SETTLEMENT FUND
$5.54 BILLION DOLLARS
Card Pay Settlement
Visa Mastercard Settlement Assistance
The Settlement
The $5.54 billion settlement stems from a long-standing class-action lawsuit against Visa and Mastercard. Merchants filed the lawsuit accusing the credit card conglomerates of imposing excessive and non-transaction fees.
The litigation, initiated in 2005, alleged that Visa, Mastercard, and several banks colluded to set anti-competitive fees and rules for credit card transactions, violating anti-trust laws.
After nearly two decades of legal battles and an earlier settlement that was overturned on appeal, this $5.54 billion settlement marks a significant resolution in the case.
The Settlement
Important Settlement Information
Key Information
How to Submit Your Claim for the Settlement: A Step-by-Step Guide
Get Visa Mastercard Settlement Assistance
Frequently Asked Questions
Visa / Mastercard Class Action Settlement
Who can file a claim?
If your business accepted Visa or Mastercard credit or debit cards in the U.S. between January 1, 2004, and January 25, 2019, you may be eligible for compensation.
What is the Visa & Mastercard settlement?
The Visa and Mastercard settlement resolves claims that these companies engaged in unfair practices related to debit and credit card transactions, such as imposing high fees and restricting competition. The settlement aims to compensate merchants impacted by these practices.
How do I file a claim?
Complete the form on our website, and within 3-5 days to up to two weeks, you’ll be able to check the status of your claim. Class members do not need to sign up for any third-party service to participate in the monetary relief. Free assistance is available from the Class Administrator and Class Counsel throughout the claims-filing process.
Where can I find the court documents?
The official settlement website is available at: https://www.paymentcardsettlement.com/en/Document
How will your claim amount be determined?
The amount your business may receive will depend on various factors, including the volume of Visa and Mastercard transactions your business processed during the eligible period and the terms of the settlement. Generally, a higher transaction volume could result in a larger award.
How much money will I get?
The settlement amount you receive will be determined by your actual or estimated interchange fees from Visa and Mastercard transactions with your customers between January 1, 2004, and January 25, 2019. The payment for each Authorized Claimant will depend on several factors, including: - The total funds available in the settlement pool. - The total dollar value of all valid claims submitted. - Costs related to class administration, notifications, and applicable taxes. - Attorneys' fees and expenses. - Awards granted to the Rule 23(b)(3) Class Plaintiffs for representing merchants in MDL 1720, which led to the Class Settlement Agreement. All amounts are subject to approval by the Court.
What is the deadline to file a claim?
The deadline to submit a claim is February 4, 2025. File your claim today to determine your eligibility.
Will my settlement amount be taxed?
It's recommended to consult with a tax professional, as settlement payments might be considered taxable income.
What if I owned multiple businesses during the settlement period?
You can submit claims for multiple eligible businesses, but each claim must be filed individually.