If you were affected by the T-Mobile data breach back in August 2021, you could be owed money. The good news? A $350 million settlement fund has been set aside just for customers like you. And yes, claiming your payout is actually pretty simple—if you know what to do and when to do it.
This guide walks you through eligibility, key deadlines, and the exact steps to get your share of the settlement or opt for free credit monitoring. Let’s look in.
Overview
In August 2021, T-Mobile announced a major data breach that impacted around 76 million current and former customers. Sensitive personal information like names, Social Security numbers, phone numbers, and even driver’s license data was exposed. That sparked lawsuits, and now, a class action settlement has been approved.
If you were affected, you can claim:
- Up to $25 cash payment
- More money if you can prove out-of-pocket expenses (up to $25,000)
- Or two years of free credit monitoring and identity theft protection
Here’s a quick breakdown of the settlement:
Details | Information |
---|---|
Total Fund | $350 million |
Eligible Customers | 76 million (affected by August 2021 breach) |
Claim Deadline | April 29, 2025 |
Cash Payment | Up to $25 (or more with proof of losses) |
Credit Monitoring Option | Two years free monitoring + identity theft support |
Application Methods | Online or mail-in |
Payment Methods | Check, PayPal, Venmo, direct deposit, prepaid card |
Required Info | Name, address, Claim ID (if available), documents |
Background
The breach was one of the largest in U.S. telecom history. T-Mobile customers were understandably concerned about identity theft. As part of resolving the class action, the company agreed to the payout and to offer long-term protective services.
Even if you didn’t suffer any clear damages, you’re still eligible for compensation if your data was compromised.
Eligibility
If you got a notice from T-Mobile about the breach, you’re almost certainly eligible. Didn’t get one? No worries—you can check your eligibility on the official settlement site by entering your name and address.
If you experienced financial loss due to fraud or spent money on identity protection, you can claim more than the base payout. Just be sure to have your receipts and documentation ready.
Dates
Here are the critical dates you need to remember:
Event | Date |
---|---|
Claim Deadline | April 29, 2025 |
Objection/Exclusion Deadline | April 1, 2025 |
Final Approval Hearing | May 15, 2025 |
Estimated Payout | Late 2025 |
Don’t wait until the last minute—submit early to avoid last-minute glitches.
Process
Go to the official T-Mobile Settlement website. You can use your Claim ID (from the notice) or search by name and address.
Choose Your Benefit
You can pick between:
- Cash payment up to $25
- Higher payout if you submit proof of expenses
- Free credit monitoring for two years
Fill Out the Form
You’ll need to:
- Provide your name, address, and contact details
- Include your Claim ID (if you have one)
- Select a benefit
- Attach any supporting documents
Pick Your Payment Option
Choose what works best for you:
- Check
- Direct deposit
- PayPal
- Venmo
- Prepaid card
Submit Before April 29, 2025
Don’t miss the deadline. After that, the window closes for good.
Tips
- Triple-check your form for typos
- Save copies of everything you submit
- Bookmark the settlement site and check for updates
Real Example
Sarah, a T-Mobile customer, noticed fraud charges after the breach. She collected receipts and submitted proof with her claim. Instead of the basic $25, she got a $500 reimbursement. If you’ve had similar expenses, don’t sell yourself short—go for the full amount you’re entitled to.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the payout?
Anyone affected by the August 2021 T-Mobile data breach.
What is the deadline to file?
Submit your claim by April 29, 2025.
How much can I get?
Up to $25 or more with proof of losses.
Can I claim without a Claim ID?
Yes, use your name and address to check eligibility.
What are the payment options?
Check, direct deposit, PayPal, Venmo, or prepaid card.