How do I collect my share of her retirement?
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How do I collect my share of her retirement?
My ex and I were divorced about 2 months ago, as part of the settlement I was
awarded half of her retirement from where she works. How do I go about collecting
it?
Asked on September 4, 2017 under Family Law, Washington
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
Is you wife in pay status? Meaning has she already started collecting? I am assuming that the retirement benefits were valued so you know how much we are talking about. The type of retirement plan will dictate what you need to do. If it is an IRA or 401K type plan (a Defined Contribution Plan) then a transfer to another qualifying plan can be done relatively easily. If it is a Defined Benefit Plan (pension) you will need what is called a QDRO - Qualified Domestic Relations Order - signed by the court. Look in your divorce agreement and see what it says. Good luck.
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