1. A computer-implemented method for managing insurance claims, comprising the steps, performed by a computer, of: receiving data related to an insurance claim via a network; determining whether the insurance claim has recovery potential by using the received data to compare a value of the insurance claim with a threshold amount, wherein the insurance claim is determined to have a recovery potential when the value is greater than the threshold amount; if it is determined that the insurance claim has recovery potential, providing a characteristic of the insurance claim, and automatically evaluating the characteristic of the insurance claim; searching a client database to determine if other claims exist for an insured individual associated with the claim; delaying payment pending investigation based on a determination that no other claim exists for the insured individual; and establishing a payment decision for the insurance claim based on at least one of the received data and the evaluation of the characteristic.