By Martha Barnes
Oklahoma NARO Director
Taken from the August 2023 Royalty Owner Action Report (ROAR) Newsletter. Join today to get more helpful tips like this each month!
Do you know that you do not have to sign a Division Order in Oklahoma [or in most other states]? Do you know that you might accidentally give away some of your rights if you do? Do you know that you can demand interest if the payments are late? Do you know that you do not have to wait to get royalty checks until the amount is at least $100.00? Do you know that the operator still needs a copy of your W-9 with your correct name and address so that you get paid in a timely fashion and do not have Federal Income tax taken out? (You must pay it if you owe it. It is easier to pay what you owe than trying to get back what you might have overpaid.)
With the necessary disclaimer that this information should not be construed as legal or tax advice, here is a useful form letter that I use when communicating with an operator. I always send by certified mail return receipt and keep a copy of the letter, the original Division Order, and the returned green receipt in my file so I know the date and who signed for it.
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