In most cases, yes. Failing to capture a strong employer match is one of the clearest missed opportunities in retirement saving.
Why the match matters so much
A match effectively boosts your contribution immediately, which is hard to replicate elsewhere without taking more risk.
When cash flow complicates it
If you are behind on essential bills or dealing with severe high-interest debt, the decision can become more nuanced. But for many workers, the match is still the first long-term savings milestone worth hitting.
Bottom line
Getting the full match is often the cleanest high-priority retirement move available inside a workplace plan.