Checks tied to a $2.67 billion antitrust deal are finally landing in mailboxes—are you on the list?
Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) policyholders who filed a claim by November 5, 2021 are seeing an average $333 payout, closing a lawsuit that accused the insurer of squeezing competition and inflating premiums. After years of appeals, the first wave of checks and direct deposits is under way, and roughly $1.9 billion is earmarked for eligible businesses and individuals.
Why the Blue Cross Blue Shield settlement matters for former policyholders
Back in 2013, BCBS faced antitrust allegations for limiting market competition. The company never admitted wrongdoing, yet it agreed in 2020 to a mammoth settlement. Legal and administrative fees trimmed the pot, but there is still enough to give most successful claimants a modest refund. Who qualifies?
Anyone who held a BCBS health plan between February 7, 2008 and October 16, 2020 and submitted the online or paper claim form before the 2021 deadline. Missed out? Unfortunately, late claims are barred, so this distribution is strictly for those already in the system. Before you toss that white envelope, double‑check the timeline below. It shows why money is only now arriving:
| Key milestone | Date | What happened |
|---|---|---|
| Lawsuit filed | 2013 | Antitrust case begins |
| Settlement announced | Oct 2020 | BCBS agrees to pay $2.67 billion |
| Claim deadline | Nov 5 2021 | Last day to file participation form |
| Appeals concluded | Late 2023 | Courts clear final objections |
| Payments begin | Spring 2025 | Checks and ACH transfers roll out |
Waiting for your share? Keep an eye on bank statements through the summer; batches are processed weekly. The settlement administrator says most recipients will see around $333, but larger group plans could net more. Curious why your neighbor got a different amount? Payments are prorated by plan size and premium dollars paid during the class period.
How to protect your settlement check from scammers during distribution
Scammers thrive when money is in motion—don’t let them nab your refund. Follow these quick steps:
- Rely on the official BCBS settlement website only. Ignore unsolicited calls promising “expedited” payouts.
- Verify sender details. Legit emails come from info@BCBSsettlement.com; physical checks are issued by “Blue Cross Blue Shield Settlement Administrator.”
- Never share Social Security numbers or banking passwords. The administrator will not request them.
- Moved recently? Update your mailing address via the settlement portal rather than through random links.
Feeling unsure? Take a breath and ask: Does this message match the official contact information? When in doubt, delete it and navigate to the settlement site yourself.
Check, confirm, and cash without delay
The long‑running case is finally paying out, offering modest relief to policyholders who shouldered higher premium costs. Make sure your address and bank details are current, watch for the $333 (give or take) credit, and report any suspicious outreach immediately. After years of waiting, the finish line is in sight—just don’t let a fraudster steal your victory lap.