Managing money and protecting benefits day to day can be challenging for many settlement recipients. A settlement trust can provide a simple, comprehensive solution, as discussed in this recent episode of Ringler Radio.
Christi Fried, President and Owner of Continental Trust – one of Ringler's 360º service partners – shared her expertise in the following interview excerpt on when a trust makes sense, how it fits alongside a structured settlement, and advice for injured people and their families considering a trust.
RR: For those who may be unfamiliar, what is a settlement trust, and when does it make sense to use one?
Christi: Over the last 30-plus years, the personal injury marketplace has really embraced trusts as part of settlement planning for people with special needs. Most commonly, trusts are used in four situations. First, for individuals with disabilities who need to protect their eligibility for government benefits. Second, for minors who cannot legally manage funds until they reach the age of majority. Third, for individuals deemed incompetent or who need help managing their affairs. The fourth category includes individuals who aren’t disabled or minors but still want the protection and guidance a trust provides. They want help with budgeting, spending, and long-term planning, as well as a team to support their ongoing financial well-being.
RR: Some people worry that using a trust means losing control over their money. Can you explain how that really works?
Christi: That concern comes up almost every time, and it’s completely valid. At the end of the day, a trust is about trust — you’re choosing partners to work with you and your family. Today, access is much easier than people expect. Beneficiaries have transparency into their accounts, can log in to view assets, and can reach us directly by phone or email. Distribution requests are handled quickly, and we work hard to meet people where they are, whether that’s through Zoom, email, or even in-person visits. The injured person's attorney writes the trust document itself and outlines exactly what the trust can and cannot do. Our job is to follow that document, explain it in plain language, and collaborate with the beneficiary to make decisions that fit within the trust, their budget, and long-term needs.
RR: Why is it so important for trusts and structured settlements to work together?
Christi: Structured settlements are incredibly resilient. They provide guaranteed, tax-free income directly into the trust, functioning much like the fixed-income portion of a financial portfolio. Thus, structures make budgeting and planning easier. Very few people rely on just one asset class. Most clients need a mix: predictable income, some market participation, and cash flow for day-to-day expenses. A trust helps coordinate all of that. We view the structured settlement as the foundation and then build around it based on the client’s needs, risk tolerance, and life goals.
RR: What should people be asking when they’re choosing a Trustee?
Christi: The questions matter because you’re inviting this person into your life, your family, and your financial future. Ask about their background, experience, and why they do this work. Ask what their clients look like and how they approach problem-solving. But the most important question, in my opinion, is about transparency. How will you see what’s happening with your money? How easy is it to reach the Trustee and their staff? What safeguards are in place if something goes wrong? Money doesn’t solve problems — people solve problems. The right Trustee becomes part of a team that helps clients navigate life after settlement with clarity, dignity, and support.
Follow this link to listen to the interview in its entirety.
