Big Fish Lawsuits Settlement Approved by Federal Court
Australian-based manufacturer of gaming machines Aristocrat Technologies announced today the settlement related to Big Fish Games was approved by the US Federal District Court for the Western District of Washington.
Federal Court Approval
Aristocrat filed the announcement to the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) regarding the May 2020 agreement to settle claims related to the two lawsuits brought by Cheryl Kater, Suzie Kelly, and Manasa Thimmedowda.
The lawsuits were filed against online social gaming platforms Big Fish Casino, Jackpot Magic Slots, and Epic Diamond Slots, all offered by Big Fish Games, a company Aristocrat acquired from Churchill Down Incorporated (CDI) in 2018 for $990 million.
The payment linked to the agreement totaling $155 million was split between the former owner of Big Fish, CDI, which agreed to pay $124 million, and the social games brands’ current owner Aristocrat, which agreed for payment on the remaining $31 million.
Lawsuits Date Back to 2015
The lawsuit was initially launched against CDI in 2015 by Cheryl Kater, who claimed she had lost $1,000 while playing social games from her mobile phone. She argued the social games platform was in fact offering games of chance, a category prohibited by law in Washington.
Despite the ruling against her claim from a US District Court judge in Seattle in 2016, Kater was successful at the US Court of Appeals which ruled that virtual chips represented things of value, hence games offered by Big Fish constituted illegal online gambling.
By the time of the agreement, both companies placed the money in a settlement fund as compensation for money lost and reasonable lawyers’ fees, claimed from the plaintiffs on behalf of themselves and a nationwide settlement class action.
Upon reaching the settlement agreement which was pending the approval of the federal court, Aristocrat released CDI from any indemnity regarding the two class-action lawsuits.
With the filing to the ASX Aristocrat confirmed the US Federal District Court for the Western District of Washington approved the reached agreement for settlement with the plaintiffs.
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201 Comments
As of todays date, March 12th, 2021, the only ones who have received payment for this settlement are the attorneys “Edelson PC” & the Administrator “Angeion Group”. Class Member are dead last in receiving anything! We cant even get a return call or email from either party! Funny how urgent it was when they wanted to talk to us but no that they’ve got theirs ,we don’t exist. Just one victims / class members opinion. It sure looks like were the big losers again, good thing Big Fish got us all very used to that! Good Day!
Has anyone received a payment yet? This is all a lie! They are keeping our money as long as they can get by with it!
I got my check today. A little over $1000
I got my payment today in the mail.
I would love to know what’s going on we suppose to be paid by april 12th but i still dont even know how much they say i have in lifetime spending when does that start for the 21 days we have ? Prob already has and we will get screwed again
* Settlement date: 02/11/21
* 30 day Appeal waiting period
* Payout due date 05/11/21
* Motion for 60 day extension-granted
* New payout due date 07/11/21
Yes I got an initial payment and I must say a pretty good amount
I received a 4k check last month ,it’s real not a scam
When is the final payment scheduled for?
Still no email telling me how much I am owed yet. Still waiting …….
I filed my claim in November 2020. The Big Fish Settlement site took down the feature of the estimated amount you will receive tool to allow you to get an idea of how much you will receive. By sliding the slider to the amount you have spent over the lifetime you’ve been playing, they projected the estimated amount you were to receive. When I did mine, my projected amount to be received was from $10,000 to $30,000. And that was based on what the least amount I was able to confirm for sure of the amount I’ve spent. But right after February 11th… the day of the finalized trial… I noticed they took down the feature of allowing someone to see their estimated amount. It started to make me think that they took it down because they are lowering the estimated amount that they once projected to us. I also can no longer call and reach anyone for information like we were once able to do. I can’t find any updated information on the matter either. Can anyone else?
No and I’m upset everything that everyone is saying I agree 100% and I’ve had the same results with trying to contact them emails all of the above highly pissed off
Still to this very day I have yet to receive my payment.. I have reached out several times and still nothing..
I’m in the same predicament. Was told I’d be recieving something in the mail in 3 weeks. It’s been a month since I recieved that email. What the hell is going on
Same thing going on here! I got the little index sized card in the mail. Did as they requested and other than the first initial email I have heard nothing else. I noticed the estimator online is gone as well. From reading through the documents on the website it looks like we should have our amount 60 days after 2/11/2021. I have been searching for more information but keep coming up empty handed.
Want to laugh? I received my settlement check today: $37.00 outof over $30,000.00 spent
Well Maria, it seems out of all the thousands that filed a claim, you are the only one to receive a payment. You must be lucky!
I received an initial check for 3000.00 today
We are suppose to be getting an email with our lifetime spending total, but, have yet to even receive that. It says payment within 60 days of the final approval, but, I don’t see how that’s possible since it’s already been 46 days and no one has gotten the email. Then you have 21 days after that to dispute their total if you have proof they’re off. I also know if it goes past 60 days and someone decides to file a grievance with the court for violating the timeframe set forth in the order, it pushes back the timeline for payout further. They said they expect payments to go out towards the end of April,, but again not hopeful. They’ve had the financial records from Apple, google, and BF and have had 6 weeks to figure out people’s spending. At this point I just want my money. I’m owed thousands and could really use it right now.
I have some info for everyone & I hope sharing this helps in some way!
I got an email from Edelson PC & this is what I was told. We are supposed to be paid within 60 days of the hearing &/or the appeals period. I was informed that
BF has a 30 day appeal period. So, the 60 days doesn’t start until March 13th. And payments must be issued by May 12th. Sometime between now & may 12th we will get an email with our lifetime spending amount & have 21 days to challenge the info. However, I was told that those emails & challenge deadlines will not have any effect on the issuance of the payments being made to the class members. They will be made regardless of any challenges. I guess they will deal with any additional funds from successful challenges from proceeds still in the fund before making any final round of payments. I find it very sad that the judge court ordered the attorneys & administrator as well as the 3 class reps be paid in full within 14 days via bank transfer but left the class members to be held up for months & maybe longer if Angeion feels the need for an extension, they can ask the parties ,& judge for more time. I don’t understand what is taking so long with this, it is what it is! I have a gut feeling the fund is being bled out, long before it gets paid out. Everyones getting theirs & some & the ones who were financially damaged have gotten nothing! Trickling away & again we end up the big fish losers again! Sorry I tried to be helpful but this all just ticks me off & I feel like my hands are tied & there’s not a damned thing I can do about any of it.
