The year 2020 brought a lot of unexpected togetherness to families and couples.  While there have been some positive perks to spending so much time together, it has also added additional stress to relationships.  Retirement Plans should ensure they are ready in case the pandemic also leads to an increase in QDROs.  Qualified plans that are subject to ERISA are required to have written QDRO procedures to determine whether a domestic relations order submitted to the plan meets the requirements for approval as a QDRO.  Many employers also choose to prepare a model QDRO for participants and their attorneys to use as a guide.  A model QDRO can be very helpful to participants while at the same time facilitating a smoother review process for the Plan administrator.  Now might be a good time to review your QDRO forms and procedures to ensure they are ready for 2021, come what may.