The new year in 2025 is bringing relief to many Verizon Wireless customers. The reason is a huge $100 million settlement, which Verizon has accepted to settle a class-action lawsuit. The lawsuit was filed against the company for charging hidden administrative fees and misleading customers.
If you too have been a Verizon customer, let us know in detail what this case was, who was eligible in it, how much payment will be received, and what those who have claimed should expect next.
Full case: What were the allegations against Verizon?
Many serious allegations were made against Verizon in this class-action lawsuit, which mainly included the following:
1. Hidden administrative fees: The company added additional charges to the customers’ bills without informing them.
2. Deceptive advertising: The actual charges were not fully clarified in the promotion of the plan.
3. Expensive bills: As a result, customers ended up paying more for their mobile and data plans than they expected.
These charges not only caused financial harm to customers but also mental stress and wasted time.
Settlement terms and distributions
Verizon settled the case for $100 million rather than drag it out in court. The funds will be used to compensate eligible customers.
Eligibility criteria
If you’re wondering who will receive this payout, the following criteria had to be met:
1. Customer category: You must be a Verizon postpaid customer.
2. Time limit: You must have purchased Verizon services between January 1, 2016, and November 8, 2023.
3. Administrative charges: You must have had “administrative charges” added to your bill.
The user had to fill out a form along with supporting documents like bills, bank statements, etc., or claims could not be made.
Timeline and payment process
- Settlement approval: The court finalises the agreement on September 20, 2024.
- Payments begin: January 2025.
- Payment method: bank transfer or cheque through the mail.
Those who filed a claim are expected to receive payments from January to summer 2025.
If you provided the wrong address or made a mistake on the form, payments may be delayed or stopped.
Did you miss the deadline?
If you did not file a claim before March 2025, sadly, you can no longer be part of this settlement. However:
- You can contact Verizon directly if there are still fraudulent or incorrect charges.
- Be alert to any new lawsuits that may arise in the future.
- Monitor your mobile bill regularly and report any discrepancies immediately.
What are the lessons from this case?
This settlement has some important lessons for all of us:
1. Financial transparency is important: companies should provide clear and accurate information to consumers.
2. Customer rights: If you think you have been wrongly charged, you can seek legal help.
3. Digital vigilance: Keep track of all your digital transactions, especially when it comes to mobile or banking services.
Conclusion
Verizon Wireless’ $100 million settlement is not just a relief to affected customers; it’s also a warning to all companies that without transparency, today’s vigilant consumers can drag you to court. If you filed a claim on time, all you need to do now is keep an eye on your email and bank account. And if you didn’t, be vigilant so you don’t miss it next time. Customers are the real power in the digital age — and this settlement is a great example of that.
FAQs
Q.1 How much payment am I eligible to receive?
A. You will receive a base payment of $15 and $1 per affected month. The maximum payment is $100.
Q.2 When will payments start?
A. The payment process will begin in January 2025 and could last until the summer.
Q.3 Can I claim now?
A. No, the deadline to file a claim has passed.
Q.4 How will I get paid?
A. A cheque will be sent either by bank transfer or by mail to your address.
Q.5 How to avoid this situation in the future?
A. Always check your bills, keep an eye on auto-debits, and report every suspicious charge.