Thank you for that info. I emailed Edelson and received an email saying optimistic payments will go out late April or early May.
Thank you for the information
Thank you for sharing! That was extremely helpful.
When there’s a settlement approval, the stipulations ordered to by the judge are usually the agreements previously agreed to as part of the settlement.
I’m trying to figure out why my husband hasn’t got his check yet . Is there a area where we can look
At this point I’m so sick of looking up information for this! We are all owed money and no one can keep in touch with us! It’s ridiculous! If anyone is interested I. Starting a FB group for this I’m interested!!! We gotta stay updated
Thank you for the update. Any information at this point I’d better than none.
I am interested in the Facebook group
I have been trying to look up info on this matter for months now and hit a brick wall each time, thank you all for posting the info you have found. Haven’t gotten any of the funds yet, really not expecting to, and if so, only the smallest fraction of what was spent. Only wondering now, was it even worth it all? Again, thanks for the updates.
Please let me know name of group on Facebook, I’m interested in joining.
What is the Facebook group I am interested in others opinions on the email I received today.
I hope you all received some kind of funds today. I received 3k…I was shocked at how much I spent
Do you know when our last 20% will be paid out??
Hello, so I got my1st initial settlement pay, anyone knows when the last payment will be sent out?
I still haven’t received a follow up email stating the amount that I am owed. Hopefully it comes soon.
Maybe we should start a Fb page and also flood the attorneys with emails, this is seriously ridiculous and I too have emailed and was told there is no new updates on this and shortly we will receive emails. Im pretty much homeless and have no car and been counting on this to help my situation and also I have a very sick son so everything is weighing on me pretty hard right now.
Still nothing here! Anyone received a payment yet? 👎
Nothing happens fast in a lawsuit! They don’t care! They got their money and they are in no hurry to any away!
Who are the bigger crooks the lawyers or Big fish? Answer both are criminals!
I was told I should get my money July 15 2021
April 5, 2021 and still nothing heard. It’s beginning to really grate my nerves that they couldn’t keep in contact with us and keep us in the loop. It take less than 3 minutes to type up an email saying “Sorry you have been waiting, you’re not forgotten. Payouts will happen around such and such dates. We’re waiting on blah blah blah blah blah.” A simple acknowledgment from them would go a long ways instead of us wondering what is going on.
The administrator asked and received an extension due to the magnitude of the case and the data involved. They have until July 12 to pay.
This is just crazy
April 10 and not a word! 2 claim forms in and expecting thousands back but i guess the lawyers are buying their crap with our money! Funny how you have to pay a thief to sue a thief!!
I have not heard a word from Big Fish lately or the attorneys
I find it very odd that with a pending lawsuit Big Fish has not stopped their crooked ways! They continuously rob their players! It worse than ever! You get a bonus and boom all wins shut off the machines. Bonus received BF takes all chips back in a matter of minutes they need to be shut down completely!
Left a message with administrators that I was visiting my grandson who attends Univ of Wash in Seattle This weekend. If I have not heard from them by Friday I was going to visit the court to get some answers. They responded immediately and asked me to call them so they could explain. I said I wanted their answer in writing to everyone so they will know. Let’s see if they answer.
Good job Ms Diaz. I hope you hear back from them!
Love this! Will be paying attention to this to see if you get somewhere. Thanks!
Still calling and waiting
Still calling still waiting! Ridiculous ripoff
Im soooo tired of this – no answers back!! Im going to go directly to the courts!!! Yes its true – its takes awhile when receiving money when won money from a lawsuit but this is ridiculous!! Thank you all for the info!! Bery well appricated!!!!!
April 16th and haven’t received an email or payment.
Haven’t received anything April 17th, 2021. Has anyone had any update when we can e ow thank payment?
Anyone expecting a settlement payment should receive payment on or before July 11- 2021
How do I verify they received my claim? What if someone missed the deadline due to COVID? Anyone know if there are exceptions?
Still haven’t heard from the attorneys.
It’s April 16, 2021 by the time I get any money from this class action suit the site will probably shut down. I fully understand class action suites are the worse. Courts, attorneys, paralegals and everyone gets paid first. Whatever is left over is what they divide between everyone else and that could mean millions of people depending if they filed a claim. So again, all of us get screws over again. It’s bad enough BFC screws us now the courts, attorneys etc are giving us the shaft
I would love to know how no one has been paid yet? I spent around $100,000 and stopped playing long ago, when Big Fish Casino sent out the notice that if you click this you can not sue us statement.. all of a sudden if players continued to play why can they be apart of the lawsuit? Would love to the amount everyone or anyone will be getting and when? I think after seeing how many people wanted to be apart of the lawsuit they should have requested for more compensation, I wish I wouldn’t have agreed to be apart of it and sure them myself, individually. I pray I’m wrong in thinking the payout will be way less then the expected numbers the site gave. That was the only reason I agreed to be apart of the lawsuit, I hope my fears are wrong.
Big Fish are still ripping people off. I got an email tell me my Life Time spend was ZERO because they couldn’t find my Data now they say I had to prove I bought Coins (Which is BS) in both Apps but didn’t give me enough time to get the Information from Apple & PayPal. Now I’ll get ZIP 😡😡😡
They emailed me back April 16 they didn’t have much to say and said within 7 to 10 days we should know something about payments and payouts, so don’t know how true this is so will see.
Wow that the first real dates I’ve heard. So that would be 23rd to 26th can’t wait
Today is 4/20/2021 I have not received any form of communication from the settlement attorneys. I’m debating on sending them an email, has anyone heard different?
Same boat 4/20 !
They seem to be the only ones,
Able to keep secrets ●
I did receive a reply last Thursday. It was quite lengthy. Bottom line they said it would be at least one to two weeks begote we receive the paperwork. Then the 21 days kicks in. They specifically noted that several people had sent in identical numbers for the same account and they were busy identifying these. I would guess nothing till late May. But I could be wrong.
