If you or your business paid for Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) health insurance anytime between 2008 and 2024, you may be eligible to receive part of a $2.67 billion class action settlement.
This massive agreement resolves claims that BCBS engaged in anti-competitive practices that led to inflated premiums and limited marketplace competition. Although BCBS denies any wrongdoing, the company agreed to settle to avoid prolonged litigation.
This guide breaks down what the lawsuit was about, who qualifies, how much you could receive, and how to file your claim before the April 17, 2025 deadline.
Background
The lawsuit accused Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) and its 30+ affiliated companies of:
- Dividing up geographic markets to avoid competing with each other
- Using their market dominance to keep insurance premiums higher than necessary
- Violating federal antitrust laws, particularly the Sherman Act
This created a situation where consumers and businesses allegedly paid more for health insurance and prescription drugs than they should have.
The case—Russo et al. v. Walgreen Co.—also targeted Walgreens, accusing it of inflating drug prices by not disclosing its Prescription Savings Club (PSC) prices when filing claims.
Despite denying the allegations, BCBS agreed to a $2.67 billion settlement to resolve the case.
Payout
Here’s the breakdown of how the money will be used:
Distribution Area | Amount |
---|---|
Payments to Class Members | Approx. $1.9 billion |
Attorney & Admin Fees | Approx. $770 million |
Your actual payout depends on:
- The type of BCBS plan (fully insured vs. self-funded)
- How long you were covered
- How many claims are submitted
Individual payouts may range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Eligibility
There are two categories of eligible claimants:
Fully Insured Class Members
- Individuals or businesses who bought a BCBS plan where BCBS took on the financial risk
- Must have paid premiums between February 7, 2008, and October 2024
Self-Funded Account Members
- Larger employers that used BCBS for administrative services only while paying their employees’ claims directly
- Must have contracted with BCBS between September 1, 2015, and October 16, 2020
Even if you no longer have coverage, you may still be eligible.
Deadlines
Event | Deadline |
---|---|
Exclusion & Objection Date | March 18, 2025 |
Claim Submission Deadline | April 17, 2025 |
Final Court Hearing | September 10, 2025 |
If you don’t file a claim or opt out, you’ll automatically be included and may still get a payment—but you must file to maximize your payout.
Claim
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
- Visit the Official Website
Go to: www.bcbssettlement.com - Check Eligibility
Use the tools on the site to see if you qualify as a fully insured or self-funded participant. - Fill Out the Claim Form
You can do this online or request a paper form. - Provide Documentation
Submit:- Proof of payment or BCBS coverage
- Employer records (for businesses)
- Policy statements or ID numbers (if available)
- Submit Before Deadline
All claims must be submitted by April 17, 2025.
Payout
Here’s what to expect:
Type of Policy | Estimated Payout |
---|---|
Individual Coverage | A few hundred dollars |
Small Business | Possibly several thousand |
Fully Insured Plan | Likely higher than self-funded |
The exact amount depends on how much you paid in premiums and the number of valid claims submitted.
Companies
This settlement covers all 30+ BCBS organizations, including:
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
- BCBS of Texas
- Empire Blue Cross
- Regence Blue Shield
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
- Highmark BCBS
- BCBS of Alabama
- Florida Blue
- Independence BCBS
- and many more
Legitimate?
Yes, this is a federally approved class action settlement, reviewed by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama. It includes oversight by an independent claims administrator.
It is important to avoid scams. Only submit your information through www.bcbssettlement.com. Do not respond to unsolicited emails or phone calls requesting sensitive personal or banking information.
Why It Matters
This case sends a strong message: anti-competitive behavior in healthcare will not be tolerated. BCBS’s market practices affected millions of individuals and businesses nationwide. Now, there is an opportunity to get money back, and the window to act is closing.
If you or your business had a BCBS policy between 2008 and 2024, don’t miss this chance to claim your share of $2.67 billion.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the BCBS settlement?
Anyone who paid for a BCBS policy from 2008 to 2024 may be eligible.
What’s the deadline to file a claim?
You must submit your claim by April 17, 2025.
Where do I file my claim?
Visit www.bcbssettlement.com to file your claim online.
How much money will I get?
It varies based on your plan type and coverage period—could be hundreds or more.
Is this a real settlement or a scam?
Yes, it’s real and court-approved. Only use the official website to file.