Matrix MLM commission = for each level, the filled positions x BV per member x that level’s percentage. Add the levels. In a forced matrix, width is capped (3 positions, say) and depth is fixed, so the maximum number of positions is known in advance. Use the calculator below with your own figures.
This guide is for founders planning a forced matrix plan. We are Coded Idea, an MLM software company in Mohali (Sector 127), near Chandigarh, with 100+ software projects delivered. Our matrix MLM software runs level payouts and placement with your own rules.
Matrix plan payout calculator
Enter figures from your own plan. These are example inputs, not our payout plan and not an income promise. Nothing is sent until you press a send button.
| Level | Positions filled | Rate | Commission |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total for one top member | 0 | ||
Change a figure to see the result.
How a forced matrix pays, step by step
- Fixed width. Each member has a set number of positions directly below (for example 3).
- Fixed depth. The plan pays only down to a set number of levels (for example 4).
- Positions fill in order. When a member’s width is full, new joiners drop to open positions below (spillover).
- BV per level. Orders from filled positions on each level are totalled.
- A percentage per level, then sum. The upline’s commission is the total across levels.
Worked example: a 3 x 4 matrix
| Level | Positions (width 3) | BV at 1,000 each | Rate | Commission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 | 3,000 | 8% | 240 |
| 2 | 9 | 9,000 | 4% | 360 |
| 3 | 27 | 27,000 | 2% | 540 |
| 4 | 81 | 81,000 | 1% | 810 |
Total 1,950 with all 120 positions filled. At 60% fill on every level the same plan pays 1,170. The figures are illustrative only; your rates, width and depth come from your plan. The advantage of a matrix is that the maximum is known: 3+9+27+81 positions, never more.
Matrix vs unilevel vs binary
| Plan | Width | Payout driver |
|---|---|---|
| Matrix | Capped (e.g. 3) | Filled positions per level |
| Unilevel | Open | BV per level |
| Binary | Two legs | Matched volume with carry-forward |
What good matrix software must handle
- Placement rules and spillover that are logged, so every position can be explained.
- Width, depth and level percentages you can change in the admin panel.
- A tree view that shows empty positions as well as filled ones.
- Reversal of commission when an order is refunded or cancelled.
- Payout previews per member and reports for your accountant.
See also the unilevel commission calculator, the binary commission calculator, binary vs unilevel plans, the MLM software features checklist and the MLM software price page.
Once the plan works on paper, check it fits your margin with the MLM payout budget calculator.
Legal note: a calculator does not make a plan lawful. Read our guide to the Direct Selling Rules 2021 and take legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
How is forced matrix MLM commission calculated?
A forced matrix limits each member to a fixed number of direct positions (the width) and a fixed number of paid levels (the depth). For each level, the software multiplies the filled positions by their business volume (BV) and the level percentage, then adds the levels together.
What does a 3×4 matrix mean?
Width 3 and depth 4: each member has 3 positions on level 1, 9 on level 2, 27 on level 3 and 81 on level 4, so 120 positions in total below one top member when every position is filled.
What is spillover in a matrix plan?
When a member’s own width is full, new recruits are placed in open positions below them, often by the upline or the company. The software must show who was placed where and which rule placed them.
How is a matrix plan different from a unilevel plan?
Unilevel has no limit on direct members, so width is open. A matrix caps width and depth, so the total payout is easier to forecast, but the structure is stricter and fills in order.
Is this calculator my payout plan?
No. It shows standard matrix level-payout logic with the figures you enter. Your real plan may add cycling, rank rules, caps or bonuses. Coded Idea builds those rules into custom matrix MLM software.
How much does matrix MLM software cost?
At Coded Idea, ready-to-launch MLM software starts from ₹15,000 and custom MLM software from ₹35,000. The final price depends on your plan rules, so share them for a quote.
Want this logic in your own software?
Send your matrix rules and we will tell you what we would build and what it costs. Local founders can also see MLM software development in Chandigarh, or the MLM software development service.