Equifax Data Breach Settlement Guide (2026)
By Timo Bakker · · 4 min read
The 2017 Equifax data breach affected 147 million Americans. The $650M settlement is technically closed but a small residual claim window may still apply for people who did not file initially. See the settlement website for current status. Here is what you need to know to file.
Am I eligible?
If you were a customer / account holder with the affected company at the time of the breach, you almost certainly qualify. Some settlements require you to have been notified — others accept sworn declaration of prior relationship.
What you can claim
- No-proof tier: $50-100 flat payment.
- Documented losses tier: Up to $25,000 for actual fraud losses from identity theft (with documentation).
- Credit monitoring: 2-3 years free (regardless of monetary claim).
How to file
Check the live directory for the current status of this and other data breach settlements. The official settlement website (linked in the notice you received) is always the authoritative filing venue.
Related reading
Full data breach settlements guide · How to know if you were in a breach · How to claim class action money