Thanks for info. Never received an email back from attys. After I registered. I had 4 cards sent. Registered but that’s the last I heard.
A few things..to the person who claimed they got a check for $37 – while it may seem likely with the amount of folks who are in this and the amount actually being given out – less than 115 million after the lawyers got their 40 mil….checks take wayyyyyyy longer and we all know direct deposits are first – so jokes on you boo boo. lol
Another thing – you all are complaining about the lawyers – they have kept me right up to date. With the amount of claims you must understand how long this has to take the administrators.
If you read up on settlements they can take up to 6-9 months to actually pay out so this one seems to be moving along for us to get EMAILS first and then you reply and go from there. This is all straight from Edelson – again very easy to get a hold of and super responsive. They did their job and while they are getting paid a lot – it is expected in settlements like this. PLEASE RESEARCH SETTLEMENTS lol.
Lastly, I see so many acting like crack heads on here – you were not fussing when you were spending it so calm down. The funny thing is – most will spend it all back on the game.
I also saw someone mention the claim form being delayed. Happened to me – I immediately called/emailed the lawyers and told them I got the card in the mail on the 6th of January. I sent out the claim form that day via mail and emailed the lawyers and the settlement folks which are basically the lawyer firm. They were super helpful and let me know I had a valid reason. I do think there will be a longer delay for folks who were late – and that those will have to be reviewed so I really have no idea what/if I will get anything but I definitely tried. I have a few letters/packages I have as verfification the post office was so delayed in my area. I had a letter I sent in SEPTEMBER 20 mins away and got it back in MARCH with a stamp of March saying it could not be delivered…made no sense. I had a package I scanned info on to show them it had been lost. Stuff like that. So due to the holidays/COVID delays in general that they should expect many more to be delayed and I was right that they had gotten more.. I never got an email or saw the ads/tweets for the settlement – only the claim form. And I was a good level 410 and Tier 10 in BF alone and you know how hard it was to buy coins in Big Fish back in the days…then JPM came out and I got to Tier 11 and was around level 220. Both of these accounts I added to the claim I can no longer access which is odd. I had stopped playing around November of last year and then tried to log in recently. I learned a few others *from another msg board* also had been suspended and I was wondering if anyone else had?
I read the docs and saw that BF has to provide coins etc. So I made an acct and saw they give out 100 on BF and 25200 in JPM when you run out – also learned that you can email support asking for a boost based on your tier. I tried it and it worked. I will no longer pay to play the game due to the fact I spent so much and got nothing in return but some app enjoyment. Why I did spend is beyond me, I do know the more you bought the more I felt I lost…and when they mention they cannot change odds etc…we all need to remember this is an APP…a computer game…just like they can change the amount of chests you get for certain periods of time in the game they can and do update the odds – no doubt.
This was a wild experience and I hope that folks who ended up somehow spending over 100k do get what they deserve in return. But with over 50k people applying by December I am just not sure how much that can be split. Not to mention once cards were sent out around the holidays that is more. And then late claims etc.
Hey… ty for your post, interesting take on Bf. I read an older article from NBC news abt Bf that contained info abt 21 Bf players they had interviewed for the article, one person included in that article said they had spent $500K+,,,, and had taken out a lien on their home… so sad. The article went on to say that only 10% of all Bf players purchase coins… I find that hard to believe… but, if that is true where did all the claims for this lawsuit come from? Unless Bf is not being truthful about the number of players they have, idk? Hoping that there are indeed only 10% of players that have spent money tho, that should increase the amount of settlement members’ payouts. only U.S. players were included in the terms of the lawsuit, that alone will take the 10% down further. Guess we’ll know for sure in the coming weeks… not holding my breath until then tho!😁
You spent 100k? How is that Big Fish’s issue though? That is an absurd amount to blame them on. You knew 5k in you were paying to play a literal app and get zero rewards.
Who are you to judge anyone for anything?
I just read that a 60 day delay was filed and approved by the courts and that all claims will delayed to July 11th. ( NOT SURE IF CORRECT DATE)
July 11,2021 was the correct date now because of the extension granted on April 23,2021
They have until July 11 now if you go on the Attorney website you can see the update
I got this email from Edelson today. I’m sure other people did too. But this is what it said. I guess now we wait til July. Hopefully it will be worth it in the end.
Dear Claimant:
You are receiving this email because our records indicate that you submitted a claim in the Cheryl Kater and Suzie Kelley, et al. v. Churchill Downs Inc., et al. No. 15-cv-00612-RSL, and Manasa Thimmegowda, et al. v. Big Fish Games, Inc., et al. No. 19-cv-00199-RSL, class action settlements.
The settlement received final approval on Thursday, February 11, 2021, and became Effective on March 13, 2012. The Settlement Agreement required payment of Approved Claims within 60 days of March 13, 2021. This caused the initial deadline to issue settlement payments to be May 12, 2021.
Unfortunately, due to the volume and complexity of the data provided by the Parties and Platforms, unanticipated challenges unifying the data and matching it to claims, the volume of claims, the implementation and administration of the Initial Claim Determination notification process, and the potential time required to resolve any challenges, issuing payments for the Approved Claims by May 12, 2021, is not feasible.
Consequently, on April 22, 2021, the Settlement Administrator filed a motion to the Court requesting a 60-day extension of the deadline for payment of Approved Claims, to July 11, 2021. On April 23, 2021, the Court granted our request for an additional 60 days. Settlement payments are now scheduled to be released on or before July 11, 2021.
Additionally, in the next 1-2 weeks, we anticipate emailing you the Initial Claim Determination Notice providing you with your claim status, classification and Lifetime Spending Amount.
I got the exact same email only a day before you got yours.. at this point, I basically have the mind set that I’ll get it when I get it. No amount of being pissed off or being up their ass is going to get any of us our money faster folks.. we’ve already waited this long so what’s a few more weeks.. shit I could die b4 mine shows up lol… best of luck to everyone..
I received an email from the lawyers today and they got an extension to settle claims on or before July 11, 2021, they also said in the next 1-2 weeks we should get an email letting us know what to expect in payout.
