Why Structured SettlementsThe Who, What, Where & When’s
In simple terms, a structured settlement is a powerful financial tool created exclusively for injured people. You choose a structured settlement instead of taking one lump-sum payment when you receive money from a personal injury lawsuit. Regular payments are then made over a specified period of time to match your future needs and goals. Financial advantages include:
Guaranteed payments from the annuities purchased to fund your structured settlement
100% lifetime exclusion from income, dividend and capital gains taxes
Customized planning with trained consultants to meet both immediate and future financial obligations
No risk of losing money on market-vulnerable investments or from poor financial management
Eligibility maintained for federal and private health care plans
For more, see The Big Picture
One reason Congress created structured settlements was the concern that injured people who take a lump sum often spend it all before meeting future obligations. Other prominent Americans think it is a good idea as well (see who).
Wide Range of Qualified Cases
Structured settlements apply to a wide variety of injury cases regardless of how much money is involved. In fact, more than half the cases structured by Ringler Associates are for settlements less than $50,000. Consider structured settlements for any personal injury, workers’ compensation or medical malpractice cases involving:
Long-term medical needs
Temporary or permanent disabilities
Minors or the mentally incompetent
Severe injuries that result in brain damage or shortened life expectancy
Surviving spouse and/or dependents in a death case
Structured settlements are now increasingly used for cases that involve other types of personal damages as well, including discrimination, wrongful termination, property loss (construction defects), divorce, sexual harassment and environmental harm.