What is exactly is a cash structured settlement? Basically a cash structured settlement occurs when there is an insurance company that provides scheduled payments to a person as a result of a claim settlement. In other words, a structured settlement is a monetary package that allows for payment of a settlement to occur through scheduled installment payments for a period of time.
Structured settlements were first introduced in early in the seventies in Canada, then spreading rapidly into the United States. Several years later, this method found its way to Australia as well as Europe.
One benefit of structured settlements is that provides a tax free recurring payment over a period of time. These payments can very well be spread out through the live of the recipient. If death happens to occur to the recipient, a guaranteed portion of the settlement can be paid to a beneficiary.
An alternative to structured settlements is a lump sum payment. This basically means that a one time amount will be paid to the recipient instead of breaking the amount down into multiple payments over a designated period of time. This often occurs when a person wins the lottery. Some reasons that lump sum payments are of interest to individuals is that they may have a large expense they wish to pay off. For example, a home loan or mortgage, medical expenses, credit card debt, etc. With a lump sum payment, many debt issues can be resolved as a result of the large payment.
Although lump sum payments may seem appealing to some, structured settlements provide a continuous recurring income over a designated period of time.
There are various companies that offer a lump sum payment in exchange for cash flow streams generated by structured settlements. Beneficiaries of structured settlements often have to sell settlements when faced with an urgent or near-term liquidity need.
The process of selling structured settlements begins with understanding ones requirements and the immediacy of the need. This can be done with the help of a financial advisor. In fact, in several states in the U.S, it is mandatory to take legal advice before selling a structured settlement. Brokers who are knowledgeable about the court procedures involved in the sale of a structured settlement can be of great help. Brokers are in contact with numerous settlement companies and upon understanding a sellers unique requirements they can guide the seller to the most appropriate settlement company. Either with the help of brokers or by searching online, one can select a financial institution that appears to offer the best price for the structured settlement at minimum cost and in as less time as possible. Sellers should also check the prospective buyers credentials, the rate of interest they offer, and their record for prompt payments.
Sellers are usually required to fill an application form that provides the buyer with necessary information such as amount required, nature of the structured settlement, and the insurance company. Upon approval of the application, the buyer forwards closing documents to the seller. These should be studied and understood by the seller with support from his financial advisor. Once the provisions mentioned in the closing documents are met, the funds are released to the seller. The insurance company is made aware of changes in ownership of the structured settlement. The receipt of cash flow by the seller is subject to court approval. The court assesses the sellers circumstances and then decides whether the sale is in the best interests of the seller and his dependents. A court approved sale of structured settlements is tax-free for the buyer and seller.
The cash flow received in exchange for the structured settlement is minus the buyers fees and other expenses such as broker commissions, application fees, and legal expenses. These costs are not out-of-pocket expenses for the seller nevertheless they should be carefully considered with respect to different buyers and the maximum amount that can be obtained by the sale of a minimum number of structured settlements.