In 1985, a dedicated group of professionals came together to establish the National Structured Settlements Trade Association (NSSTA) with a clear mission: to protect and promote the value of structured settlements for injured people and their families. Four decades later, NSSTA proudly celebrates its 40th anniversary, honoring the policies shaped, the lives impacted, and the members who made it all possible.
This anniversary isn’t just a milestone. It’s a testament to the enduring power of purpose-driven advocacy and the strength of a professional community committed to ensuring financial security, dignity, and long-term peace of mind for individuals facing life-altering injuries.
Four Decades of Purposeful Progress
Over the last 40 years, NSSTA has played a central role in every significant legislative and regulatory development that has shaped the structured settlements industry. From protecting tax-free payments under IRC §104(a)(2) and §130 to extending structured settlements to workers’ compensation claimants through the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997, NSSTA’s efforts have been nothing short of foundational.
The association also championed the creation and state-by-state adoption of Structured Settlement Protection Acts, ensuring consumer safeguards that remain in place today.
But the NSSTA story is not only written in statutes, it’s reflected in the commitment to education. With the launch of the Certified Structured Settlement Consultant (CSSC) program, the Master’s Certificate, and most recently NSSTA University, the association has created a lasting professional standard. These programs have educated hundreds of professionals who now serve injured parties with the highest ethical and fiduciary standards.
One of the most significant markers of NSSTA’s impact came in 2023, when the structured settlements industry achieved a historic $8.623 billion in premiums written, the highest annual total ever recorded.
This milestone reflects not only the strength of structured settlements as a trusted solution, but also the ongoing efforts of NSSTA members, advocates, and partners who have championed the value of long-term financial security for injury victims.
It’s a clear signal: structured settlements are not just relevant, they are thriving.
Powered by People
NSSTA’s success is built on its people. This 40th anniversary is a moment to thank every individual who has served on our committees, whose time and expertise have guided the association’s mission and achievements:
- CSSC & MSSC Committee
- Belonging and Inclusion Committee (BIG)
- Education Committee
- Legal Committee Membership
- Legs & Regs Committee
- Marketing Committee
- Medicare/Medicaid Compliance Committee
- Membership Committee
- NextGen
- Women’s Caucus
Each of these committees has played a vital role in shaping legislation, supporting member education, advocating at the state and federal level, expanding industry visibility, and promoting ethical standards. Their combined efforts represent the very best of NSSTA’s collaborative spirit.
We also extend our deepest appreciation to the NSSTA PAC contributors, who provide the voluntary, non-dues-funded support that amplifies our voice on Capitol Hill and protects the core tax and legal framework our industry relies upon.
Looking Back, Looking Forward
As we reflect on the path from 1985 to 2025, we are proud that the Association NSSTA has become a trusted policy advocate, a national educator, and a collaborative community of experts committed to securing justice and stability for those who need it most.
This year, we’ll be celebrating our past and preparing for our future with:
- A commemorative 40th anniversary logo
- Special Settle Smart podcast episodes
- A digital timeline of accomplishments
- Member spotlights, historic reflections, and industry milestones
We invite you to follow along, participate, and celebrate using the hashtag #NSSTA40 because this story belongs to all of us.
Join the Celebration
Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or are new to NSSTA, this 40th anniversary is about you, our members, our advocates, our community. Thank you for making NSSTA what it is today. Here's to the next 40 years of structured leadership!
