Do I qualify for the exception for qualified domestic relations order (QDRO)?

A qualified domestic relations order (QDRO) is a judge order that determines someone besides the retirement account owner should receive retirement benefits from his/her account. The most common reason this happens is in a divorce. An ex-spouse or dependent might be entitled to receive retirement benefits.

If you received benefits from a QDRO and the retirement account is not an IRA, you may qualify for the exception and the distribution would not be subject to an early withdrawal penalty.