Employer match is free money, but only if you contribute enough to get it all.
This calculator shows how much employer 401(k) match you are capturing versus the maximum available, and how much free matching money you are leaving on the table.
Many employers match a portion of what you contribute, such as 50 cents per dollar up to 6 percent of pay. To earn the full match you must contribute at least up to that threshold; contribute less and you forfeit part of the match. This tool compares the match your current contribution earns with the maximum the plan offers.
Unclaimed match is essentially foregone compensation, an immediate return on your own contribution that few other investments can match. The calculator shows the dollar gap so you can see the cost of contributing below the match ceiling. It reflects the match formula only and does not model vesting schedules, contribution limits, or investment growth, so confirm your plan's specific rules. Not financial advice.
It is the ceiling on matchable contributions, so the employer only matches up to that share of your salary.
Yes, unclaimed match is free money you forfeit, often an instant return on your contribution.
No, the tool shows the match earned but not any vesting schedule that may delay ownership.
See the exact formula and a worked example on our methodology page.