In 2024, Verizon Wireless settled a $100 million class-action lawsuit over claims of deceptive advertising related to undisclosed administrative fees. Customers alleged that Verizon’s failure to disclose these fees upfront made their plans seem cheaper than they were, misleading consumers into paying more than expected. The settlement provides financial compensation to eligible customers who were charged these fees between January 1, 2016, and November 8, 2023.
Verizon
The lawsuit accused Verizon of violating consumer protection laws, such as the Federal Trade Commission Act, which prohibits deceptive advertising. Verizon’s advertising allegedly did not reflect the true cost of its plans because it failed to disclose certain administrative fees, resulting in unexpected charges for customers.
Settlement Details
Verizon agreed to create a $100 million settlement fund to compensate eligible customers. Here’s how the settlement payments are structured:
| Compensation Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Base Payment | $15 flat payment for each valid claim |
| Monthly Service Bonus | $1 per month charged (up to $85) |
| Maximum Total Payment | $100 per customer |
Example:
If a customer was charged administrative fees for 70 months, they would receive the $15 base payment plus $70 in monthly bonuses, totaling $85.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the settlement, customers must have met the following criteria:
- Time Period: Had a postpaid wireless or data plan between January 1, 2016, and November 8, 2023.
- Fees Charged: Must have been charged the disputed administrative or telecom recovery fees during this period.
Payout Dates
Following the settlement’s final approval on September 20, 2024, the distribution of payments is expected to begin in early January 2025. Eligible claimants will receive their payments via check or electronic transfer.
Payments
Any uncashed or undeliverable checks will be handled under state unclaimed property laws, ensuring that unclaimed funds are returned to eligible customers or the appropriate state agency.
How to Make a Claim
Unfortunately, the deadline for submitting claims has passed. Those who did not file a claim before the deadline will not receive any compensation, even if they were eligible.
Claim Deadline
If you missed the deadline, you cannot submit a claim now. However, many individuals who participated in the settlement are discussing their experiences and updates on platforms like Reddit. You can join these communities to stay informed or share your experience. Suggested threads:
- Thread 1
- Thread 2
Eligible Customers
For reference, here’s how eligible customers submitted their claims before the deadline:
- Verify Eligibility: Access the official settlement website to check eligibility.
- Obtain the Claim Form: Download the form or request it from the settlement administrator.
- Provide Necessary Information: Submit your name, contact details, and account information.
- Attach Supporting Documents: Include billing statements or receipts verifying the charges.
- Submit the Form: Send it via mail or through the settlement website before the deadline.
Claimants received confirmation after submission and were kept informed about the status of the settlement.
FAQs
How much can each eligible customer receive from the settlement?
Customers can receive up to $100, depending on the duration of fees charged.
When will Verizon settlement payments be distributed?
Payments are expected to be distributed in early January 2025.
Can I still file a claim for the Verizon settlement?
No, the deadline for submitting claims has passed.
What if my settlement check is uncashed or undeliverable?
Unclaimed funds will be handled under state unclaimed property laws.
Where can I discuss the Verizon settlement experience?
You can join discussions on Reddit in related threads like Thread 1 and Thread 2.
