Citibank has agreed to a $29.5 million settlement in response to allegations that it violated the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) by making unauthorized robocalls. These calls were made to individuals who were not Citibank customers, urging them to resolve overdue credit card balances. While Citibank has not admitted to any wrongdoing, the settlement provides compensation to those affected.
Here’s everything you need to know about the settlement, eligibility, and how to file a claim.
Understanding the TCPA and Citibank’s Alleged Violation
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), enacted in 1991, protects consumers from intrusive telemarketing calls and automated messages. It requires companies to obtain prior consent before making automated or prerecorded calls to consumers.
Citibank was accused of:
- Making automated robocalls to individuals who were not customers.
- Contacting individuals without prior consent.
- Encouraging payment of overdue credit card balances.
These actions allegedly violated the TCPA. While Citibank denied the claims, it chose to settle to avoid further litigation.
Eligibility for the Citibank Settlement
Individuals who meet the following criteria are eligible to file a claim for compensation:
- Timeframe: You received automated calls from Citibank between August 15, 2014, and July 31, 2024.
- Non-Citibank Customer: You were not a Citibank customer at the time of the calls.
- Call Content: The calls were related to past-due credit card accounts.
Settlement Details and Compensation
The total settlement amount is $29.5 million, and compensation for eligible claimants is expected to range between $350 and $850.
- The exact payout will depend on how many valid claims are filed.
- If fewer people file claims, individual payouts may reach the higher end of the range.
Important Dates:
- Claim Submission Deadline: December 20, 2024.
- Final Approval Hearing: January 14, 2025.
How to File a Claim
If you believe you qualify for compensation, follow these steps to file a claim:
- Visit the Settlement Website
Access the official Citibank TCPA settlement website for the claim form. - Complete the Form
Provide personal information, including your name and phone number. - Submit Supporting Documents
Include phone records or other evidence of receiving unauthorized robocalls, if required. - Review and Submit
Double-check the form for accuracy and submit it online. - Confirmation Notice
After submitting, you should receive a confirmation notice. - Track Your Claim
Monitor updates on the settlement website or via email for the progress of your claim.
What Happens After Filing?
Once the December 20, 2024, deadline passes, the court will hold a final approval hearing on January 14, 2025. If approved, funds from the settlement will be distributed to eligible claimants.
- The payout amount will depend on the total number of valid claims.
- Eligible claimants may receive compensation as high as $850 if fewer people file claims.
Why This Settlement Matters
This class-action lawsuit highlights the importance of protecting consumers from unauthorized communications. The TCPA serves as a critical safeguard, ensuring companies respect privacy and obtain explicit consent before contacting individuals.
For those affected, the settlement offers a chance to receive financial compensation for the inconvenience caused by Citibank’s alleged violations.
FAQs
What is the deadline to file a claim?
The deadline to file a claim is December 20, 2024.
How much compensation can I expect?
Eligible claimants may receive between $350 and $850, depending on the total number of valid claims.
Do I need evidence to file a claim?
You may be required to provide supporting evidence, such as phone records, to verify your claim.
When will I receive payment?
Payments will be distributed after the final approval hearing on January 14, 2025, and once the court finalizes the settlement process.