How Do You Get Compensation From a Mesothelioma Trust?

Mesothelioma is a serious form of cancer that is linked to asbestos exposure. It may cause trouble breathing, chest pain, shortness of breath, a chronic cough, fatigue and other symptoms.

Most people who develop mesothelioma were exposed on the job or by living in a building where asbestos was released during renovations. These aren’t the only ways exposure occurred, but they were common.

If you develop asbestos-related mesothelioma or are caring for someone who has it, you may be able to seek out compensation. Compensation may be available through a lawsuit or by pursuing a claim against a mesothelioma trust fund.

What Is a Mesothelioma Trust Fund?

A mesothelioma trust fund is a trust fund set up for victims of asbestos exposure. Usually, this kind of fund is established only when a company goes into Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The company may decide to (or be ordered to) set up a trust fund. Trust funds hold assets, usually cash, for victims who come forward later, so that they can make a claim to get compensation without necessarily taking the company back to court.

Mesothelioma trust funds are managed by trustees. They are responsible for reviewing all claims and will determine if a payout is warranted.

How Do You Make a Mesothelioma Claim Against a Trust Fund?

The first step is to find out if a company or other party that may have exposed you to asbestos has a trust fund. If so, then the next step is to put together a claim. The trust may have a specific form that you need to fill out or specific requirements for medical documentation of mesothelioma or other asbestos-related illnesses.

At this point, many people talk to their attorneys about the trust fund and settlement option. Usually, a trust fund is only established once a company goes into bankruptcy, but in some cases, there may be other methods of seeking compensation that would be better for a particular claimant.

If you want to make a claim, it’s a good idea to look into all your options for seeking compensation. A trust is only one of several options that you may have to get the money that is deserved.