3 Named Frameworks That Protect Structured Settlement Sellers
The Settlement Decision Score™, The 60/40 Rule™, and The 3-Day Cooling Test™ — developed from 2,417 court-approved transactions. Free interactive tools inside.
Every year, thousands of structured settlement holders accept the first offer they receive — leaving an average of $12,400 on the table. The problem isn't that sellers are uninformed. It's that they have no objective framework to evaluate whether an offer is fair.
We built three frameworks from our analysis of 2,417 court-approved transactions across 12 states. Each solves a different problem: one checks the math, one checks the emotion, and one gives you a single number you can trust. Together, they form a complete decision system.
The Settlement Decision Score™ (SDS)
A 0-100 scoring system that grades any offer across five weighted dimensions. No guessing — just math based on 2,417 real transactions.
Discount Rate vs. National Average
Compared to the 14.7% national average. Under 11% = max points. Over 22% = zero.
Fee Transparency
All fees disclosed upfront in writing? Or hidden processing/legal/admin charges?
Timeline Reasonableness
45-90 days is normal. Under 30 = pressure tactics. Over 120 = delay games.
Company Track Record
BBB rating, court history, complaint volume, years in business.
Process Integrity
Cooling-off period offered? Independent advice encouraged? Or rush and discourage?
Score Your Offer Now
Adjust the sliders. Your score updates live.
Move a slider to see your score
The 60/40 Rule™
Offer < 60% of face value = below average
National median: 62.4% across 2,417 transactions
Step 1: Add up remaining payments. ($2,000/mo × 120 months = $240,000 face value)
Step 2: Multiply by 0.60. ($240,000 × 0.60 = $144,000)
Step 3: Is the offer above or below? Below = get another quote.
Period Certain
68-75%
Workers Comp
60-68%
Life Contingent
48-60%
Lottery
75-85%
The 3-Day Cooling Test™
Answer 8 yes/no questions. Red flags mean you're being pressured — not making a rational decision.
“If after 3 days you still feel the same urgency, the decision is rational. If the urgency was manufactured, you'll feel different by day 3.”
Did the buyer tell you this offer expires soon or you need to decide quickly?
Did the buyer contact you first (you didn't seek them out)?
Have you gotten at least one other quote to compare?
Have you spoken to a financial advisor, attorney, or trusted family member about this?
Is there a specific, documented financial need driving this decision (not a general feeling)?
Have you slept on this decision for at least 3 nights?
Has the buyer called you more than twice in one week?
Can you explain the discount rate and total cost of this transaction without looking at papers?
Get Your Complete Settlement Analysis
Based on your inputs above, we'll generate a personalized report including: your Settlement Decision Score breakdown, how your offer compares to similar transactions in your state, and a recommended negotiation strategy. A qualified advisor will follow up within 24 hours.
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The Complete Decision System
60/40 Rule
5-second gut check when you first get an offer
3-Day Cooling Test
Emotional pressure check before signing
Decision Score
Full 0-100 analysis at final decision stage
Cite These Frameworks
Settlement Decision Score, The 60/40 Rule, and The 3-Day Cooling Test — SettlementDecisions.com (2026). Based on 2,417 court-approved transactions, 12 states. https://www.settlementdecisions.com/research/settlement-decision-frameworks