Wells Fargo has agreed to a $19.5 million class action settlement following claims that it and its partners recorded phone calls without proper consent. This alleged violation of California’s strict privacy laws triggered a lawsuit accusing the bank and associated companies of unlawfully eavesdropping on Californians’ conversations over nearly a decade.
Let’s break down what this settlement means, who’s eligible, and how affected individuals or businesses can claim their share.
Why Wells Fargo is Paying $19.5 Million
The core of this lawsuit centers on the California Invasion of Privacy Act (CIPA), which requires all parties in a phone call to be informed if the conversation is being recorded. Plaintiffs allege that Wells Fargo, Priority Technology Holdings Inc., and The Credit Wholesale Co. Inc. recorded calls with California residents and businesses without giving proper notice or obtaining consent.
While the companies involved deny any wrongdoing, they have agreed to settle to resolve the legal dispute and avoid a lengthy court battle.
Companies Named in the Settlement
The primary defendant is Wells Fargo, one of the largest banks in the U.S. The lawsuit also implicates:
- Priority Technology Holdings Inc.
- The Credit Wholesale Co. Inc. — a company accused of placing the calls and failing to notify call recipients that the calls were being recorded.
Each of these companies played a role in the alleged illegal recordings of consumer conversations, leading to claims of privacy invasion.
Settlement Overview
| Settlement Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Total Settlement Amount | $19.5 million |
| Primary Defendant | Wells Fargo |
| Other Defendants | Priority Technology Holdings, The Credit Wholesale Co. |
| Call Period Covered | October 22, 2014 – November 17, 2023 |
| Payout Per Recorded Call | $86 per call (up to $5,000 maximum) |
| Jurisdiction | California |
| Settlement Website | Wells Fargo Settlement Portal |
Who is Eligible to File a Claim?
To qualify for compensation under this class action settlement, individuals or businesses must meet the following criteria:
- Received a phone call from The Credit Wholesale Co. Inc. between October 22, 2014, and November 17, 2023
- Were physically present in California at the time of the call
- Did not consent to the recording of the conversation
Claimants must also provide:
- The phone number or business name used during the call(s)
- A Claim ID and PIN Code (if they received a settlement notice)
- A completed W-9 tax form for any claim over $600
How Much Could You Get?
Each qualifying call entitles claimants to approximately $86 per call, with a maximum payout of $5,000 per individual or business. The more calls you can verify, the higher your potential compensation.
Important Deadlines and Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Objection or Exclusion Deadline | April 4, 2025 |
| Claim Submission Deadline | April 11, 2025 |
| Final Settlement Hearing | May 20, 2025 |
| Payment Distribution Starts | Around July 2025 |
To ensure eligibility, make sure your claim is submitted on time — online or via mail — by April 11, 2025.
How to File a Claim
- Visit the official settlement website at Wells Fargo Settlement Portal
- Complete the claim form with your phone number or business name used during the call(s).
- If applicable, enter your Claim ID and PIN.
- Upload or mail a W-9 form if your claim exceeds $600.
- Submit before the April 11, 2025 deadline.
For those choosing to opt out or object to the settlement, you must do so before April 4, 2025.
With the approval hearing scheduled for May 20, 2025, payment distribution is expected to begin approximately 52 days later, or around July 2025.
This case underscores the importance of privacy compliance, especially in states like California, where the law mandates clear communication around call recordings.
FAQs:
How do I know if I’m part of the class action?
If you received a call from The Credit Wholesale Co. Inc. while in California between October 22, 2014, and November 17, 2023, and didn’t consent to the recording, you may be eligible.
Do I need proof of the calls?
You need to provide the phone number or business name used. Additional verification may increase your compensation.
Can I still file if I didn’t receive a notice?
Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.
