Tax & Payroll
401(k) Employer Match Optimizer (2026)
Find the contribution rate that captures your full employer match within the 2026 IRS limit.
Preparing your result…
What this calculator does
Shows employer match captured.
What your result means
Match received and match missed.
Formula
Match = matchPct × min(contribution %, match cap %) × salary; your deferral limited to $24,500 (+ catch-up)
The step-by-step working for your own numbers appears with the result above and in the PDF report.
Frequently asked questions
Symbols and assumptions
- m
- Match rate
- • 2026 deferral limits.
Sources and review
Reviewed 2026-09-23 · Next review 2027-01-15
- • True-up not modelled.
- • Rules change annually.
- • Educational estimate, not tax advice.
Important limitation
This is an educational estimate based only on the values and formula shown. Verify current rates, rules, units, and professional standards before relying on the result. It is not personalized financial or investment advice.
Report a mistake or request an improvement
Tell us if a formula, unit, explanation, or result needs attention. Your message will include this calculator’s name and page.
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