The Division Order spells out the exact interest that you have in the well according to the title opinion. You get a division order after the well is completed and usually right before you get a check from the operator. It's my understanding that in LA, the lessee is not bound by the DO. If you sign it and return it, then determine later that it is shorting you, you can collect the shortfall.
A division order is issued by the operator of the well. It will provide your proportionate interest in the well, you should check the decimal interest and be sure it matches up with what you believe you own. For example,
40 acres in a 640 acre unit leased at a 3/16th royalty.
40/640 x .1875 = .01171875 = your decimal interest
The decimal interest represents your "net royalty interest" in the unit.
That's funny. I supplied my SSN/Tax ID numerous times to the issuing Operator on numerous ocassions...you'd think they'd have all this information by now, but, I think they are making sure we are in agreement on the DO percentage and putting it in written legal form so no questions can be asked later. That's my take on it.
Michele,
You will receive a DO for each and every well that you have an interest in. It is my understanding that you are not required to sign the DO, but you are required to provide either your S.S.# or your tax ID #, or they will hold out a larger % of tax. Also, if you sign it, you are agreeing with the Co. that the decimal interest shown is correct. I was advised not to sign them just in case it is discovered later that the decimal interest is incorrect, you will have the right to the correct amount. Any corrrection or imput is appreciated.
I agree, I keep sending my SSN/Tax ID to them and they keep asking for it again. Got another one with my latest D.O. this week. I also received another request for an updated list of all relatives and their relationship to the family. Seems like all of this would be kept on file somewhere, right?