If you’ve been injured by a federal employee or on federal property, you probably want one thing above all else—answers.
“How long will this take?”

The truth is that Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) cases move differently from regular personal injury lawsuits. Federal rules, agency review periods, and strict procedures make the process more complex—and often slower.

At National Security Law Firm, we guide clients through every stage of the FTCA process, helping them set realistic expectations while pushing for results as quickly as possible. Here’s what to expect.

The Short Answer: 12–24 Months on Average

Most FTCA claims take between one and two years from start to finish.
Some settle within a few months; others take longer if they go to federal court.

Here’s a general breakdown:

Stage Typical Timeline
Preparing and filing your SF-95 1–3 months
Agency investigation period Up to 6 months
Settlement negotiations 3–6 months
Federal court litigation (if necessary) 6–18 months

The total time depends on your case’s complexity, the agency involved, and whether settlement is possible before trial.

Step 1: Preparing and Filing Your SF-95 (1–3 Months)

Before you can sue, you must file a Standard Form 95 (SF-95) with the correct federal agency.

This form starts your case—and must include:

  • A clear description of what happened

  • Evidence of negligence

  • A sum certain (the specific dollar amount you’re claiming)

👉 Read next: What Is a Sum Certain? What Should I Put Down?

Our attorneys typically spend several weeks gathering medical records, bills, witness statements, and other documentation to make sure your claim is complete and strong from the start.

Step 2: Agency Review and Investigation (Up to 6 Months)

Once the agency receives your claim, it has six months to respond. During that period, it may:

  • Request additional information or records

  • Investigate the incident internally

  • Offer a settlement, or

  • Deny your claim outright

If the agency fails to respond within six months, you gain the right to file suit in federal court.

👉 Read next: When to File in Federal Court (and What Happens Next)

Step 3: Settlement Negotiations (3–6 Months)

Many FTCA claims are resolved during or shortly after the agency review period.

If the government believes liability is clear—or your attorney presents strong evidence—it may negotiate a settlement directly with you.

Well-prepared claims often settle faster, because they give the agency everything it needs to justify payment. At National Security Law Firm, we include detailed documentation, medical analyses, and legal arguments in every submission to shorten review time and strengthen negotiation leverage.

👉 Read next: How to Negotiate an FTCA Settlement with a Federal Agency

Step 4: Federal Court Litigation (6–18 Months)

If the agency denies your claim or fails to act, the next step is filing in federal district court.

Once you file, the Department of Justice (DOJ) takes over the case for the government. From there, litigation can last anywhere from six months to a year and a half, depending on the complexity of the case, discovery needs, and trial scheduling.

Most cases still settle before trial—often after discovery, when the government realizes the strength of your evidence.

Factors That Can Speed Up (or Slow Down) Your Case

Every FTCA case moves at its own pace. Factors that influence the timeline include:

  • Agency workload: The VA and USPS handle thousands of claims per year.

  • Complexity: Medical malpractice and wrongful death claims take longer than simple vehicle accidents.

  • Missing documentation: Incomplete SF-95s or missing records cause delays.

  • FOIA requests: Waiting for key evidence from agency records can add months.

  • Negotiation strategy: Strong, well-supported demands tend to resolve faster.

At National Security Law Firm, we track every filing, deadline, and response so your case keeps moving—and doesn’t get lost in government bureaucracy.

How We Help Clients Avoid Delays

Because our attorneys are former federal and military lawyers, we know how agencies operate internally. We use that insight to:

  • Submit precise, fully-documented SF-95 claims

  • File Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests early

  • Communicate directly with agency counsel

  • Push for early settlement meetings

  • Prepare for litigation from day one

This proactive strategy keeps the government on the clock and maximizes your chances of a faster outcome.

👉 Read next: How to Strengthen Your FTCA Claim with FOIA Requests

Why Choose National Security Law Firm

  • 4.9-star Google Reviews

  • Nationwide representation from our Washington, D.C. headquarters

  • Former federal and military attorneys with insider knowledge

  • Legal financing through Pay Later by Affirm

  • Free consultations and contingency-based fees—you don’t pay unless we win

National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.

Ready to Take the Next Step? Let’s Talk.

If you were injured at a VA hospital, post office, airport, or other federal facility, don’t wait for time to run out. Our attorneys can file your claim quickly and manage the process every step of the way.

📞 Call 202-600-4996 or book your free consultation online.

We’ll handle the waiting, deadlines, and red tape—so you can focus on recovery.

Learn More About FTCA Claims

Visit our FTCA Resource Center for more guides:

  • How to File an SF-95

  • What to Do if the Government Denies Your Claim

  • How Judgments Are Capped Under the FTCA

  • How to Negotiate an FTCA Settlement with a Federal Agency

The government moves slowly—but with the right team, your case doesn’t have to.

National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.