AT&T has agreed to a massive $177 million settlement after suffering two major data breaches that affected millions of customers over the past few years. The breaches exposed sensitive personal information including Social Security numbers, account passcodes, and call/text metadata. While AT&T has not admitted any wrongdoing, the settlement provides an opportunity for affected customers to claim compensation without going through a long court process. Here’s everything you need to know about the settlement, who qualifies, and how to submit your claim on time.
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Important Dates for Filing Your Claim
If you were an AT&T customer at any point from 2019 to 2023, it’s important to pay attention to the official settlement timeline. Notifications informing you of eligibility will be sent via email, text, or U.S. mail between August 4, 2025, and October 17, 2025. Once notified, customers must submit their claims by November 18, 2025. The court will hold a final hearing on December 3, 2025, to approve the settlement. If approved, payments are expected to begin in early 2026. Missing these deadlines could mean losing your chance to claim compensation, so acting promptly is critical.
Who Is Eligible for the Settlement?
The settlement covers two distinct types of breaches. The first breach, discovered in March 2024, exposed sensitive personal information of approximately 67 million customers. This included Social Security numbers, account passcodes, and other personally identifiable information, some of which was found on the dark web. The second breach, confirmed later, involved unauthorized access to call and text metadata for nearly all AT&T mobile customers between May 2022 and January 2023. While the content of messages was not included, the metadata alone posed significant privacy concerns.
Eligibility falls into two main categories. Customers affected by the 2022 metadata breach qualify regardless of financial loss, while those whose personal information (PII) was exposed in the 2019–2023 breaches may qualify for higher payouts if they can show documented losses. Each eligible customer will receive a case ID in their notification, which is required to access the online claims portal. Current AT&T customers can also check their accounts online for updates, while former customers should monitor their email and physical mail carefully.
Compensation, How Much You Can Receive
Compensation amounts vary based on the type of breach and whether financial harm occurred. Those whose PII was exposed between 2019 and 2023 can receive up to $5,000 if they provide documentation such as invoices for identity restoration, fraud-related charges, or proof of stolen funds. Individuals affected by the 2022 metadata breach may receive up to $2,500, even without proof of loss.
Here’s a clear breakdown in table format:
| Type of Breach | Maximum Payout | Documentation Required? |
|---|---|---|
| 2019–2023 PII Breach | Up to $5,000 | Yes |
| 2022 Metadata Breach | Up to $2,500 | No |
These figures show that compensation depends heavily on the type of data exposed and whether you can prove any financial losses. Claimants affected by both breaches may file separate claims to maximize their total payout.
How to File Your Claim
Filing your claim is straightforward but must be done carefully to ensure you receive your payment. Start by checking your eligibility using the case ID provided in the official notice or by visiting the settlement website. Collect all necessary documentation if you are claiming compensation for documented losses, including invoices, receipts, or proof of financial harm.
The bullet points below highlight the key steps in the claims process:
- Confirm your eligibility through the official settlement website using your case ID, email, or AT&T account number.
- Gather supporting documents if claiming a documented loss payout.
- Submit your claim online or via mail before the November 18, 2025 deadline to ensure it is considered.
Failing to follow these steps or missing the deadline could result in losing the right to compensation. The settlement website also provides FAQs, detailed instructions, and a contact number for additional support.
When Will Payments Be Made?
The final court hearing is scheduled for December 3, 2025. After approval, payments are expected to start in early 2026. These payments will compensate affected individuals while allowing AT&T to conclude a prolonged legal dispute arising from serious lapses in data security. Acting quickly once notified is crucial to secure your portion of the settlement.
Even if you believe your personal data was only partially affected, it’s better to submit a claim to avoid missing out. The settlement ensures that millions of customers have a chance to recover from the financial and privacy impacts of these breaches.
This settlement offers AT&T customers a chance to recover compensation for the breaches. Acting promptly, verifying eligibility, and submitting all required documentation are essential to ensure you receive your share of the $177 million fund.
FAQs
Q: I didn’t receive a notice. Can I still file a claim?
Yes, you can check your eligibility on the official settlement website using your details.
Q: What if I don’t have documentation for financial losses?
You may still receive a Tiered Cash Payment for metadata breaches that doesn’t require documentation.
Q: How long will it take to receive payment?
Payments are expected to begin in early 2026 after court approval on December 3, 2025.
Q: Who can I contact for help with the claim?
Call the Kroll Settlement Administration at 833-890-4930 or visit telecomdatasettlement.com.
