Major Settlement Proposed in Class Action for Non-Bank ATM Users Collecting Fees

A Proposed Settlement for Non-Bank ATM Users

In a significant legal development, Finkelstein Thompson LLP and Lovell Stewart Halebian Jacobson LLP have announced a proposed settlement in a class action lawsuit that could affect many individuals who have withdrawn cash from non-bank ATMs. This lawsuit, which spans from October 24, 2007, to August 14, 2026, addresses the issue of surcharges that consumers may have incurred while using these ATMs.

The proposed settlement totals $167.5 million, a noteworthy amount that signals the serious nature of the allegations against major credit companies.

The principal focus of the lawsuit involves Visa Inc. and Mastercard, where the plaintiffs claim that these companies established operating rules that prevented independent ATM operators from charging different amounts for ATM surcharges. This situation effectively forced consumers to pay higher fees than they should have experienced, violating antitrust laws.

Visa and Mastercard deny all allegations of wrongdoing, asserting that their practices complied with all applicable laws. Under this proposed settlement, Visa will contribute $88,775,000, while Mastercard will pay $78,725,000 to the settlement fund. The fund will be used to pay legal fees and administrative costs before distributing funds to affected individuals who file valid claims.

Who is Eligible?

Consumers in the United States who have withdrawn cash from independent ATMs during the designated time frame and were charged an additional fee may be eligible for compensation. It’s important to note that this applies specifically to those who used a debit card requiring a personal identification number (PIN) and were not fully reimbursed by their banks for the surcharges incurred.

In addition, consumers in specific states such as California, Illinois, Massachusetts, or Michigan may have rights related to state-level class actions.

Individuals potentially affected by the proposed settlement are encouraged to check their eligibility and learn more about how to file a claim. The deadline for claim submissions is February 10, 2027.

Rights and Next Steps

Individuals wishing to maintain the right to pursue separate legal action against Visa and Mastercard must opt-out of the class action by December 11, 2026. Failing to do so allows them to remain part of the class and provides them with the option to comment on or contest the settlement.

Moreover, a hearing is set for February 17, 2027, during which a judge will review the proposed settlement and determine whether to approve it. All affected individuals have rights in relation to this settlement, and they are encouraged to communicate with the designated legal representatives with questions or claims.

For more information, interested parties can contact the settlement administrator at 1-866-893-1052 or visit www.NonbankATMSurchargeSettlement.com to access essential documents and details regarding the claims process.

This ongoing situation serves as an important reminder of the rights consumers hold in financial transactions, particularly concerning transparency in fees associated with cash withdrawal services.