Blue Cross Blue Shield Is Sending Out Checks: If you were covered by Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) between 2008 and 2020, this could be your lucky break. Blue Cross Blue Shield is sending out checks, and you might just be on the list. This comes after a historic $2.67 billion antitrust settlement that’s been years in the making—and the money is finally hitting people’s accounts.
The settlement stems from a lawsuit accusing BCBS companies of unfair business practices that limited competition and kept premiums high. While BCBS hasn’t admitted to wrongdoing, the checks are still rolling out. If you filed a valid claim by the 2021 deadline, keep reading—we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
Blue Cross Blue Shield Is Sending Out Checks
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Settlement | $2.67 billion (plus $2.8 billion for providers) |
| Eligibility Period | February 2008 to October 2020 |
| Average Payout | Around $333 per person |
| Claim Deadline | November 5, 2021 |
| Claim Status | Notices being emailed in May 2025 |
| Official Site | www.BCBSsettlement.com |
The Blue Cross Blue Shield settlement is one of the largest antitrust payouts in U.S. history, and millions of Americans are finally reaping the benefits. While the claim deadline has passed, those who filed should be seeing money soon—maybe even a few hundred bucks.
Stay informed, check your email, avoid scammers, and reach out if you need help. This moment shows that even big insurance companies can be held accountable when the system works.
What Is the BCBS Settlement All About?
This antitrust lawsuit claimed that BCBS companies conspired to divide the U.S. into service areas, reducing competition and jacking up premium prices. The case didn’t go to trial—instead, BCBS agreed to settle for $2.67 billion, covering individuals and companies with BCBS insurance or administrative plans during the specified period.
Even though BCBS denied wrongdoing, the court approved the settlement in August 2022, and claims started being reviewed.
Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2012 | Lawsuit filed by customers and businesses |
| Oct 2020 | Settlement agreement reached |
| Aug 2022 | Final approval of the $2.67B settlement |
| Nov 5, 2021 | Deadline to submit claim |
| May 2025 | Claim determination notices begin |
Who’s Getting Paid and How Much?
Over 6 million people filed claims before the deadline. The typical payout is around $333, but some individuals or companies could get more based on how much they paid for BCBS coverage and for how long.
Payments will be made via check or electronic transfer depending on your original selection. If you’re eligible, check for emails from [email protected] and keep an eye on your mailbox.
List of Participating BCBS Companies
Here are just a few of the BCBS companies that participated in the settlement:
- Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
- Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
- Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Premera Blue Cross
- Regence BlueShield
What If You Missed the Deadline?
If you didn’t file by November 5, 2021, you won’t receive a check this time around. However, you can still benefit in another way: the settlement requires BCBS to change how they operate, increasing competition and potentially reducing premiums in the future.
Industry Impact: What This Means for Health Insurance
This settlement could be a game-changer for the health insurance industry:
- More competition: The agreement restricts BCBS’s ability to divide territories.
- Transparency: BCBS companies will now be subject to stronger compliance and data-sharing rules.
- Possible future claims: Legal experts say this could open the door for more lawsuits challenging anti-competitive behavior.
What Legal Experts Are Saying
“Settlements like this show regulators and courts are finally cracking down on monopolistic behavior in the healthcare space,” says Eleanor Hammond, a healthcare law professor at NYU. “It’s not just about the money—it’s about reshaping how insurers operate.”
How to Check Your Payment Status
Visit www.BCBSsettlement.com and log in with the info from your claim confirmation email. You can also contact:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 1-888-681-1142
Quick Tips to Avoid Class Action Scams
Scammers love to prey on settlements like this. Don’t fall for fake emails or calls. Watch out for:
- Emails from non-BCBS domains
- Requests for personal info like your Social Security number
- Promises of faster payments “for a fee”
A Word from Claimants
Some claimants have already received notifications.
“I almost deleted the email thinking it was spam. I’m glad I checked—it turns out I’m getting over $400,” said Mike E., a small business owner in Ohio.
Others are still waiting. The process is ongoing through summer 2025.
Another Settlement You Should Know About
Aside from the $2.67 billion for policyholders, BCBS is also settling a $2.8 billion case with healthcare providers. This includes doctors and hospitals who claimed similar anti-competitive practices hurt their businesses.
The final approval hearing is set for July 16, 2025. If you’re a healthcare provider.
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FAQs About Blue Cross Blue Shield Is Sending Out Checks
How do I know if I filed a claim?
You should have received a confirmation email in 2021. If unsure, contact the administrator or log in on the settlement website.
What happens if my claim was denied?
You will be notified by email, and you may appeal if your denial notice includes instructions for doing so.
Can I update my payment method or address now?
Yes, contact the administrator ASAP if your information has changed.
Why are some payments higher than others?
Payouts are based on how long you were covered and how much you paid in premiums during the eligibility window.
