1. Understanding Employer Contributions and Vesting
Usually, 401(k) plans include both employee deferrals (what you contribute from your paycheck) and employer contributions (what the company adds). While employee contributions are always 100% vested, employer contributions may be subject to a vesting schedule.
If you’re dividing the account, know whether all the funds are vested. Any portion of the account that isn’t vested at the time of divorce may be forfeited by the alternate payee. A well-drafted QDRO will only include vested funds, though in some cases, it might address future vesting rights based on plan terms.

