Deadline Soon for Washington Consumers to Claim Relief Under Settlement

If you bought a Dell computer sometime in the past four years and had a problem with financing, technical support, warranty repairs or cashing in a rebate, you may have some money coming. But if you want it, the Washington Attorney General's Office says you better act now.
Dell agreed to pay $1.5 million in restitution under a settlement reached in January with attorneys general in 34 states. But with the April 13 deadline approaching for consumers to file claims, only 42 Washington residents have filed valid claims.
So far, the state has received claims worth $10,680, with the average consumer slated to be paid about $250. Accepted claims have ranged from $30 to $848.
The Attorney General's Office thinks many more Washington residents have money waiting for them. The office has information on its Web site at www.atg.wa.gov/settlements.aspx to help you determine whether you qualify for a refund. If you think you're eligible, you need to download a claim form and return it by April 13. Consumers can also call 1-800-551-4636 between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. weekdays to request a form by mail.
The office has rejected a few claims, since not all computer purchases and problems are covered under the settlement.
The amount of money issued to individual consumers depends on the number of eligible recipients and the total amount claimed. If you're in the pool, you'll receive a check by mid-summer.
Consumers in other participating states should contact their Attorney General's Office.