Blue Cross Blue Shield will soon begin distributing $2.67 billion in settlement payments to customers following a years-long antitrust lawsuit.
The litigation, initiated in 2013, involved a class-action lawsuit filed against over 35 Blue Cross Blue Shield health insurance plans. The lawsuit alleged the company violated antitrust laws by restricting market competition, leading to higher premiums and fewer consumer choices.
While Blue Cross Blue Shield has consistently denied these claims, the case was ultimately settled without a final verdict. Representatives from Blue Cross Blue Shield did not immediately respond to USA TODAY’s request for comment.
This article provides key information on the settlement payments, including eligibility requirements, expected payment amounts, and the timeline for distribution.
Who is Eligible for a Blue Cross Blue Shield Settlement Payment?
Eligible customers were required to file a claim by November 5, 2021. Those who did not meet this deadline will not receive a payment.
Individuals covered by Blue Cross Blue Shield between February 2008 and October 2020 may have been eligible. The settlement encompasses two classes: Individual and Insured Group, and Self-Funded Account.
- Individuals and Insured Groups: Customers between February 7, 2008, and October 16, 2020, may have qualified.
- Self-Funded Accounts: Customers between September 1, 2015, and October 16, 2020, may have been eligible.
How Much Are the Settlement Payments?
Approximately six million claims were filed by the November 2021 deadline. Payments are estimated to be around $333 per claim.
Although Blue Cross Blue Shield established a $2.67 billion settlement fund, only $1.9 billion remains available for distribution after covering attorney fees, administrative expenses, and other associated costs, according to the Blue Cross Blue Shield Settlement website.
When Will Settlement Payments Be Issued?
Notification emails are being sent to customers on a “rolling basis,” as stated on the Blue Cross Blue Shield Settlement website.
This is the Blue Cross Blue Shield logo.
Contributing: Presley Bo Tyler, Shreveport Times and David Bruce, Erie Times-News
Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Follow her on X and Instagram @gretalcross. Story idea? Email her at [email protected].
