Joe Mercado joined the ZC Settlement Advisors team in 2025, bringing in a background of 6 years in claims management. As a settlement consultant, Joe specializes across workers’ compensation, liability, personal injury, and other complex claims to help parties evaluate how settlement proceeds can be structured to address immediate needs, future income, tax considerations, and long-term financial security.
On the transaction side, Joe works with business sellers and real estate professionals on Structured Installment Sales under IRC §453—a strategy that can potentially allow sellers to spread recognition of gain over time while turning a portion of sale proceeds into a future income stream.
He participates in CLE and MCLE continuing education seminars throughout the country as a speaker on the use of structured settlements to legal organizations and the insurance claims industry.
Joe received his Bachelor of Science in Public Administration with an emphasis in Executive Management from California State University, Dominguez Hills. He led as a captain of the baseball team in his junior and senior season, having competed across all major collegiate levels including Division I, II and JUCO. Joe also carries an Associate of Arts in Social & Behavioral Sciences and Fire Service Administration.
Joe is an affiliate and supporting member of Public Agency Risk Management Association (PARMA), Hispanic Insurance Risk Management Association (HIRMA), Rising Insurance Star Executives (RISE), California Coalition on Workers Compensation (CCWC), and the National Structured Settlement Trade Association (NSSTA).
On the weekends, Joe is up and active with his wife and toddler son. If they aren’t volunteering their time at a community event, you will likely find them at a farmers market, on the beach, in the mountains, or with family.
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