In a time when spam texts from apps can clutter your phone and waste your time, a new $12.5 million settlement brings good news for Washington residents affected by Cash App’s referral messages. If you got unwanted promotional texts from Cash App’s “Invite Friends” feature without agreeing to them, you could be in line for up to $147 in compensation.
This class action deal, called Bottoms v. Block Inc., holds Cash App’s parent company accountable for breaking state privacy rules by sending automated alerts from late 2019 to mid-2025. The claim period just ended on October 27, 2025, but if you filed in time, payouts could start early next year after court approval. No need to prove big harm—just matching the basics qualifies you for a fair share of the fund after fees.
What Is the Cash App $147 Settlement? A Straightforward Explainer
This agreement ends a lawsuit against Block Inc. (Cash App’s owner) for helping users send unasked-for texts to contacts in Washington. The suit claims it broke the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA)—a law against automated spam without permission. Cash App didn’t admit fault but agreed to the $12.5 million pot to settle things quickly.
After lawyer fees (up to 33%) and admin costs, the rest splits among claimants. Most get $88 to $147 each—no big proofs needed. It’s a win for privacy: Those pesky messages like “Join Cash App via [link]” won’t bug you without opt-in anymore. For users, it’s easy money for time lost blocking or ignoring alerts. This case spotlights how apps must get clear “yes” before buzzing phones, setting a bar for other tech firms. Bottom line: If you fit the class, it’s a no-risk way to get compensated—claimants give up future suits on this issue, but that’s standard for these deals.
Who Qualifies? Basic Rules for the Settlement Class
No complicated hurdles—the rules target everyday Washington folks hit by the texts. It’s all about when and where you got the message, not your income or how often you use Cash App.
Main Eligibility Points
- State Residency: You lived in Washington when the text arrived—no out-of-state claims.
- Message Period: Received a referral promo text between November 14, 2019, and August 7, 2025.
- No Permission Given: The alert was automated and you didn’t agree to it upfront (most didn’t).
- Phone Tied to You: The number was yours at the time—simple self-certify.
- Exclusions: Skip if you’re a Block or Cash App worker, or if you opted out of the suit earlier.
Got a mailed notice? Use its ID to check fast. Even without one, if dates match, you’re likely in—the site verifies via phone or email. This broad net covers casual users annoyed by friend invites they never sent. About 100,000+ could qualify, but payouts adjust by total claims. Quick fact: No harm proof required; it’s about the violation itself.
For a quick eligibility overview, here’s a table:
| Requirement | What It Means | Why It Counts | Tip to Check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington Resident | Lived in WA during text receipt | Ties to state privacy laws | Use old bills or ID |
| Text Dates | Nov 14, 2019 – Aug 7, 2025 | Covers full issue window | Scroll your messages |
| No Consent | Didn’t opt in for automated alerts | Core of the lawsuit | Recall if you agreed |
| Your Phone | Number was active and yours | Proves impact | Match to current |
| No Exclusions | Not an employee or prior opt-out | Keeps it fair | Self-review |
Spot yourself? Head to the site for confirmation—takes seconds.
Claim Process: How to Submit and What Happens After
The window closed October 27, 2025, but timely filers are set. For reference (or status checks), here’s how it worked:
Step-by-Step (For Late Reference or Verification)
- Visit Official Site: Go to BottomsTextSettlement.com—avoid fakes.
- Enter Details: Input name, phone, email, and WA residency proof (like zip code).
- Self-Certify: Confirm the text period and no consent—admins cross-check Cash App records.
- Pick Payout Way: Choose direct deposit, digital wallet (PayPal/Venmo), or check.
- Submit and Save: Get a confirmation ID—track with it.
Mailed option? Sent to PO Box 2631, Baton Rouge, LA 70821, postmarked by deadline. No fees—it’s all admin-handled. If rejected (rare, like wrong dates), appeals run till January 2026. Pro tip: Keep your ID handy for updates.
Key Dates: Timeline for Approval and Payouts
With claims in, the focus is final steps—no more filings, just waiting.
Upcoming Milestones
- Claim Deadline: October 27, 2025—closed, but valid ones process now.
- Final Court Hearing: December 2, 2025—judge approves if no hitches.
- Review and Notice Phase: December 2025–January 2026—emails on approval.
- First Payouts: Early February 2026 for electronic (direct/digital)—fastest option.
- Check Mailing: March–April 2026—adds 2–4 weeks.
- Full Close: Mid-2026, unless appeals (unlikely).
Delays? High claims or verifications add weeks, but 80% wrap by spring. Track via site login—no app needed. As of now, no appeals filed—smooth sailing ahead.
Stay Safe: Common Scams and Tips for Claimants
Fraudsters love settlements—fake sites promise “extra $147” for fees or your SSN. Red flags: Unsolicited calls, non-.gov links, or “urgent fix” emails. Official contact? Only from BottomsTextSettlement.com or mailed notices. Report phonies to FTC.gov or 1-877-540-7545.
For your share: Taxes? Not income, so no IRS bill. Use it wisely—pay a bill or save for emergencies. This deal pushes apps toward better consent, a plus for all users.
Wrapping Up: Your Next Steps After the Cash App Settlement Deadline
The Cash App $147 settlement is a fair fix for Washington users tired of uninvited texts, offering $88–$147 shares from a $12.5 million fund without the usual proof hassles. From residency rules and the closed October 27 claim window to December 2 approval and early 2026 payouts, it’s a straightforward path to compensation—proving privacy pays off.
If you filed, monitor that site today and pick electronic for speed. Missed it? Watch for similar suits in your state. Share this with a friend who got those alerts—relief starts with awareness. As 2025 ends, here’s to fewer spam buzzes and a bit more in your pocket—stay vigilant and claim smart!