Retirement Funds in Oregon Divorce Mediation: Mediator Matthew M. House, J.D.

There are numerous types of retirement accounts. The biggest difference among them is whether they are funded with pre-tax dollars or after-tax dollars. Most retirement accounts are pre-tax accounts, often funded by contributions from employers and/or by employees through payroll deductions. Pension plans are also typically pre-tax assets, as are Traditional Individual Retirement Accounts. The typical retirement account that is funded with after-tax money is the Roth IRA.

Each type of retirement account is handled differently. Here are the most common ones that Matthew addresses in mediation:

• 401(k)
• 403(b)
• IRA
• SEP IRA
• SIMPLE IRA
• Roth IRA
• Oregon PERS
• Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
• 457(b)
• Military Retirement
• Pension (Non-governmental)
• Cash Balance Plan

For all retirement accounts, Matthew will ask for documentation of the type of account, its balance, and its recent transaction history. The dates of certain transactions may make a difference in the valuation. Also, some people are mistaken about what type of account they have. Because each type of account is different, it's important to be sure about the particular type of account that you have. What makes sense for one type of account may be much less appropriate for a different type. Matthew can get the necessary information and ensure that the discussion focuses on the proper details.

The most important differences among different types of retirement accounts are the ownership and the tax effects. Most accounts can be divided or transferred, but a few cannot. Further, even though the vast majority of retirement accounts can be divided or transferred, the true valuation will be different from account to account depending on the tax-related factors that affect each type of account. Because of his law degree, 20 years of experience, and recent specialized training as a Family Law Financial Analyst, Matthew has the necessary expertise to sort it out for you.