TRS requires both parties to submit verification of social security numbers when submiting the certified domestic relations order (DRO). TRS must receive both the participant’s and participant’s spouse’s or former spouse’s social security numbers.
The law requires the DRO clearly specify the complete social security numbers of the parties or an express authorization from the court for the parties to use an alternative method to verify their social security numbers to TRS.
Before TRS reviews the DRO to determine if it is a qualified domestic relations order (QDRO), each party or either or both party’s attorneys must provide TRS with verification of the participant’s and spouse’s or former spouse’s social security number(s).
Alternate methods acceptable by TRS to verify the social security number(s) include:
- A letter from the attorney of record confirming the social security number. You may include the social security numbers in your cover letter enclosing the certified DRO;
- A sworn statement signed before a notary public confirming the social security number, if the participant or alternate payee is not represented by counsel; or,
- A Verification of Social Security Number for Qualification of a Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) form (TRS 629). The form TRS 629 must be signed before a notary. TRS 629 - Verification of Social Security Number for Qualification of a Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) Form (pdf)
See link to a printable document that describes the alternate methods to verify each party’s Social Security number. TRS 629I - Omitting Social Security Numbers from Domestic Relations Orders (Instructions)(pdf)