While the QDRO process is relatively fixed regardless of how your QDRO is drafted, Instant QDRO streamlines the process by eliminating traditional waiting periods, particularly in the drafting and approval stages.
How this Works: Traditionally, once your QDRO is drafted, it requires a preliminary review by your plan administrator–a lengthy process that can take between 30-120 days. Instant QDRO bypasses this period by leveraging its database of pre-approved templated forms known to comply with the specific requirements of various retirement plans. This eliminates the need for the initial plan administrator review, significantly reducing the overall QDRO process timeline.
If your plan is not in our database, we can help you draft your QDRO traditionally by connecting you with a QDRO expert. Learn more here.
Yes. QDROs are highly specific to each retirement plan. Please make sure your plan name matches the QDRO form exactly before purchasing.
To fill out your QDRO, you’ll need key information such as:
Having these documents on hand will ensure a smooth process.
If you are prepared with all documentation, it typically takes just 15–30 minutes to complete your QDRO draft, thanks to our user-friendly process.
Once your QDRO is complete, you will download your draft and submit it to your court for review. After court approval, you will send a certified copy of your QDRO to your plan administrator for final approval. Once approved, the funds will be distributed as outlined in the order.
Yes! You can re-download your QDRO anytime by logging into your account dashboard.
Yes, you can submit a revision request to alter your completed QDRO. One of our specialists will contact you via email to guide you through the revision process
Although our plan forms are pre-approved by the Plan Administrators, some cases may be denied and require revision. If your Instant QDRO-generated draft is denied, please submit a revision request to connect with one of our specialists.
A Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) is a legal order that allows the division of a retirement plan between spouses due to divorce. It ensures that the non-employee spouse (also called the “alternate payee”) receives their rightful share of the retirement benefits while maintaining compliance with federal laws.
If you’re going through a divorce and one of the parties holds a retirement plan, a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) is essential. This legal document is necessary to divide retirement benefits, such as pensions or 401(k) plans, between divorcing spouses. Whether you are the plan holder or the spouse seeking a share of the retirement benefits, you will need a QDRO to legally protect your right to those assets.
People who typically need a QDRO include:
The Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) is a federal law that sets minimum standards for retirement and health plans in the private industry. ERISA protects plan participants by ensuring that benefits are handled fairly and securely, and it governs how QDROs must be structured to divide retirement benefits legally.
No. A QDRO is required for dividing qualified retirement plans covered by ERISA, such as 401(k)s and pensions. However, non-qualified plans (like IRAs) do not require a QDRO and can typically be divided through a divorce decree or property settlement agreement.
Once your QDRO is drafted, you have a few more steps before you are finished. You must:
Obtain Court Approval – Submit the QDRO to the family court handling your divorce. The judge must sign and approve it.
Submit to the Plan Administrator – Send a certified copy of the court-approved QDRO to the retirement plan’s administrator for review.
Address Any Required Changes – If the plan administrator requests modifications, work with a QDRO specialist to make the necessary revisions.
Receive Final Approval – Once approved, the plan administrator will process the division of benefits according to the terms of the QDRO.
Monitor Benefit Distribution – Stay in contact with the plan administrator to track payments or account transfers and ensure the correct distribution.
You must submit your QDRO to the court that handled your divorce case. This is typically the family or domestic relations court in the county where the divorce was finalized.
The timeline for receiving your funds depends on your plan administrator’s review process. Once the court and plan administrator have approved your QDRO, funds are typically distributed within 30–90 days. Check with your plan administrator for specific processing times.
It’s recommended to keep a copy of your QDRO PDF permanently. You may need it for future reference, especially if there are any disputes or questions regarding the division of funds.
We accept all major credit and debit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other secure payment options listed at checkout.
Yes, you need to create an account to make a purchase. Your QDRO form is accessible via your dashboard. You will receive an email after purchase with instructions on how to set up your account.
Not at this time. Once you begin filling out your QDRO form, you must finish. It usually takes 15-30 minutes to complete.
We accept returns on purchases if the form is not filled out/the QDRO is not generated.
To initiate a return, contact our customer service team from your account dashboard for assistance. You can submit a support ticket from the support tab.
Yes, but you must submit a revision request and get connected with a specialist. This can result in a fee.
If you experience any technical or content-related issues with your form, contact our support team from your account dashboard for assistance.
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