Workers’ comp settlement checks in Missouri may take 14 days to a few weeks to arrive after the settlement is approved by an Administrative Law Judge. The entire process typically takes 12 to 18 months until it reaches a settlement. Simple cases may settle within 3 to 6 months while more complex and disputed cases could take over 2 years before a settlement happens.
Every Missouri workers’ comp settlement needs to be approved by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) first. Before that even happens, settlement negotiations tend to wait until injured workers reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). MMI is the point at which your doctor has determined that your condition has reached the full expected improvement.
Once the settlement is signed, it can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks to process the payment. This may be delayed by any lien negotiations. It helps to read the Workers’ Compensation Settlements in Missouri: Complete Guide for full details on what to expect with your settlement check.
The Bruning Law Firm helps Missouri workers understand their rights and options under state workers’ compensation laws to ensure they maximize their settlements. Working with a St. Louis workers’ comp attorney can help you have a smoother path to your settlement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Second Injury Fund take to settle in Missouri?
If your case involves the Second Injury Fund (SIF), it usually takes longer than standard employer claims. You must allow time for the Attorney General’s office, up to 30 days, to file an answer to your claim. After that, negotiations and investigations can extend the overall timeline beyond what you may expect in standard workers’ comp cases.
Can I get a settlement check while I am still receiving medical treatment?
No, you most likely can’t get your settlement check while your medical treatments are still ongoing. For example, if you’re wondering what is the average workers’ comp settlement for back injuries, those in particular require you to reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) and not waiting until that point could leave money on the table. If you settle too early, you will lose your right to get future medical expenses covered. Your St. Louis workers’ comp lawyer will advise you to wait until your condition has reached this point first.
What can delay my workers’ comp settlement in Missouri?
The most common reasons a delay may occur with a Missouri workers’ comp settlement are disputes over what caused your injury, disagreements involving your disability rating, delays in medical reporting, or arguments about the need for future medical care. This is why it’s so important to know how to negotiate a workers’ compensation settlement in Missouri to overcome these insurer tactics.
Contact The Bruning Law Firm
The Bruning Law Firm helps injured workers in Missouri understand their legal rights and options when working to get a workers’ comp settlement and maximizing the payout. Our attorneys charge no fee unless we win, so call (314) 735-8100 today to schedule your free consultation with a workers’ comp settlement attorney in St. Louis.