Homeowners Eligible for $40M Settlement Over Trash Collection Overcharges

BFI Waste Services agrees to pay out to customers in 13 states who were overcharged on waste removal services.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 9:20am

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A close-up view of a stack of neatly organized envelopes and documents, representing the paperwork and claims process for a $40 million settlement over trash collection overcharges. The objects are arranged in a clean, minimalist studio setting with dramatic lighting, conveying a sense of corporate finance and strategy.A meticulous documentation process allows homeowners to claim their share of a major settlement over inflated trash collection fees.California Today

A $40 million settlement has been reached between BFI Waste Services LLC and its affiliates and customers who were overcharged for waste removal services. Homeowners in 13 states who had written contracts with BFI and experienced price increases beyond what was allowed are eligible to claim between $100 to $250 as part of the settlement.

Why it matters

This settlement highlights the importance of holding waste management companies accountable for their pricing practices and ensuring customers are not being overcharged. It provides an opportunity for affected homeowners to recoup some of the excess fees they paid, though the eligibility criteria excludes some customers.

The details

The plaintiffs argued that BFI Waste Services' price increases exceeded what was allowed in certain contracts, though the company has not admitted any wrongdoing. Eligible customers must have had a written contract with provisions for price increases, and those increases must have exceeded a certain threshold during the specified periods, which vary by state. Customers whose contracts have expired or who did not have a written contract are not eligible.

  • The settlement covers price increases between January 1, 2017, and September 30, 2025.
  • The deadline to opt out of the settlement is March 17, 2026.
  • The last day to file a claim is April 30, 2026.
  • Payments will be issued 135 days after the court's final approval, scheduled for March 31, 2026.

The players

BFI Waste Services LLC

A waste management company that has agreed to pay a $40 million settlement to customers who were overcharged for waste removal services.

Plaintiffs

Homeowners in 13 states who had written contracts with BFI Waste Services and experienced price increases beyond what was allowed.

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What’s next

Eligible class members can file a claim online or by mail to receive between $100 to $250, depending on the number of successful claims made.

The takeaway

This settlement highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in the waste management industry, as well as the importance of consumers being vigilant about their contracts and pricing practices. It provides an opportunity for affected homeowners to recoup some of the excess fees they paid, though the eligibility criteria excludes some customers.