A U.S. federal judge has granted an extended deadline for merchants who processed Visa and Mastercard payments over a 15-year period, giving them more time to claim a portion of the $5.5 billion class-action settlement. This marks the second time Judge Margo Brodie has extended the deadline this year, pushing it back from the original August 30 to February 4, 2025.
Plaintiffs’ lawyers, representing the merchants in the class action, explained that the extension will allow them to send claim forms to additional potential claimants. Merchants can submit their claims online, and some businesses could receive substantial payouts—potentially up to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The merchants are being represented by law firms including Robins Kaplan, Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd, and Berger Montague. Ryan Marth, a partner at Robins Kaplan and co-lead counsel for the merchant class, emphasized that the extension is excellent news, ensuring that as many eligible merchants as possible can rightfully claim their share of the settlement.
Visa and Mastercard, two of the largest payment processing companies in the world, have faced a major legal battle regarding allegations of anti-competitive practices. The ongoing lawsuit has drawn significant attention, and many consumers and businesses are wondering how they can make a claim as part of the settlement. In this blog, we will explain everything you need to know about the Visa and Mastercard lawsuit settlement claim in 2025, covering the key aspects and eligibility criteria.
What is the Visa and Mastercard Lawsuit?
In recent years, Visa and Mastercard have been involved in a class-action lawsuit, accused of engaging in anti-competitive behavior. The companies were alleged to have imposed unfair fees and restricted competition among merchants. The lawsuit stems from claims that these practices resulted in inflated prices for consumers and hindered fair competition. The lawsuit has now reached a settlement stage, offering a chance for consumers and businesses to claim compensation.
The Visa & Mastercard Settlement Agreement (2025)
The settlement agreement between Visa, Mastercard, and the plaintiffs has been finalized in 2025, providing compensation to businesses and consumers affected by the alleged illegal practices. The total settlement amount is significant, and it is being distributed among eligible claimants. The goal is to address the impact of these anti-competitive practices by providing financial relief.
Who is Eligible to File a Claim?
To qualify for the settlement, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria. Generally, consumers who made purchases using a Visa or Mastercard between specific dates, or businesses that paid transaction fees, may be eligible. Here are the main groups of people and businesses who can file claims:
Consumers: Individuals who used Visa or Mastercard during the period of the alleged misconduct.
Businesses: Merchants who paid excessive fees to process payments through these networks.
How Much Compensation Will You Receive?
The amount of compensation you can expect from the settlement depends on various factors, including the number of valid claims filed and the total settlement fund. For consumers, the compensation might be a refund of a portion of the excessive fees paid during the relevant time period. Businesses will likely receive compensation based on the transaction fees they paid to Visa and Mastercard.
How to File a Visa & Mastercard Lawsuit Settlement Claim?
Filing a claim is relatively straightforward. You can submit your claim online through the official claims website set up for the settlement. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Visit the official claims portal.
Step 2: Review the eligibility criteria.
Step 3: Complete the claim form with your personal and purchase information.
Step 4: Submit the form before the deadline (keep in mind the claim deadline may vary by jurisdiction).
Step 5: Await confirmation and compensation details.
Deadlines and Important Dates
Each claim process has a specific timeline, and it’s crucial to keep track of important dates:
Claim Filing Deadline: This is the final date by which you must submit your claim to be considered for compensation.
Distribution of Payments: Once the claims are reviewed and approved, the settlement compensation will be distributed.
Appeals Process: If your claim is denied, there may be an appeals process available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How do I know if I’m eligible to claim?
You must have made a purchase using Visa or Mastercard during the period covered by the lawsuit. Eligibility details will be clearly mentioned on the claims portal.
Q2: Can businesses apply for compensation as well?
Yes, businesses that paid excessive processing fees to Visa or Mastercard may also file claims for compensation.
Q3: How long will it take to receive the settlement payment?
The settlement payments will typically be processed after the claims period ends, which could take several months.
Conclusion:
The Visa and Mastercard lawsuit settlement in 2025 offers a valuable opportunity for affected consumers and businesses to reclaim some of the money lost due to anti-competitive practices. If you meet the eligibility criteria, be sure to file your claim before the deadline to ensure you receive compensation. Keep an eye on the official settlement website for further updates and instructions on how to proceed with the claim process.
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