UnitedHealth Group (Optum) 401(k) at a glance
| Employer match | From January 1, 2026, UnitedHealth Group matches 100% of the first 1% of pay you contribute and 50% of the next 5% (max 3.5% of pay), after one year of service. In 2025 the match was 100% of the first 3% plus 50% of the next 3% (max 4.5%). |
|---|---|
| Maximum match | 3.5% of pay |
| Contribution needed for full match | 6% of pay |
| Vesting | 2 years to fully vestCompany contributions vest fully after 2 years of service (or earlier on death, disability or retirement). |
| Eligibility | Employees can contribute from hire; the company match starts after one year of service. |
| Automatic enrollment | New hires are auto-enrolled at 3% pre-tax, with yearly automatic increases until the rate reaches 6%. |
| Roth 401(k) option | Yes |
| Plan provider | Fidelity |
| Who this applies to | US employees of UnitedHealth Group and participating employers, including Optum (not most union-represented or leased employees) |
How much is the UnitedHealth Group (Optum) match worth?
If you contribute 6% of your pay, UnitedHealth Group (Optum) adds the full match. Here is what that means at different salaries, per year, before investment growth:
| Salary | You contribute (6%) | UnitedHealth Group (Optum) match |
|---|---|---|
| $40,000 | $2,400 | $1,400 |
| $60,000 | $3,600 | $2,100 |
| $90,000 | $5,400 | $3,150 |
| $150,000 | $9,000 | $5,250 |
Illustration based on the plan terms above. Your actual match depends on eligible pay, timing and plan rules.
Good to know
- The match was cut from a 4.5% maximum to a 3.5% maximum on January 1, 2026.
- The match is a safe harbor match calculated per payroll period.
Other UnitedHealth Group (Optum) retirement benefits
- In-plan Roth conversions (from October 13, 2025)
How to make the most of your UnitedHealth Group (Optum) 401(k)
- Always get the full match. Contribute at least 6% 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 UnitedHealth Group (Optum) match 401(k) contributions?
From January 1, 2026, UnitedHealth Group matches 100% of the first 1% of pay you contribute and 50% of the next 5% (max 3.5% of pay), after one year of service. In 2025 the match was 100% of the first 3% plus 50% of the next 3% (max 4.5%).
When does the UnitedHealth Group (Optum) 401(k) match vest?
Company contributions vest fully after 2 years of service (or earlier on death, disability or retirement).
When can I join the UnitedHealth Group (Optum) 401(k)?
Employees can contribute from hire; the company match starts after one year of service.
How much should I contribute to get the full UnitedHealth Group (Optum) match?
Contribute at least 6% of your pay. Anything less leaves part of the match unclaimed.
Sources (last verified 2026)
- UnitedHealth Group 401(k) Savings Plan Form 11-K (year ended December 31, 2025) — SEC EDGAR (2026-06)
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.