I just received an email stating 1-2 weeks we will get an email saying the expected amount back with the life time earnings . Also on July 11th they will be sending the money out
The settlement admin sent out an email tonight with updates – so check your emails.
Like someone said on a message board – lots of claims in this and it is taking time.
I would expect your money to be less than originally anticipated due to the fact the Lawyers were paid a certain amt and that left around what 114-115 million for the actual settlement?
They have been great and kept us up to date as they needed to. So everyone calm down – the email goes out in 1-2 weeks, 21 days for responses IF needed and they have to pay ON OR BEFORE JULY 11th. Which is not too far away.
Check your emails I got my update tonight. The site is updated as well.
1. All the emails reaching out and fussing about where you money to the lawyers is doing nothing but delaying the process.
2. Like others say – expect less. That is just how a settlement works. But some people who sent in claim forms will not get accepted. Imagine they had up to 50k claims by December. That is out of control lol.
3. The lawyers respond in an extremely timely manner.
4. Check the website. The info is updated.
5. Calm down. Big Fish might suck – but YOU spent that money. BF might have baited you in but YOU spent that money and knew you needed it to feed your kids/make house payments. I am so over seeing people say they spent 100k or I saw other articles where some had spent 300-500k. Your fault.
6. I see some of you fussing about wanting the money – and still crying about BFC. Why are you still playing the game? lol You should NOT be able to take part in the settlement and still play. That makes no sense to me at all and I get we are all different – but nothing has changed with them it just has not. So you will get this little settlement and put it RIGHT back into them and they are BANKING on it.
Good luck all.
Update fyi.. Rec’d an email from the Settlement Administrator… they filed a motion for extension for the payment deadline in court on 22Apr2021, and the court/judge approved it on 23Apr2021… the deadline for payments was extended 60 days which makes the new payment date 11Jul2021… payments SHOULD be rec’d by this date or before. Also noted in the email… that lifetime spending emails will be sent out within the next two weeks.
Additional info. I asked about amount of my settlement and was informed via email. That due to the huge volume of response the court granted an Additional 60 days. Note per email the payments where initially to be paid by May 12, 2021. Now that pay by date has been moved to July, 11, 2021. Email noted that they anticipated notifying all recipients in the next 1 -2 weeks what that payment would be as per their claim number. Note that the new date was noted as 7/11/21 or before. Hope this helps. This letter was sent by the Settlement Administrator.
Dear Claimant:
You are receiving this email because our records indicate that you submitted a claim in the Cheryl Kater and Suzie Kelley, et al. v. Churchill Downs Inc., et al. No. 15-cv-00612-RSL, and Manasa Thimmegowda, et al. v. Big Fish Games, Inc., et al. No. 19-cv-00199-RSL, class action settlements.
The settlement received final approval on Thursday, February 11, 2021, and became Effective on March 13, 2012. The Settlement Agreement required payment of Approved Claims within 60 days of March 13, 2021. This caused the initial deadline to issue settlement payments to be May 12, 2021.
Unfortunately, due to the volume and complexity of the data provided by the Parties and Platforms, unanticipated challenges unifying the data and matching it to claims, the volume of claims, the implementation and administration of the Initial Claim Determination notification process, and the potential time required to resolve any challenges, issuing payments for the Approved Claims by May 12, 2021, is not feasible.
Consequently, on April 22, 2021, the Settlement Administrator filed a motion to the Court requesting a 60-day extension of the deadline for payment of Approved Claims, to July 11, 2021. On April 23, 2021, the Court granted our request for an additional 60
I had seen a letter a friend got from the settlement adm and they ask for a 60 day extention to pay claims due to the complexity of processing claim amounts they were granted the 60 days which moves the date they need to be paid by to July 12th. Not uncommon I don’t think I’m class action law suits but of course that is gonna cost the fund more. They don’t know when exactly the emails of your lifetime spending will be available to us at this point. But you will still get the 21 days to appeal that. So sit back and wait a couple more months and hope they don’t ask for another extention . Hope this helps the stress we have all been going thru not knowing anything I seen a copy of the emailed letter I would post it here but I can’t
On April 23, 2021, the Court granted the Settlement Administrator’s motion for a 60-day extension. Settlement payments are now scheduled to be made on or before July 11, 2021.
Well dang! It’s the 26th and still haven’t received an email!
It’s been over 2 weeks since that email claiming they will email me in 1-2 weeks. Still nothing
Still… no reply
Why aren’t my posts showing on here?
Got an Email today from the Settlement Administrator notifying me that my claim was approved! and noted my Lifetime Spending Amount. Seems lower than my calculations.
Yesterday, I received the “claim approved” notification with Lifetime Spend total. I have tried to follow the payment estimator but don’t fully understand it. Can someone break down how it works in non-legal terms?
Hi Chris, I can try to help. Do you know if you have a DPR or non-DPR claim? It should be indicated on the email with lifetime settlement amounts. If you have a DP claim, that means that at some point you accepted their new term and conidtions that popped up around 1/2020 I blieve. If you selected “no” then you would have not been able o play the game. However, if you did not select it or opted out by sending BFC a letter then you have a DPR claim. NonDPR claims pay slightly more. if you feel comfortable sharing your lifetime spending amount I can calculate the estimated settlement amount for you, as I created a spreadsheet to easily figure out amounts. Good luck and God bless!
I have the receipt and history of my lifetime spending. The amount they say is my lifetime spending is significantly lower.
Also, I am assuming that the slide tool feature they used to have to tell you an estimated range of how much you are to receive back meant nothing. Because if you spent 40k and are receiving 5k or 8k back….. that is well below the lowest estimated amount they made people believe they were able to get back.
how do you verify your lifetime spending? suggestions?
I haven’t received a claim determination notice does that mean I don’t qualify for one ?
