How Much Is Your 401(k) Employer Match Worth?

Estimate the employer money you may be leaving on the table. Pick the match formula closest to your plan, or use the common default.

Instrument

Employer match scenario

Use your plan document for the exact match formula. Your inputs stay in this browser.

Employer match

$4,000.00

4.0% of salary

Your contribution

$5,000.00

Based on your selected rate

Total annual contribution

$9,000.00

Your contribution plus employer money

How the estimate works

For the selected formula, the employer matches contributions up to the tier caps shown. Contributions above the combined cap do not receive additional match under that formula. Plans vary, so replace these assumptions with your employer's actual formula before making a decision.

Why this matters

An employer match is part of your compensation. If you contribute below the match threshold, you may receive less employer money than your plan makes available. This calculator shows the annual difference in dollars so you can compare it with the impact on your paycheck.

This is an estimate, not financial advice. Read your Summary Plan Description for the exact matching formula and vesting rules.

Figures current as of 2026-09-25. Found an error? Contact us.