Blue Cross Blue Shield $2.67 Billion Settlement: Who Qualifies and How to Claim Your Payout

Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) is set to begin issuing nearly $2 billion in payouts to claimants in a long-running class action lawsuit. Payments are expected to begin this month, with individuals potentially receiving checks worth hundreds of dollars. Here’s what you need to know about the settlement and its massive payout.

What is the Blue Cross Blue Shield settlement about?

The settlement payout is the culmination of a nearly 14-year legal battle between Blue Cross Blue Shield and its subscribers. BCBS operates a federation of health insurance companies under its umbrella, with 33 affiliated insurers as of 2026.

In 2012, individuals who subscribed to policies from various BCBS health insurers sued the company, alleging anti-competitive practices that led to higher health insurance premiums. Specifically, subscribers claimed that BCBS coordinated with its affiliated insurers to avoid offering services in overlapping jurisdictions, thereby limiting competition. Since increased competition typically lowers prices, this arrangement allegedly kept premiums higher than they otherwise would have been.

Given the volume of related lawsuits, the individual litigation received class-action status in 2013. By 2020, Blue Cross Blue Shield agreed to settle the claims for $2.67 billion rather than incur additional legal costs and potential trial expenses. It’s important to note that no verdict was ever rendered against BCBS, and the company has consistently denied any wrongdoing.

After 2020, several objections were raised to the settlement, but following further court proceedings, the agreement was upheld. Now, nearly 14 years after the first legal actions were taken, BCBS is finally distributing billions in payments to affected parties.

Who is included in the BCBS settlement?

Despite agreeing to a $2.67 billion settlement, Blue Cross Blue Shield will pay out less than $2 billion to affected subscribers. The difference will cover court costs, administrative expenses, and legal fees. The remaining roughly $1.9 billion is being distributed to claimants. Additionally, BCBS has agreed to modify its business practices to prevent similar issues in the future.

How do I know if I am included in the settlement?

To qualify for this settlement, you must have filed a claim by 2021. According to the settlement’s official website, successful claimants include individuals who had an Individual, Insured Group, or Self-Funded Account with a BCBS company between February 2008 and October 2020.

For those with Self-Funded Accounts, the policy dates are specifically from September 1, 2015, through October 16, 2020. If you’re unsure whether you filed a claim years ago, check your email and postal mail for notifications, as claimants have been contacted through both channels.

How much can I get from the settlement?

The amount you receive depends on the number of people who ultimately filed a claim, among other factors. The settlement’s official website provides a payout calculator to estimate your potential compensation. Payments are expected to begin this month, so eligible claimants should monitor their mail and email for updates.