If you’re a fan and a user of services provided by Disney, there might be money the company owes you. Starting this week, some lucky Disneyland fans who purchased the Dream Key pass nearly three years ago will be able to claim their share of a $9.5 million class action settlement.
What is the lawsuit about? Well, let’s take a quick look at it. The legal action was filed by Jenale Nielsen, a passholder from California, in 2021. Nielsen alleged that Disneyland misled customers into believing that the most expensive annual pass, the Dream Key, “would have no blackout dates” for making reservations at Disneyland Resort theme parks. T
The Dream Key is super expensive: $1,400 a year. However, when Nielsen tried to make a reservation in November 2021, she was met with the unpleasant surprise that she couldn’t.
The Disney Class Action Agreement: They Might Owe You Money
Although Disney denied any wrongdoing (of course, no company being issued will do other way), both sides agreed to a settlement in July of last year to avoid a lengthy trial. As a result, approximately 103,435 people who purchased the Dream Key pass between August 25, 2021 and October 25, 2021 will receive a payment as part of the agreement.
But, don’t be that happy: Disney will not give you the $1,400 you paid… the check will be kinda smaller. Much smaller than you’d expect. After legal fees and other expenses are deducted, eligible passholders will receive approximately $65 each. It’s not a fortune, but at least it’s something… it’s worst getting nothing, right?
How to Receive Payment From the Class Action Settlement
The settlement administrator indicated that it will automatically send checks to claimants’ last known mailing addresses unless they have opted to receive an electronic payment. The deadline to change your payment election was in January.
Nexstar’s Scott Gustin posted a notification on X (formerly Twitter) from the deal administrator, stating that electronic payment links will be emailed to those who qualify on June 14. Pass holders will have until September 12 to claim their money.
Nielsen, as the main plaintiff, will receive $5,000. Her lawyer didn’t make any comments.
What Is the Disney Dream Key Pass?
The Dream Key pass was offered through Disney’s Magic Key pass program. This pass, which has now been discontinued, was replaced by the Inspire Key, the resort’s most expensive pass, which offers the fewest blackout dates.
If you purchased a Dream Key pass during the specified period, you may have already received a notification via mail or email. If you opted for electronic payment, be sure to check the email you used when purchasing your Dream Key pass to see if you already received the payment link.
For those who still have questions, a specific website has been set up for the Dream Key agreement. There, claimants can find additional information and answers to frequently asked questions about payments and the claims process.
Legal Rights and Options
Although the deadline to opt out of the settlement or file objections has passed (January 15, 2024), those who did nothing automatically accept the settlement and will receive their payment.
Important dates
June 14, 2024 was the date payments were sent to eligible class members. Payments were sent both in check format and electronically through EpiqPay.