Facebook’s parent company, Meta Platforms Inc., has agreed to pay $725 million to settle a major class-action lawsuit over allegations of mishandling user data and sharing it with third parties, including the controversial firm Cambridge Analytica. Millions of U.S. users are eligible for a share of the payout, but final payments are delayed due to ongoing legal appeals. Here’s what claimants need to know.
Who Is Eligible for the $725M Settlement?
The settlement applies to any U.S. resident who had a Facebook account between May 24, 2007, and December 22, 2022. This includes users who may have deleted their accounts during that time.
If you submitted a claim before the August 25, 2023 deadline, you remain eligible for a payout. The claim submission window is now closed, but those who successfully applied should monitor the status of their payment.
How Much Could You Receive?
The exact payout depends on several factors:
- Number of Valid Claims: More than 28 million users submitted claims, with over 17 million already validated.
- Duration of Facebook Use: Payments are calculated using a point-based system, where claimants earn one point for each month they had an active Facebook account during the eligibility period.
While some estimates suggest the average payout may be around $35, actual amounts will vary depending on the total number of valid claims and administrative costs deducted from the settlement fund.
When Will the Payments Be Sent?
Although the settlement received final approval in October 2023, ongoing appeals have delayed the payout process. Legal experts predict the appeals may be resolved by mid-2025, but there’s no exact timeline for when checks or direct deposits will be sent.
Once the appeals are settled, payments will be distributed through various methods, including direct deposit, PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, or mailed checks—depending on the claimant’s chosen preference during the application process.
How to Stay Updated on Your Payment
Claimants should visit the official settlement website at facebookuserprivacysettlement.com for updates on the status of the settlement. It’s also important to ensure that your payment and contact information remain current to avoid delays.
Why This Settlement Matters
The $725 million settlement highlights the increasing scrutiny tech companies face regarding data privacy. The lawsuit accused Facebook of allowing third-party apps to access user information without proper consent, causing significant public backlash and legal consequences.
This settlement marks one of the largest payouts related to a privacy violation in U.S. history, signalling a shift toward holding tech giants accountable for how they handle personal data.
