The May Institute, Inc. has agreed to a $425,000 settlement in a class action lawsuit related to a December 2023 data breach that exposed sensitive personal information, including names and Social Security numbers. Individuals who received a notification about the breach may be eligible for compensation of up to $2,500.
What Was the Lawsuit About?
The lawsuit claimed that The May Institute failed to implement reasonable data security practices, allowing unauthorized access to private consumer information. While the organization denies any wrongdoing, it chose to settle the case to avoid prolonged litigation.
Who Is Eligible to File a Claim?
You may be eligible if:
- You received a notice from The May Institute or the settlement administrator stating that your personal information was compromised in the December 2023 breach.
The settlement administrator will confirm eligibility using its official mailing list.
What Compensation Is Available?
Eligible class members may claim one or more of the following:
- Out-of-Pocket Losses:
Reimbursement of up to $400 for documented expenses linked to the breach—such as identity theft-related costs, credit freeze fees, postage, notary fees, and lost time. - Extraordinary Losses:
Up to $2,500 for actual, unreimbursed monetary losses due to identity theft between Dec. 1, 2023, and Aug. 7, 2025. Documentation and proof of effort to recover the losses (e.g., via insurance) are required. - Credit Monitoring:
Two years of single-bureau credit monitoring with at least $1 million in identity theft insurance. This benefit is in addition to any credit monitoring already provided after the breach. - Alternative Cash Payment:
If you don’t claim any losses or credit monitoring, you may qualify for a one-time payment of up to $50.
How to File a Claim
To receive a payment or benefits, submit a valid claim form by August 7, 2025. You can file:
- Online through the official settlement website
- By mail by downloading and submitting the paper claim form
Mailing Address:
The May Institute Data Breach
c/o CPT Group, Inc.
50 Corporate Park
Irvine, CA 92606
What You’ll Need
- CPT ID: Found on the notice you received
- Documentation (for reimbursement claims): Receipts, invoices, or other evidence of losses or expenses
Payment Methods
- Paper check (mailed)
- Electronic payment (available for online submissions only)
Settlement Fund Breakdown
The $500,000 settlement will cover:
- Attorney fees and costs: Up to $159,000
- Class representative award: Up to $3,000
- Credit monitoring services: Based on the number of enrollees
- Claim payments: Remainder of the fund
- Administration costs: To be determined
Key Dates
- Claim Deadline: August 7, 2025
- Exclusion Deadline: July 8, 2025
- Final Approval Hearing: August 7, 2025
When Will Payments Be Issued?
Payments to approved claimants are expected approximately 75 days after final court approval and resolution of any disputes.
