BCBS settlement payments start this month. Who gets paid and how much

Blue Cross Blue Shield will begin distributing settlement payments this month as part of a $2.67 billion class-action lawsuit that alleged the insurer violated antitrust laws. The lawsuit, filed in 2013 against more than 35 Blue Cross Blue Shield plans, claimed the companies limited market competition, leading to higher premiums and fewer choices for customers. Blue Cross Blue Shield has denied the allegations and did not admit wrongdoing as part of the settlement. The case did not go to a final verdict. The settlement covers two groups: individuals and insured groups who had Blue Cross Blue Shield coverage between Feb. 7, 2008, and Oct. 16, 2020, and self-funded accounts that had coverage between Sept. 1, 2016, and Oct. 16, 2020. Some New Yorkers are eligible for payments, but only if they filed a claim before the Nov. 5, 2021 deadline. Blue Cross Blue Shield agreed to a $2.67 billion settlement fund. After attorney fees, administrative costs and other expenses, about $1.9 billion remains for distribution. Roughly 6 million claims were filed, meaning the average payment is expected to be about $333 per claim. Actual amounts may vary. According to the settlement website, payments are expected to begin in May 2026. A specific distribution date has not been announced. Eligible claimants should have already received notification by email.

(Source：Rochester Democrat and Chronicle)