Cryptococcal meningitis (CM) is the most serious presentation of invasive cryptococcosis. Seen in patients with and without HIV infection, CM is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Early lumbar puncture is a cornerstone of treatment in cryptococcal meningitis. We present findings from a nationwide analysis of patients admitted with CM in the United States between 2007 and 2016, with the aim of determining the impact of delays in lumbar puncture on inpatient outcomes.