Qualified/non qualified has nothing to do with defined benefit or deferred compensation.
In simplest terms, a qualified retirement plan is one that meets ERISA guidelines, while a non-qualified plan falls outside of ERISA guidelines. The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA).
Most Military plans are not part of ERISA.
If in doubt ask the plan administrator - they can tell you if the plan is qualified or not.
**Disclaimer: This post is for discussion purposes only and is NOT tax advice. The author takes no responsibility for the accuracy of any information in this post.**
