In a recent development, retail giant Walmart has agreed to settle a class action lawsuit filed against them in October 2022. The lawsuit alleged that Walmart customers across the United States and Puerto Rico who purchased certain weighted groceries, including meat, seafood, and bagged citrus, paid more than the lowest advertised price in stores. While Walmart has denied any wrongdoing, they have agreed to pay a substantial sum of $45 million to settle the litigation.

Customers who believe they were affected by the alleged overcharging can now submit claims to receive cash payments. To determine eligibility, customers must have purchased specific weighted meat, seafood, and bagged citrus products, such as oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines, at Walmart stores in the U.S. and Puerto Rico between October 19, 2018, and January 19, 2024.

To file a claim, eligible customers have the option to submit their information online or download a claim form to be printed and mailed to the provided address. The claim form requires customers to provide contact information, details about the purchased items, select a preferred payment option, and even offers an opportunity to upload receipts as proof of purchase. It is important for customers to submit their claims by the deadline of June 5.

The settlement agreement also states that a final approval hearing is scheduled for June 12, where any objections or comments regarding the settlement can be raised until May 22.

The cash payments offered to eligible customers may vary depending on the specifics of each claim. Customers without proof of purchase can receive between $10 and $25, depending on the number of eligible products they attest to buying during the settlement class period. On the other hand, customers who can provide receipts or other documentation may be eligible to receive 2% of the total cost for each purchased product, up to a maximum of $500.

Upon approval of their claims, recipients will receive their cash payments electronically through platforms like Venmo, Zelle, ACH, or a virtual pre-paid MasterCard. Alternatively, paper checks can be requested for those who are unable to receive electronic payments.

This settlement marks Walmart's effort to bring resolution to the class action lawsuit, providing affected customers with an opportunity to recoup some of their alleged overpayments. The move also highlights the importance of transparent pricing practices in the retail industry.

Please note that The Associated Press provided substantial information for this report.

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