If you’re making a personal injury compensation claim, you might have come across the term “interim payments.” But what is an interim payment? Simply put, it’s a way to access part of your compensation early to help cover urgent costs while your claim is ongoing. In this guide, we’ll explain how interim payments work, when they’re available, and the benefits and drawbacks to consider.
What exactly is an interim payment?
Interim payments are partial compensation that can be awarded before a personal injury claim is fully settled. They provide vital financial support if you are struggling with immediate expenses like medical treatment, rehabilitation or lost income.
However, interim payments are not additional money — they are an advance on your total compensation and will be deducted from your final settlement.
Who can apply for an interim payment?
If you’re struggling while you wait for a settlement, interim payments could be the solution you need. To qualify for these payments, you must meet the following requirements:
- Financial need — You have to prove that you need the money for an immediate financial reason. This could be for medical treatments, lost wages, or home adaptations to help with your recovery and daily living.
- Evidence established — There must be strong evidence that another party was at fault, or they must have admitted liability.
- Proportionality — The interim payment you have requested must be reasonable in relation to the expected final settlement.
If the defendant in your case refuses to provide you with an interim payment, an experienced personal injury solicitor can assist. If you choose Express Solicitors, we’ll help you to apply through the courts and secure financial assistance.
Why are interim payments so important?
Interim payments can be a crucial safety net if you desperately need funds before a settlement. They can help by:
- Paying for essential medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Covering daily expenses if you are unable to work
- Funding home adaptations or mobility aids for severe injuries
- Managing travel costs for hospital visits and specialist appointments
Do interim payments affect the final compensation amount?
Interim payments do not reduce the total compensation you will be awarded after a personal injury claim. Instead, they will be deducted from your final settlement.
For example, if you are awarded £34,000 in total compensation and have already received £4,000 as an interim payment, you will receive the remaining £30,000 once the case is fully settled.
Will interim payments affect my benefits?
Thankfully, interim payments are tax-free, but they can affect any mean-tested benefits you might receive, such as Universal Credit. You can, however, set up what’s known as a Personal Injury Trust — this will allow you to receive the funds without impacting your benefits. If you get in touch with Express Solicitors, we can guide you through this process.
How Express Solicitors can help you access interim payments
Express Solicitors has a proven track record in successfully securing interim payments for our clients — even in complex cases where liability is disputed. We’ll help you gather strong medical and physical evidence to support your payment application, negotiate with the opposing party to secure the payments, and even apply to the court if necessary to secure your payment. ‘Call us on 0161 904 4661 or Start your claim online
Frequently asked questions
How soon can I get an interim payment?
Interim payments can sometimes be secured within weeks if liability is admitted early. However, more complex cases can take much longer, especially if court approval is required.
Can I apply for more than one interim payment?
If your financial need continues past one payment, multiple interim payments may be requested throughout the legal process.
What happens if my case isn’t successful after receiving an interim payment?
If an interim payment has been granted, but the case is ultimately unsuccessful, the claimant might be required to repay the amount. This will depend on the specific circumstances of your case.
Is there a minimum or maximum amount for interim payments?
There is no fixed minimum or maximum amount for interim payments. The amount granted will depend on your immediate needs and your case’s overall expected compensation.
Can interim payments cover private medical treatment?
Interim payments can be used to fund private medical care, rehabilitation, or specialist treatments that might not be readily available through the NHS.
What if the defendant refuses to make an interim payment?
If the defendant refuses to make an interim payment upon request, a solicitor can apply to the court for an order requiring them to provide it. Express Solicitors can handle this process on your behalf.