In California, personal injury cases often take months or even years before any settlement money is paid out. During that time, many people are left in a difficult position: their injuries keep them from working, their medical care continues, and everyday costs like rent and utilities do not pause. The gap between the start of a a lawsuit and the end of a lawsuit can quickly become a serious financial burden.
This is why more and more injured plaintiffs ask a very direct question: “Can I get part of my settlement money before my case is over?”
The answer is yes. Through something called a settlement advance, it is possible to access a portion of your expected settlement early. It is not a loan, and it does not depend on your credit score or income. It is a financial option designed to help you manage essential expenses while your attorney continues to fight your case.
In this article, we will explain how settlement advances work, who can qualify in California, and what you need to know before applying.
What Is an Advance on a Settlement? (Quick Definition)
A settlement advance is money you can receive now, based on the value of a legal claim that is still in progress.
Unlike a traditional loan, there are no credit checks, no monthly payments, and no risk if you lose. When your case settles, the advance is repaid directly from the settlement funds. If your case does not succeed, you do not pay it back.
This option is designed to help you cover necessary expenses so you are not forced to accept a low settlement simply because of financial stress.
How Does a Settlement Advance Work in California?
In California, this type of funding is only available to the injured party. The advance is calculated based on the strength and potential value of your case.
At Lawsuit Cash Advance 24/7, we have simplified the process to help you get funds quickly:
- We listen to your situation. Even if you do not yet have a lawyer, we can help connect you with one.
- We review your case details with your attorney. Our team works directly with them to confirm facts quickly.
- We make an offer. You and your lawyer review the offer together so you know exactly what to expect.
- You receive funds. Once you both sign, the money is sent to you—often within 24 hours.
There are no application fees. There are no surprises. Our goal is to help you regain control over your finances while your case continues.
Who Qualifies for a Settlement Advance?
In California, you may qualify if your claim involves:
- A car accident or truck accident
- A slip and fall injury
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace injury or other personal injury where another party is at fault
If you do not already have an attorney, that is the first step. And we can help. Many of the people we work with come to us before hiring a lawyer, and we guide them through this step so they can qualify.
How Much Money Can You Get in Advance on a Settlement?
The amount depends on the size and strength of your case. Most funding companies—including us—typically advance 10 to 20 percent of the estimated value of your case.
For example:
- If your case is expected to settle for $100,000, the advance may be between $10,000 and $20,000.
- Larger cases can qualify for amounts that reach $250,000 or more.
Funding decisions are usually made within 48 hours of receiving your case information. In urgent cases, it can be even faster.
When and How Do You Pay Back a Settlement Advance?
You do not make monthly payments. You only pay back the advance if your case is successful. When the settlement funds are released, your lawyer uses part of that amount to pay the funding company directly.
If your case does not win, you owe nothing. This arrangement is called non-recourse funding. It shifts the risk away from you entirely
Pros and Cons of Taking an Advance on Settlement Funds
Advantages:
- Quick access to cash without relying on credit cards or personal loans
- No credit checks or income requirements
- Allows you to focus on your recovery instead of financial stress
- Gives your attorney more time to negotiate for the full value of your claim instead of rushing to settle
Considerations:
- Advances include funding fees, which are higher than traditional bank loans
- You must have a valid legal claim with representation
For many injured plaintiffs, the ability to pay rent, buy groceries, and continue medical treatment far outweighs these costs.
Alternatives to a Settlement Advance (If You Don’t Qualify)
While a settlement advance is a strong option, there are alternatives:
- Support from family or friends
- Using personal savings
- Bank or credit union loans (these must be repaid no matter what)
If other options are not available, pre-settlement funding can be a lifeline.
5 Common Questions About Settlement Advances in California
Can I Apply for a Settlement Advance Without a Lawyer?
No. An attorney is required because your lawyer provides the case documents needed to evaluate your claim. If you do not have one, we can connect you with an attorney who can represent you.
How Fast Can I Get My Advance Money?
Once your application is approved, funds are often released within 24 to 48 hours. At Lawsuit Cash Advance 24/7, we prioritize fast approvals because we know bills do not wait.
Will a Settlement Advance Affect My Credit Score?
No. There are no credit checks, and this type of funding does not appear on your credit report.
What Happens If I Lose My Case After Taking an Advance?
If your case is not successful, you do not pay the advance back. That is the key difference between an advance and a loan.
Can I Get More Than One Settlement Advance?
Yes. If your case value supports it, you can request another advance. Your attorney and our team must agree before a second advance is approved.
How to Apply for a Settlement Advance Quickly (Step-by-Step)
Applying with Lawsuit Cash Advance 24/7 is straightforward:
- Call us or apply online.
- If you need a lawyer, we connect you with one right away.
- Once we confirm your case, we prepare an offer.
- After you and your lawyer review and sign, funds are sent to you—often in as little as 24 hours.
Our team understands the pressure you are under and works to remove obstacles so you can focus on healing.
Should You Take a Settlement Advance? Final Thoughts
An advance on your settlement can provide important financial relief during a difficult time. For injured plaintiffs in California, this type of funding covers essential costs while your attorney works on your case. It is not a loan, and you repay only if you win.
If you have been injured and do not yet have a lawyer, we can help with both. At Lawsuit Cash Advance 24/7, our goal is to help you move forward with dignity and less stress.
Call 866-322-6215 or apply online today to see how much you may qualify for.
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