1. Employee Contributions vs. Employer Contributions
This plan is likely to include a combination of employee salary deferrals and employer matching contributions. The QDRO should clearly state whether the alternate payee receives a portion of just the participant’s contributions or also a share of any vested employer money.
- Vested employer contributions: These can be divided, but only if they are vested as of the cut-off date (usually the date of divorce or separation).
- Unvested contributions: These typically stay with the plan participant unless a separate agreement says otherwise.

