Nordstrom 401(k) at a glance
| Employer match | Nordstrom matches 100% of the first 1% of pay you contribute and 50% of the next 6% (max 4% of pay). |
|---|---|
| Maximum match | 4% of pay |
| Contribution needed for full match | 7% of pay |
| Vesting | 2 years to fully vestSafe harbor matching contributions vest 100% after 2 years of vesting service (0% before that). |
| Eligibility | Eligible employees who contribute in a pay period receive the match for that pay period. The plan document sets no separate hours requirement for the match. |
| Automatic enrollment | New employees are auto-enrolled at 3% of pay. The rate goes up 1% each year until it reaches 10%. |
| Roth 401(k) option | Yes |
| Pension | No |
| Who this applies to | Eligible US employees; union employees only if their collective bargaining agreement provides for coverage |
How much is the Nordstrom match worth?
If you contribute 7% of your pay, Nordstrom adds the full match. Here is what that means at different salaries, per year, before investment growth:
| Salary | You contribute (7%) | Nordstrom match |
|---|---|---|
| $40,000 | $2,800 | $1,600 |
| $60,000 | $4,200 | $2,400 |
| $90,000 | $6,300 | $3,600 |
| $150,000 | $10,500 | $6,000 |
Illustration based on the plan terms above. Your actual match depends on eligible pay, timing and plan rules.
Good to know
- Formula is a QACA safe harbor match in the 2024 plan restatement (effective 2024-01-01).
- Matching contributions made before 2021 follow an older 3-year graded vesting schedule.
- The plan does not allow after-tax (non-Roth) contributions.
- Nordstrom was taken private in 2025; check for later plan changes.
How to make the most of your Nordstrom 401(k)
- Always get the full match. Contribute at least 7% 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 Nordstrom match 401(k) contributions?
Nordstrom matches 100% of the first 1% of pay you contribute and 50% of the next 6% (max 4% of pay).
When does the Nordstrom 401(k) match vest?
Safe harbor matching contributions vest 100% after 2 years of vesting service (0% before that).
When can I join the Nordstrom 401(k)?
Eligible employees who contribute in a pay period receive the match for that pay period. The plan document sets no separate hours requirement for the match.
How much should I contribute to get the full Nordstrom match?
Contribute at least 7% of your pay. Anything less leaves part of the match unclaimed.
Sources (last verified 2024)
- Nordstrom 401(k) Plan (2024 Restatement), Exhibit 10.1 — SEC EDGAR / Nordstrom (2024)
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.