While many gamers had already received their share of Epic Games’ settlement money, the Federal Trade Commission has reopened claims for Fortnite refunds until July 9, 2025.
The $245 million settlement—the largest ever for gaming-related deceptive practices—addressed Epic’s “counterintuitive, inconsistent, and confusing” purchase system that led to accidental buys.
Yeah, that “Buy Now” button that somehow appeared right where your thumb was resting. Coincidence? The FTC didn’t think so.
Ever notice how that sneaky “Buy Now” button materialized exactly under your thumb? Epic Games called it design. The FTC called it deception.
Epic Games faced accusations of allowing unauthorized charges, especially by children who clicked faster than parents could say “wait, what’s this charge?”
Even worse, the company allegedly banned users who dared dispute these charges. Now they’re paying up. Big time.
Two rounds of payments have already gone out. The first round in December 2024 sent checks and PayPal transfers to 629,344 players, totaling over $72 million.
The second round in June 2025 distributed over $126 million to 969,173 gamers. That’s roughly $198 million already paid out, with about $47 million still up for grabs.
Filing a claim isn’t rocket science. You’ll need either a claim number (if you received an FTC notice) or your Epic Account ID.
Head to the FTC’s official Fortnite refund site, pick your payment preference—check or PayPal—and wait. The FTC has emphasized that no fees or account information is required to receive your refund. If you’ve already filed since February 14, 2025, sit tight. Your claim is being reviewed.
The settlement has forced Epic to change its ways. Now they must get actual consent for purchases and stop locking accounts when people dispute charges. The settlement was partly based on COPPA violations regarding children’s data.
Novel concept!
Nearly 1.6 million players have received refunds already, with an average payout of $114 in the first round.
The settlement sends a clear message to the gaming industry: design your purchase buttons however you want, just be prepared to pay up when the FTC comes knocking.
Time’s running out—July 9 is the final deadline.
References
- https://gamerant.com/epic-games-fortnite-ftc-refunds-2025/
- https://6abc.com/post/ftc-sends-more-126m-fortnite-gamers-charged-unwanted-purchases-how-file-claim/16854611/
- https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/national-international/fortnite-ftc-settlement-deadline-how-to-submit-claim/3776854/
- https://www.ftc.gov/enforcement/refunds/fortnite-refunds
- https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2025/06/ftc-sends-126-million-refunds-fortnite-players-who-were-charged-unwanted-items-reopens-claims
