum amount that the government allows in your retirement account, do whatever it takes to get all of your company's match.

-- Posted: Dec. 10, 2007