Americans can receive one-time payment from $5.5 million overcharge settlement – and you don’t need any proof

YOU might be able to claim some cash from a $5.5 million wine and spirits settlement.

You don't need to do anything to get your part of the payment.

This lawsuit, initiated by Wiseman Park, LLC ("Plaintiff"), alleges that Southern Wine and Spirits charged excessive late fees on purchasing wine, beer, or liquor, per the settlement website.

The plaintiff seeks reimbursement for late fees exceeding 1% per month during the class period.

The settlement website also says that the liquor business has agreed to write off fees worth $44.1 million.

They also aim to modify contracts to prevent future overcharges.

July 25, 2024, is the deadline to file an objection or opt out (for those who received their notice after June 25, 2024).

The final approval hearing takes place on October 15, 2024, at 10 a.m. Pacific time.

Each affected customer who has not opted out is slated to receive approximately $10 from the settlement.

TO CLAIM OR NOT TO CLAIM

You have three options from this settlement:

• Do nothing
• Opt-out
• Object

By doing nothing, qualifying consumers will automatically participate in the proposed settlement.

You may receive reimbursement for any excessive late fees paid and have unpaid late fees written off.

To opt out of the class settlement, you must submit a written Request for Exclusion by July 25, 2024.

There is also the option to notify the administrator in writing by the same date.

You will also not receive any payment but retain the right to personally pursue a claim against Southern.

Finally, you must submit written objections by July 25, 2024, if you have concerns about any aspect of the proposed settlement.

What's a class-action settlement?

Class action lawsuits offer groups of people, or 'classes,' a way to band together in court.

These suits are often brought by one or a few people who allege a company or other entity has wronged a large group of people.

When a suit becomes a class action, it extends to all "class members," or people who may have similar complaints to those who filed the suit.

Companies often settle class actions - offering payment to class members who typically waive their right to pursue further legal action by accepting money.

These payout agreements frequently include statements by the defendant denying wrongdoing. Companies tend to settle class actions to avoid the costs of further litigation.

Pollution, discrimination, or false advertising are a few examples of what can land a class action on a company's doorstep.

You can also object to the amount requested by class counsel and the Plaintiff if you believe it is unreasonable.

In addition, you have the right to attend the Final Approval Hearing in person, by telephone, or through the Court’s virtual platform.

While attendance is not mandatory, you can choose to appear and verbally object to the settlement.

This class action lawsuit affects your legal rights whether or not you act, according to the settlement website.

Meanwhile, Americans may be eligible to score cash from a $1.853 million settlement.

And a grocery store settlement might leave some customers wondering if they missed out on their $200 windfall.