Digital transactions have made payments seamless, but behind the scenes, there’s a complex financial system run by companies like Visa and Mastercard. These giants control most of the card payment infrastructure used by millions of businesses. But from 2004 to 2019, many merchants alleged they were charged unfairly high transaction fees due to collusion between these companies and their member banks.
After years of legal battles, a massive class-action settlement is finally here. If your business accepted Visa or Mastercard payments during that time, you could be entitled to a share of the settlement payout—but only if you act on time.
Settlement
At the heart of this case is a group of claims that Visa and Mastercard intentionally fixed swipe fees—also called interchange fees—and worked together to keep costs high while restricting competition. Merchants say these fees hurt small and medium-sized businesses, which had little choice but to accept the charges or lose customers.
The case led to a class-action lawsuit and a 2025 settlement that could return billions to merchants.
Class
The official group that qualifies for the settlement is called the Rule 23(b)(3) Settlement Class. Here’s who it includes:
- All businesses and entities in the U.S. that accepted Visa or Mastercard branded cards between January 1, 2004, and January 25, 2019
But not everyone qualifies. Here’s who’s excluded:
| Not Eligible If You Are… | Reason |
|---|---|
| A dismissed plaintiff | Already settled separately with the companies |
| A government agency | Federal, state, or local governments are excluded |
| A Visa/Mastercard employee or relative | Conflict of interest rules |
| A card-issuing bank or processor | Directly involved in the network’s profit structure |
Not sure about your status? You can call 1-800-625-6440 or check the “Dismissed Plaintiffs” list on the official settlement site.
Action
If you’re a merchant who accepted credit or debit cards during the period, you must act now to claim your share. The court has already mailed notices to eligible merchants. If you got one, don’t ignore it.
You can choose to:
- File a claim
- Exclude yourself
- Object to the terms
- Do nothing (not recommended)
Remember, doing nothing may waive your right to receive compensation in the future.
Document
All the details you need are in the Superseding and Amended Definitive Class Settlement Agreement. This document outlines:
- Who’s eligible
- How payments will be calculated
- Where and how to file
- Your legal rights
You can request a copy by calling 1-800-625-6440 or download it from the official settlement website. In case of conflicting information, the Settlement Agreement takes priority over notices or website content.
Claim
To get your payment, eligibility alone isn’t enough—you must file a valid claim. The claim form will ask for details like:
- Business name
- Tax ID or EIN
- Years you accepted Visa/Mastercard payments
- Estimated sales volume (for some cases)
The claim portal will walk you through it, and you don’t need a lawyer. However, having your transaction records handy can help speed up the process and maximize your claim.
Deadline
Exact claim deadlines vary by court schedule but are time-sensitive. If you received a notice, follow the instructions before the listed deadline. If you haven’t yet received a notice but believe you’re eligible, you can still file proactively.
Once the claims are processed, payments will be distributed based on the sales volume and other factors. Businesses with higher transaction volumes may receive larger payouts.
Contact
If you have questions or need help:
- Phone: 1-800-625-6440
- Website: Visit the official Visa/Mastercard Settlement site for documents, claim forms, and updates
The Visa and Mastercard Settlement of 2025 is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for businesses to reclaim money lost over years of inflated fees. Whether you ran a family-owned diner or a chain of retail stores, if you took Visa or Mastercard cards between 2004 and 2019, it’s time to check your eligibility and file a claim.
Don’t miss out—this payout could bring well-deserved relief to your business. Claim your share while there’s still time.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the 2025 Visa/Mastercard payout?
Anyone who accepted Visa/Mastercard cards from Jan 2004 to Jan 2019.
Am I eligible if I no longer own the business?
Yes, as long as the business accepted cards during the qualifying period.
Where do I file my claim?
Visit the official settlement website or call 1-800-625-6440.
Do I need receipts or records?
Not always, but having transaction history can help increase your claim.
What happens if I do nothing?
You may lose your right to compensation forever.
