The deposit that should be paid primarily depends on the individual's financial goals, risk tolerance, and current financial situation. Generally, the most critical deposit to prioritize is an emergency fund. This is because an emergency fund provides a financial safety net, ensuring that individuals can cover unexpected expenses without derailing their long-term financial plans.

An emergency fund typically consists of three to six months' worth of living expenses. This is crucial because it can prevent individuals from falling into debt or having to liquidate investments at inopportune times. According to a 2021 survey by the Federal Reserve, only 40% of Americans have enough savings to cover a $400 unexpected expense. This highlights the importance of having an adequate emergency fund.

In addition to an emergency fund, it is also important to consider contributing to retirement accounts. In the United States, retirement accounts like a 401(k) or an IRA offer significant tax advantages and can provide substantial financial security in the future. The U.S. Department of Labor recommends that individuals contribute at least 10% of their income to a retirement account. This is because the earlier one starts saving for retirement, the more time their investments have to grow through compound interest.

Furthermore, if there are any high-interest debt obligations, such as credit card debt, it is advisable to prioritize paying these off. High-interest debt can be particularly detrimental to one's financial health, as the interest payments can accumulate rapidly and significantly reduce the amount of money available for other financial goals.

In summary, the deposit that should be paid first is an emergency fund, followed by contributions to retirement accounts and paying off high-interest debt. This approach ensures that individuals have a solid financial foundation and can work towards their long-term financial goals.