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Here for you.

Navigating a settlement can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding your options. That’s why we’re here—to offer clear, helpful information and guide you through the process with confidence. Partnering with a settlement planner can help ensure that your financial future is protected and that you receive the maximum benefit from your settlement.

Structured Settlements

A structured settlement allows you to receive your settlement funds in periodic payments over time, providing long-term financial security and peace of mind. Rather than receiving a lump sum, you’ll have a reliable income stream that can be customized to meet your needs, whether that’s covering medical expenses, living costs, or future planning. Structured settlements also come with significant tax advantages, as they are exempt from federal and state income taxes. An experienced settlement planner can guide you through this process, ensuring your settlement is structured to maximize financial benefits and meet your long-term goals.

For cases involving minors, structured settlements can offer even greater protections, ensuring that funds are managed and preserved until the child reaches adulthood. You can learn more about the different options available for structured settlements for minors with our free guide below.

  • Who manages the trust?
    A qualified trustee, typically a lawyer or accountant, manages the trust. They oversee fund distribution, ensure compliance with regulations, and protect your long-term financial interests.
  • Can I change my trust if my circumstances change?
    Yes, in some cases, trusts can be modified to better suit your needs as your life circumstances evolve.
  • What is a Special Needs Trust, and why might I need one?
    A Special Needs Trust preserves eligibility for needs-based government benefits while allowing the use of settlement funds for additional expenses.

Trusts

Trusts are another powerful tool to manage your settlement funds, offering flexibility and protection, particularly for individuals receiving government benefits or needing long-term financial management. Depending on your specific situation, one or more types of trusts may be appropriate to safeguard your settlement. Working with CSS, our settlement planners will help you identify the right trust for your needs, ensuring that your settlement is handled responsibly and in compliance with legal requirements.

Types of Trusts

Qualified Settlement Funds (QSFs)

A QSF is a court-approved trust used to hold and manage settlement funds, allowing all parties to finalize the lawsuit before distributing the funds. It provides flexibility in asset allocation and tax planning.

Special Needs Trusts (SNTs)

An SNT protects settlement funds for individuals receiving needs-based government benefits like Medicaid or SSI. This trust maintains beneficiary eligibility while providing for expenses not covered by public assistance.

Settlement Management Trusts

Settlement Management Trusts offer long-term management of settlement proceeds, ensuring funds are used responsibly over time. These trusts can cover living expenses, medical costs, or other needs.

Minor’s
Trusts

A Minor’s Trust holds settlement funds for a child until they reach a financially responsible age, typically 18 or older. This ensures that the settlement is preserved and used in the child’s best interest.

  • Who manages the trust?
    A qualified trustee, typically a lawyer or accountant, manages the trust. They oversee fund distribution, ensure compliance with regulations, and protect your long-term financial interests.
  • Can I change my trust if my circumstances change?
    Yes, in some cases, trusts can be modified to better suit your needs as your life circumstances evolve.
  • What is a Special Needs Trust, and why might I need one?
    A Special Needs Trust preserves eligibility for needs-based government benefits while allowing the use of settlement funds for additional expenses.

Our plaintiffs are our priority

At CSS, we understand that the settlement process can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our team is dedicated to providing expert guidance and personalized support to ensure you make informed decisions that secure your financial future. Whether you're considering structured settlements, trusts, or need help resolving liens, we’re here to help every step of the way.

"I was involved in a settlement on a wrongful death suit. My attorney put me in contact with Marci Gordon to help explain what steps could be taken in the distribution of the money. Due to the nature of the settlement, both of my sons would also be receiving money from it. She helped me navigate the ins and outs of where mine and their money could go and how much it would be making for us down the line. Her expertise was greatly appreciated and I would recommend her to anyone looking to increase their financial status in the future."

Jaime O., Plaintiff

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