Do I Need Proof of Purchase to File a Settlement Claim?

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Do I need proof of purchase to file a settlement claim?

The short answer to this question is: It depends on the class action settlement. Read the claim filing instructions carefully to find out whether or not you need to provide proof of purchase with your claim form.

Some class action settlements will not allow you to claim an award unless you provide proof such as a store receipt, product packaging or some other court-approved proof you purchased or used the product or service in question. However, many settlements do not require proof of purchase to participate.

Some settlements give you both options and allow you to choose whether you want to submit proof of purchase with your claim form. In these settlements, class members who provide proof of purchase will generally be entitled to a higher payout than those who do not provide proof they purchased the product.

Why should I submit proof if it is not required?

If you have retained your receipts or other documentation that you’ve purchased a product, you will likely be entitled to a higher recovery than you would be if you do not provide proof of purchase with your claim form. Some settlements offer full reimbursement of the price of the covered products if a class member provides proof of purchase.

Class members without proof of purchase typically receive benefits that are less valuable. They may be limited to a smaller payout or be offered only the option of receiving product vouchers instead of a cash payment. It is generally in a class member’s best interest to submit proof of purchase if possible.

What type of documentation can I submit?

The type of documentation required to show proof of purchase depends on the product or service at issue in the settlement.

Make sure you read the settlement notice and claim form carefully to know what forms of documentation will be accepted. Most commonly, an itemized receipt that shows you purchased the product, the date of purchase, how many you purchased and the price you paid will be sufficient.

Some settlement administrators will accept invoices, serial numbers or financial statements that show you purchased the product covered by the settlement. Most settlement notices are clear about what type of documentation is acceptable.

How can I find settlements that are accepting claims?

If you recently heard about a class action settlement that affects you, chances are Top Class Actions has covered it in our Open Settlements section.

We provide all of the information you need to know about the settlement, including links to the settlement website and claim form. We’ll also inform you about whether proof of purchase is required. We’ll keep following the settlement and post updates as they become available.

Related FAQ Articles:

Can I Be Legally Bound by a Class Action Settlement?

What Happens to Unclaimed Class Action Settlement Money?

What is an Open Settlement?

Why Was My Class Action Settlement Payout Smaller Than Expected?

What is a Settlement Administrator?

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