Visa, Mastercard Non-Bank ATM Surcharge Settlement
Case Overview
Visa and Mastercard, which operate as payment networks for debit and credit card transactions, agreed to pay a combined $167.5 million to settle claims. The allegations centered on the companies violating federal and state antitrust laws by preventing independent ATM operators from charging varying access fees depending on the network used for the transaction, which allegedly forced consumers to pay higher fees than necessary.
The specific claims involved the prohibition on independent ATM operators from charging different access fees based on the processing network. As a result of these alleged violations of federal and state antitrust laws, consumers were reportedly overcharged for cash withdrawals at independent ATMs. Visa agreed to pay $88,775,000, and Mastercard agreed to pay $78,725,000.
Class members can receive a portion of the net settlement fund proportional to the number of qualifying surcharged transactions they submit. To participate, individuals must submit a valid claim form by February 10, 2027, as the deadline for exclusion and objection is December 11, 2026. The final approval hearing is set for February 17, 2027.
Who May Qualify
Individuals who were charged an access fee for a cash withdrawal at an independent ATM between October 24, 2007, and August 14, 2026, and were not fully reimbursed by their bank. Separate state-wide classes exist for California, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Michigan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for this settlement?
The settlement benefits individuals who incurred an access fee when withdrawing cash from an independent ATM between October 24, 2007, and August 14, 2026, provided they were not fully reimbursed by their bank. Specific state classes include California, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Michigan.
What is the total settlement amount?
Visa and Mastercard agreed to a combined class action settlement totaling $167.5 million. Visa's portion was $88,775,000, and Mastercard's portion was $78,725,000.
What are the key dates for filing a claim?
The deadline for class members to submit a valid claim form is February 10, 2027. Additionally, the deadline for exclusion and objection is December 11, 2026, and the final approval hearing is scheduled for February 17, 2027.
Related Cases
$117M Pork Price-Fixing Class Action Settlement
$275M Sandoz and Fougera Antitrust Class Action Settlement