The patreon settlement has generated much attention in the United States, in particular after millions of online users found out they may be eligible for cash payments. If you used Patreon and Facebook in the last several years, then you may have rights under this settlement. To help you understand what’s going on, this guide explains the lawsuit, who qualifies, how payments work, and what your next steps should be.
What Is the Patreon Settlement About?
The patreon settlement results from a $7.25 million settlement of claims under the federal Video Privacy Protection Act (VPPA). The lawsuit claimed Patreon shared the identities of their users and their video-watching activity with Facebook via a tracking tool called the Meta Pixel. Users complained that the behavior infringed on their privacy because the company lacks permission to share data.
Patreon denied any wrongdoing, but decided to settle the case as a way to avoid a long court battle. Because of that, eligible users now have an opportunity to claim compensation.
Who Qualifies for the Patreon Settlement?
You will be eligible for payment if you meet all of the following conditions:
- You lived in the United States.
- You had a Patreon account.
- You had a Facebook account.
- You accessed or requested on Patreon.com video content between April 1, 2016, and September 23, 2024.
This group includes millions of Americans. Even if you used Patreon for a short time, or only watched one video, you may possibly qualify.
How Much Money Can You Receive?
The patreon settlement provides payments ranging from $35 to $175, based on estimates of the settlement documents and prior cases. The exact number depends on the number of people who file valid claims.
The settlement uses a pro-rata system, which means:
- More claims = smaller individual payments.
- Fewer claims = larger individual payments.
Every valid claimant receives the same type of payout once the court approves the final distribution.
How To File a Claim
You have to make a claim to get the money. The process is simple and does not take long, only a few minutes.
Here is what you need:
- Your claim ID and PIN: These can be found in your email notice if you received one.
- Your Facebook profile link: The settlement is using this link to verify your identity.
If your Facebook account doesn’t exist you can enter your profile link with “/Inactive” added to the URL. After you complete the claim form and submit this information, the settlement administrator will review your information and determine that you are eligible.
Important Deadlines U.S. Users Should Know
Deadlines are a large part of class action settlements. If you miss its deadline you lose your chance of getting paid.
Here are the key dates for the patreon settlement:
- Claim submission deadline: January 1, 2025
- Opt-out or objection deadline: January 1, 2025
- Final approval hearing: February 5, 2025
- Estimated payout date: On or around November 12, 2025, depending on appeals and processing
Many U.S. claimants forget to file before the deadline, so it’s important to take action early.
Why This Settlement Matters for U.S. Consumers
Privacy remains a huge issue among people throughout the United States. Many Americans spend hours online every day, browsing, streaming, and taking in by digital platforms. When companies monitor viewing habits, or use personal information even when they are uninformed, users perceive being exposed and unsafe.
The patreon settlement brings to light the way federal laws such as the VPPA help protect the consumers. This law prevents companies from sharing personally identifiable information related to content of video. Even though the VPPA is from the 1980s it continues to have the powerful influence to hold modern tech companies accountable.
This settlement also expresses that the users can take action if the platforms misuse data. Filing a simple claim enables people to get compensation and be aware of their rights on the Internet.
What Happens After You File?
Once you file your claim, your information is reviewed by the settlement administrator. After the court gives final approval and resolves any appeals, then the payment process begins. Most claimants will get digital payments and they generally take a few days to reach once issued.
In case you change your email, bank details, or Paypal information it should be updated with the administrator to avoid delays.
Final Thoughts
The patreon settlement offers millions of US users an opportunity to receive compensation for alleged privacy violations. If you had both a Patreon as well as Facebook account, and watched videos from 2016-2024, you should spend a few minutes making a claim.
Class action settlements would simply not work if people didn’t participate. By filing, you protect your rights and help support new and stronger rules in the privacy act throughout the country.
If you believe you qualify, make sure you submit your claim before January 1, 2025.