After the Divorce
Once you are divorced, there are often post-divorce tasks to complete. Whether you are implementing the agreements or addressing post-divorce disputes, learning the basics (and what you can do on your own) will prepare you and may save you time and money.
Post Divorce Introduction
Learn about steps and tasks that need to be completed to implement the agreements outlined in the decree after the divorce is final.
Post Divorce Transfer of Real Estate
Learn the steps, considerations and potential challenges with transferring or handling real estate after a divorce is final.
Post Divorce Division of Retirement
Learn the procedures and legal requirements to divide each type of retirement account to facilitate a smooth transition and compliance with the divorce decree.
Post Divorce Division of Other Assets and Liabilities
Review considerations and tips for dividing assets and liabilities after divorce, like bank accounts, investment accounts and debts.
Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO)
Also known as QDRO (pronounced "quadro"), a legal order following a divorce that is required to divide ownership of a qualified retirement plan (such as a pension or 401k) to give the divorced spouse their share of the asset or pension plan.
Alternate Payee
An individual, usually a spouse or former spouse, who is granted the right to receive a portion of the benefits from a retirement plan under a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO).
Name Change
The legal process of changing your name after a divorce, which involves updating your name on all legal and personal documents such as your Social Security card, driver’s license, and bank accounts, often using a certified copy of the divorce decree.
Beneficiary Designations
Instructions on who will receive benefits from accounts like life insurance policies and retirement plans in the event of your death.
Warranty Deed
A legal document that guarantees the grantor has clear title to the property and the legal right to transfer it, providing assurances against any future claims or encumbrances.
In-Kind Transfer
The process of transferring ownership of assets without converting assets to cash and potentially incurring taxes, and instead directly transferring the actual asset itself, such as stocks, property, or other physical items.
Indemnification
A legally binding agreement in which one party agrees to compensate the other for any loss or damage incurred, often used to protect against financial liability.
Quit Claim Deed
A legal document used to transfer ownership interest in a property without providing any guarantees about the title's validity or freedom from encumbrances, often used in a divorce because of the familiarty and trust between the parties.
QDRO
Also known as Qualified Domestic Relations Order and pronounced "quadro," a legal order following a divorce that is required to divide ownership of a qualified retirement plan (such as a pension or 401k) to give the divorced spouse their share of the asset or pension plan.
Certificate of Dissolution
An official document issued by the court that formally ends a marriage, confirming the legal dissolution of the marriage and often including basic details like the date of the divorce and name change.
