What does ignoring your employer 401k match cost you?

Not contributing enough to get your full employer match is leaving part of your compensation on the table — it is the closest thing to free money in personal finance. A 50% match up to 6% of your salary means if you earn $60,000 and contribute 6% ($3,600/year), your employer adds $1,800. That is an instant 50% return before any market gains. Always contribute enough to capture 100% of the match, regardless of other priorities.