Tired of those unexpected promotional texts from Cash App cluttering your phone? If you’re in Washington state, you might turn that frustration into up to $147 in your pocket. The $12.5 million class action settlement against Block, Inc. (Cash App’s parent company) just got final court approval on December 2, 2025, wrapping up a lawsuit over unwanted referral messages sent from November 14, 2019, to August 7, 2025. This isn’t a data breach payout or free bonus for all users—it’s targeted relief for folks who got spam texts without giving clear permission upfront. With the claim deadline passed on October 27, 2025, if you filed in time, you’re in line for a share of about $8.7 million after fees.
Optimized for searches like “Cash App $147 settlement eligibility 2025” or “when is Cash App payout 2025,” this easy breakdown covers who qualifies, how to check your status now, expected payment windows, and scam warnings. Thousands could benefit, but only verified claims count—let’s get you up to speed on this real consumer win.
The Backstory: What Sparked the Cash App $147 Settlement?
Cash App’s “Invite Friends” feature was meant to grow its user base by letting people send quick invites. But starting in late 2019, it allegedly led to a flood of automated promotional texts hitting Washington phones without real opt-in consent—think messages like “Join Cash App and get $5!” from unknown senders. This broke state rules under the Commercial Electronic Mail Act (CEMA—a law against junk electronic ads) and the Consumer Protection Act (CPA—rules shielding buyers from unfair tricks).
The lawsuit, Bottoms v. Block, Inc. (Case No. 2:23-cv-01969-MJP), kicked off in December 2023 in federal court. Plaintiffs said Block helped make the spam possible by powering the tool. Block pushed back, saying it followed all laws and the claims were baseless. To avoid a long fight, they settled in June 2025 for $12.5 million—no guilt admitted, just a way to move on. Preliminary okay came July 29, 2025; final stamp on December 2. Now, after admin costs and lawyer fees (about 30%), the pot splits among filers—estimated $88 to $147 each, based on how many joined. It’s a push for better privacy in apps, and eligible folks get real cash without proving big harm.
Why Just Washington? A Quick Legal Note
Washington has strict anti-spam laws requiring upfront “yes” for marketing texts. Other states might have suits brewing—check your attorney general’s site—but this one’s WA-only for residents at the time of the texts.
Who Qualifies for the Cash App $147 Payout? Straightforward Rules
You don’t need to be a Cash App user or show losses—just prove you got the spam. The bar is low to include everyday annoyed texters. Exclusions? Block employees, families, or anyone who opted out or sued solo before.
Basic Must-Haves to Count
- State Residency: Lived in Washington when the text landed (prove with old bills or ID if asked).
- Spam Receipt: Got at least one Cash App referral promo text in the window (November 14, 2019–August 7, 2025) without saying “yes” first.
- Timely Filing: Submitted a valid claim by October 27, 2025—no late entries now.
- Phone Proof: Provide the number that buzzed; screenshots help but aren’t required.
No income check or account needed—it’s about the unwanted ping, not your wallet. If you fit and filed, expect an equal slice after verification.
For a fast self-check (post-deadline, it’s status time), here’s a table of typical fits:
| Scenario | Eligible? | Reason | Action Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| WA resident, got 1+ unwanted referral texts 2019-2025, filed by Oct 27 | Yes | Full match; payout pending review. | Check status online |
| Lived in WA then, moved out, filed claim | Yes | Residency timed to text date. | Update address if needed. |
| Non-WA resident with WA area code | No | Must be WA home at receipt. | Search your state’s AG for locals. |
| Block worker or opted in | No | Excluded groups. | Report extra spam separately. |
| Got texts but missed filing deadline | No | Claims closed October 27. | Watch for appeals or new suits. |
This table spots patterns—use the official site tool with your phone for a personal yes/no.
Payout Timeline: When Will the $88-$147 Hit Your Account?
With approval locked December 2, 2025, the wheels turn fast—no appeals noted yet. Claims get reviewed first (early 2026), then funds flow 60-90 days later. Pick direct deposit for speed; checks lag. Track via email notices or portal—low claims could nudge toward $147.
Key Milestones Post-Approval
- Review Phase: Admins verify filings—January 2026 wrap-up.
- Notice Sent: Approved? Get an email 30 days before payout.
- Distribution Waves: Digital first, mail second—February-May 2026.
- Delays?: Rare appeals could push to summer, but unlikely.
Snapshot table of dates:
| Milestone | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Texts Covered | Nov 14, 2019–Aug 7, 2025 | Your spam window. |
| Claim Deadline | October 27, 2025 (passed) | Must have filed by then. |
| Final Court Okay | December 2, 2025 | Green light given |
| Claim Reviews End | Early January 2026 | Verifying your info. |
| Payout Start (Digital) | February–April 2026 | Fastest for bank/Cash App. |
| Payout End (Checks) | March–May 2026 | Mailed backups. |
These align with official timelines—bookmark BottomsTextSettlement.com for yours.
How to Check Your Claim Status and Prep for Payout
Claims closed, but you’re not done—monitor to ensure smooth delivery. No extra forms; just verify details.
Quick Status Steps
- Visit the Site: Go to BottomsTextSettlement.com—enter phone/email from your filing.
- Log In or Lookup: Use your confirmation ID (from submit email) for updates.
- Update Deets: Fix bank routing or address if changed—avoids bounces.
- Watch Inbox: Alerts come 30 days pre-pay; save all emails.
- Call Help: Dial 877-540-7545 for snags—free, no fees.
- Taxes Note: Payouts are taxable—report on 2026 return.
Handy bullets for prep:
- Set up direct deposit if not already—saves weeks.
- Keep records: Claim confirmation, texts screenshots.
- If denied, appeal free within 30 days of notice.
Scam Radar: Guard Against Fakes in the Cash App Settlement Buzz
Post-approval hype draws crooks—fake sites promise “instant $147” for your SSN or a “fee.” Real deal: Free, no upfront cash, only via official site. Spot tricks like random texts/links or urgent “claim now.” Report to FTC.gov or phishing@irs.gov (even if not IRS). Block never asks for info this way—trust .com portals only.
Conclusion: Turn Spam Texts into Smart Savings with the Cash App Settlement
The Cash App $147 settlement 2025 isn’t a windfall for all, but for Washington spam victims who filed by October 27, it’s a fair $88-$147 nod to privacy—backed by the December 2 court win and a $12.5 million fund. With payouts eyeing early 2026, check your status today, update for direct hits, and dodge scams to pocket your share hassle-free. It’s more than money: A nudge for apps to respect “no thanks.” If you qualify, celebrate small—use it for bills or fun. Not in? Eye local suits or privacy tools. Filed and waiting? Drop your timeline guesses below—we’re tracking this together for real relief.