Employee vs. Employer Contributions
The QDRO can define whether the alternate payee (usually the non-employee spouse) receives a percentage of just the employee’s contributions or also a portion of the employer’s match. Keep in mind:
- Employee contributions are always 100% vested.
- Employer contributions may be subject to a vesting schedule. That means part of the employer portions could be forfeited if the employee hasn’t stayed with the company long enough.
The plan administrator must confirm how much is vested and advisable to divide. The QDRO should clearly outline whether the order applies only to vested amounts or to the full balance.

