The deadline for Verizon lawsuit claims is soon. Here's how you can apply, who's eligible

You might be owed money from your wireless carrier.

Verizon Wireless agreed to pay $100 million to settle a class-action lawsuit that alleged the company charged an undisclosed administration fees to its customers in a “deceptive and unfair manner.”

The Verizon Wireless settlement pertains to charges issued to customers between Jan. 1, 2016, to Nov. 8, 2023, and those who were affected have until Monday, April 15.

What is a class action lawsuit?

USA TODAY explained that a class action lawsuit involves one or more people suing on behalf of themselves and others with similar claims. Once a class action lawsuit is approved, every member of the class is awarded, with the exception of anyone who opts out of the group.

Here's what to know about Verizon's class action lawsuit and how to file your own claim:

What is happening with Verizon's class action lawsuit?

According to the settlement agreement posted to the website, the plaintiffs and Verizon have now agreed to a settlement to resolve this lawsuit, which was filed in New Jersey. The court has not decided whether plaintiffs’ claims or Verizon’s defenses are valid.

By agreeing to the settlement, neither Verizon nor the plaintiffs make any admissions regarding any liability by Verizon or the merits of the allegations, claims, or defenses in this case.

"Verizon clearly identifies and describes its wireless consumer Admin Charge multiple times during the sales transaction, as well as in its marketing, contracts and billing," Rich Young, a spokesperson for Verizon, said in a statement when the settlement was announced earlier this year. "This charge helps our company recover certain regulatory compliance, and network related costs. As always, our Company stands committed to transparency and the clear disclosure of all consumer charges and fees."

Which customers are included in the settlement class? How do I know if I am included?

Current and former customers with wireless or data services charged administrative charges between Jan. 1, 2016 and Nov. 8, 2023, are eligible.

Verizon is sending out emails and letters to affected customers. If you receive this notice, you are included in the customer class. 

How do I claim my Verizon settlement?

Those eligible to file for the settlement must fill out a two-page claim form, which can be printed and submitted by mail, or they must fill out the form online through the claims website at https://verizonadministrativechargesettlement.com/submit-claim.

The deadline to submit a claim or mail it is Monday, April 15. 

How much money will Verizon pay me?

The settlement agreement says that each valid claim will have a minimum of $15, plus $1 for every month of service as a Verizon customer and paid the administration fee. The maximum amount for the claim is $100 per customer.

However, the website says the final amount you receive depends on many factors, including how many claims were submitted and how long you were a Verizon customer.

When will payments for the settlement start?

Settlement payments will be issued to valid claimants after the settlement is approved and becomes final, by check or electronic payment.