Is free money being left on the table? What your contribution rate means at retirement — and what capturing the full match would add.
"50% up to 6%" is the most common formula: contribute 6%, get 3% free.
The IRS employee deferral limit (2026: $24,500). Your contributions are capped here; the match doesn't count against it.
This 401(k) employer match calculator shows what your current contribution rate compounds to by retirement and, crucially, the value of any unclaimed match. Failing to contribute enough to earn the full match is one of the most expensive money mistakes there is.
Your employer adds money to your account based on what you contribute — for example, 50% of your contributions up to 6% of salary. It is part of your compensation.
At least enough to reach your employer's match ceiling. Contributing below that line means forfeiting free money every paycheck.
Yes. It is an immediate, guaranteed return on your contribution that no other investment reliably offers, which is why capturing it usually comes first.