Google Settles Longstanding AdWords Lawsuit for $100 Million
Back in September 2024, I reported that emails were being sent out in connection with the class action lawsuit Rene Cabrera v. Google LLC. The case centers on Google’s former AdWords platform and its handling of location-based ad targeting. Now, a major update has been announced: a proposed $100 million settlement is on the table—and eligible advertisers are being contacted once again.
Background: What This Case Is About
This lawsuit alleges that Google charged advertisers for clicks from users outside the geographic areas they selected in the AdWords platform. The affected period covers January 1, 2004, to March 22, 2011. Plaintiffs claim this violated California’s Unfair Competition Law. Google denies all wrongdoing.
In August 2023, the court certified two classes in the case. The “Location Targeting Class” includes U.S.-based individuals and businesses that used Google AdWords during that window and paid for clicks from users outside their chosen locations.
What’s Changed: New Email Notices and a Proposed Settlement
If you used AdWords during the affected period, there’s a good chance you’ve recently received an email notifying you of this settlement. These notices are legitimate. They come with a unique code linked to the official case website, www.AdWordsClicksClassAction.com.
This isn’t a marketing ploy. The email outlines your rights and offers access to the Payment Form—required if you want to receive money from the settlement.
How Much Is Google Paying?
Google has agreed to a $100 million settlement fund. This will be distributed among eligible class members after legal fees, administrative costs, and taxes are deducted. Each participant’s payout depends on data reviewed by the plaintiffs’ experts and will reflect how much they were allegedly overcharged.
The minimum payment for eligibility is $1. If you’re owed less than that, no payment will be issued. Otherwise, you’ll be able to choose how you want your money—options include direct deposit, Venmo, check, or a virtual Mastercard.
What You Need To Do Now
1. Submit the Payment Form
To get paid, you must fill out the Payment Form by July 20, 2025. You can complete it online or download and mail it in.
Only one payment will be made per AdWords account. If multiple email addresses are tied to the same account, the administrator will issue a single payment to the primary claimant.
2. Want Out? Request Exclusion
If you’d rather keep your legal rights to sue Google on your own, you must request exclusion from the class. The deadline for this is also July 20, 2025. You can opt out by mailing a request or using the official site. If you already opted out last year, you remain excluded unless you choose to rejoin.
3. File an Objection (If You Want)
If you’re staying in the class but disagree with the settlement, the allocation plan, or the legal fees, you can file a written objection. The same deadline—July 20, 2025—applies.
Upcoming Court Date: Mark Your Calendar
The final approval hearing is scheduled for August 21, 2025. It will be held by Judge Edward J. Davila in the Northern District of California. The court will decide whether to approve the settlement, dismiss the case, and award attorneys’ fees and service payments to class representatives.
Details about how to attend the hearing—whether in person, by phone, or online—will be posted on the official case website.
Resources and Contacts
For further details, visit www.AdWordsClicksClassAction.com. The site hosts everything: the Settlement Notice, Payment Form, legal filings, and FAQ.
If you have questions, you can contact the Settlement Administrator at [email protected] or call 1-833-355-0988. Class Counsel includes Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP, and Nix Patterson, LLP. Both firms are handling the case and can assist if needed.
Everything You Need to Know, One Last Time
If you ran Google AdWords between 2004 and 2011 and paid for location-targeted ads, your account may qualify for a payout under this $100 million settlement. Check your email for the official notice. Submit the Payment Form by July 20, 2025. Opt out by that date if you plan to sue on your own. The court will decide final approval in August 2025.
Don’t ignore the email. You might be leaving money on the table.
