Verizon has settled a class action lawsuit. Here’s how to make a claim for your share of the $100 million
Could you be owed money from your wireless carrier?
Verizon has agreed to pay $100 million to settle a class-action lawsuit that alleged the company charged an undisclosed administration fees to its customers in a “deceptive and unfair manner.”
The settlement pertains to charges issued to customers between Jan. 1, 2016, to Nov. 8, 2023, and those who were affected have until early spring 2024 to file a claim.
But first, what exactly is a class action lawsuit?
USA TODAY explains that a class action lawsuit involves one or more people suing on behalf of themselves and others with similar claims. Once a class action lawsuit is approved, every member of the class is awarded, with the exception of anyone who opts out of the group.
Here's what to know about Verizon's class action lawsuit and how to file your own claim:
What is happening with Verizon's class action lawsuit?
According to the settlement agreement posted to the website, the plaintiffs and Verizon have now agreed to a settlement to resolve this lawsuit, which was filed in New Jersey. The court has not decided whether plaintiffs’ claims or Verizon’s defenses are valid.
By agreeing to the settlement, neither Verizon nor the plaintiffs make any admissions regarding any liability by Verizon or the merits of the allegations, claims, or defenses in this case.
Verizon has denied and continues to deny that it did anything wrong or that the lawsuit has any merit. The company has also stated that it will continue to charge the administrative charge and contends that it has the right to increase the administrative charge.
As part of this settlement, Verizon will amend its Customer Agreement to include revised Administrative Charge disclosures.
How much is the settlement for?
Verizon Wireless has agreed to pay $100 million to settle the lawsuit.
Which customers are included in the settlement class? How do I know if I am included?
Current and former customers with wireless or data services that were charged administrative charges between Jan. 1, 2016, to Nov. 8, 2023, are eligible.
Verizon is sending out emails and letters to affected customers. If you receive this notice, you are included in the customer class.
How much money will Verizon pay me?
If you are included in the settlement class, Verizon will pay you up to $100. However, the website says the final amount you receive depends on many factors, including how many claims were submitted and how long you were a Verizon customer.
How do I file a claim for this settlement?
Those who qualify will either receive a letter in the mail or an email with instructions on how to get paid.
Eligible customers must file a claim by April 15, 2024 to receive a settlement payment.
What happens if I do nothing?
If you do nothing, you will not receive any settlement payment.
Those who don't file a claim will lose any rights to sue Verizon over these issues and also be legally bound by the all orders and judgments the court makes on the lawsuit.
If you'd like to opt-out of the lawsuit, you must mail a signed request for exclusion to: Verizon Administrative Charge Settlement Administrator, Attn: Exclusions, P.O. Box 58220, Philadelphia, PA 19102, by Feb. 20, 2024.
When will payments for the settlement start?
Settlement payments will be issued to valid claimants after the settlement is approved and becomes final, by check or electronic payment.
Who can I contact with questions about this settlement?
You can call 844-689-0186 or email the Settlement Administrator at info@VerizonAdministrativeChargeSettlement.com.
For those with further questions about the lawsuit or the hearing, additional details of the settlement can be found on the settlement website here.
Contributing reporting: Sarah Al-Arshani, USA TODAY
This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Verizon class action lawsuit settlement 2024: Here's what to know
