Cash App users in Washington state may be eligible for a payout from a $12.5 million class-action settlement due to unsolicited referral text messages sent without consent. This settlement addresses privacy concerns raised by users who received these messages, which violated Washington’s consumer protection laws. If you’re a Washington resident who got one of these texts, you could receive between $88 and $147. This guide explains who qualifies, how to file a claim, and important deadlines in simple terms to help you secure your share.
What Is the Cash App $12.5M Settlement About?
Cash App, owned by Block Inc., faced a lawsuit claiming its “Invite Friends” feature sent referral text messages to users’ contacts without their permission. These messages, meant to encourage new users to join the app for rewards, were sent between November 14, 2019, and a yet-to-be-confirmed end date. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington, argued that this violated state privacy laws. While Block Inc. denies any wrongdoing, they agreed to a $12.5 million settlement to avoid lengthy legal battles. After legal fees and administrative costs, the remaining funds will be split equally among eligible claimants.
Why Does This Matter?
This settlement highlights the importance of digital privacy. Companies must get your consent before sending promotional messages. If you’re a Washington resident who received these texts, this is your chance to claim compensation and hold companies accountable for privacy violations.
Who Can Claim a Payment?
To be eligible for the Cash App settlement, you must meet specific criteria. Here’s a clear breakdown:
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Residency | You must have lived in Washington state during the period from November 14, 2019, to a date still to be confirmed. |
| Received a Referral Text | You must have received a Cash App referral text message without giving prior consent. |
| Phone Number Area Code | Your phone number’s area code must be associated with Washington state. |
Up to 2 million phone numbers may qualify, but the actual number of claimants could be lower. The fewer people who file, the larger each payout could be, as the funds are divided equally (pro rata) among valid claims.
What Can You Get?
Eligible claimants can expect a payment between $88 and $147, depending on how many valid claims are submitted. After attorney fees, administrative costs, and court-approved awards are deducted, the remaining money is shared equally. No documentation is typically required, as Cash App will verify eligibility using message logs and phone numbers.
How to File a Claim for the Cash App Settlement
The claims portal for this settlement hasn’t launched yet, but once it does, the process will be straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:
Steps to File Your Claim
- Visit the Official Settlement Website: Once the portal is live, go to the official settlement website (URL to be announced).
- Enter Your Information: Provide your phone number, email, and other required details to confirm eligibility.
- Choose a Payment Method: Select how you want to receive your money (PayPal, Venmo, or check).
- Submit Your Claim: Complete the online form accurately to avoid delays or rejection.
- Wait for Approval: After court approval, funds will be distributed to valid claimants.
Tips for a Smooth Claim Process
- Keep Your Phone Number Active: Ensure the phone number that received the text is still active for verification.
- Check Your Messages: Look for old Cash App referral texts to confirm you received one.
- Act Quickly: File your claim as soon as the portal opens to avoid missing deadlines.
- Stay Updated: Sign up for email alerts from trusted legal news sources or the settlement website for updates on the portal launch.
Key Dates to Remember
The settlement process is ongoing, and several important dates are approaching. Here’s a table summarizing the key deadlines:
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Claims Portal Launch | To be announced | The official website for filing claims will go live after court approval. |
| Claim Filing Deadline | To be confirmed | Claims must be submitted by this date to be eligible for a payout. |
| Final Approval Hearing | To be confirmed | The court will review and finalize the settlement. |
| Payout Distribution | To be announced | Payments will be sent after court approval and claim verification. |
Keep an eye on the official settlement website or trusted legal news outlets for updates on these dates.
Why Did Cash App Settle?
Block Inc. chose to settle for $12.5 million to avoid prolonged litigation and potential damage to its reputation. While the company didn’t admit fault, the settlement ensures affected users receive compensation without a lengthy court battle. This case underscores the importance of consumer privacy and the consequences companies face for violating it.
Other Legal Issues for Cash App
This isn’t the first time Block Inc. has faced legal scrutiny. The company has been involved in other lawsuits related to data security and consumer protection, raising concerns about how fintech companies handle user information. This settlement serves as a reminder for users to stay vigilant about their digital privacy.
How Much Money Will You Get?
The payout amount depends on the number of valid claims filed. The $12.5 million fund will be reduced by legal fees, administrative costs, and court-approved awards. The remaining amount will be divided equally among claimants. If fewer people file, your payout could be closer to $147. If more people file, it could be closer to $88. Payments will be sent via your chosen method (PayPal, Venmo, or check) after the claims process is complete.
How to Stay Informed
To avoid missing out on your payout, stay proactive:
- Check the Settlement Website: Once launched, the official site will have the latest updates.
- Subscribe to Alerts: Sign up for email notifications from the settlement administrator or trusted legal news sources.
- Monitor Your Email: Check your inbox (and spam folder) for updates from the settlement administrator.
- Contact the Administrator: If you have questions, reach out to the settlement administrator (contact details will be provided on the official website).
Why Consumer Privacy Matters
This settlement is more than just a payout—it’s a step toward holding companies accountable for protecting user data. Unsolicited messages can be more than an annoyance; they can violate your privacy and lead to bigger issues like identity theft. By filing a claim, you’re not only seeking compensation but also reinforcing the importance of digital consent.
FAQs About the Cash App $12.5M Settlement
What is the Cash App $12.5M settlement about?
The settlement addresses a lawsuit claiming Cash App sent referral text messages without user consent, violating Washington state’s consumer protection laws.
Who is eligible for the settlement?
Washington state residents who received a Cash App referral text message between November 14, 2019, and a to-be-determined date, with a Washington area code, are eligible.
How much can I get from the settlement?
You could receive between $88 and $147, depending on the number of valid claims filed. The funds are divided equally among claimants after deductions.
Do I need to provide documentation?
Most claimants won’t need documentation, as eligibility will be verified using Cash App’s message logs and phone numbers.
When will the claims portal open?
The portal launch date hasn’t been announced yet. Check the official settlement website or legal news sources for updates.
How do I file a claim?
Once the portal is live, visit the official settlement website, enter your details, choose a payment method, and submit the form.
When will I receive my payment?
Payments will be distributed after court approval and claim verification, with dates to be confirmed. Expect updates on the settlement website.
Can non-Washington residents claim a payout?
No, only Washington state residents with a qualifying phone number are eligible for this settlement.
Conclusion
The $12.5 million Cash App settlement offers Washington residents a chance to claim compensation for unsolicited referral texts, with payouts ranging from $88 to $147. By understanding the eligibility criteria, filing process, and key dates, you can ensure you don’t miss out. Stay informed by checking the official settlement website and acting quickly once the claims portal opens. This settlement not only provides financial relief but also emphasizes the importance of protecting your digital privacy. Don’t let this opportunity pass—prepare now to claim your share
2 thoughts on “$12.5M Cash App Settlement: How to Claim Your Share and Key Dates to Know”