Michigan lawyer discusses how long it takes to get a workers’ comp settlement check and how to maximize value.
Many of our clients eventually decide to settle their cases. Workers’ comp benefits can be traded for a lump sum payment. This is a good option for people who want to give up their job and move on with their lives. Here is how long it takes to get a workers’ comp settlement check in Michigan.
Michigan workers’ comp law protects employees who are hurt on-the-job. It pays medical bills and lost wages regardless of fault. These guaranteed workers’ comp benefits continue for as long as there is disability or medical treatment needed. Even people who are not currently getting benefits can get a settlement check.
Settlement money can be used for any purpose including medical treatment, vocational retraining, starting a business, or just paying off debt. How much is paid depends upon future medical needs and length of disability. This money is income tax free.
How long does it take to get a workers’ comp settlement check in Michigan?
In Michigan, an estimate on how long it takes to get a workers’ comp settlement check is 6-8 weeks after an amount has been agreed upon. This includes signing of documents, scheduling and having a redemption hearing, a 15 day appeal period (can be waived) and 7-10 days for the check to be sent through U.S mail.
Settlement can be a longer process if negotiations are slow or there are legal issues that must be resolved first. Delays happen when a Medicare Set-Aside must be prepared and/or submitted. Medical liens and unpaid bills can also add significant time. Our experience shows that once an amount has been agreed to between the parties, it goes much faster.
How to negotiate more money for settlement?
In Michigan, getting your workers’ comp settlement check is only part of the battle. Our job as workers’ comp lawyers is to get disabled employees the most amount of money possible. We use our knowledge and skills to get the maximum value in each case.
Insurance companies treat settlements like business decisions and will not overpay. Insurance companies exploit financial distress with low-ball settlement offers. The way to negotiate a fair settlement is by showing how medical evidence supports disability.
This is not easy because common sense does not apply to Michigan workers’ comp. Medical and vocational evidence must be developed in accordance with the rules. Having a lawyer evens the playing field and lets the insurance company know you are serious. An experienced workers’ comp lawyer can easily make up his or her fees through a larger settlement amount.
Do redemption hearings affect when I get my Michigan workers’ comp settlement check?
In Michigan, employees must wait at least 6 months from their injury date before a workers’ comp settlement can be approved. This is a requirement under Michigan law. All settlements must be approved at a redemption hearing. A magistrate will listen to facts about the case and review medical evidence. He or she will determine whether settlement is in the employee’s best interest. Our experience is that redemption hearings can be scheduled early and walked into the courtroom weeks before a scheduled hearing date.
Can I appeal my settlement?
Settlement does not become final for 15 days. During this appeal period, it can be set aside for good cause or another legal reason. Changing your mind is not a good cause. Employees can request a waiver of the 15-day appeal period and get the settlement check much faster. Both sides must agree for settlement to become final immediately.
How are Michigan workers’ comp settlement checks mailed?
Settlement checks are typically sent via regular mail to your home address. It is possible to request mailing to another address or even an attorney office. Delays happen when a settlement checks sits on a desk at the insurance company waiting for signature. If you didn’t get your Michigan workers’ comp settlement check within 2 weeks of it being due, we recommend following up with the insurance company.
Injured on the job in Michigan? Call now, our attorneys can help!
If you were injured on the job in Michigan and have questions on how long it takes to get a workers’ comp settlement check and need help with your claim, call now (855) 221-2667 to speak with an experienced attorney, or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. We’re here for you.
For more than 40 years, our lawyers have been helping people like you who have suffered from work-related injuries in Michigan. We understand the physical, emotional, and psychological hardships you are experiencing from your accident. We also have the skill, experience, and know-how to protect you and get you the best possible payout amount for your case.
To see what our own clients have to say about the caring, compassion, and communication they received from us, you can read in their own words about their experience here on our testimonials page from clients we have helped.
Remember, every work injury claim is different and must be negotiated on its own merits. Do not accept any payout amount without fully understanding your legal rights.
Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers never charges a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 40 years. Call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation today.
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