401(k) Employer Match Maximizer
In short: An employer 401(k) match is an instant, guaranteed return on your contributions — commonly 50% or 100% up to a percentage of pay. To capture the full match you must contribute at least enough to reach your employer's cap; anything less leaves free money behind. For 2026 the IRS lets you defer up to $24,500 of your own pay.
Source: IRS Notice 2025-67 (IR-2025-111). Data as of 2026 tax year.
These are estimates for general information, not financial advice. Verify figures with the IRS and a qualified professional before acting.
How it works
Enter your salary, your employer's match formula and your own contribution rate to see how much free match you capture, how much you leave on the table, and your combined annual contribution against the 2026 IRS limits. The result updates as you type and nothing leaves your device — every figure is computed in your browser.
2026 IRS limits used here
Source: IRS Notice 2025-67 (IR-2025-111). Announced November 2025; effective for the 2026 tax year. Data as of the 2026 tax year.
| 2026 limit | Amount |
|---|---|
| 401(k)/403(b)/457/TSP elective deferral | $24,500 |
| 401(k) catch-up (age 50+) | $8,000 (total $32,500) |
| 401(k) catch-up (ages 60–63) | $11,250 (total $35,750) |
| Combined employee + employer (415(c)) | $72,000 |
| IRA contribution (Roth or Traditional) | $7,500 |
| IRA catch-up (age 50+) | $1,100 (total $8,600) |
| Roth IRA phase-out — single | $153,000–$168,000 |
| Roth IRA phase-out — married filing jointly | $242,000–$252,000 |
Frequently asked questions
What does a 401(k) match like “50% up to 6%” mean?
It means your employer adds 50 cents for every dollar you contribute, but only on the first 6% of your salary. To get the full match you must contribute at least 6% of pay; the match itself is then worth 3% of your salary.
How much can I contribute to a 401(k) in 2026?
The 2026 IRS elective deferral limit is $24,500 of your own salary. If you are 50 or older you can add an $8,000 catch-up (for $32,500 total), and ages 60–63 can add $11,250. Employer match is on top of that, up to a combined $72,000.
Should I contribute beyond the match?
Capturing the full match first is almost always the highest-priority step because the return is immediate. Beyond that, many people fund a Roth or Traditional IRA, then return to the 401(k) up to the annual limit.
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Last updated: 2026-06-14