What is a qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO)?

A Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) is a legal document used in Washington state to divide certain types of retirement plans in the event of a divorce. It is court-ordered and must meet the requirements of state and federal law in order to be valid. The QDRO allows one spouse to receive a portion of the other spouse’s retirement account, such as a 401(k) or pension plan. In Washington, the QDRO must include the names of both spouses, the plan to be divided, the dollar amount or percentage of the plan to be paid to the other spouse, and the name and address of the plan administrator. The QDRO must also be approved by the court and both spouses must sign a consent order acknowledging the agreement. The QDRO is an important legal tool for spouses to divide their retirement accounts during divorce. It is designed to allow each spouse to receive their fair share without incurring taxes or penalties on the transferred funds. By having a QDRO, spouses can settle their divorce in a fair and timely manner.

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