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Click below for an informational pamphlet intended to aid with attorney-client discussions regarding the ‘tracing’ process, including: what is a Trace Analysis, how does a Trace Analysis relate to the QDRO, our firm’s role, and “What to Expect.”

What is a Trace Analysis and How Does it Affect my QDRO?

A Trace Analysis determines what exactly the ‘marital portion’ of a retirement plan account balance is, in terms of dollars, for purposes of drafting the QDRO. Tracing ‘grows’ a specified plan balance over a defined time-period based on market activity or returns, contributions, loans, and distributions.

What types of situations require a Trace Analysis?

When a party contributed to a plan before the marriage
When a plan changes custodians
When a party contributes to an IRA or TIAA account

Tracing demands the multi-disciplinary experience of a QDRO attorney who understands your client’s best interests. Tracing requires a full understanding of domestic relations law, federal regulatory law, and individual plan mechanics.

The right QDRO attorney will give you and your clients peace of mind, knowing it’s getting done right.

Note that the EZ QDRO LAW Blog serves as a reference for Kentucky and Ohio domestic relations attorneys. Posts cover current QDRO-related events, best practices, recent case law developments and legislative updates. Type “tracing” into the Search Bar and you’ll see four “Show Me the Money” series-installments on the subject matter. You will also discover countless other posts related to case law developments with retirement accounts and tracing separate property, and issues related to passive growth with defined contribution plans.

DISCLAIMER: Many of the links on this resources page lead to resources located on other servers. The Law Office of J. Eileen Zell, PLLC makes no representation concerning (and expressly disclaims any liability for) the content, accuracy or any other aspect of the information contained on those servers.