1. Allocating Employee and Employer Contributions
401(k) plans typically include both employee (participant) and employer contributions. The QDRO must specify how both types of contributions are divided. If your spouse is the participant, you’ll need to determine if you’re receiving a portion of:
- Only pre-marital contributions
- Only marital contributions
- The entire balance
It’s important to clarify the division in terms of either a percentage of the total account or a fixed dollar amount. Be aware that investment earnings or losses often apply up to the date of distribution—this can affect the final value paid out to either spouse.

