Could Merck Reduce Its 401(k) Match? What Employees Should Know

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Merck Merck & Co., Inc., commonly known as Merck, is a global leader in the healthcare sector, renowned for its innovative pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and biologic therapies. As a prominent healthcare provider, Merck delivers a wide array of health solutions targeting various health conditions, particularly in areas such as immunology, oncology, and infectious diseases. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, healthcare costs are projected to rise significantly, primarily driven by the anticipated expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies associated with the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and growing medical expenses. Faced with an average premium increase of 18%, healthcare consumers may experience out-of-pocket costs climbing by over 75%. This situation is exacerbated by surging medical care prices, as hospitals and providers seek to balance inflationary pressures while maintaining profitability. As a result, many individuals may find themselves priced out of adequate health coverage, prompting essential discussions on the need for policy interventions. Click here to learn more

'Merck employees should recognize that while 401(k) matches remain valuable, they can be adjusted at any time, making it critical to build retirement strategies that are consistent, diversified, and not dependent on a single benefit program.' – Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Merck employees facing suspended 401(k) matches should view these changes as a reminder to strengthen long-term planning through consistent contributions and diversified savings strategies.' – Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

1. The trend of employers suspending or reducing 401(k) matches.

2. The personal and monetary impact of losing employer contributions.

3. Practical steps employees can take when benefits change.

By Brent Wolf, CFP, Wealth Enhancement

One of the most reliable methods for growing retirement funds has traditionally been the 401(k) match. When combined with employee deferrals and decades of compounding, employer contributions, which average 4.6% of pay, ¹  can translate into a real long-term benefit. However, it's important to keep in mind that this match is a corporate bonus, not a guarantee. Recent developments show that such contributions are not always certain—even for large companies like Merck.

A Developing Pattern: Postponing the Match

Several well-known corporations, including Sherwin-Williams and Werner Enterprises, ²  have suspended their 401(k) matches in recent years due to cost cutting. These decisions point to a broader trend: when economic pressures such as inflation, market volatility, or industry slowdowns arise, retirement benefits often face reductions. For Merck employees, being aware of this trend helps in preparing for how benefits might change in response to shifting economic conditions.

Why Businesses Make This Decision

Retirement contributions are among the most adjustable levers available to employers. Unlike salaries, which are contractually tied to employment, matching contributions can be adjusted or paused with little warning. Unless restricted by collective bargaining agreements or contracts, companies are legally permitted to reduce or pause benefits. For employees, including those at Merck, this means staying alert to corporate communications and recognizing that even established benefit programs can change in times of economic stress.

The Unspoken Price of a Lost Match

Removing an employer match effectively cuts into what would have been part of pay. Over a career, foregone compounding of retirement contributions may amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost savings. For example, an employee earning $80,000 annually could lose as much as $4,800 each year if a 6% match vanished—adding up to almost $180,000 in lost retirement wealth over 20 years at a 6% average return. ³  Beyond money, employee morale often suffers. Merck employees, like many in similar situations, may begin to find their loyalty waning.

The More General Monetary Stressors

The loss of a 401(k) match rarely occurs in isolation. The cost of employer-based health care plans, for instance, are expected to increase 6.5% in 2026, ⁴  the biggest jump since 2010. That likely means higher deductibles and out-of-pocket costs on top of reduced retirement contributions. For Merck’s workforce, these combined pressures could alter long-term planning.

Are Matches Coming Back?

History shows that many companies restore matches once conditions settle. During the COVID-19 pandemic, some suspended contributions only to bring them back later. However, not every organization takes that route and, in some cases, suspensions mark the start of more extensive restructuring, including layoffs. Merck employees should be aware that while reinstatement might occur, it is never certain.

Practical Actions for Employees

Here are steps to consider if an employer match is suspended:

• 1. Continue making contributions: Even without the match, a 401(k) remains one of the strongest long-term savings tools because of its tax advantages.

• 2. Diversify retirement funds: Explore health savings accounts (HSAs), Roth IRAs, or taxable brokerage accounts to reduce dependence on a single benefit program.

• 3. Monitor official communication: Employees should review corporate updates carefully, particularly regarding safe harbor plans, to stay informed of changes.

• 4. Revisit retirement estimates: Adjust investment assumptions, retirement timelines, and savings rates when benefits shift.

Featured Video

Articles you may find interesting:

Key Takeaways

Employer-sponsored matching remains an important part of retirement planning, but it is never certain. The suspension of employer matches underscores how quickly external economic pressures can change employee benefits. For Merck employees, the lesson is clear: retirement savings should be proactive, diversified, and consistent, rather than based on reliance on a single employer program.

Although companies may change benefits, individuals retain control over their own planning. By continuing contributions, exploring additional savings options, and reviewing long-term calculations regularly, employees can reduce the effect of these changes. Ultimately, the possible loss of a 401(k) match highlights the importance of financial independence and preparing for both opportunities and challenges ahead.

Sources:

1. Investopedia.  ' What Is a Good 401(k) Match? ,' by Tim Parker, July 18, 2025. 

2. The Economic Times. ' Sherwin-Williams cuts 401(k) match ,' by Shreya Biswas, September 18, 2025.

3. nerdwallet.  Compound Interest Calculator . 

4.Reuters. “ US Employee Health Insurance Premiums to Rise 6% Next Year, Mercer Says ,” by Amina Niasse. September 4, 2025.