If you’ve subscribed to a YouTube TV or DirecTV stream over the past several years, you may be eligible for a payout as part of a $50 million settlement from the Walt Disney Company. But the deadline to file a claim is fast approaching.
The lawsuit stems from a 2022 federal class-action complaint filed by YouTube TV subscribers, who argued that Disney’s control over popular channels and programming gave the company excessive influence over the live TV streaming market.
Disney agreed to settle the case without admitting liability or fault.
As the claim filing deadline approaches, here’s what eligible customers need to know.
What was alleged in the lawsuit?
Disney’s agreements with streamers to broadcast its channels required providers to include ESPN in their base packages. The plaintiffs alleged that the agreements gave Disney a significant advantage over streaming bundle prices, limited the ability of competitors to offer lower-cost alternatives, and contributed to higher prices for consumers.
Disney has denied the allegations.
How can you claim your share in the settlement?
The proposed settlement, which still requires final court approval, allows eligible consumers to submit claims for a portion of the fund if they paid for YouTube TV or DirecTV streams between April 1, 2019, and March 31, 2026.
The last date for submitting claims is September 8, 2026. Claims can be submitted online or by mail. To submit by mail, fill out a claim form and mail it to: Biddle v. Disney, Settlement Administrator, PO Box 4720, Portland, OR 97208-4720.
How much will you get from the Disney settlement?
The amount of money claimants will receive from the settlement has not yet been determined.
The payments will be distributed following the final approval hearing scheduled for January 14, 2027. If approved, claimants will be paid different amounts depending on the length of subscription and the total number of claims approved.