Process
How to Apply for a Pre-Settlement Advance: A Step-by-Step Guide
• 2 min read
Applying takes about three minutes. Here's exactly what we ask, why we ask it, and what happens after you submit.
Step one: tell us about your case. Type of accident, date, state, and whether you have an attorney. If you don't have one yet, we can refer you to one in your area.
Step two: provide your attorney's contact information. We work directly with them — you don't have to play middleman or gather documents yourself.
Step three: tell us how much you need. Most advances range from $500 to $100,000+. We'll match the amount to what your case can comfortably support.
Step four: we contact your attorney, review the case, and respond with a funding decision — usually the same day.
Step five: if you accept, sign the agreement electronically and funds are wired or mailed.
Step one — the online application
Our online form takes about three minutes. It collects basic information: your name, contact info, state, accident date and type, and your attorney's name and firm.
You can also call (800) 297-3834 to apply by phone if you prefer. Either way is equally fast.
Step two — what we ask your attorney for
Once your application is in, our underwriting team reaches out to your attorney's office to request the case file. We tell them exactly what we need and provide a signed authorization from you.
You do not need to gather any documents yourself. Your attorney handles all document production directly with us.
Step three — underwriting and approval
Our underwriters review liability, damages, available coverage, and any liens or competing claims. Most cases receive a decision within hours of receiving the full file.
If approved, you receive a funding offer with the advance amount and a clear payoff schedule. You can accept, decline, or counter-propose.
Step four — funds in your account
Once you accept and sign the agreement (electronically), funds are wired or sent by ACH. Wires typically arrive within hours; ACH may take until the next business day.
From application to money in your account, the entire process can complete in less than 24 hours when everyone is responsive.
Talk to AARC before you make a financial move you'll regret
Every situation is different, and the right answer depends on the specifics of your case, your timeline, and what you need the money for. The single best thing you can do is have a short, no-pressure conversation with someone who funds these cases every day.
Call AARC at (800) 297-3834 or apply online in about three minutes. There is no credit check, no obligation, and no cost to find out what you qualify for. If a cash advance isn't the right tool for your situation, we'll tell you that too.
Frequently asked questions
- Does my attorney have to be involved?
- Yes. AARC works directly with your attorney's office to verify the case and coordinate repayment out of the eventual settlement.
- Is a pre-settlement cash advance a loan?
- No. It is non-recourse funding tied to your personal injury claim. There are no monthly payments, and if your case does not recover, you owe nothing.
- Do I need good credit or a job to qualify?
- No. AARC does not run a credit check and does not require employment or income verification. Approval is based on the strength of your claim and your attorney's representation.
- How fast can I get funded?
- Most approved applicants receive funds in as little as 24 hours once AARC has the case documents from your attorney.
- How much does it cost?
- AARC uses a flat fee rather than compounding monthly interest. Typical advances are $500, $750, or $1,000, and the illustrative payoff at settlement is 2x the advance amount.
About the author
Written by the funding team at AARC — Accident Advance & Resource Center. AARC underwrites pre-settlement cash advances for personal injury claimants and works directly with plaintiff attorneys across 45 states. Our team reviews case documentation daily and writes from that firsthand experience.
This article is general information, not legal or financial advice. Always confirm details with your attorney. Contact AARC or call (800) 297-3834 with questions about your specific case.
