How Long to Get a Settlement Check After Signing Release?

One of the most common questions we hear from clients at Montee Law Firm after a successful case resolution is: How long does it take to get a settlement check after signing release? 

In most cases, it takes three to six weeks, though the exact timing depends on several variables. Let’s walk through what typically happens in Missouri after signing the release, the average wait time in St. Joseph, and what might cause delays. If you have questions or concerns during this process, a St Joseph personal injury lawyer can help ensure your rights are protected and that you’re not waiting longer than necessary.

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What Happens After You Sign a Settlement Release in Missouri?

Signing a settlement release means you’ve agreed to accept a final compensation amount and give up any future claims related to your injury. The insurance company cannot issue payment in Missouri until this document is completed and returned.

Once received, the insurer begins processing the settlement and typically issues a check payable to the claimant and their attorney. That check is then deposited into a legal trust account. Before funds can be disbursed, any outstanding liens—such as medical expenses or health insurance reimbursements—must be resolved. Approved legal fees and costs are also deducted. After these steps are completed, the remaining amount is released to the claimant. This process ensures compliance with legal and ethical standards.

Average Timeline to Receive a Settlement Check in St. Joseph

Although timelines vary, the average wait time in St. Joseph, Missouri, to receive a personal injury settlement check after signing the release is typically 14 to 30 days.

In our experience:

• Smaller claims or straightforward cases often result in a check being issued within 1–2 weeks.
• Larger or more complex settlements, particularly those involving multiple parties or liens, may take 3–4 weeks or longer.

Missouri does not impose a strict legal deadline for insurance companies to pay, but they are expected to act in “good faith” under general insurance principles. If delays appear unreasonable, we intervene promptly on your behalf.

Common Reasons Settlement Checks Are Delayed

Even after signing the release, several issues can delay the arrival or disbursement of your settlement funds. Some of the most frequent include:

• Insurance company backlog or internal errors
  Some insurers have slow processing departments or require additional managerial approval for large payouts.
• Medical lien resolution
  We often negotiate reductions with healthcare providers or Medicare, which can take time but increases your net recovery.
• Bank processing times
  After depositing the check into our trust account, banks may place short holds on extensive checks before funds become available.
• Errors in the release document
  If the defendant or insurance company requires changes or a corrected release version, it can cause setbacks.

If a delay occurs, rest assured—we stay on top of all parties involved and push for timely resolution at every step.

Can My Attorney Hold or Cash My Settlement Check?

Under Missouri law, attorneys must follow strict ethical and fiduciary responsibilities when managing client settlement funds. We are required to:

• Deposit settlement checks into a designated client trust account
• Pay any liens and legal fees only after they’re verified
• Disburse funds promptly once all deductions are finalized

No attorney should cash or withhold your settlement check without explanation. If a check is held longer than necessary, you can ask for a full breakdown of the delays and the expected timeline. According to federal guidelines, settlement payments should be disbursed efficiently and fully compliant with legal agreements. At Montee Law Firm, we treat your settlement with the urgency and care it deserves.

When to Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

Consulting a personal injury attorney is the best next step if you’ve recently signed a settlement release, haven’t received your check, or are worried about unexplained delays.

Legal guidance becomes especially important when:

• You suspect an insurer is stalling or underpaying.
• You haven’t received clarity from your current attorney.
• You need help negotiating liens to maximize your payout.
• You want to ensure your rights are protected throughout the final stages.

Having recovered over $300 million for clients across Missouri, we understand how crucial timely settlement delivery is. We hold insurers and third parties accountable so our clients don’t face further financial hardship after their case is resolved.

Need Help Securing Your Settlement Payment?

At Montee Law Firm, we don’t just win your case—we make sure you get paid. If you’re wondering how long to get settlement check after signing release, let us walk you through the process and fight any delays. Call us today at (816) 760-2788 for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless you do

Our successful case results are a true reflection of the values and virtues we believe in and uphold at the Montee Law Firm.

James Montee

free case consultation call us: (816) 364-1650

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Extremely professional, helpful, and knowledgeable group.
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