Financial expert Martin Lewis has issued a major update for millions of mobile phone customers, revealing they could be in line for a significant compensation payout.
The Multi-Billion Pound Legal Claim
Through his website, MoneySavingExpert.com (MSE), Lewis has confirmed that a massive class action lawsuit against four major mobile networks has been given the green light. The claim, which targets EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three, alleges they systematically overcharged customers.
Justin Gutmann, the former head of research at Citizens Advice, is leading the claim on behalf of an estimated 4.8 million people. The case focuses on customers who purchased bundled contracts that included both a handset and airtime services like data, minutes, and texts.
Who Is Eligible for Compensation?
The core allegation is that these providers continued to charge customers the same high rate even after they had fully paid off their handset, effectively overcharging them for the remaining service period.
The legal action aims to recoup more than £3 billion for affected individuals. If successful, this could mean a payout of up to £1,800 per person, though some estimates suggest a more likely figure is around £1,000.
The eligibility criteria have recently been expanded. You are likely included in the claim if you took out a contract with EE, O2, Vodafone, or Three between 1 October 2015 and 31 March 2025.
What You Need to Do Now
The positive news for consumers is that this is an 'opt-out' collective action. This means you are automatically included in the claim if you fall within the eligibility period and do not need to take any active steps to join.
There is no action required from you at this moment, and you do not need to pay any money to participate. The MSE team emphasises that the legal process will be a long one.
Similar cases have taken many years to wind their way through the courts, often facing multiple appeals. It is unlikely a final resolution will be seen until 2026 at the very earliest. While the claim has been approved by the Competition Appeal Tribunal, patience will be key for those awaiting a potential payout.
