Verizon Class Action Settlement: Key Details on Payments, Eligibility, and More

Hey there! Ever feel like your phone bill has a mind of its own? Well, you’re not alone. Many Verizon customers were hit with some hidden administrative fees, and that’s what the Verizon class action settlement is all about. It’s aimed at making things right and compensating those of us who were overcharged. This post will give you a simple, in-depth look at the settlement, the eligibility requirements, how the payouts work, and what you should know to stay informed. Let’s dive right in!

What Was the Verizon Class Action Lawsuit About?

The lawsuit centered around unexpected administrative fees, such as “telecom recovery” costs, that were not transparently disclosed in Verizon’s advertised plan rates. Customers alleged that these charges caused their bills to exceed the expected amount, with some fees increasing over time without adequate notice. Verizon, while denying any wrongdoing and maintaining its right to adjust charges, agreed to a settlement to resolve the claims.

Who is Eligible for the Verizon Class Action Settlement Payment?

To qualify for a payment, certain criteria must be met:

• Account Type: You must have had a Verizon postpaid individual cellular or data service account.
• Fee Period: You were charged administrative or telecom recovery fees between January 1, 2016, and November 8, 2023.
• Claim Submission: You must have filed a claim, including the required documentation, by April 15, 2024.

Some groups, such as judges involved in the case, their families, court staff, Verizon employees, and those who opted out of the settlement, are not eligible.

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Payout Structure: What Can You Expect?

The total settlement fund is $100 million, but not all of it will go directly to customers. Portions of the fund are allocated for attorney fees, administrative costs, and service awards. The remainder is distributed among eligible claimants.

Here’s how the payments are structured:

• Base Payment: Eligible claimants receive a $15 minimum payment.
• Monthly Compensation: Claimants earn $1 for each month they were charged the disputed fees, up to a maximum of $85.
• Payout Cap: The maximum individual payment is $100. However, some reports indicate that the actual maximum payout could be $50, depending on the number of claims submitted and administrative expenses.

It’s important to manage expectations, as some claimants have received smaller payouts, such as $2.37. The final amount depends on the number of approved claims.

How to Claim Your Verizon Class Action Payment

If you meet the eligibility criteria, follow these steps to file your claim:

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to www.verizonadministrativechargesettlement.com.
2. Verify Eligibility: Review the criteria to ensure you qualify.
3. Complete the Claim Form: Provide required details, such as your name, contact information, and Verizon account information.
4. Upload Supporting Documents: Include any relevant billing statements if requested.
5. Submit the Form: Double-check the information, agree to the terms, and submit your claim.
6. Save Confirmation: Keep a record of your claim confirmation number for reference.

Remember to update your contact details with the settlement administrator if your phone number, address, or email changes.

When Will Payments Be Issued?

Payments were initially expected to begin in January 2025, but an appeal delayed the process. The appeal was withdrawn on September 20, 2024, enabling the settlement administrator to begin distributing payments.

• Electronic Payments: If you opted for electronic payment methods like PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, or a virtual prepaid card, you can expect faster processing.
• Physical Checks: For those who chose to receive a check by mail, payments are expected to arrive approximately one month after electronic distributions begin.

Important Considerations

While Verizon agreed to this settlement, they have not admitted any wrongdoing. The primary goal of the settlement is to ensure greater transparency in billing practices. It’s also worth noting that not all claimants will receive significant payouts, as administrative fees reduce the total funds available for distribution.

How to Avoid Settlement Scams

As with any large settlement, scams are a concern. To protect yourself:

• Use only the official settlement website for information and claim submission.
• Be cautious of unsolicited emails or messages requesting personal details related to the settlement, as these may be phishing attempts.

Final Thoughts

The Verizon class action settlement aims to compensate customers for fees that were not transparently disclosed. If you were a Verizon customer charged administrative fees between January 1, 2016, and November 8, 2023, you may be entitled to compensation. Be sure to check the official settlement website for updates and follow the outlined steps to file your claim.

This case underscores the importance of monitoring billing practices and advocating for transparency. It’s also a reminder that legal actions can lead to meaningful changes in how businesses handle customer charges.