What is the "Class Period" in a Class Action?
By Timo Bakker · · 4 min read
The class period is one of the most important pieces of information in any class action settlement notice. It defines exactly which time window of behavior qualifies for compensation.
How class periods are defined
Class periods are usually defined by:
- Purchase date range. Example: “anyone who bought Product X between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2023.”
- Account activity period. Example: “anyone with an account with Company X between 2018-2022.”
- Event date. Example: “anyone whose data was in the breach on June 15, 2023.”
Why the period exists
Statutes of limitations. Most consumer protection laws have a 4-6 year window for filing lawsuits. The class period usually starts as far back as the statute of limitations allows and ends when the lawsuit was filed (or the alleged conduct stopped).
If you are unsure whether you fit
Read the settlement notice carefully. If you bought the product or used the service at any point during the class period, you qualify. Even one purchase or one account use during the window is usually enough — not the entire period.
If you cannot remember exactly when, most no-proof settlements accept your sworn declaration — just do not lie.