[refurb]

The maximum total contribution to a 401k (employee + employer) is $55,000/yr. He likely hit that limit.

Not sure I understand. How could he hit the limit? Tim can contribute $24,500 ($18K + $6K since he's over 50). If Apple matched $16,000, how could he hit the max of $60K?

[SteveNuts]

I believe companies can add more to the 401k than what the person contributes.

[refurb]

Yeah, but the article states Apple contributed $16k.

Maybe it’s the highly compensated employee clawback? I know if you make over a certain amount your contribution and matching limits can come down.