Visa and Mastercard Users Will Receive $1797 Direct Payment: If you’ve used a Visa or Mastercard debit card at an ATM in the United States between October 1, 2007 and July 26, 2024, you could be eligible for a direct payment of up to $1797. This payout stems from one of the largest consumer financial settlements in recent U.S. history, following allegations of unlawful ATM fees charged by some of the country’s biggest banks. Whether you’re a casual card user or a business owner, this article will walk you through everything you need to know.
In a class-action lawsuit that recently made headlines across the financial world, Visa and Mastercard have agreed to pay a combined $197 million to settle claims they engaged in anti-competitive practices. Plaintiffs allege that the companies worked together with major U.S. banks to fix ATM access fees, which consumers and small businesses had no choice but to pay when using out-of-network ATMs. Though the companies deny wrongdoing, the settlement means real money in the pockets of those who qualify.
Visa and Mastercard Users Will Receive $1797 Direct Payment
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Settlement Amount | $197 million total (Visa: $104.6M, Mastercard: $92.8M) |
| Eligible Period | October 1, 2007 – July 26, 2024 |
| Eligible Transactions | ATM withdrawals using Visa/Mastercard debit cards in the U.S. |
| Who Can Claim | Individuals and businesses charged ATM access fees by participating banks |
| Payout Per Person | Up to $1,797 (estimated based on usage and fees paid) |
| Participating Banks | JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and others |
| Claim Website | Official Settlement Site |
| Deadline to File | Yet to be finalized by court but expected mid-2025 |
If you used a Visa or Mastercard debit card at any U.S. ATM between 2007 and 2024 and paid a surcharge fee, you may be entitled to a refund of up to $1797. This settlement is a major win for consumers and small businesses alike, holding financial giants accountable and putting money back where it belongs.
Take advantage of this opportunity by visiting the official settlement website and submitting your claim as soon as possible. Whether your payout is $100 or over $1,000, it’s your money—and you deserve to get it back.
Understanding the Visa and Mastercard ATM Fee Settlement
This case centers on allegations that Visa, Mastercard, and multiple large banks colluded to block competition and keep ATM access fees unfairly high. Under normal circumstances, when you use an ATM not affiliated with your bank, you often face an added surcharge fee. This fee is supposedly set by the ATM owner, but in this case, plaintiffs say the big networks unfairly controlled these fees by enforcing restrictive agreements.
The legal term used here is anti-competitive conduct. The lawsuit claims these practices violated U.S. antitrust laws, particularly the Sherman Act. While no one has admitted fault, the settlement amount reflects the seriousness of the issue.
Why This Matters for You
Whether you’re a student withdrawing cash once in a while or a business owner handling daily transactions, this issue likely affected you. Even if you’ve changed banks or canceled your debit card, you can still make a claim as long as you used a Visa or Mastercard debit card during the specified time frame at a U.S.-based ATM.
The estimated payout per person could be significant—up to $1797, depending on your transaction history and how many others file claims.
How to Claim Your $1797 Payment
Getting your share is a straightforward process, and you don’t need legal help to participate.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
To qualify, ensure the following:
- You used a Visa or Mastercard debit card at a U.S. ATM.
- The transaction occurred between October 1, 2007 and July 26, 2024.
- You paid an ATM surcharge fee during that time and didn’t already get a refund.
Step 2: Visit the Official Settlement Website
Head to www.atmfeeslitigation.com. This is the official and only trusted source. Be cautious of spammy websites or social media posts that claim to help you file a claim in exchange for money or personal information.
Step 3: Fill Out the Claim Form
You’ll need:
- Your full name and contact info.
- The name of the bank that issued your debit card (e.g., Wells Fargo, Chase).
- If possible, documentation such as old bank statements or ATM receipts.
Note: While documentation strengthens your case, it’s not always mandatory, especially for long-term customers with bank records on file.
Step 4: Choose Your Payment Method
Once your claim is validated, you can select how you want to receive your payout:
- Direct deposit
- Paper check
- Prepaid debit card
Your choice will not affect the payout amount but can impact how quickly you get your money.
Step 5: Watch for Updates
Because the court has not yet issued final approval, the process may take time. Sign up for updates on the official website to stay informed.
Who Are the Banks Involved?
Here are the main financial institutions that were part of the alleged fee collusion:
- JPMorgan Chase
- Bank of America
- Wells Fargo
- Citibank
- U.S. Bank
- PNC Bank
These banks either operated the ATMs or participated in the fee-structuring mechanisms that led to higher costs for consumers.
How Much Will You Actually Get?
The total payout per person depends on:
- The number of transactions you completed during the eligible period.
- The amount you were charged per transaction.
- The number of people who submit valid claims.
Let’s break down a real-life example: If you withdrew cash twice a month for five years from out-of-network ATMs, and each transaction had a $2.50 surcharge, you likely paid over $300 in unnecessary fees. This is the type of usage the lawsuit targets.
It’s important to note that if many people file claims, the average payout may decrease. But if fewer people take action, your share of the settlement could be much higher.
Timeline: When Will You Get Paid?
According to the settlement administrators, funds will begin to disburse after the court grants final approval, likely in late 2025. Historically, similar class-action suits take several months from the final ruling to process claims and release funds.
Be patient—but proactive. Keep an eye on the email address you register with and monitor the official website.
Practical Advice for Cardholders
Here are several things you can do now to prepare:
- Locate old statements: Check your email, banking apps, or paper records for past ATM fees.
- Use trusted sources: Only use www.atmfeeslitigation.com to submit your claim.
- Avoid third-party claims processors: They often charge fees or are scams.
- Spread the word: Inform your colleagues, friends, and family—especially older adults who may not be online often.
- Mark your calendar: Save the estimated claim deadline once it’s confirmed.
Will This Change ATM Fees in the Future?
It might. Legal experts say this settlement could pave the way for further scrutiny of ATM surcharges and other hidden banking fees. If more cases like this arise, banks may become more transparent about their charges.
Some banks may even preemptively lower fees to avoid future litigation. On the other hand, fintech firms and smaller banks might now see opportunities to compete more aggressively on lower-cost ATM access.
In any case, consumer awareness is growing, and this legal action sends a clear message: unfair fees won’t be tolerated.
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FAQs About Visa and Mastercard Users Will Receive $1797 Direct Payment
Q1: Can I still claim if I closed my bank account?
Yes! As long as you meet the eligibility criteria and can provide your name and previous bank details, you’re good to go.
Q2: I live outside the U.S. Can I claim?
Unfortunately, no. Only ATM transactions within the United States qualify for this settlement.
Q3: Is there a cost to file?
No. Filing a claim is 100% free. You do not need a lawyer or to pay anyone to help you.
Q4: Can I file a claim for my business account?
Yes, businesses that incurred ATM surcharge fees during the eligible period can file claims just like individuals.
Q5: How will I know if my claim is approved?
You’ll receive an email or letter from the settlement administrator confirming your status.
Q6: What if I lost my bank records?
You can still file a claim. If you can recall the bank name and approximate usage, that might be enough. Your bank may also provide archived statements upon request.
