Most Common Questions
Payments & Distributions
Understanding Your Payment
Your payment represents funds recovered through a class action settlement in which MCAG filed a claim on your behalf. The amount of your payment is based on the specific terms of the settlement and the data submitted in support of your claim, such as transaction volume, purchases, or other qualifying activity during the applicable time period. In many cases, settlements are distributed on a pro rata basis, meaning payments are calculated proportionally among all approved claimants after court-approved fees, costs, and other adjustments are applied. Please note that settlement payments can vary significantly from one case to another and may be issued in multiple rounds or distributions over time.
Payment Status Timeline
The payment process involves several stages before funds are ultimately delivered to claimants. First, claims are submitted and reviewed by the settlement administrator for completeness and eligibility. Once the court grants final approval and any appeals are resolved, the administrator calculates payment amounts and begins issuing distributions. MCAG then processes and forwards payments to eligible clients using the most current contact and payment information available. Depending on the settlement, payments may be issued by check, ACH, or digital payment methods. Please note that timing can vary significantly between settlements, and some cases may involve multiple rounds of payments over an extended period of time.
ACH vs Check Options
Clients may have the option to receive their settlement payment either electronically through ACH (Automated Clearing House) transfer or by traditional paper check, depending on the settlement and payment platform being used. ACH payments are typically the fastest and most secure option, allowing funds to be deposited directly into a designated bank account without the delays associated with mail delivery or check processing. Paper checks remain available for clients who prefer a physical payment method, though delivery and deposit times may be longer. In some cases, administrative processing fees may apply to mailed checks, while ACH transfers are offered at no cost. Clients will receive instructions on available payment options and how to securely select their preferred method when payments are ready to be distributed.
Fees & Processing
Settlement payments are subject to the terms approved by the court and may include deductions for attorneys’ fees, administrative costs, taxes, or other authorized expenses before funds are distributed to claimants. MCAG’s compensation, where applicable, is governed by the client agreement on file and is typically calculated as a contingency fee based on the amount recovered. In addition, certain payment methods or special handling requests may involve processing fees, such as stop-payment requests, check reissuance fees, or optional mailed check delivery charges. Clients are encouraged to review their agreements and payment communications carefully for details specific to their account and settlement.
Missing or Delayed Payments
If you believe your payment is missing or delayed, please allow sufficient time for mail delivery, bank processing, or settlement administrator processing before contacting MCAG. Delivery times may vary depending on the payment method selected and the volume of payments being issued. If you have recently changed your address, banking information, or business ownership structure, this may also affect delivery timing. Clients who have not received a payment marked as issued should submit a ticket on the Payment Issue Portal as soon as possible so we can verify the payment status, confirm contact information, and determine whether additional action is needed. In certain situations, a stop-payment and reissuance process may be required for lost, stale, or returned checks, which can extend the overall timeline.
Reissue a Check
If your settlement check has been lost, damaged, expired, or was never received, you may request that the payment be reissued. Before a replacement check can be issued, MCAG may require verification of your identity, confirmation of your mailing address, and, in some cases, a signed affidavit or stop-payment authorization for the original check. Please note that reissue requests can take additional processing time depending on the settlement administrator and banking partner involved. In accordance with MCAG policy, checks already issued may also be subject to a stop-payment and reissuance fee, which may be deducted from the replacement payment amount. To request a check reissue, visit the Payment Issue Portal.
Skip the delays of paper checks and receive your settlement payments faster by enrolling in ACH through the MCAG Client HUB. Secure, convenient, and easy to set up, ACH allows funds to be deposited directly into your bank account, helping you receive payments quickly and reducing the risk of lost or delayed checks.
Log in to the Client HUB today and update your payment preferences.
The Client HUB
Logging In to the Client HUB
The MCAG Client HUB is a secure, browser-based portal for managing account information, users, locations, documents, and available settlement-related resources.
First-Time Login
If this is your first time accessing the Client HUB:
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Visit the MCAG Client HUB
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Enter the email address associated with your MCAG account.
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Follow the Register/Create Password prompts.
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Follow the instructions sent to your email to create a secure password.
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Return to the HUB and sign in using your email and new password.
Returning Users
To log in after your account has been set up:
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Go to the MCAG Client HUB
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Enter the email address associated with your MCAG account and your existing password.
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Click Login to access your account dashboard.
Trouble Logging In?
If you experience issues accessing your account:
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Double-check that you are using the same email address associated with your MCAG account.
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Check your spam or junk folder for password reset emails.
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Ensure your browser is up to date.
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Try clearing your browser cache or using a different browser.
Common Issues
“Invalid Password” Message
Use the Forgot Password option to reset your password. If you do not receive the reset email, MCAG may have an outdated email address on file.
No Password Reset Email Received
Check your spam folder first. If you still do not receive the email, contact MCAG Support through the contact information provided on the HUB login page.
Need Assistance?
If you continue to experience issues logging in to the Client HUB, please contact MCAG Support using the contact information provided on the HUB login page.
How to Reset Your HUB Password
If you have forgotten your Client HUB password, simply click "Forgot Password" on the HUB login page. Enter the email address associated with your account, and a password reset link will be sent to you. Follow the instructions in the email to create a new password and regain access to your account.
