Have you ever received unwanted text messages from Build-A-Bear Workshop over the last five and a half years? If so, there may be some Build-a-Bear settlement money coming your way.
The popular store where children can stuff and customize their own teddy bears, has recently agreed to pay customers $4.1 million to settle a lawsuit that claims that the company sent unsolicited text messages to their customers — even after they had told them to stop sending them.
For their part, Build-A-Bear hasn’t admitted to the accusation of violating the Telephone Consumer Protection Act with their texts, or to any wrongdoing, for that matter. They’re agreeing to the settlement to end the lawsuit.
So, how much could you get from the Build-A-Bear settlement? How do you know if you’re eligible? We’ll tell you what you need to know about this class action settlement.
If you received at least two unwanted text messages Build-A-Bear since Sept. 24, 2017, you could be eligible for the settlement.
Did you get two or more text messages from Build-A-Bear that were about their products or promos within a 12-month period between Sept. 24, 2017, and March 28, 2023? And did you keep getting texts even after you opted-out by texting the words “Stop” or “Quit”? You’re probably eligible for the Build-A-Bear settlement.
Related: Here’s how the Build-A-Bear ‘Pay Your Age’ discount works
Anyone who qualifies for the Build-A-Bear settlement could receive up to $500.
If you’re part of the class involved in the settlement, you could receive up to $500 from Build-A-Bear.The actual amount you receive depends on how many valid claims are filed. So, the more people who join the settlement, the less each person will get.
A $4.1 million settlement would cover 8,200 people receiving $500 checks (although it’s actually less than that, since attorneys’ fees are taken from the final settlement, too).
And $500 would get you between 12-35 Build-A-Bear stuffed animals. Just sayin’.
Related: How do class action lawsuits work?
You can’t apply to get this settlement; look for a notice via email or regular mail.
If you are a member of the settlement class, you will receive a notice either by email or mail, giving you with information about the settlement and how to participate.
If you received a notice by email, you’ll need to fill out an address form by July 7, 2023 to make sure they have your correct info so they can mail you a check. If you got a notice by snail mail, you’re all set. They obviously already have your address.
Payments will go out after the final approval hearing on Sept. 6, 2023.
Before payments can go out, a judge has to approve the final terms of the settlement. That hearing will happen on Sept. 6, 2023, and barring anything unexpected, payments will go out shortly afterward.
Settlement recipients will get their payments via mailed paper check to the address on file.
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