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How it works

You answer questions.
We handle the rest.

Here's exactly what happens between "I need a QDRO" and money actually moving — and what we do at every step.

1

Tell us about the plan

~10–15 minutes

A friendly, guided questionnaire — who you are, the employer and plan, how the decree divides it, and your case details. Your progress saves as you go, so you can stop and come back.

Helpful to have nearby (none required to start)
· Your divorce decree or settlement agreement · A recent plan statement (shows the plan name and recordkeeper) · Your case / cause number
2

We prepare your order

1–3 business days

We look up your plan's own QDRO procedures and model language — that's what our employer database is for — and draft the order to those exact requirements, not a generic template. You get the draft by email, along with plain-English filing instructions and every cover letter you'll need.

The orderDrafted to your plan's requirements
InstructionsWho signs what, in what order
Cover lettersPre-approval, court & qualification
3

You file it — we stay with you

Plan & court review: often 30–60 days each

Most plans pre-approve the draft first, then the court signs it, then the plan formally "qualifies" it and divides the account. Our instructions walk you through each hand-off. If the plan or the court wants changes at any point, we revise the order free until it's accepted.

Good to know: submitting a draft can place a temporary administrative hold on the participant's account at many plans — that's normal, and it protects your share while the order is reviewed.

Frequently asked

Do I really need a QDRO?

If your divorce divides a 401(k), pension, or similar plan, almost certainly yes — the plan generally won't pay the other spouse without one, even with a divorce decree.

How long does the whole process take?

Our part is fast — a draft in 1–3 business days. Plan pre-approval and court signature each often take 30–60 days, so a few months end-to-end is typical.

What if the plan rejects the order?

We revise it free until it's accepted by both the plan administrator and the court. That's the promise.

My divorce isn't final yet — can I start now?

Yes, and it's often smart to. Getting the QDRO moving alongside the decree avoids the common gap where the divorce is final but the account sits undivided for months.

Is QDRO Works a law firm?

No. We are a document-preparation service and do not provide legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. For legal advice, consult an attorney.

Ready when you are.

Step 1 takes about 10–15 minutes, and your progress saves as you go.

Start my QDRO →
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Disclaimer: QDRO Works is a document-preparation service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. Use of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. We prepare documents based on information you provide; for advice about your legal rights, consult a licensed attorney. © 2026 QDRO Works. All rights reserved.   Privacy Policy  ·  Terms of Service