A lump sum isn't always the answer
Once the case is settled, clients often learn that the end of the case is often the beginning of a lifetime
of financial uncertainty—even when the award is large. Plaintiffs might wonder:
Will I be able to work again? Can I make the money last a lifetime? How can I invest to grow my money and
not lose it? What about my family if I die prematurely?
With the burden of money management solely on the individual, a lump sum may not provide long-term
financial security.
Replacing uncertainty with long-term financial security is the whole idea behind structured
settlements.
"I've worked with Keith on structured settlements and have always been very pleased with the results.
He is thorough, researches various options of accomplishing the client's goals and works very well with
clients." – David Druker, Attorney
Structured settlement defined
A structured settlement is a financial plan that disperses the money from a legal settlement in a stream of periodic payments. A structured settlement plan deposits award money into an annuity administered by a top-rated insurance company and offers a guaranteed fixed rate of return—tax-free. Think of it as both a safe investment plan and a secure income distribution plan. Structured settlements are protected by the federal government and governed by IRS and state regulations.
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The beauty of a structured settlement
A person benefits from a well-planned structured settlement by receiving regular, steady payments over time—in the amount and frequency of their choosing, and in any combination of upfront lump sum and
long-term regular payments. Both plaintiffs and attorneys can structure awards and fees in this way.
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Benefits for plaintiffs
Injured persons face a host of concerns. Short-term medical bills, long-term rehabilitation needs, family
needs such as college expense, retirement planning...the need for long-range thinking becomes obvious.
Keith Kleinick offers extensive legal insight to understand your unique situation and show you, without
obligation, how a structured settlement can provide advantages that include:
- Steady, long-term periodic payments
- Tax-free distributions (federal, state and local)
- Customizable payment size and frequency
- The safety of annuity-based plans administered by top-rated insurance companies
- A guaranteed rate of return
- Freedom from money management risk and worries
- Greatly reduced investment risk
- Death benefits for your beneficiary
What's more, there are absolutely no charges to you for Keith's consultation or for setting up a
structured settlement with Creative Capital, the company he represents. That's because he is paid a
commission by the insurance company that administers and manages your structured settlement plan. This
commission is not passed on to you in any way. Keith's advice and services simply add value, not fees.
Read more about why you should seek independent structured settlement advice:
Why Plaintiffs Should Engage Their Own Structured Settlement Broker
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Benefits for attorneys
As an attorney, you want to offer your client the best advice and options. A structured settlement can
provide many of your clients the best solution for their unique situation. Keith Kleinick partners with
you and your client to understand individual needs and offer tailored practical advice. All consultations
are free (whether you go forward with a structured plan or not), and you and your client will have the
facts in as much detail as you wish.
As for your own options, Keith can show you how to structure contingency fees received in case
settlements. Deferring payment in this way can offer tremendous tax advantages as well as retirement
planning advantages. For more about structuring your contingency fees,
click here.
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Long-term financial strategy
Compared to self-management of lump-sum settlements, structured settlements have historically proven to be
better investments. These graphs illustrate the potential advantages and are used with the permission of the
National Structured Settlement Trade Association.
Click graph for a larger view
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Qualified advice
Structured settlement expert and attorney Keith Kleinick knows the law and your settlement options. He
offers insightful advice, not off-the-shelf packages, to tailor a structured settlement that helps meet the
individual financial goals and objectives of attorneys and plaintiffs. If you have questions, call him at
212-233-5433 for answers.
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See What Politicians Think of Structured Settlements
The Benefits of Structured Settlements
Find out why Assistant Senate Majority Leader Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) favors structured settlements as a way to provide financial security, dignity and peace of mind for injury victims and wrongful death survivors.
"Structured Settlements Are Just Common Sense"
See why Congressman Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.) supports structured settlements as a way of preserving dignity and independence, especially during the current economic crisis.
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