How Long Does It Take to Get My Personal Injury Settlement Check?  

It seems like personal injury cases take forever. And sometimes, they can. So, it’s comforting when the process is almost over, and you can move forward with your life. The injury settlement check process is important for injury victims to understand because it means your case is almost over. Knowing how this process works helps you understand the steps involved and prepare for any challenges.  

Your personal injury attorney worked tirelessly to get a just and considerable settlement, compensating you for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Once both sides agree on the amount, the check is issued, which is the final step in this process. Your lawyer and the insurance company handle this carefully to ensure the check is sent accurately and on time, helping you manage your expectations and move forward.  

When Will I Get My Settlement Check?  

Before you can receive your settlement check, you must sign a release form many times. This form states that you will not take additional legal action against the at-fault parties or seek more compensation. Once everything has been squared away, you should receive your check in a few short weeks. 

The settlement check process can take time because it needs to be carefully reviewed to avoid mistakes or delays. Once a settlement agreement has been reached, the typical duration for receiving a settlement check can vary widely, depending on multiple factors. Generally, the timeframe should be within 30 days, but there are times when that time may be extended.  

There are many factors that can hold up receiving your settlement check, including:  

• Approval of Settlement Agreement: Both parties, including the insurance company and legal representatives, need to formally approve the settlement. Many times this is also a negotiation to make sure the terms of the agreement are proper. 

• Processing Time: Insurance companies and law firms may take time to process the paperwork before issuing the check. Insurance companies can be disorganized and overworked, and thus, they will send your check in an untimely manner. 

• Outstanding Medical Liens: Unpaid medical bills or liens must be negotiated and settled before the check can be distributed.  

• Attorney Fees: Legal fees and other costs must be deducted from the settlement before it’s sent to the claimant.  

• Court Approval: In some cases, a judge may need to approve the settlement, especially if it involves minors or a death.  

• Incorrect or Incomplete Paperwork: Any errors in the settlement documents can cause delays in issuing the check.  

• Bank Processing Time: After the check is issued, banks and many state bars require several days for the funds to clear.  

How Are Personal Injury Settlement Checks Distributed?  

Once a settlement offer is accepted, the at-fault party will issue a check or electronic transfer. The check is usually made out to you and your attorney. This ensures that all legal fees and obligations are covered. Your attorney deposits the check into a trust account, where it stays until any outstanding medical liens, court costs, or other fees are paid.  

The distribution process for a settlement check is as follows:  

• The insurance company sends the settlement check to your lawyer.  

• Your lawyer deposits the check into a special account for client funds (called an IOLTA account).  

• After the check clears, the lawyer deducts their fee, which is usually a percentage of the settlement.  

• Any other case-related costs, like filing fees or expert witness expenses, are also deducted.  

• Your lawyer pays any lienholders, such as hospitals or insurance companies, or other bills at your request. 

The remaining money is given to you, along with a detailed statement showing where the funds went.  

How Much of My Settlement Check Do I Receive?  

The amount of settlement money you receive depends on the unique factors of your case. Before you can pocket your cut of the check, costs like medical bills, attorney fees, and more need to be deducted. 

When you file your personal injury claim, most insurance companies will offer you pennies for what you actually deserve. That’s why hiring a lawyer to negotiate higher settlements is important.  

Will I Get My Settlement Check in One Payment?  

In most cases, plaintiffs will receive their settlement check in one lump sum. While it can be comforting to receive a large sum of money at one time, it’s important to consider other factors that impact your finances. That’s why it may be best to receive your check-in spread-out payments, which is known as a structured settlement.  

Here are some common factors that you may be facing and want to consider:  

• Ongoing Medical Care Needs: If you need long-term treatment, annual payments can ensure you have funds each year for medical expenses.  

• Concerns About Managing a Lump Sum: If a large, one-time payment feels difficult to manage, a structured settlement provides smaller, steady payments over time.  

• Financial Protection for Minors: For minors, a structured settlement helps secure their financial future with steady, protected payments.  

Can I Get My Check from The Insurance Company Early?  

Injured victims usually have to wait 30 to 60 days to receive their settlement check. This is mostly due to factors like the defendant’s insurance policy, the type of personal injury case, and more.   

The fastest way to receive your check is to have an attorney handle the process for you. Ideally, they will be on top of your entire case and lead you through it with ease. They should prepare you for every step of the way and anticipate any obstacles.  

Talk to Our Experienced Attorneys at DM Injury Law  

Our personal injury lawyers at DM Injury Law have settled thousands of cases for various types of injuries. Whether you were in a car accident or slipped and fell, we’re here to guide you through this challenging process. We are a contingency-fee-based law firm, which means we only get paid if we win your case.  

Schedule a free consultation with us today and tell us your story.