Employee and Employer Contributions
It’s not enough to just divide the total account balance—you need to understand what’s in the account. A 401(k) plan consists of:
- Employee contributions: Always 100% vested
- Employer contributions: Often subject to a vesting schedule
In a QDRO for the Skr Construction 401(k) Plan, make sure to address whether the alternate payee is entitled only to the vested balance or to a share that includes unvested amounts. Generally, courts divide only the vested portion as of the separation date, but you need to be clear in the order. Otherwise, the plan administrator may interpret the order differently.

