Costco's $14M settlement may mean cash for Washington shoppers The proposed $14 million class action settlement between Costco and Washington state consumers could result in cash payments for shoppers who received specific promotional emails over the past five years. The agreement, which requires final court approval, aims to resolve allegations that Costco sent misleading email subject lines to create false urgency about limited-time offers. The lawsuit, filed in King County Superior Court in 2025, alleged that Costco violated Washington's Commercial Electronic Mail Act and Consumer Protection Act by using deceptive subject lines in promotional emails. Examples included lines like "Today is the last day to access Member-Only Saving" and "Hot Buys available for 5 Days Only," which plaintiffs claimed were misleading because some promotions extended beyond the stated deadlines. Costco denied wrongdoing but agreed to settle to avoid prolonged litigation. Both parties reviewed Costco's email practices during mediation in March 2026, leading to the settlement. Eligibility for payments extends to Washington residents who received qualifying commercial emails from Costco or its affiliates between June 2, 2021, and July 7, 2026. Class members do not need to provide proof of purchase or additional documentation to claim their share. Payments will be distributed on a pro rata basis from the settlement fund, with the final amount depending on the number of valid claims and court-approved deductions. Consumers can file claims online or by mail through the settlement website. Those who received a notice will use the Claim ID and PIN provided, while others can complete and submit a printable form. All claims must be submitted by August 24, 2026, either online or via postmark.#costco #washington_state #commercial_electronic_mail_act #king_county_superior_court #consumer_protection_act
Costco Settles Class Action Lawsuit Over Email Marketing Misconduct, Payouts Possible for Eligible Washington Residents Costco has reached a proposed $14 million settlement in a class action lawsuit alleging deceptive email marketing practices, potentially allowing Washington state residents to claim up to $500 per violating email. The lawsuit, filed last year in Washington, centers on claims that Costco violated state laws by sending misleading subject lines in marketing emails. The allegations include violations of Washington’s Commercial Electronic Mail Act (CEMA) and the Washington Consumer Protection Act (CPA). Plaintiffs argued that Costco falsely advertised time-limited promotions, knowing the offers would be extended beyond the stated deadlines. Specific email titles highlighted in court documents include “Today is the last day to access Member-Only Saving” and “Hot Buys available for 5 Days Only.” Costco denies the allegations but has agreed to the settlement, which awaits court approval. A final hearing is scheduled for October 2, 2026. Under CEMA, eligible recipients who file claims by August 24, 2026, could receive $500 for each email sent in violation. To qualify, individuals must have been Washington residents between June 2, 2021, and July 7, 2026, and received emails from or on behalf of Costco at an email address in the company’s records. Non-members are also eligible if they meet these criteria. The settlement process requires claimants to file through a dedicated class action website or submit printed forms via mail. Payments can be distributed via PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, or a mailed check. Participants must agree to waive their right to pursue individual lawsuits related to the claims in this case.#washington #costco #class_action_lawsuit #commercial_electronic_mail_act #washington_consumer_protection_act
