atmclassaction com
Did You Use an Out-of-Network ATM Since 2007? You Might Be Owed Money from This $197.5 Million Settlement
Here’s the deal. If you used a U.S. ATM and got hit with one of those annoying access fees, there's a chance you’re owed money. This isn’t a scam. It’s part of a real antitrust settlement against Visa and Mastercard, and the official site handling claims is ATMClassAction.com.
What’s Behind the ATM Class Action Lawsuit?
This class action didn’t come out of nowhere. It goes back to a long-standing complaint: ATM users have been charged inflated access fees when using machines outside their bank network. Sounds normal, right? Except here’s the twist — Visa and Mastercard allegedly made it that way on purpose.
The lawsuit claims both companies enforced anti-competitive rules that stopped ATM operators from offering lower fees through competing networks. Basically, even if an ATM owner wanted to charge you less, the card networks wouldn’t allow it. It’s like setting the rules of the game so no one can offer discounts — and then calling it a “free market.”
These rules, called “non-discrimination provisions,” allegedly locked ATM operators into using Visa or Mastercard’s network and barred them from charging less on cheaper alternatives.
That’s the core of the case: Visa and Mastercard allegedly made sure competition couldn’t lower ATM fees, which hurt consumers like you.
How Big Is This Settlement?
The numbers are serious. After years in court, Visa and Mastercard agreed to settle for $197.5 million. This is on top of a previous $66.74 million settlement from big banks like Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, and Wells Fargo.
Combined, we’re talking over $260 million in total settlement funds aimed at reimbursing people and businesses who paid these surcharges.
And this isn’t just about a single year. The relevant timeframe is from October 1, 2007 through July 26, 2024. That’s 17 years’ worth of ATM fees — which adds up fast.
Who’s Eligible?
If you used a U.S.-issued debit or ATM card to withdraw money from a non-bank ATM in the U.S. during that 17-year window, you might qualify. It doesn’t matter which bank you used — what matters is that you paid an ATM “access fee” or “surcharge” that wasn’t reimbursed.
Think of situations like:
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Withdrawing $40 from an ATM at a convenience store or airport.
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Paying $2.50–$3.50 on top of the withdrawal just for the privilege of using the machine.
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Not getting that fee reimbursed by your bank (some premium accounts offer reimbursements — those don't count).
If that happened to you even once between 2007 and 2024, you’re likely part of the settlement class.
Where Do You File a Claim?
ATMClassAction.com is the official, court-authorized website. It’s not a random third-party ad site — this is where the administrators process everything: claims, notices, updates, FAQs, court documents.
If you already received payment from the earlier bank settlement, you're automatically in line for this second round — no new claim needed unless you have additional ATM surcharge instances since then.
For new claims, the online filing window has closed. But a paper form can still be mailed in. Claim forms and instructions are available on the site, and there’s an address to mail them to:
ATM Surcharge Settlement
P.O. Box 170500
Milwaukee, WI 53217
The claim form doesn’t demand your full transaction history — you just need to swear that you paid at least one surcharge during the timeframe. But be honest. It’s a legal declaration under oath.
How Much Can You Get?
There’s no flat payout per person. Your payment depends on:
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How many people submit valid claims
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How many surcharges you paid
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How much is left after administrative fees and legal costs
The more out-of-network ATM fees you’ve paid, the higher your potential cut. But this isn’t a lottery jackpot. It’s a reimbursement-style payout — enough to compensate, not enrich.
The court approved $49.4 million in legal fees, which is around 25% of the settlement fund — slightly less than the usual 30% cap. The remaining funds go to eligible claimants.
Why Does This Matter?
This case sets an important precedent. Payment networks like Visa and Mastercard hold immense power over the infrastructure of everyday banking. When their rules squash competition — intentionally or not — consumers end up paying the price.
The FTC and antitrust regulators have looked at similar fee-related structures in the past. According to a 2023 report by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the average out-of-network ATM surcharge was $4.73, up from $1.97 in 1998 — more than 140% increase in real terms. That’s a steep climb, especially when tied to anti-competitive practices.
So this class action is more than about nickels and dimes. It’s about preventing unfair profit structures hidden in plain sight.
What Happens Next?
Final court approval for the Visa/Mastercard settlement came in June 2025. Now, the claims administrator will verify forms, reject duplicates or errors, and issue payments — likely via check or direct deposit depending on the method you selected.
There's no firm payout date listed on the site, but historically, payouts in these cases take 6–12 months after final approval. It’s not instant money, but it’s coming.
Watch ATMClassAction.com for timeline updates.
FAQ
Is ATMClassAction.com legit?
Yes. It’s the official site tied to a court-approved settlement. No sketchy ads. No credit card required. It’s run by the court-appointed administrator.
What if I missed the online deadline?
You can still submit a paper claim if you meet the eligibility window. Instructions are clearly laid out on the site.
Do I need receipts or bank statements?
No. Not when filing. But if your claim is flagged, you might be asked for supporting documentation. Don’t make stuff up.
What fees count?
Only ATM access fees (the surcharge you see on-screen before you approve the withdrawal). Other bank fees — like monthly account fees — don’t qualify.
Will this affect my relationship with my bank?
Not at all. This case is about Visa and Mastercard’s rules. Filing a claim is a legal right, not a complaint against your specific bank.
Can people outside the U.S. join?
No. The settlement is for U.S.-issued cards used at U.S. ATMs. If you live abroad but had a U.S. account during the claim period, you might still be eligible — check the FAQs.
Final Thoughts
It’s rare that you get a shot at clawing back ATM fees — those sneaky little charges that just drain your balance with zero value added. This lawsuit took years to win, and the money’s finally flowing back. It’s not huge cash, but it’s your cash.
The site to remember: ATMClassAction.com. If you ever paid an ATM surcharge in the last 17 years, check it out. You’ve probably earned something back — even if it’s just enough to cover your next few withdrawals.
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