California residents who purchased a TCL-branded television set could get a $40 settlement check as part of a proposed class-action lawsuit settlement.
The settlement stems from a lawsuit filed by some California residents over claims made by TCL that some of its television sets had a higher refresh rate than they actually did.
The TV sets were sold between April 2016 and December 2021 and contained screens that refreshed at a rate of 60 times per second (60 Hz), according to a complaint filed by plaintiffs. Despite this, TCL marketed the sets as having a screen capable of refreshing 120 times per second through various monikers like “120Hz CMI,” “120Hz Clear Motion Index” and “120Hz CMI Effective Refresh Rate,” the complaint said.
Plaintiffs in the class action lawsuit complain that TCL’s marketing violated numerous California laws related to false advertising, unfair competition and legal remedies. The case achieved class-action status, but no trial was held because both sides agreed to a settlement over the plaintiff’s claims.
As part of the settlement, California residents who purchased some TCL TV sets between April 24, 2016 and December 31, 2021 could get a $40 check, but only if they file a claim using this link. Individuals who think they own a TCL TV set covered by the settlement must provide a proof of purchase or the TV set’s serial number when they file their claim; those who purchased a covered TV set but later recycled it or donated it can file an affidavit saying as much in lieu of a proof of purchase.
All claims must be submitted by October 7, 2022. Customers who purchased a covered TCL TV set won’t receive a check if they don’t file a claim, but they will give up their right to sue TCL later on if they don’t specifically opt out of the settlement.
For more information on the settlement or to file a claim for a $40 settlement check, click or tap here.
This settlement is expected to be approved by a federal court in California next January.