What are structured settlements?

Structured settlements are financial arrangements in which a person receives periodic payments over time as a result of a legal settlement, typically following a personal injury case. Instead of receiving a lump sum, the recipient gets regular payments, which can be customized in amount and duration to meet specific needs. This arrangement provides long-term financial security and may offer tax advantages, as settlement payments are often tax-free. Structured settlements are usually funded through an annuity purchased from a life insurance company. They are designed to ensure the recipient has a steady income stream, reducing the risk of quickly spending a large lump sum.