Citibank has reached a $29.5 million class-action settlement following allegations that it violated the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). The lawsuit claims Citibank made unauthorized robocalls to individuals who were not its customers, urging them to resolve overdue credit card accounts. These calls were allegedly made without prior consent, a violation of the TCPA.
Understanding the TCPA and Citibank’s Alleged Violation
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), enacted in 1991, protects consumers from unwanted telemarketing calls, robocalls, and spam messages. Under the TCPA, businesses are prohibited from using automated dialing systems to contact individuals without their explicit consent.
In this case, Citibank was accused of making unsolicited automated calls to non-customers, encouraging them to address past-due credit card balances. Plaintiffs alleged that these calls were made without prior authorization, thereby breaching the TCPA’s provisions.
Although Citibank has denied any wrongdoing, the company agreed to the settlement to avoid the costs and uncertainties of a trial.
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Who Is Eligible for the Settlement?
Individuals who received unauthorized robocalls from Citibank between August 15, 2014, and July 31, 2024, may be eligible to file a claim. Eligibility requirements include:
- Timeframe: Receiving an automated call during the specified period.
- Recipient Status: Not being a Citibank customer at the time of the call.
- Call Purpose: The call must have been related to overdue credit card accounts.
How Much Compensation Will Claimants Receive?
The settlement provides for payouts ranging from $350 to $850, depending on the number of valid claims filed. The final amount may vary based on how many eligible individuals come forward by the December 20, 2024, deadline.
How to File a Claim
Eligible individuals can follow these steps to submit a claim:
- Visit the Official Settlement Website: Access the claim form online.
- Provide Personal Information: Enter your name, phone number, and other required details.
- Submit Supporting Evidence: Include phone records or other documentation if needed.
- Review and Submit: Ensure all information is accurate before submission.
- Confirmation Notice: Expect a confirmation notice once your claim is submitted.
Claims must be submitted no later than December 20, 2024, to qualify for compensation.
What’s Next?
After the court grants final approval for the settlement, likely during a hearing on January 14, 2025, eligible claimants will receive their payments. The exact payout will depend on the total number of valid claims. If fewer claims are filed, compensation could reach the higher end of the estimated range, up to $850 per claimant.
To maximize the chances of receiving compensation, eligible individuals are encouraged to file their claims as early as possible.
For more information, visit the official Citibank TCPA settlement website.
