UPDATE: Amazon has initiated automatic refunds to millions of Prime subscribers following a groundbreaking $2.5 billion settlement with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This urgent development comes as the FTC confirmed that refunds will begin rolling out on November 12, 2023, and continue through December 24, 2023.
The refunds are a result of a lawsuit alleging that Amazon enrolled customers in Prime subscriptions without proper consent and complicated the cancellation process. The settlement, finalized under the Trump-Vance FTC, mandates Amazon to pay $1.5 billion in customer refunds and a $1 billion civil penalty, alongside halting its controversial enrollment and cancellation practices.
Eligible Prime members could receive up to $51 in refunds. The initial stage of refunds will be distributed automatically through PayPal or Venmo. Customers who prefer receiving their refunds via check can ignore the digital payment option and a check will be mailed to their default shipping address. It is crucial to note that refunds sent by check must be cashed within 60 days.
A second refund stage is anticipated in 2026, allowing customers who did not receive an automatic refund to submit claims. The FTC emphasized the importance of vigilance against potential scams, warning consumers that officials will not contact them demanding payment or offering special access to refunds. Any suspicious communication should be reported immediately.
Eligible customers include U.S. Prime subscribers who signed up through specific “challenged enrollment flows” between June 23, 2019, and June 23, 2023, and who utilized no more than three Prime benefits within 12 months of their enrollment.
For further updates, customers can visit www.SubscriptionMembershipSettlement.com or bookmark ftc.gov/Amazon for real-time information.
This monumental refund initiative is expected to significantly impact millions of consumers, making it imperative for eligible members to stay informed and ensure they claim their rightful refunds. Don’t miss out on this vital opportunity!
