vested interest

When a possession, ownership interest or the use of tangible property is present and unencumbered by any conditions, it is known as a vested interest.  The clear and unencumbered interest is not reliant or contingent on anything other conditions or events.  For example, a vested interest can mean stock or options that are transferred and available to the recipient.  A vested interest in real estate means the owner of the property.  A vested interest in a pension plan, for example, may mean that the employee is qualified to take the benefits of the pension plan, including the contributions by the employer.