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Divorce is never an easy situation for anyone to go through. Along with the emotional turmoil, divorce has many financial implications that can affect both parties. For Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) annuitants, divorce can also have a significant impact on their retirement benefits.

In Wisconsin, a divorce can divide the marital property, which includes any WRS benefits accumulated during the marriage. This means that the financial value of the retirement benefits earned during the marriage will be analyzed and potentially divided between the two spouses. The amount awarded to each spouse will be based on a number of factors, including the length of the marriage and the marital property laws in the state.

It is important to note that any benefits earned before the marriage or after the divorce will not be included in the division of marital property. Additionally, if the WRS annuitant remarries, the new spouse will not be entitled to any portion of the retirement benefits earned during the previous marriage.

If a WRS annuitant is going through a divorce, it is important to work with an experienced attorney or financial planner who can help navigate the complex process of dividing retirement benefits. It is also important to keep in mind that a divorce decree or property settlement agreement will not automatically ensure division of the WRS benefits. The WRS must receive a valid court order outlining the division of benefits.

If a court order is obtained, the WRS will divide the benefits based on the terms outlined in the order. The annuitant’s benefit will be reduced by the portion awarded to the former spouse, and the former spouse will receive a separate account or benefit.

It is important for WRS annuitants to be aware of the potential impact of divorce on their retirement benefits. If you are going through a divorce, it is important to seek professional guidance and ensure that any court order outlining the division of benefits is done correctly to protect your retirement future.