Panera Bread settlement: How customers can claim compensation before November deadline
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If you’ve stopped by Panera Bread for a sandwich or coffee in recent years, there’s a chance you could qualify for a financial settlement.
The company is resolving claims tied to a March 2024 data breach that exposed sensitive customer information, including Social Security numbers.
While Panera Bread has not admitted fault, it has agreed to a $2.5 million settlement to support affected customers.
Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars in compensation.
To receive it, though, you’ll need to act before the November 11 deadline.
On March 23, 2024, Panera Bread experienced a data breach that compromised personal information for some customers.
Those affected may have received a notice from the company explaining that their data was exposed.
Although the company denies wrongdoing, the settlement is intended to provide relief for individuals who experienced financial consequences as a result of the incident.
The settlement provides several forms of compensation:
To receive payment, eligible customers must submit a claim form by November 11, 2024.
Documentation such as receipts, bank statements, or credit card records may be required to confirm expenses or losses.
Fraudulent claims are discouraged, as they reduce the available funds for those who were genuinely affected.
The court will issue its final decision at the hearing, after which valid claims can be processed.
Incidents like this highlight the risks that come with storing personal data online.
Identity theft, fraudulent accounts, and unauthorized tax filings are just some of the possible consequences when sensitive information is exposed.
For older adults, these threats can be especially disruptive, making it important to stay alert and take advantage of protections such as settlements when available.
Even if you weren’t affected by this breach, there are steps you can take to strengthen your security:
If you think you may qualify, be sure to gather your documents and submit your claim before the November 11 deadline.
Staying proactive not only helps you secure compensation but also protects your personal information moving forward.
And remember, even small steps—like monitoring your accounts and updating your passwords—can make a big difference in keeping your identity safe.
Read next: You might receive $440 from this bank settlement—no forms required
Have you received a notification from Panera Bread about the breach? Have you ever had to deal with identity theft or fraudulent charges after a data leak? Share your experiences and tips in the comments—your story may help others protect themselves.
The company is resolving claims tied to a March 2024 data breach that exposed sensitive customer information, including Social Security numbers.
While Panera Bread has not admitted fault, it has agreed to a $2.5 million settlement to support affected customers.
Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars in compensation.
To receive it, though, you’ll need to act before the November 11 deadline.
Panera Bread customers may be eligible for settlement payments following a 2024 data breach. Image Source: YouTube / FOX 26 Houston.
What happened in the Panera Bread data breach
On March 23, 2024, Panera Bread experienced a data breach that compromised personal information for some customers.
Those affected may have received a notice from the company explaining that their data was exposed.
Although the company denies wrongdoing, the settlement is intended to provide relief for individuals who experienced financial consequences as a result of the incident.
Also read: You could be owed $5,000 in a major data breach settlement—here’s who qualifies
How much compensation is available
The settlement provides several forms of compensation:
- Ordinary losses: Up to $500 for out-of-pocket expenses such as credit monitoring, credit report fees, or related costs.
- Extraordinary losses: Up to $6,500 for major issues like identity theft or fraudulent tax returns, including up to 10 hours of lost time valued at $25 per hour ($2,500 maximum included in the $6,500 cap).
- California residents: An additional $100 statutory payment is available under state consumer protection laws.
- Residual payments: If settlement funds remain after all claims are processed, claimants may receive additional compensation of up to $250 each, divided equally among those who filed.
Also read: Is your personal data safe? LexisNexis breach exposes sensitive info of over 364,000 Americans
How to file a claim
To receive payment, eligible customers must submit a claim form by November 11, 2024.
Documentation such as receipts, bank statements, or credit card records may be required to confirm expenses or losses.
Fraudulent claims are discouraged, as they reduce the available funds for those who were genuinely affected.
Also read: Medicare data breach affects over 100,000—here’s what you need to know now
Important dates to know
- Claim submission deadline: November 11, 2024
- Final approval hearing: January 29, 2026
The court will issue its final decision at the hearing, after which valid claims can be processed.
Also read: A major data breach settlement could put up to $2,000 in your pocket—here’s how to file a claim
Why data breaches matter
Incidents like this highlight the risks that come with storing personal data online.
Identity theft, fraudulent accounts, and unauthorized tax filings are just some of the possible consequences when sensitive information is exposed.
For older adults, these threats can be especially disruptive, making it important to stay alert and take advantage of protections such as settlements when available.
Also read: Major settlement could mean thousands in payouts—see if you qualify
Protecting yourself moving forward
Even if you weren’t affected by this breach, there are steps you can take to strengthen your security:
- Monitor your financial statements regularly for unusual activity.
- Use credit monitoring services if you have been notified of a breach.
- Create strong, unique passwords and update them regularly.
- Be cautious about unsolicited emails or calls requesting personal information.
If you think you may qualify, be sure to gather your documents and submit your claim before the November 11 deadline.
Staying proactive not only helps you secure compensation but also protects your personal information moving forward.
And remember, even small steps—like monitoring your accounts and updating your passwords—can make a big difference in keeping your identity safe.
Read next: You might receive $440 from this bank settlement—no forms required
Have you received a notification from Panera Bread about the breach? Have you ever had to deal with identity theft or fraudulent charges after a data leak? Share your experiences and tips in the comments—your story may help others protect themselves.
