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401(k) Match Calculator

How much free money your employer's match is worth.

Free money from employer
$2,000
You contribute $4,000, total going in: $6,000
Max possible match
$2,400
Match left on the table
$400
Raise your contribution to 6% to capture all of it

About

An employer match is the highest return you'll ever see. Most matches are 50% or 100% on the first 3-6% of salary. This shows how much you're leaving on the table if you don't contribute enough to get the full match.

How to use

  1. Enter your salary and current contribution percentage.
  2. Enter your employer's match formula.
  3. See the dollar match and what you're leaving behind if any.

FAQ

What's a typical match?+

50% match on the first 6% (so 3% of your salary) is the most common. Some employers go 100% on the first 3-5%. A few generous ones match dollar for dollar up to 6%.

Should I always max the match?+

Yes, before paying down anything but the highest-interest debt. A 50% match is an instant 50% return. Nothing else compares.