The articles listed below form the foundation of this educational resource.
They are designed to explain how QDROs function, why they fail, and how retirement plans interpret them.
These are not blog posts. They are reference articles.
Article 1
What a QDRO Is — and What It Is Not
Explains the basic legal and functional boundaries of a QDRO, including common misconceptions.
👉 What a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) Is — and What It Is Not
Article 2
Why QDROs Are Commonly Rejected
Explains structural, procedural, and plan-based reasons QDROs fail — even when court-approved.
Article 3
401(k) QDROs: Why They Are Different
Explains why 401(k) plans create unique issues and why assumptions from pension plans often fail.
👉 Why 401(k) QDROs Are Rejected More Than Pensions
How to Read These Articles
We recommend reading them in order.
If you are dealing with a specific issue, you may jump — but context matters.
For guidance on reading and using this material correctly: