T-Mobile customers impacted by the 2021 cyberattack will finally start receiving payments from a $350 million class action settlement, after several years of waiting. The settlement, approved in 2023, resolves claims that the breach exposed personal data, including Social Security numbers and addresses, of roughly 76 million people. The first checks are now being sent out, with payments as high as $25,000 for individuals who can prove financial losses or identity theft due to the breach.
Payments Begin After Years of Waiting
The settlement stems from a 2021 data breach that exposed the personal information of millions of T-Mobile customers. In 2023, the company agreed to pay $350 million to resolve the claims, although T-Mobile did not admit to any wrongdoing. The money will be distributed to customers who filed claims by the January 2023 deadline.
Those who submitted valid claims documenting financial losses or identity theft may receive up to $25,000. However, most customers will see an average check of around $25, with California residents eligible for up to $100. Additionally, affected individuals had the option to sign up for two years of free identity defense services, including credit monitoring.
Delays Push Back Payment Dates
Payments were initially set to begin in April 2025, but due to unexpected delays, distribution was pushed to May 2025. The reasons behind these delays were not disclosed by T-Mobile, but some claimants have already begun receiving their checks via mail, direct deposit, or other electronic methods. The payments will continue to be distributed over the next few weeks.
Whirlpool Settlement Also Offers Cash to Consumers
In addition to the T-Mobile settlement, customers may be eligible for cash from another class action settlement involving Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and Maytag refrigerators. A manufacturing defect in certain fridge models sold between 2012 and 2019 has caused frost buildup, impairing cooling performance and risking spoiled food.
Whirlpool has agreed to pay up to $300 to each class member who experienced issues with their refrigerators. The deadline to submit claims for this settlement is today, June 18.
Other Ongoing Settlements
Additionally, there are other ongoing settlements that may impact consumers. One includes a $990,000 data breach settlement, with payouts that depend on location, and another involves college students who were impacted by the pandemic and may be eligible for a portion of a $17 million settlement.
