How will filing a QDRO affect the Participants benefit?
When Fidelity receives a court approved qualified domestic relations order, the Participant’s entire account balance or accrued benefit typically will be frozen. Once the Participant’s account or accrued benefit is frozen, the Participant generally will be unable to initiate either loans or withdrawals and typically will be unable to collect pension benefits during the restriction period. Contributions on behalf of the Participant can continue to be made to the Plan, and defined contribution plan Participants can continue to direct investments while their account is restricted. Typically, the freeze on the Participant’s defined contribution account is removed following the qualification of the Order. The Plan’s QDRO rules and procedures detail the freeze removal requirements.
