Employee Contributions vs. Employer Contributions
Most QDROs divide the account’s balance based on a percentage or dollar amount as of a specific date (usually the date of separation or divorce). The employee’s own contributions are typically 100% vested, which means the alternate payee spouse can access their share immediately upon division.
However, employer contributions come with potential strings attached. If the employee wasn’t 100% vested in those contributions at the time of the cutoff date, the alternate payee may receive less than expected. That’s why it’s imperative to determine the vested versus non-vested amount at the time of division.

