.png)
Sell vs. Keep Decision Tool
Get an honest recommendation. We sometimes recommend NOT selling.
Should You Sell or Keep Your Settlement?
Get an honest, personalized recommendation. We sometimes recommend NOT selling because your best interest is our only priority.
Why are you considering selling?
Select the primary reason. Be honest this helps us give you the best recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on your financial situation. Selling makes sense if you have high-interest debt, need emergency funds, or have an investment opportunity that exceeds your discount rate. Keep your payments if you rely on them for monthly expenses or have no immediate financial need.
Typical discount rates range from 9-18%, meaning you receive 40-75% of the total future value as a lump sum. Comparing 3-5 buyers can reduce your discount rate by 2-5%, saving $5,000-$15,000.
Yes. Partial sales let you sell specific payment periods while keeping the rest. For example, sell 5 years of payments and keep the remaining 15 years. This is the most popular option in 2026.
Alternatives include structured settlement loans (pre-settlement funding), partial sales, selling only future balloon payments, or using your settlement as collateral for certain types of financing.
If your settlement was for physical injury, the lump sum typically remains tax-free under IRC Section 104(a)(2). Non-physical injury settlements may have tax implications. Consult a tax professional.
The average timeline is 30-60 days from application to receiving funds. Court approval is required in all 50 states under Structured Settlement Protection Acts.
Lump sums provide immediate access but at a discount. Keeping payments provides guaranteed income. Our calculator analyzes your specific situation including debt levels, income needs, and investment opportunities to recommend the best option.
The discount rate is the percentage used to calculate the present value of your future payments. Lower rates mean more money for you. Average rates in 2026 range from 9-15% depending on buyer, state, and settlement size.
100%
Free Tool
26+
Licensed Buyers
60s
Instant Results
4.8
User Rating
Available in All 50 States
Our tools work for structured settlement holders in every state including California, Florida, Texas, New York, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and all others. State-specific discount rates and court timelines are factored into your results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Expert answers to common questions about structured settlements
When does it make sense to sell?
When: high-interest debt (15%+) costs more than discount rate, necessary large expense with no cheaper financing, concrete investment opportunity above 12% returns, or capital needed for viable business.
When should I NOT sell?
Keep if: selling for discretionary spending, on SSI/Medicaid, no specific plan for money, being pressured by someone else, or only debts are low-interest (mortgage, student loans below 6%).
What percentage of people regret selling?
15-25% express some regret, usually because they spent quickly without a plan. Most satisfied sellers (80%+) had specific purpose: eliminating debt, buying home, funding education, or medical expenses.
Can I sell just part to reduce risk?
Yes - often the smartest approach. Sell only enough for immediate need while keeping rest as income. Example: sell 3 years ($72K future = ~$55K lump) for debt, keep remaining 12 years for retirement.
What alternatives exist to selling?
Consider: structured settlement loans, pre-settlement funding, personal loans using settlement as proof of income, debt consolidation, negotiating with creditors, or waiting if need is not urgent.
How do I know if sale is in my best interest?
The court best interest standard considers: Do you understand it? Is rate reasonable? Have you gotten advice? Will it improve finances? Will dependents be harmed? Our tool runs same analysis a judge would.
Will selling affect my credit score?
No - not a credit event and does not appear on reports. However, using lump sum to pay off collections or credit cards will likely improve score within 30-60 days.
What if I sell and run out of money?
The #1 risk. Payments are gone permanently. Plan before selling: written budget, pay high-interest debt first, set aside 3-6 month emergency fund, consider keeping some payments as safety net income.
Try These Tools Next
Want Real Offers Based on These Numbers?
We will match you with 3-5 licensed buyers in your state who compete for your business.
Get My Free ComparisonFree. No signup. No obligation. Results in 24 hours.