Employer vs. Employee Contributions
The balance in a 401(k) plan usually involves a mix of employee deferrals and employer match or profit-sharing contributions. In a divorce, a QDRO can assign a portion of either or both types of contributions to an alternate payee (typically the former spouse).
However, only contributions that are legally “vested” at the time of division can be awarded. This is where knowing the plan’s vesting schedule matters, especially for employer funds. Employers often use a graded schedule — say, 20% vested per year — meaning some funds may be forfeitable if the employee leaves before full vesting.

