How Long After Workers’ Comp Settlements Do I Get Paid?

If you’ve been injured on the job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation. While workers’ compensation claims may seem straightforward, they’re a complicated process that could take weeks or months to settle. Here’s a timeline of when you can expect your workers’ compensation settlement after filing your claim and how workmans comp lawyers can expedite the process.

How Long Can Workers’ Comp Settlements Take?

While your workers’ compensation case starts as soon as you’re injured, it may take a few months before you actually see any benefits. This is because most people wait to settle their claim until after they’ve reached the point of Maximum Medical Improvement, or MMI. MMI is essentially the point at which you’ve healed as much as you can, and physicians have done everything to help. MMI is the biggest factor in determining how long your workers’ compensation will take because it’s based on the severity of your injury.

What Can Delay Your Workmans Comp Settlement

Essentially, the more severe your injury is, the longer you’ll have to wait for your workers’ compensation settlement. While some only wait a few days, others have to wait weeks or months. It’s possible in Missouri to settle before you reach MMI, but it’s not ideal. If you receive benefits before you’re fully recovered, you’re missing out on coverage for any additional recovery time or medical bills. Insurance programs won’t want to pay once you’re settled, meaning you may incur out-of-pocket expenses that won’t be reimbursed.

Other Factors That Affect Workers’ Compensation Claims

Even after you’ve reached MMI, it can take insurance companies several months to collect medical records and evidence to prove the extent of your injuries. Negotiations will also take time. Oftentimes, the initial settlement offer isn’t the one you end up receiving. Insurance companies, administrative law judges, and defendants all have to discuss your case, so your amount may change over time. In order for you to receive what you deserve, it could take up to three months.

Ultimately, the best way to get your worker’s compensation claim settlement in your hands within a reasonable amount of time is to hire an experienced workmans comp lawyer to negotiate the process on your behalf.

Effective Workmans Comp Lawyers in Southeastern Missouri

The lawyers at Lanzotti & Rau can help you pursue legal action to receive compensation for your work-related injury. We will stay on top of all parties involved to ensure there is constant forward momentum in your case until your settlement is resolved.

To learn more about our workers’ compensation legal services or how we handle our cases, call us to schedule a free case evaluation at 573-335-9300.