An employer match is additional money deposited when you contribute to a 401(k). A common teaching form is “50% of what you put in, up to 6% of pay.”
Sample formula
Match = match rate × the lesser of your annual deferral and (salary × match-up-to %). Real plans may use tiers, true-up, or different definitions.
Sample
$80,000 · 6% deferral · 50% up to 6% → employer about $2,400/yr. Open sample
Related
Frequently asked questions
What is an employer 401(k) match?
Money the employer adds when you defer pay into the plan, often as a percent of your contribution up to a percent of salary.
Sample match on $80,000 with 6% and 50% up to 6%?
About $2,400 per year under Nestfigure’s teaching formula.
Sources linked above include U.S. government materials (for example CFPB, FDIC, NCUA, BLS, IRS) where noted. Sample math uses only labeled Nestfigure assumptions—not bank quotes, job offers, or personalized advice. Last reviewed: August 9, 2026.