401(k) example · Educational math
How much employer match do I leave on the table at 3% deferral?
Stated sample match rules—not investment advice.
Calculator · How we calculate · Questions
Direct answer
Direct answer (stated sample only): on $60,000 salary with 3% employee deferral and a 50% employer match up to 6% of salary, you contribute about $1,800/yr and the employer about $900/yr (total about $2,700/yr). About $900/yr of match may be left on the table under this sample formula. Optional 10-year projection at 5% sample return ends near $35,658. Not investment advice.
Compare employee contribution %
Same salary ($60,000) and match (50% up to 6%).
| Your % | You | Employer | Missed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0% | $0 | $0 | $1,800 |
| 3% | $1,800 | $900 | $900 |
| 6% | $3,600 | $1,800 | $0 |
| 8% | $4,800 | $1,800 | $0 |
| 10% | $6,000 | $1,800 | $0 |
Educational estimate only. Not investment, tax, or retirement advice. Match formulas vary by employer; growth is a constant-rate sample, not a forecast.
Compare your contribution %
Same salary and match rules| Your % | You | Employer | Total / yr | Missed match |
|---|
Year-by-year projection
Educational growth path| Year | You | Employer | End balance |
|---|
Related
Common questions
How much 401(k) match is left on the table at 3% deferral when the plan matches 50% up to 6%?
Direct answer (stated sample only): on $60,000 salary with 3% employee deferral and a 50% employer match up to 6% of salary, you contribute about $1,800/yr and the employer about $900/yr (total about $2,700/yr). About $900/yr of match may be left on the table under this sample formula. Optional 10-year projection at 5% sample return ends near $35,658. Not investment advice.
Is this my real employer match?
Not necessarily. Match formulas vary. Adjust match rate and “up to” percent to match your plan summary.
How do I change the numbers?
Open the prefilled 401(k) calculator and edit salary, deferral %, match rules, years, or return.
Educational only. Last reviewed: August 9, 2026.