American Express Antitrust Class Action Settlement — Claim Deadline May 19, 2026

American Express antitrust class action settlement
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American Express Antitrust Settlement

A jury found American Express liable under Illinois consumer protection law for enforcing “anti-steering” rules that prevented merchants from encouraging customers to use lower-fee payment cards. Because stores couldn’t steer customers toward cheaper cards, they raised prices across the board — overcharging even non-Amex customers. The parties settled for $17.5 million. Illinois residents who used non-rewards Visa, Mastercard, or Discover cards at qualifying retailers between 2016 and 2022 may file a claim by May 19, 2026.

What Is This Case About?

The lawsuit alleged that American Express’s anti-steering provisions violated Illinois consumer protection law. These rules prevented merchants from directing customers to lower-cost payment methods, which resulted in merchants raising prices across the board to cover Amex’s higher merchant fees. The FDIC separately found that merchants and consumers were harmed by these practices.

Who Is Eligible?

You may be eligible if you meet all of these criteria:

  • Illinois resident with an Illinois billing address at any point during January 29, 2016 – June 1, 2022
  • Used a non-rewards, no-annual-fee Visa, Mastercard, or Discover credit or charge card (no cashback, points, miles, or annual fee)
  • Made purchases at one of 38 qualifying retailers in Illinois (includes Walmart, Target, CVS, and similar large chains)
  • Never held an American Express card during the class period

How Much Can You Receive?

Individual payments will be calculated on a pro rata basis from the $17.5 million settlement fund after deducting attorney fees and administration costs. No receipts or proof of purchase are required.

How to File Before the Deadline

Submit your claim through the official American Express Antitrust Settlement website using your Unique ID and PIN from your notice, or file without a PIN. You may also mail your claim to: Amex Antitrust, c/o A.B. Data, Ltd., P.O. Box 173092, Milwaukee, WI 53217.

View this settlement on OpenClassActions.com for additional details.

  • Claim Deadline: May 19, 2026
  • Settlement Amount: $17.5 million
  • Final Approval Hearing: June 17, 2026
  • Case Type: Antitrust — credit card merchant fees

OpenClassActions.org is not affiliated with American Express or the settlement administrator. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.