Don't Miss Out: Your Guide to Claiming the Capital One Data Breach Settlement!
Hey there, have you been impacted by the Capital One data breach? If so, you're in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about claiming your share of the settlement. It might seem a bit daunting, but we'll break it down into easy, digestible steps. Let's make sure you get what you're owed!
The Capital One data breach, which came to light in July 2019, exposed the personal information of millions of customers and credit card applicants. This wasn't just a minor incident; it involved sensitive data like names, addresses, phone numbers, birth dates, self-reported incomes, credit scores, transaction histories, and for some, even Social Security numbers and linked bank account numbers. As a result, a class-action lawsuit was filed, leading to significant settlements designed to compensate affected individuals.
It's important to note that there have been two main settlements related to Capital One recently:
- The 2019 Data Breach Settlement ($190 Million): This is the one concerning the actual data compromise. While the deadline for monetary claims for this specific breach has largely passed (September 30, 2022, with payments issued in stages through late 2024), identity protection services remain available until February 13, 2028. If you missed the cash claim, you might still be able to benefit from these services.
- The "Lost Interest" Settlement ($425 Million): This is a more recent settlement, announced in May 2025, which addresses claims that Capital One did not adequately inform customers about higher interest rate savings accounts (specifically, the difference between the "360 Savings" and "360 Performance Savings" accounts). Eligibility for this depends on holding a 360 Savings account between September 18, 2019, and the date of final court approval. This settlement is still awaiting final court approval, so the claim process for this one is just beginning or will soon be.
This guide will focus primarily on the 2019 Data Breach Settlement, as that's what "data breach settlement" typically refers to. However, we'll touch on the newer "Lost Interest" settlement where relevant, especially regarding how to stay informed.
Let's dive in!
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility and What You're Claiming For
This is arguably the most crucial initial step. Before you start filling out forms, you need to understand if you qualify for any part of the settlement and what kind of compensation you might be able to receive.
1.1 Understanding the 2019 Data Breach Settlement Eligibility
- Were you notified? Capital One and the settlement administrator sent out notices (via mail or email) to individuals whose Social Security numbers or linked bank account numbers were accessed in the 2019 breach. If you received such a notice, you were likely eligible.
- What was exposed? The breach affected approximately 100 million individuals in the U.S. and 6 million in Canada. The exposed data included:
- Names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, dates of birth
- Self-reported income
- Credit scores and transaction history
- Critically: Around 140,000 U.S. Social Security numbers and 80,000 U.S. bank account numbers.
- Did you suffer losses? The 2019 settlement allowed for compensation for:
- Out-of-Pocket Losses: Reimbursement for actual financial losses directly traceable to the data breach, such as unreimbursed fraud charges, money spent preventing identity theft (e.g., credit freeze fees), and fees paid to professional data security services. You could claim up to $25,000 for documented losses.
- Lost Time: Compensation for time spent addressing issues related to the breach. This was valued at $25 per hour, with claims capped at 15 hours for those with out-of-pocket losses, and up to 5 hours for those without documented financial losses but who still spent time addressing the breach.
- Identity Defense Services: Three years of free identity protection services through Pango Group, including identity monitoring, lost wallet protection, security freeze capabilities, dark-web monitoring, and identity theft/fraud insurance. This benefit has been extended until February 13, 2028.
1.2 Understanding the Newer "Lost Interest" Settlement Eligibility
- Did you have a 360 Savings Account? This settlement is for customers who held a Capital One 360 Savings account at any point between September 18, 2019, and the date the settlement receives final approval (expected mid-2025).
- Why this settlement? The lawsuit claims Capital One failed to adequately inform existing 360 Savings account holders about the higher interest rates offered by the newer 360 Performance Savings account.
- What kind of compensation? This settlement aims to compensate for missed interest earnings. The amount will depend on how long you had the account and your balance. There's also a provision for those who still hold the old 360 Savings account to earn at least double the national average savings rate going forward.
Action Point: Think back to 2019. Did you receive any notices from Capital One about a data breach? Did you have a Capital One 360 Savings account after September 2019? Knowing this will guide your next steps.
Step 2: Accessing Official Settlement Information
Once you have a general idea of your potential eligibility, the next step is to find the official settlement channels. Beware of unofficial sites or scams!
2.1 For the 2019 Data Breach Settlement (and ongoing Identity Services)
- Official Website: The primary official website for the 2019 data breach settlement is
www.CapitalOneSettlement.com - Contact Number: If you have questions or didn't receive a notice but believe you were eligible, you could contact the settlement administrator at 1-855-604-1811.