Hi, I too got the email advising me of my “Lifetime” spending on both games & it just proved how flawed their data is. They said I haven’t purchased anything in either Game which is of course completely and totally false. I now have to prove I spent money, which isn’t a problem because I always kept the notifications but what a hassle
I’m trying to find out, if I’m still part of the settlement
Hello .. @Waiting Patiently – thank you for your offer to help. My lifetime spend is $21,000 according to their records, which I won’t dispute because I am not able to put the time in. I cannot reply directly to your thread for some reason, so I hope you see this post from me. I tried to calculate according to their allocation method and come up with about $4200 base, plus $4200 supplemental = $8400 – 30% (2520) for the fees, with a pay out of $5880. I have no clue if this is accurate, but I will be incredibly disappointed if after all this time, I get a check for $100.
I havent heard them since February. I know Goole sent them my payments as they requested.
I got an update on may 8th stating my lifetime spending amount and I also got email stating that payments got pushed out 60 days from original paydate which now makes on or before July 11 or 12 can’t remember date… that’s the latest of updates I have
Ok… yes, I received the post card last year and of course sent it back. If I receive a dime back then I am good. I made the decision to play this game and didn’t think for a moment that it would pay out real money. I am shocked to hear that some of you are pissed that you put in thousands of real money and expect something back. That is what Vegas is for. Don’t get mad a a system that wont give back money that you agreed to spend in order to get nothing back. Lastly….If you can afford to loose 100k on this game you probably don’t need the check. Peace
I was just reading an article about all of this, & it had a quote from one of the people who brought the suiting 2015. At that time she said she had spent $1000, but I read recently that she now claims she spent $350,000. I guess her reward of $50,000 for bringing the suit will go much farther with the added % calculated on $350,000 instead of on the $ 1000 she originally claimed. It takes all kinds!
You’re thinking of 2 separate people. 1 spent $1000 and the other spent around $400k
Definitely flawed. I am not doing all the research of my apple notifications or google either. I played the app for years then went to JPM too. I had two Tier 10’s and a Tier 11. I paid for my daughter to get to tier 9 as well. So I spent a ton – I mean I charged 800 to my Verizon in just one day lol so they are waaayyyy off on my lifetime. But it came back with much less. I do not care – we are lucky to get anything back. So to those of you out here fighting them and holding everything up for your extra $75 dollars – good luck with that. You do know that out of the $155 million around what 40 of that went to lawyers/claimants? So that leaves what $115 million for everyone. And I see some folks saying they spent $60k etc..so there is just no way they can pay all these claims. Someone is going without. Think about that.
Also oddly- each of my accounts were suspended. They will not let me know why either.
PLEASE do not be one of these people who take their settlement and give back to BFC. We are grown adults who got sucked into the easy of the gambling and won nothing in return. lol So we cannot sit here and act like it is just them at fault when we had to enter a PW and pay etc. I saw a lady say she spent her husbands 401k on it and such.
Good luck all.
I had a friend in bf who told me she knew her lifetime spending as she went thru her bank statements when she got her life time spending she was dead on. The settlement adm has your records from bf google apple pay Amazon so they have all the figures to dispute them you best be able to prove and have actual documentation to verify. I am happy with the lifetime spending amount and I’m sure they have the correct figures at hand . If you have proof of something different then that is your right but proof you will need or there’s nothing to dispute
Facebook , google play , iTunes should be as conspirators
They are only reason this fraud can happen without then accepting payment and taking a 30% fee
Any updates on payment amounts and dates?
Yes they said they are starting the calculations after the dispute day May 29 th and they estimate payments being made arround or on July 11th and that is all they had to say
thanks. I wish there was a way to determine payment amount. I really don’t understand the calculations in the Allocation Plan. I would love any one’s input on this, if for example, my Lifetime Spend was $20,000. Thanks!
@Krissy, if your lifetime is 20k then you should get 2.5k DRP claim or around 4K for non DRP and it tells you which one on your email that gives you the lifetime spending amount. I myself spent 40k and have non DRP claim and looking to get around 8k. This was the example used on the plan of allocation page on the settlement website so it worked out for me. Technically we’re only getting about 20% of what we paid in if your non DRP and about 12.5% if your claim is considered DRP (dispute resolution process). The best way to find out what you’ll get is to subtract 20 or 12.5% from your lifetime spending amount. That was the easiest for me, instead of following their long over complicated formula! Example- 20% of 40k=8k or 12.5% of 40k= 5k. I see people complaining but, to get that back means a lot! Then when it comes to getting the payment always be sure to read the wording carefully because that is what matters when it comes to the law….it states “payments will be made ON or BEFORE July 11th” that means we could start seeing payments within the next week or so!!!! Everyone keep your cool, believe me, I’ve had 2 shitty years, losing close family and friends and made it through so I know we can hold on a little longer for the payments!!!
I was supposed to get a check and didn’t
All my chip purchases show up in Google play store app under the budget/history tab, I would think this log is the most accurate. also according to an earlier email from the lawyers stating that’s where they got my spending history. However for others it could be a different payment venue, ie. Apple, FB, etc
Anyone have a ballpark figure on how much my mom will recieve. Her lifetime spending amount was 119k please help if your able to
Depends on whether she is non drp or drp I seen an earlier post as to someone said it’s close without doing the math that it’s like 20% of lifetime spending any if non drp and 12.5 % of lifetime spending if drp. But there is a formula on the settlement page in Menu go to plan of allocation and it gives you exact details to fiqure out what the payment will be. There should be a second supplement payment as well but that is calculated after all are paid base payment
Oh My God. I got sucked into the fantasy of winning big chips 11 years ago. Started with BF then Jackpot Magic slots. A bored,single mom wanting companionship. Then it snowballed and finally I got an epiphany…Fool you are losing your freaking mind. Money you don’t have charging it to your cell phone account,really. So now that I have stopped chatting,seeing nudity,not joining clubs I am seeing clearly. I hope after July 11 and getting my meager settlement will forever change my life. I stopped blaming them and thanked God for my dependence to this game to go away. So I say to you all my BF family this too shall pass.
