Walmart faces accusations of misleading customers with incorrectly labeled products. Shoppers could receive up to $500 from a class action settlement.
Despite denying wrongdoing, Walmart agreed to a $45 million settlement. The lawsuit, filed in Florida, accuses the retailer of deceptive practices to take "unjustly pilfer ... its customers' hard-earned grocery dollars," court documents state.
The settlement covers purchases made between Oct. 19, 2018, and Jan. 19, 2024. Eligible customers must apply for a payout by June 5, 2024.
The lawsuit alleges Walmart used deceptive pricing, especially on weighted items. Products were often priced lower on stickers than at the register, leading to customer complaints about overcharging.
Walmart has refuted the claims but chose to settle to benefit both parties, the settlement website explains.
Affected products include various meats and citrus fruits like beef, chicken, pork, turkey, and bagged citrus products. For a complete list, visit Walmartweightedgroceriessettlement.com.
Eligibility for the settlement includes anyone who purchased the specified products in U.S. or Puerto Rico Walmart stores during the defined period. The maximum compensation is $500 per person.
To claim your share, submit your claim at Walmartweightedgroceriessettlement.com by June 5, 2024. No receipts are required for filing.
Claims can be filed online or mailed to the Claims Administrator. Details for mail submissions are available on the settlement website. If no action is taken, you will not receive payment.
To opt out of the settlement, send a written notice by May 22, 2024. The exclusion request must include specific personal information and a statement of exclusion.
Customers may also object to the terms of the settlement via the website without opting out.
After the June 12 claim deadline, Walmart will calculate payments for approval at a final hearing. There's no set timeline for finalizing the settlement terms.
Following the final hearing, payments will be processed, which may take several months. Payments will be issued electronically or by check, depending on the claimant's preference.