Intel 401(k) at a glance
| Employer match | Intel matches 100% of what you contribute up to 5% of pay, each pay period (it was 7% for 2024). |
|---|---|
| Maximum match | 5% of pay |
| Contribution needed for full match | 5% of pay |
| Vesting | ImmediateMatching contributions vest immediately. |
| Eligibility | US employees can join and get the match from the date of hire. |
| Automatic enrollment | New employees are auto-enrolled at 5% of pay, rising 2% each year up to 15%. |
| Roth 401(k) option | Yes |
| Plan provider | Fidelity (recordkeeper); BNY Mellon (trustee) |
| Who this applies to | US Intel employees |
How much is the Intel match worth?
If you contribute 5% of your pay, Intel adds the full match. Here is what that means at different salaries, per year, before investment growth:
| Salary | You contribute (5%) | Intel match |
|---|---|---|
| $40,000 | $2,000 | $2,000 |
| $60,000 | $3,000 | $3,000 |
| $90,000 | $4,500 | $4,500 |
| $150,000 | $7,500 | $7,500 |
Illustration based on the plan terms above. Your actual match depends on eligible pay, timing and plan rules.
Good to know
- The match dropped from 7% (2024) to 5% for pay dates after Dec. 31, 2024.
- The plan was amended and restated effective Sept. 30, 2025. One Glassdoor comment from late 2025 claims there is no match lately; this was not confirmed.
Other Intel retirement benefits
- After-tax contributions
How to make the most of your Intel 401(k)
- Always get the full match. Contribute at least 5% of pay. It is an instant return you cannot get anywhere else.
- Check your vesting date before you change jobs, so you do not leave unvested money behind.
- Pre-tax or Roth? If you expect a higher tax rate in retirement, Roth contributions can pay off. Model it with our Roth conversion calculator.
- Watch fees and prefer low-cost index or target-date funds in the plan lineup.
- Plan the whole picture: see how your state taxes retirement income before you decide where to retire.
Frequently asked questions
Does Intel match 401(k) contributions?
Intel matches 100% of what you contribute up to 5% of pay, each pay period (it was 7% for 2024).
When does the Intel 401(k) match vest?
Matching contributions vest immediately.
When can I join the Intel 401(k)?
US employees can join and get the match from the date of hire.
How much should I contribute to get the full Intel match?
Contribute at least 5% of your pay. Anything less leaves part of the match unclaimed.
Sources (last verified 2025)
- Intel 401(k) Savings Plan Form 11-K for 2024 — SEC EDGAR (2025-06)
- Intel Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan, amended and restated effective Sept. 30, 2025 — SEC EDGAR (2025-10)
Educational content only, not tax, legal or investment advice. Plans and tax laws change; confirm details with your employer's plan documents or your state revenue department. Smart Financial Lifestyle is not affiliated with any employer named on this site.