I’ll help you create a blog post about the Travel Guard Settlement using the specified guidelines. I’ll first use a web search to gather accurate information about the topic. Based on the search results, I’ll craft the blog post about the Travel Guard Settlement:
In a significant development for travel insurance consumers, Travel Guard Group, Inc., a subsidiary of American International Group (AIG), has agreed to a $23,997,500 class action settlement addressing allegations of hidden fees and unfair business practices. This landmark settlement stems from a lawsuit that claims the company charged unauthorized fees and did not fully disclose the complete pricing structure of their travel insurance plans.
Understanding the Travel Guard Settlement
The class action lawsuit, filed in the California Northern District Court, alleges that Travel Guard included undisclosed travel assistance services fees in their insurance policies. The case, Miller et al v. Travel Guard Group, Inc., highlights critical issues in how travel insurance pricing is communicated to consumers.
Key Details of the Settlement
The settlement covers a specific group of consumers with the following characteristics:
- Timeframe: Purchases between December 17, 2017, and January 18, 2024
- Eligible Locations: Consumers with billing addresses in California or Washington
- Purchase Channels: Insurance bought through various platforms including:
- Expedia websites (Expedia.com, Travelocity.com, Orbitz.com)
- United Airlines
- Other travel agents and direct channels
Compensation and Claims Process
Eligible consumers can expect the following from the settlement:
- Cash Payments: Proportional to the assistance fees paid in their Travel Guard Plans
- Payment Options:
- Prepaid Virtual Mastercard
- PayPal
- Venmo
- Zelle
- Physical Check
Important Dates to Remember
Consumers should mark their calendars with these critical dates:
- Claim Deadline: August 13, 2024
- Final Approval Hearing: October 1, 2024
- Expected Payout: Within 45 days after the settlement’s effective date
📝 Note: No additional proof is required to claim the settlement, as the Settlement Administrator already has the necessary information for class members.
The settlement represents a significant step in holding travel insurance providers accountable for transparent pricing and fair business practices. By addressing hidden fees and requiring clear disclosure, this agreement aims to protect consumers and promote more transparent insurance transactions.
Who is eligible for the Travel Guard Settlement?
+Consumers who purchased a Travel Guard Plan between December 17, 2017, and January 18, 2024, with a billing address in California or Washington are eligible.
How do I submit a claim?
+You can submit a claim online or mail a Claim Form to the settlement administrator by August 13, 2024. No additional documentation is required.
When will I receive my settlement payment?
+Payments will be distributed within 45 days after the settlement’s final approval, which is expected after the October 1, 2024 hearing.
