Retirement assets accumulated during a marriage are often subject to division upon dissolution. This division, affecting both defined contribution plans like 401(k)s and defined benefit plans such as traditional pensions, represents a significant aspect of equitable distribution in many jurisdictions. For example, if one spouse contributed to a pension plan throughout the marriage, a portion of those accrued benefits may be allocated to the other spouse.
The fair allocation of these assets serves as a crucial element of financial security for both parties following a divorce. Historically, pensions were frequently overlooked in divorce settlements, disadvantaging the non-employee spouse, typically women. Modern divorce law aims to rectify this imbalance, recognizing that both spouses may have contributed to the accumulation of retirement benefits, either directly through employment or indirectly through supporting the family.