Amazon Settles Return Policy Class Action

PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 23, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- A federal court has authorized a notice regarding a proposed settlement in a class action lawsuit against Amazon.com, the world's largest online retailer. The lawsuit, titled "In re: Amazon Return Policy Litigation," alleges that Amazon's return policies and practices violate Washington consumer protection and other laws. Amazon denies the allegations and has agreed to settle the lawsuit to avoid additional litigation burdens and expenses. The Court has not made any findings regarding the merits of the lawsuit or the appropriateness of certifying the case as a class action.

The proposed settlement involves Amazon customers who initiated returns to the company or requested refunds for physical products purchased through Amazon.com from September 5, 2017 to February 12, 2026. These customers are eligible for refunds if they did not receive a refund from Amazon or received an untimely or incorrect refund. Members of Settlement Subclass A will automatically receive a payment under the Settlement, while members of Settlement Subclass B must submit a Claim Form to receive a payment. Members who want to keep their right to sue or continue to sue Amazon on their own about the legal issues in this lawsuit must exclude themselves from the settlement by December 1, 2026.

Under the Settlement, Amazon will make reasonable efforts to complete payment of refunds for certain customers who were not able to confirm the correct item(s) were returned. In addition, Amazon will pay an additional $309.5 million into a non-reversionary Common Fund, which will be used for distribution to the Settlement Class in accordance with the plan of distribution as well as all costs and expenses associated with the Settlement, including any attorneys' fees and incentive awards (subject to Court approval).

The Court will hold a Final Approval Hearing on March 16, 2027, to consider whether the Settlement is fair, reasonable, and adequate, and to decide whether to approve the Settlement, Class Counsel's application for Attorneys' Fees and Costs, and a Service Award for the Class Representatives. If there are objections, the Court will consider them. The Court will also listen to people who have asked to speak at the hearing.