Are My Benefits Subject to Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs)?

Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs)

As defined by the IRS, a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) is “a judgment, decree or order for a retirement plan to pay child support, alimony or marital property rights to a spouse, former spouse, child, or other dependent of a participant.”

While federal law generally protects retirement benefits from assignment and transfer to others, QDROs are a specific exception to this protection that could affect your Real Wealth in retirement. 

If the Phillips 66 Benefits Center receives a certified court order awarding part of a participant's interest in a benefit plan to another person, the participant will be notified and provided a copy of the plan’s procedures for determining whether the order qualifies as a QDRO.

Impact on Benefits

• Recognition of Rights: A QDRO recognizes the right of someone other than the participant (an "alternate payee") to receive the plan benefits.
• Benefit Reduction: A QDRO could award a former spouse a portion of the benefits the participant or a beneficiary is eligible to receive. This would reduce the participant’s benefits and the benefits payable to a surviving spouse or beneficiary.
• Spousal Rights: A QDRO could also grant a former spouse rights normally provided to a surviving spouse under the plan, which could prevent a later spouse from having full spousal rights.

Real Wealth Questions

Have you and your attorney reviewed how your QDRO affects your retirement benefits?
What steps should you take to ensure accurate implementation of the QDRO while also maintaining your standard of living in retirement? 
Are any of your other assets subject to legal orders?
Have you updated your estate planning documents to reflect recent life changes, including divorce, marriage, or the birth of a child? 

Questions? Visit the Philips 66 Benefits Glossary.