Epic Games
Fortnite Players Can Now Claim Part of $126 Million FTC Refund—Here’s How to Get Your Money
Epic Games also paid a $275 million fine in a separate settlement for violating the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), marking another major enforcement action over how children’s data is collected and used in online games.
If you or your child were charged for unwanted purchases while playing Fortnite, now’s your chance to cash in. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is distributing a whopping $126 million in refunds this week to gamers impacted by deceptive billing practices by Fortnite’s developer, Epic Games.
This comes as part of a broader $245 million settlement—the largest ever refund the FTC has secured in a video game-related case. Nearly 970,000 checks and PayPal payments are being issued between June 25 and June 26, offering eligible players long-awaited financial relief.
What Happened?
Back in December 2022, the FTC accused Epic Games of using deceptive design tricks, known as “dark patterns,” to manipulate players into making unwanted in-game purchases. The game’s interface reportedly made it easy for unsupervised kids to rack up charges without parental consent.
Many parents and players unknowingly spent real money on V-Bucks, skins, and upgrades—some never realizing it until their credit card bills arrived.
Who’s Eligible for a Refund?
Players who were charged for unwanted purchases in Fortnite—especially minors—or who faced unauthorized account charges, may be eligible. The FTC originally closed claims in February, but has reopened the process until July 9 to ensure more people get a chance to apply.
You’ll need either: A Claim Number from the FTC Or your Epic Account ID
Parents or guardians can file on behalf of minors.
How to Claim Your Fortnite Refund
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Go to the FTC’s official refund portal: https://www.ftc.gov/Fortnite
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Enter your Claim Number or Epic Account ID
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Submit your claim before July 9, 2025
If you already filed a claim after February 14, 2025, you don’t need to do anything further—your refund will be processed automatically.
How Will You Get Paid?
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Checks must be deposited within 90 days of issue
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PayPal transfers must be accepted within 30 days
The FTC previously issued a $22 million payout in December, and this second round brings the total closer to full settlement disbursement.
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More Trouble for Epic
Epic Games also paid a $275 million fine in a separate settlement for violating the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), marking another major enforcement action over how children’s data is collected and used in online games.
Whether you’re a gamer or a parent, it’s time to check those Fortnite bills. If you’ve been unfairly charged, the government wants to pay you back—but only if you act before July 9.
