If you Googled anything between 2006 and 2013, then Google owes you money for violating your privacy.
Those are the terms of a class-action lawsuit that Google has settled for $23 million.
How much money does Google owe you?
Well, it depends on how many people come forward to claim their share of the settlement.
The current estimated payout is about $7.70 per person.
Of course, that number could go up or down before its all over.
If fewer people than expected file claims, the payout amount will go up.
Hey, no matter what, its free money.
The deadline to file a claim is July 31.
How to File a Claim in the Google Settlement
Heres the important part.
Its pretty easy to file a claim, but it takes more than just one step to do it.
Youll have to go through a few steps.
Its not hard, though.
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When Will You Get Your Money?
When can you expect to get your payout from Google?
The final approval hearing for the class-action settlement is scheduled for Oct. 12, but further appeals are possible.
Youll get your share of the settlement after the court gives it final approval.
Who Qualifies for Payouts From Google?
The vast majority of people on the internet use Google as their primary search engine.
Sure, some people useBingor maybe Yahoo or the Chinese search engine Baidu.
But most everyone has Googled something at one point or another.
Its kind of unavoidable.
What Is This Class-Action Lawsuit About?
So why did Google get sued?
Its all a little technical.
This involves something called a referrer header.
Like we said, its all pretty technical.
Even though Google settled the case, it still denies any wrongdoing or liability.
As part of the lawsuit settlement, Google is updating its FAQ page.
None of this changes the fact that Google owes you money.
All you have to do is claim it.
Mike Brassfield ([email protected]) is a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder.