Buyer scorecard · 8 checks · 1 minute

Is this buyer treating you fairly?

Instead of star ratings that are easy to game, score the actual offer you received. Eight quick checks show how transparent the buyer is being, flag anything that should stop you, and tell you exactly what to ask for next.

Med F., Settlement AnalystUpdated October 29, 2026

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Which buyer are you scoring?

1.Did they give you the effective annual discount rate in writing?

2.Does the offer show the exact net amount you'll receive?

3.Are all fees and expenses itemized?

4.Have they asked you for no money upfront?

5.Have they given you time to decide without pressure?

6.Did they tell you to get independent professional advice?

7.Did they offer to buy only part of your payments?

8.Did they explain the court hearing and its timing?

Quick answer

How do you rate a structured settlement company?

Judge the offer, not the advertising. A trustworthy buyer gives you the effective discount rate and the exact net amount in writing, itemizes every fee, asks for nothing upfront, gives you time to decide and encourages independent advice.

Score every buyer you talk to the same way, then compare the written offers side by side.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if a structured settlement company is legitimate?

A legitimate buyer puts the effective rate, the net amount and every fee in writing, takes no money upfront, files your case in court and encourages independent advice. Check the company's complaint history with the BBB and your state attorney general.

Why doesn't this tool show star ratings for each company?

Star ratings and averages change constantly and are easy to game. Instead, this scorecard rates the specific offer you received on the things that actually protect you. Use it on every buyer you talk to and compare the scores.

What are the biggest red flags with settlement buyers?

Upfront fees, pressure to sign fast, refusing to state the discount rate in writing, cash 'advances' that lock you in before court approval, and discouraging you from talking to a lawyer.

Should I only talk to one buyer?

No. Ask at least three buyers to quote the same payments. Competition is the single most reliable way to get a better rate.

Keep going

Other free tools

Court approval checkHow a judge is likely to see your transfer.

State law explorerYour state's protection act and court process.

Eligibility checkerCan your payment type be sold?

Tax checkerWhich parts of your settlement are taxable.

This tool gives educational estimates only. It is not a quote, a guarantee, or legal, tax or financial advice. Actual offers depend on your payment schedule, the annuity issuer, the buyer and your state's court. Talk to a qualified financial advisor and, where your state requires it, an independent professional before you sell.