Millions of AT&T customers affected by two major data breaches in 2024 are now eligible to claim a share of a $177 million settlement, with potential individual compensation reaching up to $7,500. This article explains the details of the settlement, eligibility criteria, claim process, and what affected customers can expect.
Background of the AT&T Data Breaches and Settlement
In 2024, AT&T disclosed two significant data breaches that compromised the personal information of millions of its current and former customers. The first breach, announced in March 2024, exposed the sensitive data of approximately 73 million AT&T account holders, including names, birth dates, Social Security numbers, and other personal identifiers. The second breach, revealed in July 2024, involved exposure of call and text records of nearly all AT&T cellular customers.
These incidents led to multiple lawsuits consolidated into two nationwide class-action cases. After legal proceedings, AT&T agreed to a $177 million settlement to resolve the claims. The settlement fund comprises $149 million allocated for the first breach class and $28 million for the second breach class.
The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas is set to hold a final approval hearing on December 3, 2025. Post court approval and any appeals, eligible customers can receive payments based on documented losses or alternative tiered payments.
Eligibility Criteria for the $7,500 Settlement Payment
Eligibility depends on whether an individual’s information was compromised in either or both data breaches:
- First Breach (March 2024): Affected customers with Social Security numbers or other personal data exposed. Eligible for up to $5,000 in documented loss payments for losses from 2019 onward or alternative tiered cash payments.
- Second Breach (July 2024): Affected customers with call and text records exposed. Eligible for up to $2,500 in documented loss payments for losses that occurred on or after April 14, 2024.
- Both Breaches: Individuals affected by both data incidents can claim a combined total of up to $7,500, with distinct documentation required for losses related to each breach.
To qualify, claimants must prove that their losses are “fairly traceable” to the AT&T breaches. These losses can include financial harm such as identity theft, fraud, or costs related to protecting personal information.
Breakdown of Settlement Payment Options
| Payment Type | Maximum Amount per Breach | Eligibility Details |
|---|---|---|
| Documented Loss Cash Payment (Breach 1) | Up to $5,000 | Requires documentation of losses from 2019 or later linked to breach |
| Documented Loss Cash Payment (Breach 2) | Up to $2,500 | Requires documentation of losses from April 14, 2024 onwards |
| Tier 1 Cash Payment (Breach 1) | Higher tier multiple | For customers whose Social Security number was exposed |
| Tier 2 Cash Payment (Breach 1) | Lesser tier multiple | For customers affected without Social Security number exposure |
| Combined Payment (Both Breaches) | Up to $7,500 | Separate documentation needed for each breach loss |
The tiered cash payment system offers an alternative to submitting proof of documented losses. Customers who had their Social Security numbers involved in the first breach get a larger share compared to those with other data exposed. The second breach payments are distributed equally among affected customers of that incident.
Claim Process Step-by-Step
- Notification: Eligible customers are contacted via email from the domain “[email protected]” by the settlement administrator, Kroll Settlement Administration. Notifications include a Class Member ID needed to file a claim.
- Gathering Documentation: Claimants should collect all relevant documents that demonstrate financial harm or loss caused by the data breaches. This can include fraud alerts, identity theft reports, credit monitoring expenses, or other related costs.
- Submission of Claim: Claims must be submitted online at the designated settlement website or by mail with all required forms and documentation completed. Online claims require the claimant’s Class Member ID, email, account number, or full name.
- Deadline: The claim form and supporting documents must be submitted by November 18, 2025. Late submissions may be disqualified from receiving compensation.
- Review and Approval: After the final court approval expected in December 2025, the settlement administrator will review claims. Approved claims result in payment processing, but delays may occur due to appeals or administrative workload.
Important Considerations
- Filing a claim means giving up the right to sue AT&T or related entities over these data breaches, as per the settlement agreement.
- Customers unsure about their eligibility can contact the settlement administrator at the toll-free number (833) 890-4930 for assistance.
- Those who wish to exclude themselves from the settlement (i.e., retain the right to sue separately) must send a formal request by October 17, 2025.
- Objections to the settlement or attorneys’ fees must also be submitted by October 17, 2025.
Summary Table: Key Dates and Contact Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Court Approval Hearing | December 3, 2025 |
| Claim Submission Deadline | November 18, 2025 |
| Exclusion/Objection Deadline | October 17, 2025 |
| Settlement Administrator Contact | (833) 890-4930 |
| Claim Submission Method | Online or Mail |
| Email Notifications From | [email protected] |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the AT&T $7,500 settlement payment?
Customers whose personal or call/text data was exposed in either or both of the 2024 AT&T data breaches can claim, provided they can show losses linked to the breaches.
2. How much can I receive from the AT&T settlement?
Up to $5,000 for losses from the first breach, $2,500 for the second breach, or a combined total of $7,500 if affected by both.
3. What documents do I need to file a claim?
Proof of financial loss such as identity theft reports, fraud alerts, credit monitoring fees, or other expenses related to the breach.
4. What is the deadline to file an AT&T settlement claim?
All claims must be submitted by November 18, 2025.
5. How can I submit my claim?
Claims can be filed online at the official settlement website using your Class Member ID or by mailing the completed claim form before the deadline.
This comprehensive guide provides all necessary information for affected AT&T customers in the USA to navigate the $7,500 settlement payment eligibility and claim process effectively.
Conclusion
The AT&T $7,500 Settlement payment represents a significant opportunity for millions of affected customers to recuperate financial losses from two major 2024 data breaches. Eligible individuals should carefully follow the claim instructions, ensure timely submission, and provide necessary documentation to maximize their settlement benefits. While the claims process requires attention to deadlines and paperwork, it offers a structured path to compensation for data breach victims.