LibGuides: Employee Benefits Research: QDROs

Introduction

The division of pension and retirement plan benefits in divorce involves a variety of legal considerations. Qualified domestic relations orders (QDROs) are court orders that provide for a division of pension, profit sharing, or other retirement plan benefits between an employee-plan participant and the participant's former spouse. The following sources provide specific guidance regarding QDROs. Some sources under the General Resources tab also include chapters or sections regarding the division of pension and retirement benefits in divorce.

Treatises & Handbooks

Dividing Pensions in Divorce
This resource provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the complex process of valuing and dividing pension benefits during divorce proceedings. Available in the UIC Law Library (KF532.7.S578 1999 - 10th Floor).
Qualified Domestic Relations Order Answer Book
This book answers important questions for navigating the complexities of QDROs in divorce and family law. It provides quick answers to more than 800 QDRO-related questions. Available in the UIC Law Library (KF532.7.M47 2007 - 10th Floor).
Qualified Domestic Relations Order Handbook
Prepared for attorneys and pension plan administrators, this loose-leaf details the elements of the QDRO, the standards that are required by ERISA, and step-by-step procedures to qualify the order as a QDRO. Included are sample QDROs, letters, forms, and other documentation used in the process of qualification. Available in the UIC Law Library (KF532.7.S58 2006 - 10th Floor).
Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (Westlaw)
This treatise examines the elements needed to build QDROs. The text explains rules and regulations, analyses the laws and agencies that govern QDROs, reviews tax consequences, explains which federal tax laws govern when state law conflicts, and shows how to use IRAs and golden parachutes to avoid QDRO rules. Also available in the UIC Law Library (KF532.7.S69 1993 - 10th Floor).
Qualified Domestic Relations Orders: Strategy and Liability for the Family Law Attorney (Lexis)
This strategic resource provides essential insights and practical guidance for navigating the complexities of QDROs, ensuring attorneys can effectively manage client liabilities while safeguarding their legal strategies.