A third-party claims filer, or claims filing service provider, is a company that seeks out potential class action members and files claims on their behalf. Third-party claims filers offer to handle the entire claim submission process for a class member in exchange for a percentage of their client’s reward. The third-party filer acts as an intermediary between the class member and the class action itself – filling out all information and attaching supplementary documentation, submitting the claim, remedying any claim defects, and distributing the proceeds.
Third-party filing companies have historically focused on complex antitrust and securities settlements. Today, such companies have expanded to other practice areas including product liability, consumer finance, employment matters, and more.
It’s important to engage a settlement administrator who has identified and has good relationships with reputable third-party filers.
Benefits of Third-party Claims Filing Companies
Potential Drawbacks of Third-party Claims Filers
Is A Third-party Claims Filer Really Needed?
Class members do not need the assistance of third-party filers. Many class actions are manageable enough for members to efficiently file on their own especially when there is a settlement administrator available (at no additional cost) to help class members complete claims forms and answer any questions. Ultimately, it is up to individual class members to decide whether or not to engage such a service.