A structured settlement is a settlement arrangement that provides scheduled payments over time instead of, or alongside, a single lump-sum payment. Payments are commonly funded through an annuity issued by a life insurance company.
Independent Life offers qualified structured settlements, non-qualified settlement solutions, attorney fee structures, and ongoing policyholder support. The right approach depends on the claim, the settlement terms, and each recipient’s goals.
Tax treatment varies. Not every settlement payment is tax-free. Claimants and attorneys should consult qualified legal, tax, and financial advisers about their specific circumstances.
Reviewed by the Independent Life Insurance Company structured settlement team. Last updated August 31, 2026. Meet our team.
Independent Life combines structured settlement expertise with specialized underwriting, responsive service, and access to established industry partners. Our team works with claimants, attorneys, and settlement professionals to develop payment solutions for each case.
*As of 08/20/2026

“The founders of Trial By Human are dedicated to training lawyers to take up the highest calling of our profession – trial lawyers fighting for people. That is why we have partnered with Independent Life, who also represents the best interests of their clients and upholds those values.”
Jakob Norman
Trial By Human

“Independent Life is top notch. Structures and annuities often times can be very confusing, not only for lawyers but also for clients. Independent Life always provides me and my clients with the best options upon which to structure their funds, to make sure that they are taken care of for the rest of their lives. I structure all my fees through Independent Life, and plan to do so for the rest of my career.”
Dan Schaar
Trial Lawyers for Justice

“It’s crazy to see how I planned for my future [using attorney fee structures with Independent Life] and that feeling it gives me. I’m in the driver’s seat and I can decide when I work and when I don’t.”
Courtney Rowley
Trial by Woman
Qualified structured settlements generally involve damages for eligible personal physical injuries or physical sickness. Non-qualified structures may be used for other types of claims and payment obligations. Tax treatment depends on the facts and applicable law.
We work with claimants, plaintiff attorneys, settlement consultants, and other professionals involved in designing and administering structured settlement solutions.
Structured settlement payment obligations are commonly funded with an annuity issued by a life insurance company. The payment schedule and other terms are established in the settlement documents.
No. Tax treatment depends on what the settlement payments are intended to replace and the applicable provisions of law. The IRS advises that each settlement must be evaluated based on its facts and circumstances. Consult qualified advisers for guidance.
Consider near-term expenses, long-term income needs, future milestones, liquidity, inflation, and the financial strength of the issuing company. Legal, tax, and financial advisers can help evaluate the available options.
Explore our qualified settlements, non-qualified settlements, attorney fee structures, and Payee Protection Policy, or contact our team.