Does Google owe you money? Here's how to check after its $700 million settlement

Following a $700 million settlement with 53 state attorneys general, Google is set to refund money to customers who made purchases on the Google Play Store between August 16, 2016, and September 30, 2023. The lawsuit alleged that Google illegally restricted competition in the Android app ecosystem by imposing restrictions on app stores and taking substantial fees on in-app purchases – up to 30%. Eligible users, defined broadly as those who purchased apps or in-app content during the specified period with a U.S. legal address, will receive at least $2, with larger refunds for heavier spenders.

Google has already allocated $630 million for consumer refunds and $70 million for state payouts. Notices are being sent to users, with a deadline to opt-out or object by February 19, 2026, and a fairness hearing scheduled for April 30, 2026. Refunds will be automatically issued via PayPal or Venmo, using the email or phone number associated with the user’s Google Play account.

Users can check their eligibility and update their contact information through their Google Play purchase history and payments profile. This settlement represents a broader challenge to app store practices and comes alongside Google’s recent agreement with Epic Games to lower Play Store fees and allow alternative payment methods, signaling a potential shift in the Android app landscape.

(Source：Quartz)