Some Costco buyers might qualify for money in settlement payout
Buyers in Washington state who acquired sure promotional emails from Costco over the previous 5 years could also be eligible for a money cost below a proposed $14 million class motion settlement.
The settlement resolves a lawsuit alleging Costco despatched business emails with false or deceptive topic strains that marketed limited-time gross sales or last-day provides, though some promotions have been allegedly prolonged past the said deadlines. Plaintiffs claimed the emails violated Washington’s Business Digital Mail Act and Client Safety Act.
Costco denied the allegations and any wrongdoing however agreed to settle the case to keep away from the fee, burden and uncertainty of continued litigation. The proposed settlement acquired preliminary approval in June, with a closing approval listening to scheduled for October.
Here is what shoppers ought to know.
What’s the lawsuit about?
The lawsuit, initially filed in King County Superior Court docket in 2025, alleged Costco despatched Washington shoppers promotional emails containing deceptive topic strains that created a false sense of urgency.
In keeping with the settlement web site, examples of the emails included topic strains reminiscent of “At present is the final day to entry Member-Solely Saving” and “Scorching Buys accessible for five Days Solely.” Plaintiffs alleged some marketed promotions continued past these deadlines, making the topic strains deceptive below Washington regulation.
Earlier than agreeing to settle, either side reviewed details about Costco’s e mail advertising and marketing practices, together with promotional emails at difficulty within the lawsuit, and reached an settlement throughout mediation in March 2026.
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Who’s eligible for a cost?
The settlement covers anybody who was a Washington resident and acquired a qualifying business e mail despatched by Costco, or on its behalf, between June 2, 2021, and July 7, 2026.
Eligible class members who submit a legitimate declare don’t want to supply proof of buy or any extra documentation.
Funds might be made on a professional rata foundation from the $14 million settlement fund, that means the quantity every particular person receives will rely on the variety of legitimate claims filed and different court-approved deductions.
How can eligible shoppers file a declare?
Eligible shoppers can submit a declare on-line or by mail by means of the official settlement web site. Those that acquired a settlement discover can file utilizing the Declare ID and PIN included with the discover, whereas others can full and mail a printable declare type.
