The U.S. Department of Labor reported over 2.8 million work-related injuries in 2022. Injured Nebraska workers need the compensation they deserve. Handling the complexities of a workers’ compensation claim can be challenging, especially when you don’t know when you will receive your settlement payment. If you have recently settled your workers’ comp case, you are likely wondering, how long after workers’ comp settlement do I get paid? Knowing what to expect can help you plan your finances and reduce anxiety during this waiting period.
The Omaha workers’ compensation lawyers at Mueller Schmidt Mulholland & Cooling can assist you if you are experiencing delays.
Understanding the Workers’ Comp Settlement Process
Workers’ compensation provides financial support to injured or ill employees due to their jobs. The injured employee and the employer’s insurance company typically settle once they agree on the amount of compensation for the injury. According to the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Court, compensation payments for lost wages and medical bills and expenses are typically paid within 30 days after notice of the injury unless there has been a dispute about liability. The court does not specify a clear deadline after the two parties have disputed who was at fault.
Average Timeline for Receiving a Workers’ Comp Settlement
- Initial Settlement Agreement – All parties must document and sign the settlement. Depending on the responsiveness of both parties and their legal representatives, this process can take a few days to a couple of weeks.
- Judicial Approval – A workers’ compensation case judge must approve the settlement to ensure it is fair. This step can add a few weeks to a month to the process.
- Payment Disbursement – Nebraska insurers must pay within 30 days of the settlement approval. Delays can occur if there are issues with the paperwork or if the insurance company is slow to process the payment.
The timeline for receiving your workers’ comp settlement can vary, but here are some general expectations based on typical cases.
Factors Influencing the Timeline
How long after workers’ comp settlement do I get paid? Several factors can influence how long it takes to receive your settlement payment after a workers’ comp agreement:
- Approval – A workers’ compensation judge must approve the settlement negotiation. The approval process can vary in length depending on the state’s procedures and the case’s specifics.
- Documentation – After approval, both parties must complete and submit the necessary paperwork. Delays in submitting or processing these documents can extend the timeline.
- State Regulations – Nebraska law requires a seven-day waiting period before releasing the workers’ compensation benefits.
What to Do If Your Payment Is Delayed
Settlement payouts typically occur within the expected timeframe, but delays happen. If you find yourself waiting longer than anticipated, consider taking the following steps:
- Contact Your Attorney
- Reach Out to the Insurance Company
- File a Complaint
How Long Do Workers’ Comp Settlements Take Overall?
How long does it take for a workers comp settlement? The timeline for a workers’ comp settlement can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and the willingness of both parties to reach an agreement. Simple, straightforward cases might settle within a few months, while complex cases can take a year or longer to resolve.
The initial claims process can take several weeks, from reporting the injury to receiving the first settlement offer. This timeframe depends on the responsiveness of the employer, the medical evaluations, and the insurance company.
Negotiating a settlement can also vary in length. Some cases settle quickly if the evidence is clear and both parties cooperate. How long after deposition is settlement workers comp? Depositions and negotiations, however, can take several months if the parties disagree about fair compensation. Workers’ comp first settlement offer can take months after the negotiations and mediation sessions take place.
Read more: How Personal Injury Settlements Work
Workers’ Comp Settlement Check Timeline
How long does it take for a workers compensation settlement check to be given? Once the settlement is approved and processed, injured workers receive a settlement check. The payment timeline varies, but most workers receive their checks a few weeks after approval.
Contacting a Skilled Workers’ Comp Attorney
How long after workers’ comp settlement do I get paid? Don’t know how long does a work comp settlement take? Understanding the timeline for receiving your workers’ comp settlement payment can help you manage your expectations and plan accordingly. Most injured workers can expect to receive their settlement payment within a few weeks to a month after approval. If you encounter any delays, contact your attorney or the insurance company.
Handling a workers’ compensation claim can be complex, but knowing what to expect makes the process manageable. Our team can help you resolve your workers’ compensation claim. If you have questions or need assistance with your claim, contact the experienced Omaha workers’ compensation attorneys at Mueller Schmidt Mulholland & Cooling at 402-999-9000 for a free consultation. Our firm can provide guidance and support to ensure a fair and timely settlement.
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