@GEM – I’m right there with you. I couldn’t believe the amounts I was spending and eventually had an epiphany when my car broke down and I had no money to repair it bc I was giving it to BF. It’s in the past, I’ve made changes in my life but getting any lump sum $ in the next few weeks would be incredibly helpful. Here’s hoping 🤞🏼
Same for me only 20: years ago! I had Bfc ban me! Then went to Jms I am now waiting and angry that the lawyers are lying and keeping money from the people who are paying them! I game them my information to direct deposit my payment and they told me no I was getting a check! Well I have no check! Postpone postpone Delay and deny ! Good luck!
when i got my lifetime amount and classification my lifetime spending was spot on. However my classification was wrong they had me down DPR. When the new terms popped up i pressed the button it was the only way to play. I called Edelson right away and told a person i had been in contact with what i did and she immediately followed BF rules to opt out of DPR write a letter stating so so she did. That turned me in NON DPR. So i sent challenge regarding this and i can tell you 6 more emails followed each one sending attached letter. I even sent them that letter almost a year ago ahead of time. When i received back regarding my challenge these morons were going on about how to get my lifetime pay. I wrote back again and said what part of limetime spending is correct my classification is not see attached. It was that short. And they send me about spending. So now im 2 emails in again this time i never heard back sent another one. and another one finally getting a response it was under review and the next day the deadline to challenge which was just the other. Day so the last letter was under review. There is only 2 things spending and classficaton. how hard is it for them to say we recieved your opt out letter sent to Bf from the Edelson law firm yes i see and yes that makes you non DPR. Its been almost 3 weeks how hard is it to see the attached letter and get back to me why are they dragging their feet. Again the first time they sent a feedback about spending. I asked them on the last email it scares me this firms job and expertise is in the settlement process. You sent the information i replied you screwed up the first response and now 5 emails you still havnt responded except its now under review what is their to review i read your instructions emailed you back with the proof of an opt out letter which makes me NON DPR its that simple. I swear if they screw me im gonna pitch one hell of a bitch. they got back to me right away on the first email elbeit the morons wrote about how to obtain lifetime spending. again which scares me i wrote 2 sentences lifetime is perfect classification is not see attched. that was it. and they screwed it up. and 3 weeks still waiting for the classification to change. Bottom line is i followed through with my side of it i dont wish to get any suprises at the end of the day. And yes they did remove that slider a time back but when they reposted without the slider the amount was the same the same mathematical paid out the one that was posed couple of weeks ago so i dont know where people are thinking otherwise nothing has changed you just didnt get the easy way out sliding it but the equation was same. So im not too worried about that now my concern is with my classification. Im going to try and send another email both to bigfishsettlement.com and challengewhatever email we most recently replied to because this is really stupid BS. you open my email see my dispute see my attached and your done. thats not sitting right with me just about now. Its pure nonsense this is why they sent out the information to make sure it was correct seriously 4 or 5 emails later each one with the opt out letter and going on what 3 weeks 4 weeks i forget taking way too long for something that simple. at least we know july 21 is target date end of subject no more delays good luck all. i was okay up until this classification thing is taking way too long before that i went with the flow and now im like look dont screw me out of a few grand because you are incometent morons lol. and then make me chase you down lol not funny really but hey
Does anyone know how many filed timely claims (January 4 deadline) being its only Valid for USA players. Has anyone disputed their lifetime spending by deadline (May29) and got it resolved? Looks like they are waiting till the last minute to pay any claims. Has anyone received their base payment. Since it’s a simple calculation you would think they would get all base payments out now and then calculate with what is left the supplement payment and have it out by July 11th
I was told there were roughly 70,000 claims were filed by January 4th.
@LAURA- Really? What was that mess you just typed lol? I completely understand your frustration and wish you luck on finding a resolution.
It would be really nice if they would just update the main settlement page with additional details now that the 5/29 deadline for challenges has passed. I guess 7/11 is around the corner, with it being 4 weeks away and we have waited this long – I am just unfortunately skeptical with the amount of claims that have been approved and the total amount in the settlement fund for distribution that we will get anything close to the calculations listed, but hopefully I am wrong and maybe they will pay out before 7/11. I check here daily for any updates people might have but in the end, I would think they would all be on the main official webpage. Good luck all.
The settlement page has been updated. Payments are to start transmitting July 9th unless you are in dispute. Supplemental payments will not be calculated until all base payments are final
Yes they have already told us the base calculation I’m not sure they can go back on that. Hopefully not we have our hearts set on at least the calculation for the base will gratefully appreciate a supplement payment since they brought it up. I’m non drp and spending amount is approved at 67500 Seems to be a lot of small claims not sure how many big claims but I would hope if they have agreed to a base payment they follow thru with at least that as many have places for it to go already this lockdown has hurt many ..
Yes but I have seen slot of small amounts like 20k which pays out a merely 2.5 mil slot of those can be paid with a million dollars so I think they know what they are doing when they posted the base amount calculation and all will go as they planned .
20k small amount !?!?! Lol
Someone calculate for me what I will get on a DPR claim at $65,000 lifetime spending Amy. PLEASE
It is roughly about 13,000
Sandy-$12,000.00ish. That’s taking the tiered outline on the BF settlement website and running the calculations for a DPR claim. I’m not an accountant so I could be wrong but hopefully not far off. It seems too good to be true so I guess we just keep waiting.
For all commenting on calculating their payments I hope you are factoring in that your settlement payment is: base payment PLUS supplemental (if any) MINUS your share of any Fee Award, Icentive Awards and Settlement Admin Expenses (not anctipated to exceed 30%). Up to 30% (or more if estimate is wrong) of your base payment amount may be deducted to cover the fee award, incentive award, settlement admin expenses
Lynn, that’s very helpful. Thanks! Am I the only one who still hasn’t received that initial claim notice email? I’ve emailed them and asked and still no response.
Anyone get a check yet? Lol or will they be dispersed on 7/11?
Yes! Received today! Very pleased!
Lynn- thank you for pointing that out. I failed to subtract 30% for administrative fees which includes payment to the platform that provided the services i.e apple, google, etc. So Sandy should subtract 30% from the 12k I calculated. When I communicated with the legal people I did my own calculations minus 30% and he said I was “in the ballpark.” Whatever that means. Lol. I’m always hesitant to comment on other class members potential reward because until we hear something official or receive money we really don’t know how this will play out. Since there are potentially large sums of money for individuals whom have been lead to believe in a windfall, I certainly hope we haven’t been mislead. Months of waiting and then being disappointed would be awful. Im kind of in the mindset of “I will believe it when I see it” but it’s hard not to think about the actual possibility. Best regards everyone and I do wish they would update the website even if the information is less than what we hope for.
