Wells Fargo is facing a $19.5 million class action settlement over allegations of illegally recording phone calls without consent, violating California privacy laws. If you or your business received calls from The Credit Wholesale Co. Inc. between October 22, 2014, and November 17, 2023, you may be eligible for a cash payment of up to $5,000.
Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, payout amounts, deadlines, and how to file your claim.
Contents
What Is the Wells Fargo Call Recording Settlement About?
The lawsuit claims that Wells Fargo, Priority Technology Holdings Inc., and The Credit Wholesale Co. Inc. recorded calls with California residents and businesses without their explicit consent, violating the California Invasion of Privacy Act (CIPA).
Key Allegations:
- Calls were recorded without the recipient’s knowledge or consent.
- Phone conversations are considered confidential under California law.
- Wells Fargo and its partners allegedly failed to disclose call recordings upfront.
Who Was Involved?
- Wells Fargo Bank N.A.
- Priority Technology Holdings Inc.
- The Credit Wholesale Co. Inc. (sales company making the calls)
While Wells Fargo and the other defendants deny any wrongdoing, they have agreed to a $19.5 million settlement to resolve the claims.
How Much Can You Claim?
As per the settlement terms, each eligible class member can receive $86 per call. If you received multiple calls, you may qualify for a maximum payout of $5,000.
| Number of Calls Received | Estimated Payment |
|---|---|
| 1 call | $86 |
| 10 calls | $860 |
| 20+ calls | Up to $5,000 |
Eligibility: Who Can File a Claim?
To qualify for a cash payment, you must meet the following requirements:
You or your business received a call from The Credit Wholesale Co. Inc. between October 22, 2014, and November 17, 2023.
You were located in California at the time of the call.
You did not give consent for the call to be recorded.
You’ll need to provide:
- Your phone number or business name used during the calls.
- Claim ID and PIN Code (if you received a settlement notice).
If your payment exceeds $600, you must submit a W-9 tax form with your claim.
How to File a Claim for the Wells Fargo Settlement
Step 1: Visit the Settlement Website
- Go to the official settlement website (to be provided in your settlement notice).
Step 2: Complete the Claim Form
- Provide your phone number or business name.
- If you received a settlement notice, enter your Claim ID and PIN Code.
Step 3: Submit Your Claim Before April 11, 2025
- Claims must be submitted online or via mail before the deadline.
- If your payout is over $600, include a W-9 tax form.
Key Deadlines & Payment Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Objection & Exclusion Deadline | April 4, 2025 |
| Claim Submission Deadline | April 11, 2025 |
| Final Approval Hearing | May 20, 2025 |
| Payment Distribution Begins | Around July 2025 (52 days after court approval) |
After the final approval hearing on May 20, 2025, payments will be issued about 52 days later, meaning eligible claimants can expect their checks around July 2025.
Additional Settlement Terms
In addition to the $19.5 million settlement payout, The Credit Wholesale Co. Inc. has agreed to stop recording appointment-setting calls with California businesses without proper disclosure.
Breakdown of the Settlement Fund:
- Attorney Fees & Legal Costs: Up to $6.5 million
- Settlement Notices & Administration Costs: Capped at $200,000
- Class Representative Incentive Awards: $7,500 each
- Remaining funds distributed to class members
FAQs
1. How do I know if I qualify for the Wells Fargo settlement?
If you received a phone call from The Credit Wholesale Co. Inc. between 2014 and 2023 while in California, you may be eligible for a cash payment.
2. How much will I receive?
You can receive $86 per call, up to $5,000 total, depending on the number of calls you received.
3. How do I file a claim?
Visit the official settlement website, provide your phone number or business name, and submit the claim form before April 11, 2025.
4. When will I receive my payment?
Payments are expected to be sent around July 2025, after the final court approval in May 2025.
5. What if my payment exceeds $600?
You must submit a W-9 tax form with your claim if your payout exceeds $600.
