# Lien

_Glossary_

Canonical: https://www.claimspages.com/learn/glossary/lien/

A legal claim against a settlement or award for reimbursement, such as a workers comp carrier's lien on a third party recovery.

When a worker collects from a negligent third party after WC paid benefits, the comp carrier may assert a lien to recover some payments. Rules vary widely by state (full, proportional, or reduced by attorney fees).



WC pays $50,000 medical; worker sues a negligent manufacturer and wins $200,000; carrier recovers a statutory share via lien.