Darlene Thank you so much for your message and I definitely appreciate your optimistic attitude, much needed as we wait patiently (not lol). But you are correct, there are tons of claims and many of those are probably for small amounts. One small relieve is that according to the court documents the fees only amounted to 25 % which is less than the original 30 they quoted. I wish that they would update the website also instead of leaving us all in limbo. Best of luck to everyone!
Couple of things ..
1. What would you all do if this settlement was not a thing? Some of you seem to be checking your bank daily. Calm down. You literally were not expecting this when you sat and spammed hundreds a day into this company.
2. Settlements can take wayyyy longer than this one has from info I have found on settlements since being a part of this one.
3. If I am not mistaken the fees have already been taken out as the admin/Lawyers/Class folks were awarded already. It is in the docs listed. So from what I read on other sites we are down to around 115k to pull from. I feel with all of these large claims and the amount of folks who actually have valid claims will eat into our payouts.
3. This will be held back longer. Guaranteeed. All of the folks who on other sites are disputing their claims I feel will hold up things longer. It is kind of ridiculous because honestly – I was not going through my emails and docs to get a specific amount. I know for a fact mine was wrong – but I was not expecting this money when I spent it so I understand this is a great bonus to get it back – be real y’all.. But people claiming BF is this and that – come on – you all are still playing and getting ready to use your money you get here to send right back to them. lol Please google this settlement – check out other pages/articles on amounts folks have spent and such.
Big Fish – never sat and entered your PW or payment info. That was all you. Allllll you. Well all of us! So calm down and enjoy the bonus money you are getting for being such an addict to an app. lol
Good luck all.
I agree with all who say “ we did this on our own”, I myself was so ashamed of the $ I spent on this stupid game, $22k, Edelson said $20k on my email so I did not dispute $2k, I’m grateful if I get $100 from BF , I can say my son was so blistered with me when I told him what I had spent. And rightfully so, I felt like the child then. Anyway I too am thankful for breaking that awful addiction of buying coins and will never again.
On the Reddit blog a person said that they received an email from a mr platt at admin and they are anticipating maybe another 60 days. I hope not!! And that there will probably be no supplement payment and also that the base may have to be pro rated. All not so good news. The blog is saying that no one is hearing back on their disputes but I’m sure that will be what is holding this thing up which the longer it takes the more that it will cost the in settlement fees. I got one did not dispute and hopefully those who did have legitimate disputes as that is what would be holding this up along with fees taking more out of the settlement award.
Has anyone gotten a response on their disputes at all?? Has anyone gotten an email at all from the settlement adm and are they still anticipating payout date on or before July 11?
Does anyone know how the pro-rated would be calculated?
What is the name of the Reddit group?
Can you share the link? I had a person comment on a post there who got an email with him saying he was working to meet the deadline.
They need to hurry and file because it sure is coming up soon!
As you have probably heard settlement page has been updated and payments are to be distributed on July 9th Got an email from th yesterday they have mot worked on ANY challenges and once they do final determination emails will be sent. However in my email it sounded though even though you are in dispute you will also receive your initially approved amount also on the 9th. I guess if it’s determined they were wrong they probably will send you the difference later and calculate supplement payment if any after challenges have been determined
There has been a settlement update posted on the bf settlement page. They anticipate to start transmitting payments on 7/9/21. If you filed a dispute, it could possibly be delayed.
There is an update on the settlement website and it says settlement payments will go out on July 9th but the ones that disputed will have to wait and after all disputes are settled then we will get the supplemental payments. So this is great news Everyone….
SETTLEMENT UPDATE:
We anticipate to begin transmitting the initial settlement payments on July 9, 2021.
If you filed a Challenge to dispute the Lifetime Spending Amount included on your Initial Claim Determination Notice, a final determination regarding your Challenge has not been made. Once a final determination has been made on all Challenges, a Final Determination Notice will be emailed. Additionally, settlement award payments will be re-calculated and supplemental payments may be issued.
Just read that!! Great news!
Seen it on settlement page yesterday. I’m glad disputes didn’t not hold up payments gor those who didn’t dispute. However after they work on disputed claims they said if anything left we will get supplement payment. It will cost more fees for time worked on disputes so I won’t hold my breath
Donna, the actual statement reads “ We anticipate to begin transmitting the initial settlement payments on July 9, 2021. We anticipate to begin transmitting the initial settlement payments on July 9, 2021.
If you filed a Challenge to dispute the Lifetime Spending Amount included on your Initial Claim Determination Notice, a final determination regarding your Challenge has not been made. Once a final determination has been made on all Challenges, a Final Determination Notice will be emailed. Additionally, settlement award payments will be re-calculated and supplemental payments may be issued.
If you filed a Challenge to dispute the Lifetime Spending Amount included on your Initial Claim Determination Notice, a final determination regarding your Challenge has not been made. Once a final determination has been made on all Challenges, a Final Determination Notice will be emailed. Additionally, settlement award payments will be re-calculated and supplemental payments may be issued.”
**Transmittal will “start” and settlement “may” be issued. We’re getting closer, but not everything is completely finalized. Thanks for the heads up, however!
This is so sad, we lost the money and the attorney’s get the money. This is so sad! Why are we not all getting at least $50,000?
If I reading the settlement agreement correctly. The determination of my life time spending limit was $5060.
If I’ve calculated this correctly —
$425.00 ?
I do not believe for one minute that we will be getting anything anywhere near July 9-11! I asked for mine to be direct deposited gave my account # routing # back in Dec. they sent me an email saying I would be getting a check. I doubt and direct depositing will be done. They would be letting go of our money sooner than weeks for mail and then bank holds on checks.
@Dixie, when did you receive an email stating you would get a check? Just curious because I was able to update my payment method last month for direct deposit and now they have disabled that section of the website because payments are being processed.
