What is the coverture fraction used to determine in the context of pension benefits?

The coverture fraction is a mathematical formula used to determine the marital portion of pension benefits earned during a marriage. It specifically relates to the duration of the marriage in comparison to the total time the employee has worked and accrued pension benefits.

In essence, the coverture fraction is calculated by taking the number of years the couple was married and dividing it by the total number of years the employee worked, up to the point of separation or divorce. This fraction allows for a fair division of pension benefits since it ensures that only the portion accrued during the marriage is considered marital property, which is subject to division.

This aligns with established practices in divorce settlements, where only the benefits accrued during the marriage are typically shared, recognizing that any contributions made before the marriage (or after separation) generally remain the property of the individual who earned them. Therefore, the relevance of the duration of marriage in figuring the coverture fraction is fundamental to ensuring an equitable division of pension benefits in the divorce process.