How Much Can I Get for My Structured Settlement?
Updated June 2026 · 10 min read · Reviewed by SettlementDecisions Editorial Team
How much you receive depends on three factors: the total face value of the payments you sell, the discount rate the buyer applies (typically 9%–18% for guaranteed payments), and any fees charged. Most sellers receive between 60% and 90% of face value as a lump sum. Getting multiple competing quotes is the most reliable way to maximize your payout.
Are you currently receiving payments from a finalized settlement?
Quick Payout Estimator
Adjust the sliders to estimate your lump sum.
$2,000/mo
60 months (5.0 yrs)
12%
Face Value
$120,000
Estimated Lump Sum
$89,910
% of Face Value
74.9%
Based on standard present value of annuity formula. For a precise quote, request competing offers.
What determines how much you'll receive?
1. The face value of payments being sold. Your monthly payment amount multiplied by the number of months you're selling. More payments = larger lump sum, but also more discount applied.
2. The discount rate. The buyer's cost expressed as an annual percentage. Industry rates typically range from 9% to 18% for guaranteed payments from rated insurance companies.
3. Fees and costs. Some buyers charge additional fees — court filing costs, processing fees, or broker commissions. The best buyers include all costs in their quoted rate.
Worked example: $2,000/month for 10 years
Selling 120 payments with a face value of $240,000:
| Discount Rate | Your Lump Sum | % of Face Value | You “Give Up” |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9% (competitive) | ~$156,400 | 65.2% | $83,600 |
| 12% (average) | ~$139,500 | 58.1% | $100,500 |
| 15% (high) | ~$124,800 | 52.0% | $115,200 |
| 18% (very high) | ~$112,000 | 46.7% | $128,000 |
At 9% you keep $44,400 MORE than at 18% — same payments, different buyer pricing. This is why comparing quotes matters.
How duration affects your percentage
| Duration Sold | Face Value | Lump Sum at 12% | % Received |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 years (24 mo) | $48,000 | ~$42,600 | 88.7% |
| 5 years (60 mo) | $120,000 | ~$89,900 | 74.9% |
| 10 years (120 mo) | $240,000 | ~$139,500 | 58.1% |
| 20 years (240 mo) | $480,000 | ~$181,100 | 37.7% |
Shorter durations yield a higher percentage. This is why partial sales often make more financial sense.
How to get the most for your payments
Get 3+ quotes. When buyers know they're competing, rates drop 1–3 percentage points. On a $100,000 sale, that could mean $5,000–$15,000 more.
Sell fewer years when possible. Selling 2 years gets you 88.7% vs 37.7% for 20 years. Only sell what you need.
Ask for the all-in cost. Compare net dollar amounts, not advertised discount rates.
Don't rush. The court process takes 45–90 days regardless. No legitimate reason for a buyer to pressure you into signing today.
Get Competing Quotes From Licensed Buyers
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Tools & Guides
Find Out What Your Payments Are Actually Worth
Get real quotes from competing buyers — not estimates. Free, no obligation.