
If you’ve received unwanted calls, texts, or faxes from businesses, you might be eligible for compensation under a TCPA settlement. Here’s how to check and file your claim:
- Check Eligibility: Visit the settlement website, confirm the dates and type of communication, and verify your membership using a phone number or Class Member ID.
- Submit Your Claim: Gather proof (e.g., phone records, text logs), fill out the claim form online or by mail, and attach required documents. Double-check everything before submitting.
- Receive Payment: Payments can take 4–8 weeks or longer if appeals occur. Options include paper checks or electronic payments.
Tip: Stay alert for deadlines and avoid fake websites. Register with the Do Not Call Registry to reduce future unwanted calls. For more details, read on.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Identify Your Settlement Class
To confirm if you’re eligible for a TCPA settlement, start by visiting the official settlement website. Settlement administrators, such as Kroll, maintain these sites for each case, where you can find detailed information about the settlement and class membership.
For instance, the Drazen v. GoDaddy.com, LLC TCPA Settlement includes individuals who received phone calls or text messages on their cell phones between November 4, 2014, and December 31, 2016. Similarly, the BPP v. The Compounding Center, Inc. Settlement covers those who received fax advertisements between August 12, 2016, and January 29, 2024.
To confirm your membership in a settlement class:
- Visit the official settlement website.
- Enter your phone number or Class Member ID.
- Review the class definition, including relevant dates and communication types.
- Reach out to the settlement administrator if you have questions.
Key Requirements
To qualify, you’ll need to meet these basic criteria:
- Time Period: Check your records to ensure the communication occurred within the specified dates.
- Contact Type: Verify the communication method (e.g., phone call, text, fax) matches what the settlement covers.
- Class Member ID: If you received a notice, use the unique identifier provided.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, consulting a legal professional can help. Each TCPA settlement has its own rules and deadlines. Some may only require your phone number for verification, while others might ask for additional proof that you received the communications in question during the specified period.
Once you’ve determined you’re eligible, you can move forward with submitting your claim.
RMG TCPA Settlement – Understanding Your Notice and Settlement Check
Step 2: Submit Your Claim
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, it’s time to submit your claim.
Find the Official Settlement Website
Start by locating the official settlement website mentioned in your settlement notice.
For example:
- The Cin-Q Automobiles, Inc. v. Buccaneers Limited Partnership settlement can be found at btl-tcpa-settlement.com.
- The BPP v. The Compounding Center, Inc. settlement is available at cctcpasettlement.com.
To ensure you’re on the correct website:
- Check your settlement notice for the exact web address.
- Search online using the settlement name along with the term "settlement website."
Tip: Watch out for fake websites or scams. Double-check that you’re on the official site before sharing any personal information.
Collect Your Documentation
Before filling out your claim, organize the necessary records to make the process smoother.
Here’s what you may need:
- Phone records showing calls or texts from the defendant.
- Screenshots or logs of text messages.
- Proof of any opt-out requests you submitted.
- Records of phone charges related to the violations.
- Evidence of phone number ownership during the settlement period.
Save these documents digitally for easier access when completing your claim.
Complete and Submit the Claim Form
Fill out the claim form carefully, either online or by mail. Keep these tips in mind as you complete the form:
- Double-check all information for accuracy before submitting.
- Include your valid phone number or the unique ID provided in your settlement notice.
- Attach all required supporting documents.
- Keep a copy of your completed form for your records.
- Submit your claim before the deadline.
If you run into issues with the online form, reach out to the settlement administrator for help or alternative submission options.
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Step 3: After Your Claim
After submitting your claim, here’s what you need to know about the next steps and how to handle any issues that might arise.
Processing Times
Claims are usually processed and paid out within 4–8 weeks. However, if there are appeals involved, the process could take up to a year or longer. Stay updated by checking the official settlement website.
Payment Methods
Here’s how payments are typically issued:
Payment Method | Details | Example Settlements |
---|---|---|
Paper Check | Mailed directly to you | DSW & Designer Brands ($70 estimated) |
Electronic Payment | Direct deposit or digital payment | UnitedHealthcare ($350–$1,000 estimated) |
The final amount you receive depends on how many valid claims are submitted.
Rejected Claims
If your claim gets denied, don’t panic. Here’s how to address it:
- Review the rejection notice: Carefully read the notice, note any appeal deadlines, and check if additional documentation is required.
- Contact support: Get in touch with the Settlement Administrator or Class Counsel for guidance. Keep records of all communications for reference.
- File an appeal: Provide any missing documentation, follow the appeal instructions carefully, and ensure you meet all deadlines.
Step 4: Prevent Future Calls
Tired of those annoying calls? Here’s how you can stop them for good:
ReportTelemarketer.com
This platform helps you take action against telemarketers. Over 30,000 people have already used it to fight back against unwanted calls and texts.
Feature | What It Does | What You Need to Do |
---|---|---|
Investigation | Reviews potential telemarketing violations | Submit details about the call |
Legal Action | Sends cease-and-desist letters or complaints | Managed by their legal team |
Cost | Free for consumers | Legal fees recovered from offenders |
Simply provide information like the call time, phone number, company name (if available), and details of the conversation to file a report.
You can also register your number with the National Do Not Call Registry to reduce unsolicited calls.
Do Not Call Registry
This free service is a simple way to stop telemarketers. Here’s what you need to know:
- It may take up to 31 days for calls to stop.
- Over 221 million numbers are already registered.
- Companies breaking the rules can be fined up to $50,120 per call.
To register, visit DoNotCall.gov, call 1-888-382-1222 (TTY: 1-866-290-4236), and complete the online verification within 72 hours.
Carrier Call-Blocking Services
For extra security, many major carriers offer tools to block spam and scam calls:
Carrier | Service | What It Does |
---|---|---|
AT&T | ActiveArmor | Blocks spam and scam calls |
T-Mobile | ScamShield | Filters scam calls and robocalls |
Verizon | Call Filter | Screens and blocks unwanted calls |
These services add an extra layer of defense, keeping your phone free from interruptions.
Key Points to Remember
Here’s a quick breakdown of the main elements to guide you through the TCPA claim process. These points will help you navigate your claim with confidence.
Steps for Filing Your Claim
Here are the essentials for securing your TCPA settlement:
Step | Requirements | Details |
---|---|---|
Eligibility Check | Confirm membership in the settlement class | Verify call dates and your class eligibility |
Documentation | Provide call records and communications | Ensure records are accurate and complete |
Claim Filing | Fill out the claim form | Make sure all required fields are completed |
Payment Processing | Submit a valid claim | Choose between check or electronic payment options |
Understanding these steps is crucial to asserting your rights under the TCPA.
Know Your Rights
Being informed about your rights under the TCPA can help you safeguard yourself and maximize any compensation:
- You may recover between $500 to $1,500 per violation.
- You have the option to opt out of the settlement or exclude yourself.
- If you don’t act, you lose the ability to file an individual lawsuit.
As highlighted in TCPA settlements:
"Your legal rights are affected whether you act or do not act." – Gottlieb v. CITGO TCPA Settlement Website
How to Protect Yourself:
- Keep detailed records of unwanted calls or texts.
- Report wrong number calls as soon as possible.
- Stay on top of settlement deadlines to avoid missing out.
Act quickly – processing times can vary, so make it a priority to track your claim status and meet all deadlines.