Introduction
Catalina Structured Funding is a California-based company that offers lump-sum payments to individuals holding structured settlements, lottery winnings, or annuities. If you’re considering selling your future payments for cash now, this guide will walk you through how Catalina works, what to expect, and how it compares to top competitors. You’ll also learn the pros and cons of working with Catalina, key legal considerations, and what alternatives are available.
What Is Catalina Structured Funding?
Catalina Structured Funding, located in La Crescenta, CA, is a settlement purchasing company that helps individuals convert long-term payment streams into immediate cash. The company operates primarily in California but may work with clients in other states depending on local laws. Catalina is accredited with an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau and has been active in the secondary market for structured settlements for several years.
How the Process Works with Catalina
The process starts with a free quote request either online or over the phone. You’ll need to provide details about your structured settlement, including the remaining balance, payment schedule, and court documents. Catalina will evaluate this and propose a lump-sum offer based on current discount rates.
Once you accept an offer, Catalina will handle the legal paperwork required to submit the transaction to court under the Structured Settlement Protection Act (SSPA). After court approval and a mandatory cooling-off period, the funds are released to you, usually via direct deposit or check.
Typical Discount Rates and Fees
Like all structured settlement buyers, Catalina applies a discount rate to determine how much of your settlement value you’ll receive. Industry averages range from 9% to 18%, depending on factors like payment frequency, total amount, time horizon, and administrative costs.
For example, if you have $100,000 left in payments, you might receive an offer ranging from $82,000 to $91,000. Catalina’s specific rates are not publicly posted, so it’s important to get multiple quotes.
Pros and Cons of Using Catalina
Benefits
- Offers free, no-obligation quotes
- California-based with potential for localized service
- Accredited with an A+ BBB rating
- Handles court filing and legal documentation
Drawbacks
- Discount rates not transparent online
- Limited third-party reviews compared to national competitors
- May not serve all states
- No structured comparison tools or client calculators
Catalina vs Competitors
| Company | Discount Rate | Timeline | BBB Rating | National Coverage | Legal Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Catalina | Not disclosed | 30–60 days | A+ | Limited | Full filing |
| JG Wentworth | 9%–15% | 45–90 days | A+ | National | Full |
| CBC Settlement | 10%–16% | 30–60 days | A+ | National | Partial |
| Peachtree Financial | 10%–17% | 30–75 days | A | National | Full |
| RSL Funding | 11%–18% | 30–90 days | A+ | National | Full |
Consumer Feedback
While formal reviews of Catalina are limited, some clients report positive experiences with personalized service and responsiveness. However, others noted difficulty in comparing Catalina’s offer against more well-known competitors. Review platforms like Trustpilot and Reddit mention the importance of shopping around and reading the fine print before committing to a deal.
Legal Considerations and Protections
All structured settlement transfers must be approved by a judge under the Structured Settlement Protection Act (SSPA). This ensures the sale is in your best interest and that you understand the financial consequences. Catalina helps file these court documents and may guide you through the process, but it’s still recommended to consult your own financial or legal advisor. Many states offer a cooling-off period, allowing you to cancel the deal after approval.
Alternatives and When to Consider Them
If you’re not fully comfortable selling your entire settlement, you have options. A partial sale lets you sell only a portion of your future payments while keeping the rest. Other alternatives include personal loans, home equity lines of credit, and nonprofit credit counseling services. If your financial need is short-term, consider emergency grants or relief funds before locking in a discounted lump sum.
Step-by-Step Guide: Selling with Catalina
- Gather your structured settlement documents
- Request a free quote from Catalina
- Compare with other buyers (get at least three quotes)
- Check BBB rating and state licensing
- Accept offer and proceed with legal filings
- Attend or review court approval session
- Wait for cooling-off period to pass (varies by state)
- Receive funds via direct deposit or check
FAQs
Can I sell just part of my structured settlement? Yes. Partial sales are common and often provide a good balance between liquidity and long-term security.
Is the lump sum taxable? Generally not, if the original structured settlement was from a personal injury claim.
Can I cancel the sale? Most states allow a cancellation period after court approval. Always review your contract carefully.
How fast do I receive funds? Typically 30 to 60 days after court approval, depending on your state and paperwork speed.
Business Details
Catalina Structured Funding is based in La Crescenta, California, and services clients primarily within the state. For those searching “structured settlement buyers near me” in California, Catalina may be a viable option. Always verify the company’s licensure in your specific state.
Conclusion
Catalina Structured Funding offers a professional and localized option for those seeking to sell their structured settlements. While they maintain strong BBB accreditation and offer legal support, a lack of public pricing transparency and limited online reviews means it’s crucial to compare offers before committing. Use tools like the BBB, request multiple quotes, and consult with a financial advisor to ensure you’re making the right decision.