Trader Joe’s is settling a class action lawsuit for more than $7 million, after a complaint claimed that the grocery giant printed 10 digits—the first six and last four—of customers’ debit and credit cards on transaction receipts.
The 2019 class action lawsuit alleged that Trader Joe’s violated the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACTA) amendment to the Fair Credit Reporting Act. No customers reported identity theft as a result, Trader Joe’s said on the settlement website; however, identity theft is not a requirement to prove a FACTA violation.
The Los Angeles County Superior Court did not rule on the case, and Trader Joe’s’ decision to settle did not confirm the validity of the claims.
In the settlement, Trader Joe’s agreed to pay $7.4 million in fees to customers who received receipts exposing too many digits between March 5 and July 19, 2019. Customers who made a purchase with a credit or debit card within that time frame may be entitled to a payment.
Customers who submit a claim will receive a proportional payment distribution, estimated to be $102.45, according to the settlement notice.
Customers with a Class ID number can submit a claim via the settlement website or phone by June 6, 2026. According to the website, members of the settlement class received an email or postcard about the settlement.
Submitting a settlement claim forfeits the right to sue Trader Joe’s on the claims of the lawsuit. Customers who exclude themselves or opt out of the settlement by June 9, 2026, will be allowed to continue pursuing such claims.
The court must still approve the settlement and any submitted appeals before payments are issued. The hearing is scheduled for August 10.
