Hailey
$700M Google Settlement: A major $700 million Google antitrust settlement could soon put money directly into the pockets of Kansas residents — and the best part is that many people may receive it automatically.
Around 750,000 Kansans, nearly one-fourth of the state’s population, might be eligible for a payment. But to qualify, there’s one simple rule: you must be an Android user who made purchases through the Google Play Store.
This article explains who can get the money, how the settlement works, and what Kansas residents should expect in the coming months.
Why This $700 Million Google Settlement Happened
In 2023, all 50 states, along with Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, joined a lawsuit claiming that Google harmed consumers by controlling how apps and in-app payments worked on Android devices.
The lawsuit said the company had too much power over the Google Play Store, limiting competition and raising costs for users.
To settle the case, Google agreed to pay $700 million and make changes to how its Play Store operates.
Who in Kansas Can Receive Money?
The Kansas Attorney General’s Office estimates that about 750,000 people in the state may qualify. This makes the settlement one of the largest consumer payouts Kansas has ever been part of.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for payment, you must meet these conditions:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Type | Must be an Android user |
| Purchase Window | Made any Google Play Store purchase between August 2016–September 2023 |
| Claim Needed? | No claim form needed for most users |
| Payout Method | Likely through PayPal or Venmo |
Notices to eligible people started going out on December 2.
Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach said Google’s actions “cost Kansans money and hurt businesses,” and this settlement aims to fix that while returning money to affected residents.
How and When Payments Will Be Sent
The settlement still needs final approval from a judge. A court hearing is scheduled for April 30, and payments will only be made after approval.
Here’s what Kansans should expect:
- Payments will likely appear automatically in PayPal or Venmo.
- Most people do not have to fill out any form.
- Payment amounts will depend on how many people qualify nationwide.
Opt-Out and Objection Deadlines
Some people may choose not to accept the settlement — for example, if they want to file their own lawsuit.
Here are the options:
Opt Out
- You can remove yourself from the settlement if you want to sue Google independently.
- Deadline: February 19
Object
- You can tell the court you disagree with the settlement terms.
- Deadline: February 19
All information is available at the official settlement website.
The $700 million Google antitrust settlement is a major moment for Kansas consumers, especially Android users who have spent money in the Google Play Store over the last seven years.
With nearly 750,000 Kansans possibly receiving payments and no complicated forms required for most people, this settlement could bring meaningful financial relief right to their digital wallets.
As long as the court approves the agreement in April, eligible residents can look forward to receiving their payments soon and benefiting from the changes Google must now make to its business practices.