Wells Fargo Just Settled for $19.5M: If you picked up a phone call sometime in the past decade and had no idea someone was recording you—this one’s for you. Wells Fargo is dishing out $19.5 million to settle a class-action lawsuit after getting caught recording phone calls without consent. And if you were living or doing business in California between 2014 and 2023, you might be owed a check.
The best part? You didn’t have to be a Wells Fargo customer to qualify. The calls were placed by a third-party vendor, and the issue lies in failing to give you that classic “this call may be recorded” heads-up.
Wells Fargo Just Settled for $19.5M
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Settlement Amount | $19.5 million |
| Company Involved | Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. |
| Violation | Illegal call recordings under California privacy law |
| Third-Party Vendor | The Credit Bureau of Southern California |
| Timeframe of Affected Calls | October 22, 2014 – November 17, 2023 |
| Who’s Eligible | California residents or businesses who got a call from the vendor |
| Payout Per Call | $86 to $5,000 (depends on number of claims) |
| Claim Deadline | April 11, 2025 |
| Final Court Hearing | May 20, 2025 |
| Claim Site | ClaimDepot.com |
Wells Fargo’s $19.5 million settlement might be one of many legal headaches for the bank, but for Californians? It’s a golden opportunity to stand up for your rights—and maybe even pocket a check while you’re at it.
If you’ve ever wondered whether those creepy calls you got were being recorded, now’s the time to find out. Visit the official claim site, file your form, and claim what’s yours.
Don’t sleep on this. The deadline’s April 11, 2025, and this time—you’re not just on the line. You’re at the payout table.
What’s the Wells Fargo Lawsuit About?
This all started when multiple Californians realized they were being recorded without their consent by a debt collection agency working for Wells Fargo. That agency? The Credit Bureau of Southern California, also known as The Credit Wholesale Co., Inc.
California has strict privacy rules. According to the California Invasion of Privacy Act (CIPA), both parties on a call must agree before any recording begins. But from October 22, 2014, to November 17, 2023, it’s alleged that Wells Fargo’s vendor didn’t get that agreement.
This violation turned into a class action, officially known as Aguilar Auto Repair et al. v. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and now you may be eligible for a piece of the $19.5 million pie.
What Is the California Invasion of Privacy Act (CIPA)?
Let’s break this down real quick: the California Invasion of Privacy Act was passed to make sure folks in the Golden State can have private conversations without worrying someone’s taping them on the sly.
Unlike other states that only require one-party consent (meaning just one person in the call has to agree), California demands that both parties know and agree to the recording. If someone breaks that rule? Big lawsuits like this happen.
How Much Can You Get Paid?
Each person who qualifies could receive up to $5,000 per call, although most payouts are expected to land around $86 per call.
That might not sound like retirement money, but if you got multiple calls during the timeframe, that number can stack up pretty quick. Also, fewer claims submitted = higher payouts for those who do.
Wells Fargo’s Past Problems: Not Their First Rodeo
Now, let’s be real—this isn’t Wells Fargo’s first mess.
Here’s a quick look at some of their greatest hits:
- 2016: Busted for creating millions of fake accounts without customer permission.
- 2018: Paid $1 billion for forcing unnecessary insurance on auto loan customers.
- 2023: Settled for $1 billion again for mismanaging mortgage loans and overdraft fees.
This $19.5 million settlement is smaller, but it’s still part of a long string of trust-busting scandals that hurt regular people like you and me.
How to File a Claim: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Visit the Official Site
Go to: ClaimDepot.com
Step 2: Fill Out the Form
You’ll need to provide:
- Your full name
- Your phone number(s) that received the call(s)
- Mailing address
- Optional: Your business name (if applicable)
Step 3: Submit Before the Deadline
Deadline: April 11, 2025. After that, you’re outta luck.
Step 4: Wait for Final Approval
The court hearing is set for May 20, 2025. After that, payments will start going out by check or direct deposit.
What Legal Experts Say
According to privacy attorney Michelle Olson, this case sets a major precedent:
“California’s privacy laws are among the strictest in the U.S. This case proves that even indirect vendors can’t ignore consent requirements. If a company hires a third party, they’re still on the hook.”
That’s a big deal. It means companies can’t just outsource shady behavior and claim innocence.
How to Protect Yourself from Illegal Call Recording
Want to avoid being the next unwitting participant in a lawsuit? Here’s how:
- Ask upfront: Always ask, “Is this call being recorded?”
- Use call ID apps like Truecaller or Hiya to flag spammy debt collection numbers.
- File a complaint with the California Attorney General if you suspect shady recordings.
- Record their consent: If you’re recording someone, make sure they say yes—especially in CA.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Wells Fargo Just Settled for $19.5M
Do I need proof of the call?
No. Just your phone number and the rough timeframe are enough.
Can businesses file too?
Yes! Businesses located in California are eligible if they received recorded calls.
Can I file for multiple calls?
Yes—you can receive compensation for each qualifying call.
Do I need a lawyer?
Nope. It’s a class action settlement. Just file the form online.
What if I missed the call?
You’re only eligible if you answered the call and spoke with someone.
Is this taxable income?
Possibly. Always consult your tax pro when receiving a settlement check.