- Important Note on Claiming Monetary Compensation: The deadlines for submitting claims for out-of-pocket losses and lost time in the 2019 data breach settlement have already passed (September 30, 2022). Payments for these claims were issued in stages through 2023 and 2024. However, the free Identity Defense Services are still available until February 13, 2028.
2.2 For the Newer "Lost Interest" Settlement
- Watch for Official Notices: Since this settlement is still awaiting final court approval, the best way to get information is to monitor your mail and email for official notices from Capital One or the settlement administrator.
- Capital One's Official Channels: Keep an eye on Capital One's official website and press releases for updates regarding this new settlement. They will likely direct you to a specific settlement website once it's finalized and the claim period opens.
- News Reports: Reliable financial news outlets will also report on the final approval and claim process for this settlement.
Action Point: Visit
Step 3: Understanding the Claim Process (Past and Future)
The claim process differs depending on which settlement you're looking at.
3.1 For the 2019 Data Breach Settlement (Monetary Claims - Past Deadline)
- Online Claim Submission: The easiest way to submit a claim was typically online via the official settlement website (CapitalOneSettlement.com).
- Required Information: You would have needed your Unique ID and PIN provided on the official notice you received.
- Documentation: For out-of-pocket losses, detailed documentation was crucial. This included receipts, bank statements, voided checks, and invoices that clearly showed losses directly related to the breach.
- Lost Time Certification: For lost time, you would have needed to certify the hours spent and, if claiming your hourly wage, provide documentation of that wage.
- Submission Deadline: As reiterated, the deadline for these monetary claims was September 30, 2022. If you did not file by this date, you cannot claim cash compensation for the 2019 breach.
3.2 For the 2019 Data Breach Settlement (Identity Defense Services - Ongoing)
- Even if you missed the monetary claim deadline, if your Social Security number or linked bank account number was exposed, you might still be able to enroll in the free Identity Defense Services.
- How to Enroll: Visit the official settlement website (
www.CapitalOneSettlement.com - Benefits: These services are designed to help protect you from identity theft and fraud, and they are available until February 13, 2028. This is a significant benefit even if you didn't incur financial losses.
3.3 For the Newer "Lost Interest" Settlement (Claim Process - Upcoming/Beginning)
- Await Final Approval: The $425 million "lost interest" settlement is still awaiting final court approval. Once approved, the claim process will officially begin.
- Notice to Class Members: Eligible individuals will receive official notices by mail or email with detailed instructions on how to file a claim.
- Action Required: Unlike some settlements where you might automatically receive a small payment, affected customers will likely need to take action to receive payment for this settlement as well. This typically involves submitting a claim form.
- Claim Form Availability: Claim forms will be made available on the official settlement website (which will be announced after final approval).
- No Lawyer Needed: The process for claiming your share of these class-action settlements is generally designed to be straightforward, and you typically do not need a lawyer to file your claim.
Action Point: For the 2019 breach, explore the Identity Defense Services if you haven't already. For the "lost interest" settlement, prepare to act quickly once official notices and the claim website are launched.
Step 4: Submitting Your Claim (If Applicable and Open)
This step will be relevant for the upcoming "lost interest" settlement.
4.1 Gather Necessary Information and Documentation
- Personal Information: Be ready to provide your full name, current address, contact details (phone, email), and any unique identifiers provided in the official notice (e.g., Unique ID, PIN).
- Account Information: For the "lost interest" settlement, you'll need details about your Capital One 360 Savings account, including account numbers (if required) and the period you held the account.
- Supporting Documentation (if required): While the "lost interest" settlement is primarily about foregone interest, there might be situations where additional documentation is helpful or requested. Always read the claim instructions carefully.
4.2 Carefully Complete the Claim Form
- Read Instructions Thoroughly: Every settlement has specific instructions. Do not skim! Ensure you understand all requirements.
- Accuracy is Key: Double-check all the information you enter. Errors can lead to delays or denial of your claim.
- Choose Payment Method: Often, you'll have options for receiving payment (e.g., direct deposit, PayPal, Venmo, paper check). Choose the method that works best for you.
4.3 Submit Your Claim Before the Deadline
- Pay Attention to Deadlines: This is critical. Missing a deadline means missing out on potential compensation. For the 2019 data breach monetary claims, the deadline has passed. For the upcoming "lost interest" settlement, a new deadline will be set after final court approval.
- Confirmation: Once you submit your claim (especially online), save any confirmation numbers or emails as proof of submission. If mailing, consider sending it with a tracking number.
