Adrian
A $12.5 million class-action settlement has been approved involving Cash App’s parent company, Block Inc., over allegations of sending unsolicited referral text messages to Washington residents.
If you live in Washington and received a Cash App referral message without consent, you may be entitled to receive a cash payout between $88 and $147.
This article explains everything you need to know about eligibility, payment process, and how to claim your share.
Why Was the Lawsuit Filed?
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington by Kimberly Bottoms, alleges that Block Inc. violated:
- Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA)
- Washington Consumer Electronic Mail Act
- Washington Consumer Protection Act
The core issue centers around Cash App’s “Invite Friends” feature, which allegedly sent out automated referral messages to users’ contacts without prior permission.
Though Block Inc. denies any wrongdoing, it agreed to the $12.5 million settlement to avoid extended litigation.
Settlement Breakdown: Who Gets Paid and How Much?
The total settlement fund will cover attorneys’ fees, administrative expenses, and court-approved incentive awards. The remainder will be distributed on a pro rata basis among all valid claimants.
Estimated Payout
| Number of Valid Claims | Estimated Payout per Person |
|---|---|
| 100,000 | $125 – $147 |
| 200,000 | $88 – $110 |
| 500,000 | $50 or less |
Fewer claims submitted means higher individual payouts. The expected per-person amount will vary based on how many eligible people apply.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a payout, you must meet all three of the following:
- Reside in Washington state
- Received a Cash App referral text message
- Did not consent to receive that message
It is estimated that up to 2 million phone numbers may be affected, although the actual number of valid claims will likely be much lower.
How Will Payments Be Issued?
Once the claims website goes live, you’ll be able to select your preferred method of receiving your payment. Options include:
- Venmo
- PayPal
- Paper Check
Make sure to accurately submit your contact and payment details during the process to avoid delays or disqualification.
Step-by-Step Claim Process (Coming Soon)
- Visit the official settlement website (to be announced).
- Submit your phone number and updated contact information.
- Select your payment method (PayPal, Venmo, or check).
- Wait for court approval and fund distribution.
No additional documentation is expected for most claimants — eligibility will be confirmed using internal message logs and phone numbers.
Previous Legal Issues with Block Inc.
This is not the first lawsuit involving Block Inc. The company has been previously scrutinized for:
- Data breaches
- Cash App Investing disclosures
- Unexplained fund freezes and account closures
These repeated issues point to broader concerns regarding consumer protection and fintech accountability.
What You Should Do Next
If you believe you’ve received an unsolicited Cash App referral message, here’s what you should do:
- Monitor official updates regarding the claims portal
- Keep your phone number active and records accessible
- File your claim promptly once the portal opens
This case is a prime example of how digital privacy violations can lead to real compensation opportunities for affected individuals.
The $12.5 million Cash App lawsuit settlement is a reminder of the growing importance of data privacy and consumer rights in the digital age.
Washington state residents who received unsolicited Cash App referral texts without their consent may be eligible for a payout.
With estimated payments ranging from $88 to $147, it’s worth checking your eligibility and preparing to file once the claims portal goes live.
FAQs
How can I check if I received a referral text from Cash App?
You can review old messages or wait for the claims portal to confirm eligibility through your phone number.
Is any proof required to file a claim?
No. Most users won’t need to provide documentation. Eligibility will be verified using message records and phone numbers.
When will the payments be distributed?
Payments will be made after court approval of the settlement and once the claims process closes. Timing will be updated on the official site.