Thousands of residents across North and South Carolina are about to receive long-awaited payments from a massive $2.67 billion settlement involving Blue Cross Blue Shield.
After years of legal battles, the first wave of payments is set to begin in May 2026. The case accused Blue Cross Blue Shield of limiting competition among its regional plans, though the company denied wrongdoing.
If you live in the Carolinas and filed a claim, you could be getting paid soon.
Eligible claimants include anyone who had a qualifying Blue Cross Blue Shield plan between February 2008 and October 2020 and submitted a claim by the November 2021 deadline. If you did not file by then, you will not receive a payment.
Claim determination notices are already being sent out on a rolling basis. These notices arrive by email or postcard and include instructions on how payments will be delivered.
Payments may come as a paper check, prepaid debit card, or digital transfer through services like PayPal or Venmo.
About 6 million claims were filed nationwide, and the Carolinas are expected to account for a large share due to Blue Cross Blue Shield’s dominance in both states.
Payout amounts will vary widely. Factors include how long you were insured, how much you paid in premiums, and the type of plan you had. While the average payment is estimated around $300, some residents could receive more or less.
Of the total settlement, $1.78 billion is going directly to individuals and insured groups. Another $120 million is set aside for self-funded accounts and their employees.
You can find out more info or file a claim here.
