California residents who purchased gasoline in Southern California during specific months in 2015 have until January 8, 2025, to file claims in a major antitrust settlement case.
The $50 million settlement stems from a 2020 lawsuit filed by the California Department of Justice against gas trading companies Vitol and SK Energy Americas, Inc. The state alleged these companies manipulated gas prices following a Torrance refinery explosion in 2015, though the companies denied any wrongdoing in the settlement agreement.
"When companies conspire to unlawfully raise prices for consumers, my office steps in," said California Attorney General Rob Bonta, emphasizing the importance of returning funds to affected residents.
Who Can File a Claim?
California residents who bought gas between February 20 and November 10, 2015, in these counties qualify:
- Los Angeles
- San Diego
- Orange
- Riverside
- San Bernardino
- Kern
- Ventura
- Santa Barbara
- San Luis Obispo
- Imperial
How to Submit a Claim
Eligible residents can file claims online at the settlement website or request a mail-in form. All claims must be submitted or postmarked by January 8, 2025.
Payment Details
The settlement will distribute $37.5 million among valid claimants after expenses. Payments will be made electronically through services like PayPal, Venmo, or Zelle, or by paper check.
The final settlement approval hearing is scheduled for February 28, 2025, in San Francisco. Potential appeals may delay the distribution timeline.
Non-Resident Claims
A separate settlement covers non-California residents and businesses who purchased gas between February 18, 2015, and May 31, 2017. These claims must also be submitted by January 8, 2025.
For questions about eligibility or claims, residents can call 1-877-725-7523 or email the settlement administrators.