pension division, informal contract

What is the name of your state? Nevada My husband and I are still legally married, although it is only in the legal sense. We have been married 20 years, I just moved out of the family home
less than 3 months ago. I moved out to preserve what I have left of my self-esteem and sanity, and to hopefully allow for a less upsetting environment for everyone. Shortly after I moved out of the house, with my youngest child (we have three) my husband was fired. He is trying to get me to provide my notarized signature to the pension administrators to receive a lump sum paymentfor 16 year of work. ($50,000) which will be disbursed in his name, if I sign my permission. He says he will sign something that I write up that he will agree to pay me 40% of
the after tax disbursement. Can this be legally binding? The
entire family needs the money soon, house payments, bills, etc.\
Want to avoid the courts and delays if possible. Can he and I
write our own legally binding contract? If so, what should I include to protect myself. he is a compulsive gambler and has never shown any responsibilty with finances. Help!

Why doesn't he ask for it and have both your names on it and you can follow him to the bank and get an officer to give you each 50% right there? Yes they will mail the joint name check.

Do you honestly trust him if he has a gambling habit? Remember, if he blows it, its all gone and its part your investment (by marraige) too.