Reaching a settlement in your workers’ compensation case is a major milestone. This is particularly true after dealing with the stress and uncertainty of a work-related injury. Once you’ve secured a settlement, it’s natural to wonder, “How long after workers’ comp settlement do I get paid?” For many injured workers in Minnesota, the settlement funds are essential. They will be used for unpaid medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing expenses.
The timeline for receiving your payment can vary depending on several factors. The speed at which the Commission approves the settlement and the insurance company’s response play a part. While Minnesota law requires that insurers process payments promptly, delays can still occur. Understanding the general timeline and what might affect the payout can help you better plan for the future and ease the financial burden during your recovery.
How Long Do Workers’ Comp Settlements Take?
Once your workers’ compensation case settles, the timeline for receiving your settlement check can vary. Generally, Minnesota law allows for payment within a specific time frame. In most cases, insurers must issue the payment within two weeks after the settlement’s finalization and approval. However, if there are delays in obtaining approval from the Workers’ Compensation Court, it may take a bit longer.
Factors That Affect Payment Timeline
Several factors can impact how quickly you receive your workers’ compensation settlement:
- Approval Process: After the parties agree on a settlement, a workers’ compensation judge must approve it. This process can take up to several weeks, depending on the court’s schedule and the complexity of your case. Any additional documentation or clarification required by the judge could extend this timeline further.
- Insurer’s Response Time: Insurers are legally required to process payments promptly. However, delays can occur due to paperwork or internal processing times. Some insurers may have more stringent review procedures, which could slow things down. This may be true if your case involves a significant amount of compensation.
- Attorney Involvement: If your attorney needs to review the settlement agreement or address any final legal matters, this can add to the timeline. It’s important that all legal aspects are thoroughly reviewed to ensure you’re receiving the best possible outcome, but this attention to detail may require some additional time.
These factors make it difficult to pinpoint an exact time frame for every case. However, you can expect a general timeline of two to six weeks for most workers’ compensation settlements to be processed and paid out.
When Will Workers’ Comp Offer a Settlement in Minnesota?
Workers’ comp settlements usually occur after medical stabilization. This means you have reached what’s called Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), and no further medical treatment will significantly improve your condition. At this point, the insurer is more likely to offer a settlement, knowing that your medical expenses and future treatment needs are more predictable.
Settlement offers can also come if there’s a dispute over the benefits owed. Both parties may agree that settling is the best way to avoid drawn-out legal proceedings.
Workers’ Comp Settlement Check Timeline
Once everything is finalized, your settlement check should arrive within 14 days in most cases. However, keep in mind that this timeline may vary based on your insurer and any additional required reviews or paperwork.
If you’re wondering, “How long after workers’ comp settlement do I get paid?” the best approach is to ask your attorney about the status of your case. They can provide insights based on your specific situation and ensure the settlement process moves as quickly as possible.
What To Do If Your Settlement Is Delayed
While most workers’ compensation settlements are processed within the legal time frame, delays can still happen. If you haven’t received your settlement check within the expected window, it’s crucial to act. Here’s what you can do:
- Contact Your Attorney: Your attorney can follow up with the insurance company to find out the cause of the delay and push for resolution.
- File a Complaint: If the insurer fails to comply with the required timeline, you may be able to file a complaint with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.
- Pursue Legal Action: In some cases, additional legal action may be necessary to enforce your settlement agreement.
Get Help for Your Workers’ Comp Claim
If you’re facing a delay in your workers’ compensation settlement or have questions about your claim, it’s essential to seek help from an experienced Minnesota workers’ compensation attorney. Call Robert Wilson & Associates at (612) 334-3444 or contact us online for a confidential consultation. Let us guide you through the process and help you secure the compensation you deserve.