Fortnite users who were billed for unwanted purchases may soon get a refund from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Why It Matters
Fortnite is a free-to-play online video game developed by Epic Games, known for its fast-paced battle royale mode where 100 players compete to be the last one standing. It has attracted a massive following, with some 650 million registered users in 2023, according to Statista.
This week, the FTC is reopening the refund claim process for eligible players under a $245 million settlement with Epic Games, Fortnite’s developer. The settlement stems from allegations that Epic used misleading tactics to prompt unapproved purchases, especially by children playing without supervision.
What To Know
Originally announced in December 2022, the settlement was the largest gaming-related refund in FTC history. At the time, the agency accused Epic of designing game mechanics that misled users into making transactions they didn’t intend. A previous round of refunds, totaling over $22 million, was issued in December.
On Wednesday, the FTC confirmed that nearly 970,000 payments, totaling more than $126 million, will be distributed on June 25 and 26. These will be sent either through mailed checks or PayPal.
Who Can Get A Refund?
You can apply for a refund if:
- You were billed in in-game currency, known as V-bucks, for items you didn’t intend to purchase between January 2017 and September 2022.
- Your child made unauthorized charges to your credit card between January 2017 and November 2018, without your consent.
- Your Fortnite account was disabled between January 2017 and September 2022 after disputing charges with your credit card company.
Claims are only being processed for players who live in the U.S. currently.
How to Get Your Refund
Players can visit a designated FTC website to check eligibility, and a valid claim requires either an Epic Account ID or a claim number.
While the original deadline to file was February 14, the agency has now extended it to July 9. No action is needed if a claim was submitted after February 14.
Recipients of physical checks should cash them within 90 days. PayPal payments must be accepted within 30 days.
Those aged under 18 must have a parent or guardian submit the request.
If you are still yet to apply, you can visit the FTC’s website to find out more. If needed, you can email [email protected] or call 1-833-915-0880 for more information or if you need help with your claim.
The FTC also notes that in claiming a refund, your Fortnite account won’t be affected, and you will not lose any items you have purchased.
What Happens Next
The FTC has said it expects to send more payments in 2026 “after we have reviewed and validated all claims.”
The post Fortnite Players To Get $126M Refund This Week: What To Know appeared first on Newsweek.
