🎁 401k Free Money Calculator
Your employer is literally offering to give you free money and you might be leaving it on the table. Let's see exactly how much you're getting, how much you're missing, and what it grows to over 40 years.
Your 401k Setup
$
0%23% (2025 max)
% of contributions, up to% of salary
e.g. "50% of first 6%" = match 50%, up to 6%
3% (conservative)12% (aggressive)
Your Match Status
⚠️ You're leaving free money on the table!
Contributing 3% but you need 6% for full match. Increase by 3% ($1,800/year) to unlock $900/year in free employer money.
You Contribute
$1,800/yr
Employer Adds 🎁
$900/yr
Total to 401k
$2,700/yr
Full match scenario: $5,400/yr (you'd contribute $3,600, employer adds $1,800)
Projected Growth Over Time (7% annual return)
| Years | Your Current Plan | With Full Match | You'd Gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 years | $37,304 | $74,609 | +$37,304 |
| 20 years | $110,688 | $221,376 | +$110,688 |
| 30 years | $255,044 | $510,088 | +$255,044 |
| 40 years | $539,015 | $1,078,030 | +$539,015 |
🤯 Leaving the full match on the table could cost you $539,015 over 40 years
FAQs
What is an employer match?
"50% of first 6%" means: you put in 6% of salary, they give you 3% free. It's an instant 50% return on that money before any investment growth.
What if I can't afford to contribute?
Even contributing 1% is better than 0%. The tax break means it costs you less than you think. Try to at least get some match — even partial match beats nothing.
Does match money vest immediately?
Your contributions always vest immediately. Employer match often vests over 1–5 years. Check your plan documents so you know what you'd lose if you left.
How much should I contribute total?
At minimum, contribute enough to get the full employer match. After that, aim for 10–15% total (your contributions + match). The 2025 employee contribution limit is $23,500.
Sources: IRS 401(k) Plans, DOL 401(k) Guide, BLS Employee Benefits Survey. Last updated March 2026.