8. Is a pension subject to equalization?
Yes. A pension is generally property for equalization purposes. Pension rights accumulated
during marriage can form a significant part of net family property.
Pension issues may include:
valuing the pension as of the valuation date;
distinguishing pre-marriage and post-separation accrual;
determining whether the pension is defined benefit or defined contribution;
tax treatment;
survivor benefits;
division at source where available;
offsetting the pension value against other assets; and
whether expert pension valuation is required.
Retirement accounts, pensions, and investments are commonly included in the property analysis
where accumulated during marriage.