Step 5: Monitoring Your Claim and Receiving Payment
After you've submitted your claim, it's a waiting game.
5.1 Claim Status Updates
- Official Website: The official settlement website will often have a section where you can check the status of your claim using your Unique ID and PIN.
- Email Notifications: The settlement administrator will typically send email updates regarding the status of your claim and payment schedule. Make sure their emails aren't going to your spam folder.
5.2 Payment Distribution
- Timeline: Settlement payments can take several months or even longer after the claim deadline or final court approval, especially if there are appeals. The administrator will notify claimants about the timeline.
- Payment Method: Payments will be made via the method you selected (e.g., direct deposit, check).
- Be Patient, But Vigilant: While you wait, continue to monitor your financial accounts for any suspicious activity, especially if your information was exposed in the breach.
Step 6: What if You Missed the 2019 Monetary Claim Deadline?
- Don't Despair Entirely: As mentioned, while the cash payouts for the 2019 data breach settlement are no longer available, the free Identity Defense Services are still active until February 13, 2028. This is a valuable benefit.
- Check Eligibility for Identity Services: Visit
www.CapitalOneSettlement.com - Focus on the New Settlement: If you held a Capital One 360 Savings account after September 18, 2019, turn your attention to the upcoming "lost interest" settlement. This is your next opportunity for compensation.
Step 7: Ongoing Vigilance
Regardless of whether you received a payout, practicing good cybersecurity habits is essential.
7.1 Monitor Your Accounts
- Regularly check your credit reports: You can get a free copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) once every 12 months at AnnualCreditReport.com. Look for any accounts you don't recognize or suspicious activity.
- Review bank and credit card statements: Scrutinize all transactions for unauthorized charges.
- Enable account alerts: Many banks and credit card companies allow you to set up alerts for unusual activity, large transactions, or changes to your account.
7.2 Protect Your Information
- Strong, unique passwords: Use complex passwords for all your online accounts and consider a password manager.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA wherever possible for an added layer of security.
- Be wary of phishing attempts: Never click on suspicious links in emails or text messages, especially if they ask for personal information.
- Consider a credit freeze: If you're particularly concerned about identity theft, a credit freeze can prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to Check Capital One Data Breach Settlement Eligibility if I didn't receive a notice?
You can visit the official settlement website,
How to Determine the Amount of Compensation I Might Receive?
For the 2019 data breach, monetary compensation varied based on documented out-of-pocket losses (up to $25,000) and lost time (up to 15 hours at $25/hour). For the newer "lost interest" settlement, the amount will depend on how long you held the 360 Savings account and your average balance during the eligible period.
How to File a Claim for the Capital One Data Breach Settlement if the deadline has passed?
For the monetary claims of the 2019 data breach settlement, the deadline (September 30, 2022) has passed, and new claims for cash compensation are no longer being accepted. However, you might still be able to enroll in the free Identity Defense Services if eligible, which are available until February 13, 2028, by visiting the official settlement website.
How to Get My Unique ID and PIN if I lost the settlement notice?
If you lost your notice, you can typically retrieve your Unique ID and PIN by contacting the settlement administrator directly via their official phone number or through a dedicated section on the official settlement website.
How to Contact the Capital One Data Breach Settlement Administrator?
For the 2019 data breach settlement, you can usually find contact information, including a phone number and potentially an email address, on the official settlement website,
How to Track the Status of My Capital One Data Breach Settlement Payment?
After filing a claim, you can typically track its status and payment information by visiting the official settlement website and entering your Unique ID and PIN. The settlement administrator will also send updates via email.
How to Opt-Out of the Capital One Data Breach Settlement?
The deadline to opt-out of the 2019 data breach settlement has passed. For future settlements, the official notice will clearly outline the process and deadline for opting out if you wish to retain your right to sue Capital One separately.
How to Report Fraudulent Activity After the Capital One Data Breach?
If you experience fraudulent activity, contact Capital One immediately using the number on the back of your card or statement. Also, report the fraud to the credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion), and consider filing a police report if significant financial loss occurs.
How to Protect Myself from Future Data Breaches and Identity Theft?
Implement strong, unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, regularly monitor your credit reports and financial statements, be cautious of phishing scams, and consider placing a credit freeze on your credit files.
How to Stay Informed About the Newer Capital One "Lost Interest" Settlement?
Monitor your mail and email for official notices from Capital One or the settlement administrator. Also, keep an eye on reputable financial news outlets and Capital One's official website for updates on the final court approval and the opening of the claim period.
