Vitol Inc. $13.93M Gasoline Price Manipulation Settlement

If you purchased gasoline in California between February 18, 2015, and May 31, 2017, and were either a business or lived outside of California at the time, you may be eligible to claim a cash award from a class action settlement.

Vitol Inc., SK Energy Americas, Inc., and other defendants have agreed to pay $13,930,000 to settle a class action lawsuit for allegedly manipulating gasoline prices in California.

Who can file a claim?

To qualify as a class member eligible to file a claim:

• You purchased regular, mid-grade, or premium gasoline in California.
• The purchase was made from a retailer for personal use and not for resale.
• The purchase occurred between February 18, 2015, and May 31, 2017.
• At the time of purchase, you were either a non-resident of California or a business.

It is important to note that individuals who purchased gasoline while residing in California are not eligible under this settlement. However, they may be affected by a separate settlement.

How much can class members get?

Eligible class members who submit valid claims can receive a cash award. The exact amount depends on several factors, including the amount of gasoline purchased and the total number of valid claims submitted.

Estimated payouts vary based on claims rates:

• For businesses: Payouts range from approximately $580.54 to $1,161.09, depending on a 5% to 10% claims rate.
• For non-California residents: Payouts range from $3.84 to $11.53, assuming a 1% to 3% claims rate.

What proof required to submit a claim?

• Identification details such as a driver's license or passport number.
• Proof of gasoline purchase in California during the specified period.

How to claim an award

To claim an award, you must submit a completed claim form. You can file a claim online or download a PDF claim form.

Completed forms can be mailed to the Settlement Administrator at:

California Gasoline Spot Market Antitrust Settlement Administrator

P.O. Box 301176

Los Angeles, CA 90030-1176

Claim instructions

1. Visit the settlement website and navigate to the claim submission page.
2. Fill out the required fields in the online claim form, providing all necessary identification and purchase proof.
3. Submit the form electronically or download and print the PDF form.
4. If submitting by mail, ensure the form is postmarked by January 8, 2025.
5. Await confirmation from the Settlement Administrator regarding your claim status.

Payment methods

• Paper check (for those submitting paper claim forms)
• Amazon, PayPal, or Venmo (for online submissions)

Settlement fund breakdown

The settlement fund of $13,930,000 will cover various expenses, including:

• Payments to eligible class members
• Litigation expenses up to $7,000,000
• Attorneys' fees up to 30% of the net settlement fund
• Service awards of $5,000 each to the three Settlement Class Representatives
• Administrative costs capped at $1,000,000

Important dates

• Deadline to File a Claim: January 8, 2025
• Final Approval Hearing: February 20, 2025

When is the California Gasoline Spot Market Antitrust Settlement payout date?

The Court will hold a final approval hearing on February 20, 2025. If the settlement is approved, payments will be distributed to eligible claimants.

Why was there a class action settlement?

The lawsuit alleged that the defendants manipulated the gasoline spot market, leading to increased prices at the pump. The settlement was reached to avoid the risks and costs of continued litigation.