Divorces

Since California is a community property state, a former spouse may be entitled to a percentage (usually 50%) of your Plan benefits that are attributable to the time you were married and contributing to the Plan. The Retirement Plan Office will follow the division of Plan benefits that is ordered by the Court, consistent with the terms of the Plan. It is recommended that the Retirement Plan Office review the property settlement dividing your retirement benefits before it is filed with the Court. If we are unable to comply with the terms of your order, we will require you to file a new form. This can be costly or delay the payment of your benefits.

If you are divorcing, please call the Retirement Section at (213) 367-1715 and ask to speak with a Divorce Counselor.  The division of your Plan benefits can be complicated, and there are many issues that you should be considered. Additionally, please review the Guide to Divorce to see some exemplars and to get more information.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

The Retirement Plan Office will require a copy of your dissolution judgement or domestic relations order to split your benefit. In addition, if your divorce was finalized in California, the Plan must be joined in your dissolution proceedings. (For out-of-state orders, the Plan will provide a waiver to be signed by the member.)