If you have received unsolicited faxes from EAB Global, Inc., you may be eligible for a cash payment as part of a recent class action settlement. This legal agreement aims to resolve allegations that the company violated federal laws regarding junk faxes. Many individuals and businesses are currently searching for clear instructions on how to participate in this settlement and secure their portion of the fund.
Navigating class action lawsuits can often feel overwhelming due to complex legal jargon and strict deadlines. However, the process for this specific settlement is designed to be straightforward for those affected. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the settlement, who qualifies for a payment, and the exact steps you need to take to file your claim successfully.
Understanding the EAB Settlement
The settlement stems from a lawsuit alleging that EAB Global, Inc. violated the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). The plaintiffs in the case claimed that the company sent unsolicited advertisements via fax without the recipients’ prior express invitation or permission. Furthermore, the faxes allegedly failed to include a proper opt-out notice, which is required by federal law.
The TCPA was established to protect consumers and businesses from the costs and nuisances associated with unsolicited communications. In the case of faxes, these costs include paper, toner, and the occupation of the recipient’s phone line. By reaching this settlement, the company denies any wrongdoing but has agreed to create a settlement fund to avoid the expense and uncertainty of further litigation.
What is the Telephone Consumer Protection Act?
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act is a federal law passed in 1991. It restricts telemarketing calls, the use of automatic dialing systems, and the sending of unsolicited faxes. Under this act, businesses must have a specific relationship with the recipient or prior consent before sending advertisements via fax machine.
When a company sends a fax that does not comply with these rules, recipients have the right to seek damages. Class action settlements like this one allow thousands of individuals to join together to hold companies accountable for these high-volume automated communications.
Are You Eligible for a Payment?
To receive a payment from the settlement fund, you must be a member of the “Settlement Class.” Eligibility is generally determined by whether your fax number received a specific type of communication from EAB Global during a defined period. If you are unsure whether you qualify, reviewing the specific criteria is the first step.
Generally, you are considered a class member if you were sent one or more faxes by or on behalf of EAB Global, Inc. that promoted the commercial availability or quality of any property, goods, or services. These faxes must have been sent within the timeframe specified in the legal documents, which typically spans several years leading up to the settlement agreement.
How to Verify Your Status
Many eligible class members received a notice via mail or email. This notice often contains a unique “Claim Identifier” or “Notice ID.” This code is essential because it links your specific fax number or business entity to the records provided during the discovery phase of the lawsuit.
If you did not receive a notice but believe you received an unsolicited fax from this company, you can still attempt to file a claim. You may need to provide documentation, such as a copy of the fax or records from your service provider, to prove that you were a recipient during the eligible period.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Your Claim
Filing a claim is the only way to receive a cash payment from the settlement. If you do nothing, you will not receive any money, and you will give up your right to sue the company separately for these specific claims in the future. Follow these steps to ensure your claim is processed correctly.
Step 1: Locate Your Notice ID
Check your records for any official legal notices regarding this class action. If you have a Notice ID or Claim ID, keep it handy, as it will significantly speed up the online filing process. If you do not have one, you will need to provide your contact information and fax number manually.
Step 2: Access the Official Settlement Portal
The settlement is managed by an independent third-party administrator. You should visit the official settlement website established for this case. This portal is the most secure and efficient way to submit your information. Avoid using third-party sites that ask for a fee to file your claim; legitimate settlement administrators never charge class members to file.
Step 3: Complete the Claim Form
The claim form will ask for basic information, including your name, mailing address, and the fax number that received the communication. You will also be asked to certify, under penalty of perjury, that the information you are providing is true and that you are the rightful owner of the fax number in question.
Step 4: Choose Your Payment Method
Most modern settlements offer multiple ways to receive your funds. You may be able to choose between a physical check sent via mail or a digital payment through services like PayPal, Venmo, or a digital Mastercard. Ensure your contact information is accurate to avoid delays in receiving your payment.
Step 5: Submit and Save Your Confirmation
After submitting the form, you should receive a confirmation number. Save this number for your records. It serves as proof that you filed your claim before the deadline and will be necessary if you need to contact the administrator regarding the status of your payment later.
Important Deadlines to Remember
Class action settlements are governed by strict timelines set by the court. Missing a deadline can result in the loss of your right to claim money or your right to object to the settlement terms. There are three primary dates you should be aware of when dealing with this case.
- Claim Filing Deadline: This is the last day to submit your claim form. Claims submitted after this date are typically rejected.
- Exclusion Deadline: If you wish to keep your right to sue the company individually, you must “opt out” or exclude yourself by this date.
- Objection Deadline: If you disagree with the settlement terms or the amount of attorney fees, you must file a formal objection with the court by this date.
The exact dates vary based on the court’s schedule. You can find the current deadlines on the official settlement portal. It is always best to file your claim as early as possible to ensure it is included in the final processing.
How Much Money Can You Expect?
The amount each class member receives depends on several factors, including the total amount of the settlement fund and the number of valid claims filed. Because the fund is shared among all participating class members, a higher number of claims will result in a smaller individual payout. Conversely, if fewer people file, the individual payments may be larger.
In many TCPA settlements, payments can range from a few dollars to over a hundred dollars per fax received. However, the final amount will not be determined until all claims are processed and the court grants final approval to the settlement. Payments are usually distributed several months after the final approval hearing.
What Happens After You File?
Once you submit your claim, the settlement administrator will review it for validity. This process involves checking the information against the company’s records and ensuring there are no duplicate claims. This review period can take several months, especially in cases with a large number of class members.
After the claim period ends, the court will hold a “Final Fairness Hearing.” During this hearing, the judge will decide whether the settlement is fair, reasonable, and adequate. If the court approves the settlement and there are no appeals, the administrator will begin the process of distributing the funds to everyone who filed a valid claim.
Conclusion
The EAB class action settlement provides a meaningful opportunity for those affected by unsolicited faxes to receive compensation. By following the steps outlined above and submitting your claim before the deadline, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive your fair share of the settlement fund. Remember to stay organized and keep a record of your submission for future reference.
If you found this guide helpful, you may want to explore our other articles on current class action settlements and consumer rights. Staying informed is the best way to protect yourself and ensure you don’t miss out on the benefits you are entitled to under the law.