A significant financial opportunity is closing soon for thousands of banking customers in the United States. A $2.9 million class action settlement involving Communication Federal Credit Union is in its final days. This agreement was reached to resolve claims stemming from a cybersecurity incident that exposed sensitive personal data.
Time is critical for those who were affected by this data breach. The deadline to submit a claim is fast approaching on December 22, 2025. If you are eligible you must act immediately to file your request for compensation which could be as high as $7,500 depending on your specific situation. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to know to secure your payment before the window closes forever.
Table of Contents
Understanding the CFCU Security Incident
The legal battle centers on a cyberattack that occurred between late 2023 and early 2024. During this period unauthorized actors gained access to the Communication Federal Credit Union network. This breach potentially compromised the private information of numerous customers including those in Oklahoma and Kansas.
The exposed data was extensive and highly sensitive. It reportedly included names and Social Security numbers alongside driver’s license details and financial account numbers. While the credit union has not admitted to any wrongdoing they agreed to this multimillion dollar settlement to support victims and resolve the lawsuit. The goal is to compensate individuals for the risk of identity theft and any financial harm they may have suffered.
Compensation Tiers Available to Victims
The settlement offers two distinct pathways for financial relief. The first option is designed for those who have suffered actual monetary losses due to the breach. If you had to pay for credit monitoring services or lost money to fraud or paid fees to replace government IDs you can file a claim for reimbursement. This tier allows for payments up to $7,500 if you can provide valid documentation like receipts or bank statements.
The second option is for individuals who cannot prove direct financial loss but were still affected by the data exposure. These claimants are eligible for a pro rata cash payment. The estimated amount for this category is approximately $125 though the final figure could rise or fall depending on how many people submit valid claims.
Critical Dates You Must Remember
The court has established a strict timeline for this settlement process. Missing these dates will result in a forfeiture of your right to payment. The most important date right now is the claim submission deadline.
All claim forms must be submitted online or postmarked by December 22, 2025. Following this deadline the court is scheduled to hold a final approval hearing on January 7, 2026. Payments will typically be distributed after the court grants final approval and any potential appeals are resolved.
How to Complete Your Claim
Filing for this settlement is a straightforward process that is done primarily online. Eligible class members should have received a notification with a unique Class Member ID. This ID is used to verify your identity on the settlement website.
When filling out the form you will need to select which type of payment you are seeking. If you choose the reimbursement option be prepared to upload clear copies of your documentation. If you choose the cash payment option no proof of loss is required only your verification that you are a class member. It is vital to double check all information for accuracy to prevent processing delays.
Who Qualifies for This Payout
To determine if you are part of this class action look for the following criteria:
- You are a resident of the United States.
- You received a notice letter from Communication Federal Credit Union regarding the data incident.
- Your personal information was compromised during the breach period of December 31, 2023 to January 11, 2024.
- You submit a valid claim form before the cutoff date.
- You did not previously opt out of the settlement before the November deadline.
Settlement Benefits Overview
The table below outlines the specific benefits available to eligible class members.
| Benefit Type | Maximum Amount | Requirement |
| Documented Loss Payment | Up to $7,500 | Requires proof of financial loss (receipts, statements) |
| Cash Fund Payment | Approx. $125 | No proof of loss required (amount varies by participation) |
| Identity Protection | Free for 3 Years | Available to all class members regardless of claim type |
| Lost Time Payment | Part of $7,500 Cap | Compensation for time spent dealing with fraud (up to 4 hours) |
