Is there a rule about when an employer has to deposit matching contributions into the 401(k) account?
Each 401(k) plan has its own rules regarding the timing of employer contributions. Some employers make contributions every pay period, while others only make them once a year. You should check the Summary Plan Description, available from your human resources or benefits representative, to see what rules govern your plan. Generally, employer contributions must be made within the tax-filing period for the calendar year in question. So an employer would have until at least April 15 of any given year to make the contribution for the previous year (or possibly longer, if the employer files for an extension). If the employer’s contributions are discretionary (linked to company performance) they are generally deposited only after the company’s performance for the previous year is assessed.
