MetLife Structured Settlements Annuitant Center

Tax- Advantaged Income

For physical injury and wrongful death cases, settlement proceeds are tax-free. With a structured settlement, those tax-free benefits extend to future periodic payments. By contrast, if a lump sum is received and invested, any earnings or investment gains may be subject to taxation.

For non-physical injury cases, settlement proceeds are generally taxable. A structured settlement can help spread payments over time, allowing recipients to defer and manage their tax obligations rather than receiving the full taxable amount at once.

Predictable Income Stream

Structured settlements provide a steady stream of income over a specified period, offering financial security while protecting a settlement from being depleted too quickly. The payment schedule can be customized to meet the individual's needs, allowing for future expenses and cost-of-living adjustments.

Flexible Payment Options

When setting up a structured settlement, claimants have a one-time opportunity to choose their payment options. They can opt to receive some of the settlement up front and put the rest of the settlement into a structured settlement annuity for a stream of payments.

Payments to the Beneficiary

If an annuitant passes, certain annuity contracts will allow for beneficiaries to receive any remaining guaranteed payments, using the same tax treatment. If a claimant accepts their settlement in a lump sum, however, there is no guarantee that there will be money available for their loved ones if they predecease their family members.