If you shopped at a Goodwill store in Missouri or Illinois in recent years, your personal data may have been compromised in a serious cybersecurity breach—and now, you may be eligible for a payout. Goodwill shoppers affected by a 2023 data breach involving sensitive personal information could receive up to $5,000 in compensation through a newly announced class action settlement.
Here’s what you need to know about the Goodwill data breach, the settlement terms, how much you could receive, and how to file your claim before the summer deadline.
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What Happened: The Goodwill Data Breach Explained
In March 2023, Metropolitan Employment and Rehabilitation Services (MERS), commonly known as MERS Missouri Goodwill Industries, experienced a significant data breach. Operating across Missouri and Illinois, the nonprofit organization faced legal action after customers’ private information—including Social Security numbers—was compromised.
Although MERS denies any wrongdoing, it has agreed to a financial settlement to resolve claims that it failed to protect its customers’ data.
Who Is Eligible for the Goodwill Settlement?
Shoppers who were affected by the data breach are eligible to file a claim. Impacted individuals should have received a formal notice after the breach—either by mail or email—with a unique Notice ID and PIN. These are essential for submitting a valid claim form.
If you received that notification, you are part of the settlement class and can claim your share of the compensation.
How Much Can You Receive From the Settlement?
The total value of the settlement fund has not been publicly disclosed, but eligible participants can receive payments based on four compensation tiers.
Ordinary Losses – Up to $500
Shoppers who suffered out-of-pocket expenses directly related to the breach can claim up to $500. Covered costs may include:
- Identity theft or fraud losses
- Fees for accountants or attorneys
- Costs of credit monitoring or credit repair services
Documentation is required to support these claims.
Lost Time – Up to $100
You may be reimbursed for time spent dealing with the aftermath of the breach. Claimants can receive $25 per hour for up to 4 hours (maximum $100). Proof of time spent on breach-related activities must be provided.
Extraordinary Losses – Up to $5,000
If you suffered more severe financial damage that isn’t covered by the other categories, you could receive up to $5,000. To qualify:
- Losses must be unreimbursed
- You must have used all available credit monitoring and identity theft protection
- Supporting documentation is required
Alternative Cash Payment – $50
If you don’t qualify for or choose not to file claims under the above categories, you may still receive a flat payment of $50.
Bonus Benefit: Free Credit Monitoring and Identity Protection
All class members can opt in for two years of credit monitoring and identity theft protection—regardless of whether they receive cash compensation. This must be selected on the claim form.
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How to File a Claim for the Goodwill Settlement
To receive any of the above benefits, you must submit a claim form. You can do this in one of two ways:
- Online via the official settlement website
- By Mail by requesting and sending in a paper claim form
Important Deadlines
- Claim Submission Deadline: July 7, 2025
- Final Settlement Hearing: July 10, 2025 (payments sent after court approval)
- Opt-Out or Objection Deadline: June 6, 2025
Those who wish to exclude themselves or object to the settlement terms must act by early June.
Final Thoughts: Act Soon to Claim What You’re Owed
If you shopped at a Missouri or Illinois Goodwill store and were impacted by the 2023 data breach, you may be entitled to financial compensation or free credit monitoring. The deadline to file a claim is fast approaching, so don’t wait to take action. With potential payouts of up to $5,000, it’s worth checking your eligibility and filing a claim today.