www.CostaRicaTicas.com

Recently got divorced (yea!) and have questions regarding redeeming $ with a "Qualified Domestic Relations Order" or, in my case, an "Assignment of Interest in Individual Retirement Account." There are various funds of hers that I will have to contact about redeeming my portion. So far I've contacted one and they told me to mail in my original divorce decree and the other court document (QDRO). I'm uncomfortable sending original documents and it looks like I'll have to repeat this process any time. Also, they say that both of us will have to sign forms. Any experience with this? Is it a smooth process? There are may advertisements on the internet for QDRO services, where they handle it all for you; is that a good idea?

Any insights or advice would be appreciated.

Go to the courthouse, or call your attorney and have him go to the courthouse, and obtain about 5 certified copies of the final judgments or other court orders you need to have in order to obtain your interest in the QDRO. All financial institutions will accept certified copies. Both parties have to sign certain documents and you should get your $$$ in 1-3 weeks. Talk to an accountant about any possible tax consequnces.

I hadn't thought about getting the additional certified copies. Thanks!