Wells Fargo customers in California may be in line for a significant payout following a newly finalized class-action settlement worth $19.5 million. The case revolves around allegations that calls made by a third-party vendor, The Credit Wholesale Co. Inc., on behalf of Wells Fargo, were recorded without proper consent—an alleged violation of the California Invasion of Privacy Act (CIPA). While the companies deny any wrongdoing, they’ve agreed to the settlement to avoid extended litigation.
What the Settlement Covers
The lawsuit claims that between October 22, 2014, and November 17, 2023, The Credit Wholesale Co. Inc. made calls to California residents and businesses without informing them they were being recorded. Under CIPA, such an action could constitute a violation of privacy rights, as California law requires both parties to consent to any recorded conversation.
Who Is Eligible?
If you lived in California and received calls from The Credit Wholesale Co. Inc. within the stated timeframe, you could qualify for compensation. This applies to both individuals and businesses.
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Residency | Must have lived in California during the calls |
| Timeframe | Between October 22, 2014 – November 17, 2023 |
| Type of Calls | Calls made by The Credit Wholesale Co. Inc. |
| Consent Issue | Calls recorded without proper notification |
How Much Can You Get?
Each call that was allegedly recorded without your consent could be worth approximately $86. However, if fewer people file claims, individual payouts could increase significantly—up to $5,000 per person.
How to File a Claim
One of the most convenient aspects of this settlement is the simplicity of the claims process. To file, you only need to provide the phone number that received the calls—no additional documentation is required.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Go to the official settlement website or Top Class Actions |
| Step 2 | Submit your phone number |
| Step 3 | Complete and submit your claim before the deadline |
| Deadline | April 11, 2025 |
| Final Approval Hearing | May 20, 2025 |
Make sure your claim is filed before the April deadline, as late submissions won’t be accepted.
Why This Case Matters
This lawsuit shines a spotlight on consumer privacy rights—especially in California, a state known for its strong privacy protections. The case is a reminder that companies must be transparent when handling sensitive communications, and consumers have the legal right to know when they’re being recorded.
With class-action settlements like this, the goal is not only to compensate affected individuals but also to hold companies accountable and deter future privacy violations.
If you believe you received such calls, it’s worth taking a few minutes to file your claim. Even a single recorded call could qualify you for compensation.
FAQs:
What if I’m not sure whether I received one of the calls?
If you lived in California during the specified timeframe and recall receiving debt collection or financial service-related calls, it’s worth checking the settlement site. You only need to enter your phone number to verify.
Is there any risk in submitting a claim?
No, there is no risk. Filing a claim is free, and you’re not required to provide sensitive personal or financial information.
How will I receive the payment?
You can typically choose between a mailed check or direct deposit, depending on the options provided during the claim process.
