SmartStart Data Breach Settlement: Claims & Payout Info

If you were a resident of California in August 2021 and received a notice that your personal information might have been compromised, you could be eligible to claim approximately $50 from a class action settlement.

SmartStart Employment Screening, Inc. has agreed to pay $344,600 to settle a class action lawsuit for alleged negligence, breach of confidence, and violations of privacy and business practices laws.

Who are the class members?

The class members include individuals who:

• Resided in California in August 2021.
• Received a notice from SmartStart Employment Screening, Inc. indicating potential exposure of personal information due to a data incident.

How much can class members get?

Class members can receive a cash payment of approximately $50. This amount is derived from the Net Settlement Fund, which is the total settlement amount minus administration expenses, attorneys' fees, and service awards. The exact amount may vary slightly based on the number of valid claims.

• Net Settlement Calculation: The settlement fund of $344,600 is allocated after deducting legal fees and other expenses. If 6,000 claims are filed, each claimant would receive approximately $50 ($344,600 / 6,000 = $57.43, rounded to $50 after expenses).

Class members do not need to take any action to receive their settlement award. Payments will be automatically distributed to those who do not opt out.

If you prefer digital payment, you can select your payment preference on the Settlement Website by October 15, 2024. Otherwise, a paper check will be mailed to the address on file.

$344,600 Settlement Fund

The settlement fund of $344,600 will cover:

• Cash payments to class members
• Settlement administration expenses
• Attorneys' fees and costs, capped at $114,866.67
• Service awards for the named plaintiffs, $5,000 each

Important dates

• Deadline to File a Claim: Not applicable as no action is needed.
• Final Approval Hearing: November 22, 2024

When is the SmartStart Data Settlement payout date?

The next step is the final approval hearing on November 22, 2024. If approved, payments will be distributed to class members who did not opt out.

Why is there a class action settlement?

The lawsuit claims that SmartStart Employment Screening, Inc. failed to adequately protect personal information, leading to unauthorized access. The settlement avoids further litigation costs and provides timely compensation to affected individuals.