(a) An operator or carrier which has been determined liable for the payment of benefits to a claimant by the deputy commissioner, or ordered to pay such benefits by an administrative law judge, the Board, or a court, or an operator who has agreed that it is liable for the payment of benefits to a claimant, shall commence the payment of benefits (including past due benefits, medical costs, penalties and interest, if any) within 30 days of such determination, order, or agreement. Thereafter, monthly benefit payments shall be made for the duration of the claimant's eligibility. Arrangements for the payment of medical costs shall be made by such operator or carrier in accordance with the provisions of subpart I of this part.
(b) Benefit payments made by an operator or carrier shall be made directly to the person entitled thereto or a representative payee if authorized by the deputy commissioner. The payment of a claimant's attorney's fee, if any is awarded, shall be made directly to such attorney. Reimbursement of the fund, including interest, shall be paid directly to the Secretary on behalf of the fund.