If you’ve used a Visa or Mastercard in the U.S. anytime between 2007 and 2024, you could be in line for a direct payment—up to $1797—as part of a major class action settlement. This isn’t a scam or gimmick. It’s real, and it’s all about unfair ATM fees. Here’s what you need to know to see if you qualify and how to claim your piece of the $197.5 million pie.
Overview
Let’s get straight to the point. This settlement is the result of a long-running antitrust lawsuit against Visa, Mastercard, and several big banks. The case claimed that these financial giants worked together to keep ATM access fees artificially high, making everyday people pay more than they should have for withdrawing their own money.
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Settlement Amount | $197.5 million |
| Eligible Transactions | Between Oct 1, 2007 and July 26, 2024 |
| Max Payout | Up to $1797 per person |
| Claim Deadline | April 22, 2025 |
| Final Hearing Date | April 24, 2025 |
| How to File | Online or by mail |
| Settlement Website | Official site listed in court-approved notices |
This payment is compensation for fees you likely didn’t even realize were excessive at the time. Whether you’re an individual, small business owner, or nonprofit, if you used your debit card and paid a third-party ATM fee, you may be owed money.
Why Settled
So, why are these companies paying up? The lawsuit alleged that Visa and Mastercard colluded with major banks—including Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, and Wells Fargo—to inflate ATM fees by blocking independent ATM operators from offering lower prices. This limited competition and drove up the cost of ATM transactions across the board.
Consumer groups argued that this setup was not just unfair—it was illegal under federal antitrust laws. And now, Visa and Mastercard are settling the case to avoid further legal action.
Who Sued
The lawsuit was filed by everyday consumers and advocacy groups who had enough of overpaying. They took the issue to court, and after years of legal back-and-forth, it resulted in this historic $197.5 million settlement agreement.
Who Qualifies
Think you might be eligible? Here’s what qualifies you:
- You used a Visa or Mastercard debit or credit card
- You paid an ATM access fee (typically at a third-party ATM)
- The transaction took place between October 1, 2007 and July 26, 2024
- You weren’t reimbursed for those fees by a bank or employer
Even if you’ve changed banks, moved, or can’t recall exact transactions, you may still qualify. The process is designed to be as simple as possible for claimants.
Already Claimed
If you’ve participated in past settlements related to ATM fees, good news: you may already be pre-registered for this one. Keep an eye on your mail or email—updates and instructions could be sent your way automatically. Just make sure your contact info is current on the claims portal.
How to File
There are two easy ways to file your claim:
1. Online
Go to the official settlement website (URL provided in legal notices). Fill out the claim form with your name, address, and basic transaction history. Submit the form before the April 22, 2025 deadline.
2. By Mail
Download and print the claim form from the site. Fill it out and mail it to: ATM Surcharge Settlement
P.O. Box 170500
Milwaukee, WI 53217
Keep a copy for your records. You don’t need to submit receipts or bank statements upfront, but it’s a good idea to have them on hand in case verification is needed later.
Payment Amount
The final amount you’ll receive depends on a few things:
- How many people submit valid claims
- How much you paid in ATM fees during the eligible period
- How complete and accurate your claim is
The full amount per person is capped at $1797, but depending on the total number of claims, payouts could range from a couple hundred dollars to the full amount for those most affected.
How Decided
The settlement administrator will calculate your share based on the percentage of total ATM fees you paid relative to others. It’s not a flat payout—it’s proportional, which helps ensure fairness in the distribution of funds.
Tips
Want to boost your chances of a successful claim? Here’s what you should do:
- Check your dates: Only fees paid from Oct 1, 2007 to July 26, 2024 count.
- Use correct info: Mistakes on your claim form can delay or cancel your payout.
- Stay updated: Keep checking the official site for updates or requests for documents.
With the claim window open and the deadline fast approaching, now’s the time to take action.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $1797 payment?
Anyone who paid ATM fees using Visa or Mastercard from 2007–2024.
What is the deadline to file a claim?
All claims must be submitted by April 22, 2025.
How do I submit my claim?
Online or by mailing a completed form to the settlement address.
Do I need receipts to file?
No, documentation isn’t required but may help if requested later.
How much will I actually get?
Depends on how many claims are filed and how much you paid.
