Contribution Types: Employee vs. Employer
In a 401(k) like the Progressive Physician Associates, Inc.. Retirement Savings Plan, there are usually two types of contributions:
- Employee Contributions: These are always 100% vested since they’re made by the employee directly from their paycheck.
- Employer Contributions: These may be subject to vesting schedules and may not be immediately available to divide.
Your QDRO must clearly define whether the alternate payee is receiving only vested amounts, or whether they’ll receive a portion of employer contributions once those vest. Keep in mind that unvested amounts may be forfeited upon termination of employment unless otherwise provided under the plan rules.