I got my deposit today so for all you negative people haha
Please also be aware that you will have to pay taxes on any award you receive when filing your taxes for the year 2021
Did anyone put In PayPal info or anything? I don’t remember if that was an option or not. In fact, I don’t remember giving anything. Dixie, I know you mentioned account and routing #’s but I didn’t have an option for that which makes me believe checks are going to be sent. I’m just assuming.
@Dixie – they sent you an email specifically telling you that you would get a check? What reason do you have to believe that payments won’t be transmitted electronically? I am just curious because I think many folks on here reading these and looking for updates from members are hoping for a direct deposit on July 9th, since they said they are now transmitting payments and initial payment files are being processed.
Just received notice there has been new motions filed in the case as of 07/07/2021. I’ll get back to you with more info after I learn more.
Has anyone got an email with their final settlement amount?
New motion & order dated 07/07/21 says pmts of 80% of what’s due each claimant will be distributed on 07/12/21 and the remainder put into a reserve fund until challenges are figured out. They now have until October to finish up with challenges and another 30 days beyond that to make all final payments & supplemental payments.
The settlement page has an update today
I spoke with them today and funds will be released tomorrow
July 9,2021… I have stayed in contact with them this entire process! I’m claiming my 40k I am getting back and if I don’t, then I will go after the attorneys. BOTTOM LINE.. The money should be in escrow and not touched until disbursement….
Just got a reply from BFC on payment, it says “initial approved claims” will be paid on July 9th.
Anyone get paid yet?
Noooo
Dixie, I just got my full amount.
On Reddit some people are posting they have their money.
The eagle has landed!!! One confirmed settlement rec’d by a fellow Bf player…$7K…
Just got a settlement in paypal! 7/9/21 No lie. Way bigger then i ever imagined i would get
Well July 9 th came and went! I got nothing from Edelson! Did anyone? I bet not!
Received notification of payout and again the players list. Attorneys fir paid. So sadddddddd!
It’s July 10 anyone get anything yet? Nope 👎
I’ve requested to receive my settlement payment by check, so far I haven’t received it. I’ve seen on FB people commenting that they received an email on Friday claiming that the payment has been processed. Anyone else got an email? I sure didn’t.
I received my payment today of 3k
Nothing yet. I wouldn’t even know how I’m getting paid. So sketchy.
Someone mentioned paying taxes on this , but I was told we used after taxed money and would not have to pay taxes. It doesn’t look like we will get anything anyway! Good luck everyone!
I’m wondering the same.
I was paid on July 9th as promised
How much is the payout for $9.872? DPR
I got my check today for what I had calculated. Calling the Philadelphia office that sent it and Tri-state bank to verify before depositing
I deposited mine and although it cleared on my end, they haven’t released the funds. So I can’t even use the money
Are we getting an email once they send the check? I’m not challenging anything. Just wondering! Thanks!
Monday July 12th woke up to a direct deposit to my account! HUGE.
Got mine today
Via direct deposit or check?
Has anyone gotten their money yet? I did mine via Zelle but I haven’t received anything yet.
Got mine today, more than I expected I thought I was getting 35.00
Does anyone have a working number to call? One that you can actually speak with someone? People are saying that got paid and some saying they didn’t. One said zelle, one said direct deposit which I definitely don’t believe and I other said by check. My claim was approved and everything but I just don’t remember ever filling out anything for getting paid any other way other then a check. The initial notification was via mail so I’ll assume a check will be sent. Any help?!?!?! Thanks in advance
Got mine today too. VERY surprised (and happy) at the amount!!!!!
I got my payment today it was only 177.03 dollars when I got two claim forms in the mail an this tens of thounds of dollars is bull shit wonder why I only got paid for one claim form
Does anyone know how many claimants there were?
70,000 noted in a previous post
Yes I received an initial payment in answer to your question Dixie
I received my direct deposit as expected on July 9th for a little over 4grand ($25k LSA) BUT ACH unexpectedly rejected it along with several other DD. Therefore, I had to wait to receive my check in the mail, and finally received it on July 30. What I didn’t realize was they had me as a NON-D?O which caused me to get a Hella lot less money… going in BF knew this, I believe, bc the payout is far less than regular D?O… I would have challenged this if I would have noticed this in the beginning… but that oopsie was on me!!
I just found out that . My method of payment info was not correct any advice on what I can do ?
I put based these games and spentoney on two of the three I got a .28 cent initial payment ridiculous I mean what is the stamp actually worth ?????Hello..
Has anyone heard about surplus payouts yet
I uninstalled the game after I got my payout and haven’t looked back since. Lesson learned. Not sure about any surplus payouts just glad I got part of what I put in and am grateful for that.
Hello y’all! I heard those that appealed initial claim had been sent an email with amount they will receive, as Judge already verified the appeals and their payment will be going out starting Nov 4, 2021, including those of us that are to receive our 20 percent supplemental payment that was held back..my questions are.. Does anyone know if any moneys of our remaining 20 percent supplemental will be used to pay those that appealed? And my other question is..do any of you know if maybe we All will receive more than the 20 percent supplemental payment? Is there an extra money account with moneys remaining that may be awarded to us other than the 20 percent supplemental payment? I’ve been checking the bf administration website but no recent updates have been posted..I received the November 4th info from other blog, comment website, which has been very accurate since this all began..I would appreciate anyone’s thoughts, info as to my questions, comments..ty..stay safe and blessed!
I received another payment today
Hello Andy and everyone! Congrats! Yes, I received my supplemental check in the mail within a couple days after everyone claimed they had received theirs via direct payment..mine was a little over 27 percent of the initial payment..if anyone doesn’t cash their check within 90 days, the remaining moneys will be disbursed among all claimants. The third, extra payment amount awarded, if any is left, will be awarded only if it’s more than $5 per each claimant.. And no, the settlement is not taxable because money claimants used when gambling was with moneys already taxed! Blessings!
I provided them the amount spent, as requested. As of this date I have not received any payout. I have sent several emails. They only answered two. They say I not entitled to any settlement. Of course there’s no recourse! I hope it’s not because I played on a desktop and couldn’t provide the “Friend” code…whatever that is.
Is it too late to file a claim on this?
I just barely got my check from the settlement it was only close to $1,000 I received it about November 18 2022