Verizon, one of the largest telecom providers in the United States, has agreed to a $100 million settlement following a class action lawsuit centered on deceptive advertising and undisclosed administrative fees. This legal action primarily affects Verizon customers who were charged these hidden fees between March 1, 2016, and March 8, 2023.
The case alleges that Verizon promoted its mobile plans at attractive base rates, only to later inflate customer bills through administrative fees that were not clearly disclosed during sign-up. While Verizon has not admitted any wrongdoing, the company has chosen to resolve the case to avoid prolonged litigation.
Key Settlement Details at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Involved | Verizon |
| Settlement Amount | $100 million |
| Issue | Hidden fees, deceptive advertising |
| Eligibility Period | March 1, 2016 – March 8, 2023 |
| Maximum Compensation | Up to $100 per eligible customer |
| Claim Deadline | April 15, 2025 |
| Payment Options | Check or direct deposit |
| Official Settlement Site | To be announced |
What Triggered the Verizon Lawsuit?
The lawsuit was sparked by widespread complaints from Verizon postpaid customers who discovered that their monthly bills included administrative fees that were never clearly communicated at the point of sale. These charges, often labeled under maintenance or operational costs, left many feeling misled about the true cost of their service.
Verizon’s marketing materials emphasized competitive pricing, but the lawsuit claims these administrative fees were routinely added after the fact, increasing monthly costs without clear disclosure. This practice led to claims of deceptive advertising, eventually culminating in a class action.
Despite denying the allegations, Verizon has opted to pay $100 million and has pledged to be more transparent about all fees moving forward.
Who Is Eligible to Receive Compensation?
You may qualify for a payout if you:
- Were a Verizon postpaid customer anytime between March 1, 2016, and March 8, 2023.
- Were billed for administrative fees during that period.
- Submit a claim by April 15, 2025.
Payout Structure: How Much Can You Get?
The total amount each claimant receives will depend on how long they paid the undisclosed fees:
- Base Payment: $15 for all approved claimants.
- Additional Compensation: $1 for every month you were charged the fee.
- Maximum Amount: $100 per eligible customer.
This structure ensures that longer-term customers are compensated more significantly.
Steps to Submit Your Claim
You can file your claim either online or by mail:
Online Submission
- Use the personalized claim ID and confirmation code provided via email or mail.
- Visit the official claims website (expected to go live in mid-2025).
- Fill out and submit the claim form.
Mail Submission
- Download the claim form from the settlement website.
- Fill it out completely and accurately.
- Mail the form to the address listed on the site before the deadline.
Timeline for Receiving Your Payment
Final approval from the court is required before any payouts can be issued. Once approved:
- Payments will be sent via check or direct deposit.
- If a check is not cashed, it may be treated as unclaimed property under state laws.
- Administrative fees related to unclaimed payments will be deducted proportionally.
What Happens After Submitting a Claim?
Once your claim is submitted:
- Monitor your email and the official settlement website for updates.
- The settlement administrator may contact you for more documentation.
- Some claimants might be required to attend hearings or respond to verification requests.
FAQs
What if I no longer have my Verizon account?
You can still file a claim. Be prepared to provide any relevant documentation that proves you were a customer during the eligibility period.
Will submitting a claim affect my current Verizon service?
No. Filing a claim will not impact your service or standing with Verizon.
Is the settlement taxable?
Generally, settlement payments for reimbursements are not taxable, but you should consult a tax professional for advice based on your individual situation.
When will the claims website be available?
The website is expected to be launched by mid-2025. Keep an eye on official news or legal notices for updates.
Can I claim on behalf of a deceased family member?
Yes, if you are the legal representative or have authorization, you can file a claim with appropriate documentation.
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