1. Employee and Employer Contributions
In a 401(k) profit sharing plan, both the employee (participant) and the employer make contributions. These contributions are typically split in the QDRO on a marital property basis—such as 50% of what was earned or contributed during the marriage.
Some employer contributions may not be vested at the time of divorce. Only vested amounts can be awarded to the alternate payee. The QDRO should clarify whether it includes unvested portions—and what happens if those amounts vest later.

