The Cash App settlement has quickly become one of the biggest consumer buzz topics of the year, especially in Washington State, where millions of residents have been waiting for clarity on whether a rumored payout is actually happening. After weeks of speculation, confusion, and countless viral posts online, the truth is finally taking shape: Cash App’s parent company, Block Inc., has agreed to a proposed $12.5 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit involving unsolicited referral texts sent to Washington phone numbers.
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Why Cash App Ended Up in This Lawsuit
The lawsuit, officially titled Bottoms v. Block Inc., was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington. At the center of the case were Cash App’s automated “Invite Friends” referral messages texts that some users said were sent without their permission. Under Washington’s Commercial Electronic Mail Act and the Consumer Protection Act, sending unsolicited electronic communications is considered a violation, especially when the messages are part of a widespread automated system.
How Much Money Residents Could Receive
The payout amounts have not been finalized, but based on the size of the settlement and the estimated number of eligible phone numbers, the range is expected to fall between $88 and $147 per person. The more people who submit claims, the smaller the individual payout becomes, but early projections suggest most eligible users will receive a meaningful amount.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Settlement Fund | $12.5 Million |
| Potential Class Size | Up to 2 Million Phone Numbers |
| Estimated Payment | $88–$147 per Claimant |
| Eligibility | WA residents who received Cash App referral texts |
| Claims Status | Not Open Yet |
| Payment Methods | Check, PayPal, Venmo, or Digital Transfer |
This table helps break down what’s happening behind the scenes, but the most important part for consumers is understanding that no official claims site exists yet. Once the court grants preliminary approval, the administrator will publish a verified website where residents can safely file a claim.
Who Qualifies for a Payment
To qualify for this upcoming settlement, residents must meet two simple conditions. First, they must have had a Washington-based phone number during the timeframe of the alleged unsolicited messages. Second, they must have received at least one Cash App promotional or referral text message between November 14, 2019, and the final cutoff date, which is still being determined in court filings. The good news is that most residents will not need to provide any proof on their own. The settlement administrator will verify phone numbers using Cash App’s own message logs and phone records.
When Will the Claims Website Be Available
Many people are confused because social media keeps sharing links to websites pretending to collect claims early. These are not legitimate. The official website will launch only after the judge grants preliminary approval, which is a required step in every major class-action settlement. Once the court approves this phase, the administrator will send out email and postcard notices, post updates on public legal-notice platforms, and officially activate the claims website.
Why This Settlement Is Making National Headlines
para: This lawsuit isn’t just about $12.5 million. It highlights a much bigger shift in the way courts and regulators are responding to aggressive digital marketing tactics used by fast-growing fintech companies. Cash App and Block Inc. have already dealt with major investigations in recent years, including a $175 million fine from the CFPB related to consumer protections and a $15 million settlement connected to a separate data-breach issue.
Important Points You Should Remember
Although the settlement is real and confirmed through official filings, consumers cannot submit a claim yet. The expected payout range of $88 to $147 is only an estimate until the claims window opens. Eligibility centers on Washington-based numbers, and all payments will be digital-friendly, offering options like PayPal, Venmo, direct deposit, or traditional check. Most importantly, consumers should only trust information that comes directly from the court-appointed administrator or from official federal court updates.
FAQs
- Is the Cash App settlement officially approved?
Not yet. It is a proposed settlement and must receive preliminary and final approval from the court. - Can I file a claim right now?
No. The claims website has not been launched. It will only open after preliminary approval. - How much money will I get?
Most people may receive between $88 and $147, depending on how many claims are submitted. - Do I need proof of the text message?
Probably not. Eligibility will be confirmed using phone records and Cash App’s internal data. - Who qualifies for the payout?
Anyone with a Washington State phone number who received an unauthorized Cash App referral text after November 14, 2019.
