401(k) Account Types: Traditional vs. Roth Balances
Most 401(k) plans today, including the Leader Promotions, Inc.. Dba Leaderpromos.com 401(k) Plan, may include both traditional pre-tax contributions and Roth after-tax contributions. It’s important during QDRO drafting to distinguish these account types:
- Traditional 401(k): Distributions to the Alternate Payee (typically the former spouse) will be taxed unless rolled over to another retirement account.
- Roth 401(k): Roth balances can result in different tax implications—usually tax-free distributions if certain conditions are met. These must be transferred to a Roth IRA.
Your QDRO must state which balances (or percentages of balances) are to be divided—and in which manner. A mistake here could result in tax issues or distribution problems down the line.

