If you have ever received a pre-recorded voice message on your mobile phone that was meant for someone else, you might be entitled to financial compensation under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). This federal law allows eligible consumers to claim between $500 and $1,500 per illegal call.
What is TCPA?
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act, passed in 1991, aims to protect consumers from unwanted robocalls and pre-recorded voice messages without prior consent. These calls can come from banks, telemarketers, insurance companies, or debt collectors.
A violation occurs when a company makes automated or recorded calls to your cell phone without permission.
Wrong-Number Robocalls Become Violations
Sometimes a phone number is reassigned to a new owner, but companies continue calling it for the previous customer. For example, if a company has a number saved for “Maria” and it now belongs to “David,” sending an automated call to David could be a TCPA violation.
Such calls can cause inconvenience, mental distress, and a breach of privacy.
Paid Settlements
Major companies like Wells Fargo, Navient Solutions, Cox Communications, Convergent Outsourcing, JPMorgan Chase Bank, Synchrony Bank, and Adobe have faced large class action lawsuits for TCPA violations, paying millions in compensation to affected consumers.
Eligibility for a Claim
You may qualify if:
- The call was recorded or made by an automated system
- It was sent to your cell phone
- The message was intended for someone else
- You never gave consent to receive such calls
Compensation Amounts
Under the TCPA:
- Minimum: $500 per illegal call or message
- Maximum: $1,500 per call if intentional violation is proven
For example, 10 such calls could mean $5,000 to $15,000 in potential compensation.
How to File a Claim
You can work with a law firm experienced in TCPA claims. Be prepared to provide:
- Date and time of the call
- Call recording (if available)
- Caller details such as phone number or company name
- Proof that the phone number belongs to you
Many firms collect information via online claim forms and file a class action on behalf of multiple claimants.
Why You Should Take Action
Repeated wrong-number robocalls are not just minor annoyances—they are violations of your consumer rights. Filing a claim can stop the harassment and hold companies accountable.
FAQs
What is TCPA compensation per call?
Between $500 and $1,500 depending on intent.
Do I qualify for a TCPA claim?
If you received automated wrong-number calls without consent.
What proof do I need?
Call dates, recordings, caller info, and phone ownership proof.
Can multiple calls increase payout?
Yes, each illegal call is a separate violation.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not required, but TCPA-specialized lawyers can help maximize claims.