Employee and Employer Contribution Splits
This profit-sharing plan likely includes two main types of contributions:
- Employee Deferrals: Contributions the plan participant makes from their salary, which are usually immediately vested.
- Employer Contributions: These are subject to vesting schedules and could be forfeited if the employee terminates service before vesting requirements are met.
It’s essential to distinguish between vested and unvested amounts at the time of divorce. Only vested portions can be awarded to the non-employee spouse (the “alternate payee”). The QDRO should clearly specify that only vested balances are subject to division—or, if the parties agree otherwise, the order must include appropriate language for post-divorce vesting if applicable.

