How long does it take to get paid after a settlement in the UK?

If you’re a UK resident and have successfully settled a personal injury claim, you might be waiting on your compensation. So, how long does it take to get paid after a settlement? UK law states that court settlement payment timelines will vary. 

We’ll use this guide to break down the process, explain why delays may occur, and ensure you have a clear understanding of when to expect your settlement.

What affects the timeline for receiving a settlement payout?

There are a range of factors that influence the compensation payout time in the UK, including:

• Your type of settlement — Court ordered settlements typically take longer to arrive than out of court settlements.
• The insurance provider — How responsive the insurance provider of the defendant is will play an important role in settlement payment delays.
• The complexity of your claim — The more complex the claim, the longer it can take to process your settlement.
• Legal timelines — The court has their own procedures that can delay settlements.

Typical settlement payout timelines

While settlement payout timelines do vary, there is a rough guide to how long they tend to take, depending on the type of settlement:

Bear in mind, these are only estimates and will change from case to case.

Why might payment delays occur?

Payment delays often occur because of the following:

• Missed deadlines — If the defendant or their insurance company miss an agreed deadline for payment, this will affect your insurance payout timescale.
• Admin errors — Any mistakes with processing paperwork or transferring funds can cause delays.
• Payment complications — International claims or issues with banking details can hinder timely payments.

If you experience a delay, talk to your solicitor to get advice or take legal action to enforce the settlement agreement.

How to speed up the process

If you want to speed up the timeline for receiving your compensation, there are a few ways to do this:

• Regularly check in with your solicitor and respond to any requests for information on time.
• Ensure all relevant documents, like medical records and proof of expenses, are submitted on time.
• If you’re facing financial difficulties, discuss the possibility of interim payments with your solicitor.

How Express Solicitors can help

At Express Solicitors, we have over twenty years of experience in personal injury law and understand the importance of getting your compensation on time. 

Our team of experts are dedicated to making sure that you receive your compensation without any unnecessary delays. If you’re facing issues with your settlement payout or have questions about the process, contact us today for advice and support.

Frequently asked questions

How is the payout processed?

Once the settlement is agreed, the defendant or their insurance provider will transfer the compensation to your solicitor – who will then send the funds to you by bank transfer or cheque.

Can I negotiate for faster payment?

While the standard timeline process is generally stuck to for every personal injury case, discussing quicker payment options with your solicitor could be helpful, especially if you are facing financial issues.

What happens if the insurer goes bankrupt or fails to pay?

If the defendant’s insurer becomes insolvent or fails to pay, your solicitor can guide you through alternative avenues. This includes claiming through the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).