Overview
- The proposed settlement, which received preliminary court approval on June 23, 2026, creates a $14 million fund to resolve Michael Aaland v. Costco Wholesale Corp.
- The class covers Washington residents who received commercial emails from Costco between June 2, 2021, and July 7, 2026, and eligible people must file claims by Aug. 24, 2026.
- Under Washington law recipients could seek up to $500 per violating email but the settlement will be reduced by court‑approved attorneys’ fees, costs, and any service awards before funds are split pro rata.
- Costco denies any wrongdoing in court filings and says it settled to avoid the expense and uncertainty of continued litigation; a final approval hearing is scheduled for Oct. 2, 2026.
- Claimants need no purchase receipts or Costco membership to apply, payments will be sent by check or electronic transfer if the settlement is approved, and the ultimate payout per person will depend on how many valid claims are submitted.