City of Hope, a world-renowned cancer treatment and research center, has reached a $8.5 million class action settlement to resolve allegations regarding a 2023 data breach. The lawsuit claimed that City of Hope failed to implement reasonable cybersecurity safeguards, leading to a breach discovered in October 2023 that potentially compromised sensitive patient information. While the research center denies any wrongdoing, they have established this fund to provide financial restitution and identity protection services to those affected.
Who Qualifies for the City of Hope Settlement?
The settlement benefits a nationwide class of individuals who were directly notified by City of Hope about the security incident.
- Primary Eligibility: Individuals who received a data breach notice from City of Hope in April 2024 informing them that their personal or medical information may have been compromised.
- California Statutory Payment: Residents of California who were affected are eligible for an additional $250 statutory payment.
- Verification: Class members must submit a valid claim form by the 2026 deadline to be included in the distribution.
Payout Tiers and Available Compensation
The $8.5 million fund provides several distinct levels of compensation based on documented impact.
- Documented Loss Reimbursement: Eligible class members can receive up to $5,000 for documented out-of-pocket expenses linked to the data breach. This includes unreimbursed costs and up to four hours of lost time compensated at $25 per hour.
- Alternative Cash Payment: Individuals who did not experience documented losses can instead choose a flat $100 alternative cash payment. These payments may be adjusted pro rata depending on the total number of claims filed.
- Statutory California Bonus: As noted, California residents can claim an additional $250 on top of their other chosen reimbursement.
Required Action Steps to Secure Your Claim
To receive any financial compensation from this $8.5 million fund, you must take action before the early 2026 deadline.
- Access the Portal: Visit CityOfHopeDataBreachSettlement.com to review the full details and start your claim.
- Submit Documentation: If you are claiming up to $5,000 for losses, ensure you have itemized receipts or bank statements ready to upload as proof.
- Select Your Payout: Clearly indicate on the form whether you want the $100 flat payment or the reimbursement for actual documented losses.
- Final Deadline: All claim forms must be submitted online or postmarked by January 13, 2026.
Important 2026 Court Dates
- January 13, 2026: Final deadline to submit your claim form for a cash payment.
- February 20, 2026: The court will hold a Final Approval Hearing to determine if the $8.5 million settlement is fair and reasonable.
- Distribution of Funds: Payments will be processed and sent to eligible class members after the judge grants final approval and any potential legal appeals are resolved.
