Verizon, one of the largest wireless service providers in the U.S., has reached a $100 million class action settlement after facing allegations of misleading advertising.
The lawsuit claims that Verizon promoted lower rates in its advertisements but ultimately charged customers more due to undisclosed administrative fees. Many customers, particularly in New Jersey, found themselves paying higher bills than expected, leading to legal action.
If you were a Verizon customer during the affected period, you may be eligible for compensation. Here’s everything you need to know about the settlement, including eligibility requirements, payment details, and how to file a claim.
Verizon Class Action Settlement Details
The core issue in this lawsuit was Verizon’s practice of adding “administrative charges” to customer bills without clearly disclosing them in advertisements. Although Verizon denies any wrongdoing, the company has agreed to a $100 million settlement to resolve the claims.
How the Settlement Fund Will Be Distributed
The settlement provides compensation to eligible customers based on the duration of time they were charged administrative fees. The payment structure is as follows:
- A flat payment of $15 for all eligible customers.
- An additional $1 per month for each month the customer was charged an administrative fee, up to a maximum of $85.
This means that customers who were affected for the longest period can receive up to $100 in compensation.
Who Is Eligible for the Verizon Settlement?
To qualify for a payout, customers must meet the following criteria:
- Must have been a Verizon postpaid customer.
- The postpaid service must have been purchased and used between January 1, 2016, and November 8, 2023.
- Must have been charged additional administrative fees during this period.
- The claim must be submitted by April 15, 2025.
If you meet these requirements, you are eligible to file a claim for compensation.
How to File a Claim for the Verizon Settlement
Customers can file a claim in two ways:
1. Electronic Submission
- If you received an email about the settlement, use the confirmation code and ID provided in the message to submit your claim online.
2. Mail Submission
- Download and print the claim form from the settlement website.
- Fill in your details and mail it to the specified address.
Filing electronically is generally faster and easier, but both options are available to ensure all eligible customers can participate.
When Will Settlement Payments Be Distributed?
Once the settlement receives final court approval, payments will be sent to eligible customers via check or electronic transfer.
If a settlement check remains uncashed or is undeliverable, it will be treated as unclaimed property in accordance with state regulations. The settlement administrator will handle any additional administrative costs using a portion of these unclaimed funds.
Why Did Verizon Agree to Settle?
The lawsuit alleged that Verizon failed to disclose its administrative fees clearly, misleading customers about the true cost of their services. While Verizon denies any wrongdoing, it has agreed to settle to avoid prolonged litigation and additional legal expenses.
These administrative fees were reportedly used for various operational costs, such as rent payments and maintaining infrastructure. As part of the settlement agreement, Verizon has also committed to greater transparency in how it presents fees to customers moving forward.
Keeping Track of the Settlement Process
If you’ve filed a claim, it’s important to stay updated on the progress of the settlement. Claimants may be required to provide additional documentation or attend hearings to finalize their claims. Settlement administrators will reach out to eligible customers if more information is needed.
The Verizon class action lawsuit presents a chance for affected customers to receive compensation for undisclosed administrative charges. With potential payouts of up to $100 per customer, it’s crucial to submit your claim before the deadline if you are eligible.
By participating in the settlement, customers not only receive their rightful compensation but also help ensure that wireless providers maintain greater transparency in billing practices.
FAQs:
Who qualifies for the Verizon class action settlement?
Anyone who purchased Verizon postpaid services between January 1, 2016, and November 8, 2023, and was charged administrative fees is eligible.
How much money will I receive from the settlement?
You will receive a flat payment of $15, plus $1 per month for each month you were charged the administrative fee (up to $85), for a total potential payout of $100.
How can I file a claim?
Claims can be filed electronically using the confirmation code from the settlement email or by mailing a completed claim form to the provided address.
