What this calculator shows you
- 401k Match Optimization
- Calculate how much employer match you are missing.
- HSA Tax Savings
- See the triple tax advantage you might be leaving unused.
- ESPP Value
- Calculate the value of employee stock purchase discounts.
- Total Free Money
- See exactly how much you are capturing vs leaving behind.
The Free Money You Are Missing
Employer benefits are the closest thing to free money in personal finance. A dollar-for-dollar 4% 401k match is an immediate 100% return on your contribution. Yet many employees do not contribute enough to get the full match.
The Big Three Benefits
401k Match: Contribute at least enough to get the full match—it is instant 50-100% returns. HSA: Triple tax advantage (deductible contributions, tax-free growth, tax-free withdrawals for medical). ESPP: Often a 15% discount on company stock, worth about 17.6% on the money you put in if you sell right away (the stock can still move before you sell).
The Optimization Order
1. 401k to full match (instant 50-100% return). 2. HSA to max if available (triple tax benefit). 3. ESPP if offered (sell soon after buying to lock in most of the discount). 4. 401k to max if possible. This order captures the most dependable benefits first.
Questions people ask
What if I cannot afford to max everything?
Start with the 401k match—it is the most dependable return available (check your plan's vesting schedule). Even 1% more contribution captures significant free money. Increase by 1% with each raise until you reach the match cap.
Should I use ESPP if I already own company stock?
If you can sell right after purchase, most of the 15% discount is locked in, with only a little price risk before the sale settles. If required to hold, concentration risk increases. Many experts suggest limiting any single stock to 10% of portfolio.
Is HSA really better than 401k?
For medical expenses, yes—HSA has triple tax benefits while 401k only has double. Many experts suggest maxing HSA before additional 401k contributions beyond the match, especially if you have a high-deductible health plan.
Education only, not personalized financial, tax or investment advice. Results are estimates based on the numbers you enter; real returns vary and losses happen.