Kroger 401(k) at a glance
| Employer match | Kroger makes a safe harbor match of 100% of the first 5% of pay you contribute. |
|---|---|
| Maximum match | 5% of pay |
| Contribution needed for full match | 5% of pay |
| Company contribution (no match needed) | Kroger also makes an automatic contribution of 1% or 2% of pay based on years of vesting service. You must be employed on the last day of the plan year to get it. |
| Vesting | ImmediateThe safe harbor match vests immediately. Automatic contributions generally vest fully after 3 years of service. |
| Eligibility | You can make deferrals from the first of the month after age 18 and 30 days of service. The match and automatic contribution start the next calendar quarter after 1 year of service (1,000 hours). |
| Roth 401(k) option | Yes |
| Pension | YesMany union-represented Kroger workers are covered by pension plans under their collective bargaining agreements. Employees who accrue benefits in a Kroger defined benefit plan are generally not eligible for this 401(k). |
| Plan provider | Fidelity Workplace Services (from 2025; previously Merrill) |
| Who this applies to | Non-union employees and union employees whose contract provides for this plan |
How much is the Kroger match worth?
If you contribute 5% of your pay, Kroger adds the full match. Here is what that means at different salaries, per year, before investment growth:
| Salary | You contribute (5%) | Kroger match | Company contribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| $40,000 | $2,000 | $2,000 | $400 |
| $60,000 | $3,000 | $3,000 | $600 |
| $90,000 | $4,500 | $4,500 | $900 |
| $150,000 | $7,500 | $7,500 | $1,500 |
Illustration based on the plan terms above. Your actual match depends on eligible pay, timing and plan rules.
Good to know
- Roundy's employees do not get the automatic contribution.
- Harris Teeter (a Kroger subsidiary) has a separate plan with a discretionary match on the first 5% of pay.
Other Kroger retirement benefits
- Participant loans
How to make the most of your Kroger 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 Kroger match 401(k) contributions?
Kroger makes a safe harbor match of 100% of the first 5% of pay you contribute. Kroger also makes an automatic contribution of 1% or 2% of pay based on years of vesting service. You must be employed on the last day of the plan year to get it.
When does the Kroger 401(k) match vest?
The safe harbor match vests immediately. Automatic contributions generally vest fully after 3 years of service.
When can I join the Kroger 401(k)?
You can make deferrals from the first of the month after age 18 and 30 days of service. The match and automatic contribution start the next calendar quarter after 1 year of service (1,000 hours).
Does Kroger offer a pension?
Many union-represented Kroger workers are covered by pension plans under their collective bargaining agreements. Employees who accrue benefits in a Kroger defined benefit plan are generally not eligible for this 401(k).
How much should I contribute to get the full Kroger match?
Contribute at least 5% of your pay. Anything less leaves part of the match unclaimed.
Sources (last verified 2025 plan year)
- The Kroger Co. 401(k) Retirement Savings Account Plan Form 11-K for 2025 — SEC (2026-06-29)
- Harris Teeter Supermarkets, Inc. Retirement and Savings Plan Form 11-K for 2025 — SEC (2026-06-26)
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.