In a major privacy case that could affect millions of users, Google agreed to a multi-million dollar settlement in response to claims that it continued tracking users’ locations—even after they disabled location history settings. If you’ve used a Google account on a mobile device in recent years, you may be entitled to a cash payout—but only if you act before the deadline.
This guide breaks down who qualifies for the 2025 Google Location Tracking Settlement, what the case is about, and how to submit your claim.
What Is the Google Location Tracking Lawsuit?
The lawsuit centers on allegations that Google misled users about how their location data was being collected, stored, and used. Even after users paused their “Location History,” Google reportedly continued gathering location data through other services like:
- Web & App Activity
- Google Maps
- Google Search
- Android system features
This sparked investigations and lawsuits by multiple states, privacy advocates, and individual users. In 2022, Google agreed to pay a $391.5 million settlement with state attorneys general. In 2023–2025, additional consumer class actions followed, resulting in broader user compensation.
What Did Google Do Wrong?
Users and regulators allege that Google:
- Failed to clearly inform users about how multiple settings affected location data
- Collected and stored location info even after users turned off Location History
- Used location data for targeted ads and behavioral profiling without full consent
- Violated state privacy laws and consumer protection statutes
This behavior persisted for years, despite Google’s public assurances that users could “control their privacy settings.”
Who Is Eligible for a Google Location Settlement Payout?
To qualify, you generally must meet the following criteria:
✅ You had a Google account
Any active Google account used during the eligibility window qualifies (Gmail, YouTube, Maps, etc.)
✅ You used Google services on a mobile device
If you accessed Google on a smartphone or tablet where location settings could be enabled or paused
✅ You were a resident of the United States
Some state-specific settlements may apply (e.g., California, Indiana, Oregon), but the national class action covers broader users
✅ You used services between
Typically between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2023 (exact dates may vary by lawsuit)
If you meet these criteria, you may be entitled to a cash payout once claims are processed.
How Much Money Will You Get?
Payouts are expected to vary depending on:
- How many valid claims are submitted
- Duration of Google account activity during the covered period
- Whether you reside in a participating state
Estimated payouts for individual users may range between $10 and $100, though this could increase if fewer users file.
In certain state-level settlements, like Arizona and California, higher amounts have been offered for residents.
How to File Your Google Settlement Claim
Here’s how to ensure you receive your payout:
Step 1: Visit the Official Settlement Website
Check the authorized site listed on your notice or search for the official portal at googlelocationsettlement.com
(Avoid scam or unofficial pages)
Step 2: Fill Out the Claim Form
You’ll need to provide:
- Full name and email
- Dates your Google account was active
- State of residence
- Preferred payment method (PayPal, Venmo, direct deposit, or check)
Step 3: Submit Before the Deadline
The final claim submission date will be posted on the official settlement site—likely in late 2025. Don’t miss it.
Step 4: Save Your Confirmation
After filing, you’ll receive a reference or claim ID. Keep this for updates or support inquiries.
What Happens After Filing?
After the claim period closes:
- The court will hold a final fairness hearing
- Settlement administrators will validate and process claims
- Payouts will begin—usually within 3 to 6 months after court approval
You’ll be notified by email or SMS when your payment is on the way.
Can You File If You Deleted Your Google Account?
Yes. Even if you no longer use Google services, you can still file—as long as you had an account during the eligible time period.
You’ll simply need to certify your past account use and may need to provide a previous email address or user ID.
What States Have Their Own Google Settlements?
Some states negotiated separate agreements with Google, which may offer additional payouts or protections:
- Arizona – $85 million state settlement
- California – Stronger privacy rights and opt-out enforcement
- Indiana – $20 million individual settlement fund
- Texas and Oregon – State-level class actions in progress
Residents of these states may benefit from dual claims or stronger payout structures.
Why Does This Settlement Matter?
Google is one of the most powerful data collectors in the world. This lawsuit highlights:
- The importance of informed consent in data tracking
- The failure of companies to honor privacy settings
- The growing public and legal pressure for transparency and accountability
Settlements like this send a clear message: consumers have rights, and tech companies must respect them—or pay the price.
Final Thoughts
The Google location tracking settlement offers eligible users a chance to receive compensation for years of unauthorized data collection. If you used a Google account on your mobile device between 2014 and 2023, chances are high that you qualify.
Don’t wait. Filing your claim is quick, free, and could earn you a payout—while reinforcing your right to digital privacy.