This Unemployment Class-Action Settlement Closes Tomorrow: Are You Eligible?
Michigan has set aside $55 million in settlement funds for residents whose unemployment benefits were clawed back by the state during the pandemic, but the window to choose to pay closes tomorrow.
U.S. unemployment rate soars to alarming levels During the COVID-19 pandemicas many businesses have been forced to lay off employees or close stores entirely. according to Center on Budget and Policy PrioritiesDuring this period, the unemployment rate peaked at an average 13% in the second quarter of 2020, a sharp jump from 3.5% in February 2020.
Some people affected by the surge in unemployment later claimed in lawsuits that their benefits were withdrawn by the state in a way that violated their rights. Now that these claimants have reached a sizable settlement, you still have a chance to get involved.
There are just days left until the deadline to opt into this settlement, which should help some workers receive some level of compensation. Read on to get all the answers you need, and for more settlement news, learn If you qualify for a recent settlement Fight 23andMe.
Why do class action lawsuits occur?
The settlement is the result of a class action lawsuit filed by Sanders et al. Compare to Michigan Unemployment Insurance. The lawsuit, originally filed in January 2022, accuses the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency of illegally clawing back unemployment benefits issued during the COVID-19 pandemic. A settlement was reached in April, with $55 million set aside for claimants.
The lawsuit accuses the unemployment agency of claiming that certain individuals’ benefits were overpaid during the pandemic, which resulted in the unemployment agency forcing repayments before appeal decisions could be properly evaluated. The plaintiffs argue that this violated their due process rights and resulted in their wages being garnished and their tax returns being withheld.
Who is eligible for a class action settlement?
Michigan residents who had their benefits withdrawn from the agency between March 1, 2020, and April 25, 2024 are eligible to apply.
Those eligible for the settlement should have received a reminder in the mail or email. You can also log into your Michigan Network Account Manager Apply for unemployment insurance and check to see if there is a message titled, “Saunders v. UIA Improper Collection Alert.” You can also call 866-499-4565 or email the Settlement Administrator to verify your eligibility info@bwclassactions.com.
How do I choose to accept this settlement?
You can submit a claim at Billing Administrator Websitewhich requires a claim number and PIN. If you are unsure about the credentials required, you can contact the Settlement Administrator.
The deadline to submit these claims was previously set at November 4th, but has since been extended to this Friday, December 20th.
How much will this settlement cost?
The settlement is expected to be $250 or more per claimant. However, it is unclear when these payments will be made. A final hearing in the case is scheduled for March 20, 2025, but if the settlement is approved, it could still be appealed, which could further delay matters.
For more information, find out if you qualify Fortnite class action lawsuit settled.
