In response to a class action lawsuit, retail giant Walmart has agreed to pay $45 million to settle claims that it inflated prices on certain weighted meat, seafood, and bagged citrus products. The lawsuit, filed in October 2022, alleged that customers across the United States and Puerto Rico paid more than the advertised lowest price in stores.

While Walmart firmly denied any wrongdoing, it has taken steps to resolve the litigation by offering eligible customers the opportunity to receive a cash payment. Shoppers who believe they were impacted have until June 5 to file a claim to potentially receive up to $500 in compensation.

To determine eligibility for a settlement payment, customers must have purchased certain weighted meat, seafood, and bagged citrus products, including select oranges, grapefruit, and tangerines, from Walmart stores in the U.S. and Puerto Rico between October 19, 2018, and January 19, 2024.

To apply for a settlement payment, eligible consumers have the option to submit a claim online or by downloading a printable form and mailing it to the designated address. The claim form requires individuals to provide contact information, descriptions of the purchased items, select a payment option, and upload receipts if available. It is crucial for claimants to submit their claims by the June 5 deadline.

Payments under the settlement will vary depending on the details of each claim. Consumers who no longer have proof of purchase can receive between $10 and $25, depending on the number of eligible products they state they purchased during the settlement period. Meanwhile, those with receipts or other documentation may receive 2% of the total cost for each eligible product, up to a maximum of $500.

Once approved, claimants can expect to receive their cash payments electronically through platforms like Venmo, Zelle, ACH, or a virtual pre-paid MasterCard. For individuals unable to receive electronic payments, paper checks can be requested.

A final approval hearing for the settlement is scheduled for June 12, and individuals who have objections or other comments regarding the settlement have until May 22 to make their submissions.

Walmart's settlement signals a resolution to the class action lawsuit and aims to provide compensation to affected customers who purchased certain weighted groceries or bagged fruit during the stipulated period.