If you do not receive the reset email within a few minutes, be sure to check your spam, junk, or quarantine folders, as some email systems may filter automated messages. If you are still unable to access your account, contact MCAG Client Services for assistance.
For security reasons, we recommend using a strong, unique password and updating it periodically. Once logged in, you can use the Client HUB to manage your organization’s information, update payment preferences, upload W-9s, and monitor important settlement-related activity.
Who can add or manage HUB users?
The HUB Admin can add users and assign User or Manager roles. User access is view-only; Manager access can update the record. The account has one Admin, and additional users receive an email prompting them to complete their access setup.
Updating Your Payment Information
Clients can review and update their payee information directly in the MCAG Client HUB under the My Account tab.
Clients may have the option to receive their settlement payment either electronically through ACH (Automated Clearing House) transfer or by traditional paper check, depending on the settlement and payment platform being used. ACH payments are typically the fastest and most secure option, allowing funds to be deposited directly into a designated bank account without the delays associated with mail delivery or check processing. Paper checks remain available for clients who prefer a physical payment method, though delivery and deposit times may be longer.
In some cases, administrative processing fees may apply to mailed checks, while ACH transfers are offered at no cost. Clients will receive instructions on available payment options and how to securely select their preferred method when payments are ready to be distributed.
For information about ACH or paper check options, please refer to the Payments & Distributions section or the specific payment instructions provided by MCAG.
Managing Multiple Locations
Use Business Locations to review and manage your organization’s locations. Select Add Location to add a location and enter the requested business name, validated address, and Tax Number. The location list displays the address, masked Tax Number, and available edit/delete actions. Primary and Payee addresses are maintained through My Account.
Keep all applicable business locations and tax entities current. A location requires a 9-digit Tax Number, and Tax Numbers are partially masked when displayed. Review your location list regularly so MCAG has complete account information.
How to Find Your MCAG Account Number
Your MCAG Client Account Number can be found in the Client HUB after you log in. From the Dashboard, look under Account Overview, where your account number is displayed along with other account information.
Your account number helps MCAG identify your account and may be requested when you contact Client Services for assistance.
If you are unable to locate your account number, please verify that you are logged into the correct organization account. Clients with access to multiple organizations should confirm they have selected the appropriate account. If you still cannot find your account number, contact MCAG Support using the contact information on the HUB login page, and we will be happy to assist you.
Having your account number available when communicating with MCAG can help us respond to your questions more quickly and efficiently.
How do I upload a W-9?
Log in to the Client HUB, open My Account, and locate Vault & Compliance. Use the W-9 Form area to upload the primary W-9 for your account. The status will change from Pending to Verified after a W-9 is uploaded. Additional W-9s or supporting documents can be uploaded through the Document Vault.
What can I upload to the Document Vault?
The Document Vault can be used to provide additional W-9s and other supporting documents requested by MCAG. Uploaded documents can be viewed from the HUB and are also reflected in MCAG’s document storage systems.
What is the Active Settlements page?
The Active Settlements page provides a centralized view of your organization's settlement filings managed by MCAG. Depending on the settlement, you may be able to view filing status, key deadlines, claim activity, and other updates as they become available.
What is the Distributions page?
The Distributions page allows you to view settlement payments and distribution activity associated with your MCAG account. As new distributions are issued, you'll be able to view payment details, payment status, and other distribution-related information in one convenient location.
Settlement Filing Services
What MCAG Does
Your payment represents funds recovered through a class action settlement in which MCAG filed a claim on your behalf. The amount of your payment is based on the specific terms of the settlement and the data submitted in support of your claim, such as transaction volume, purchases, or other qualifying activity during the applicable time period. In many cases, settlements are distributed on a pro rata basis, meaning payments are calculated proportionally among all approved claimants after court-approved fees, costs, and other adjustments are applied. Please note that settlement payments can vary significantly from one case to another and may be issued in multiple rounds or distributions over time.
Types of Settlements
The payment process involves several stages before funds are ultimately delivered to claimants. First, claims are submitted and reviewed by the settlement administrator for completeness and eligibility. Once the court grants final approval and any appeals are resolved, the administrator calculates payment amounts and begins issuing distributions. MCAG then processes and forwards payments to eligible clients using the most current contact and payment information available. Depending on the settlement, payments may be issued by check, ACH, or digital payment methods. Please note that timing can vary significantly between settlements, and some cases may involve multiple rounds of payments over an extended period of time.
How Claims Are Filed
Clients may have the option to receive their settlement payment either electronically through ACH (Automated Clearing House) transfer or by traditional paper check, depending on the settlement and payment platform being used. ACH payments are typically the fastest and most secure option, allowing funds to be deposited directly into a designated bank account without the delays associated with mail delivery or check processing. Paper checks remain available for clients who prefer a physical payment method, though delivery and deposit times may be longer. In some cases, administrative processing fees may apply to mailed checks, while ACH transfers are offered at no cost. Clients will receive instructions on available payment options and how to securely select their preferred method when payments are ready for distribution.
What is Settlement Recovery Services (SRS)
Settlement payments are subject to the terms approved by the court and may include deductions for attorneys’ fees, administrative costs, taxes, or other authorized expenses before funds are distributed to claimants. MCAG’s compensation, where applicable, is governed by the client agreement on file and is typically calculated as a contingency fee based on the amount recovered. In addition, certain payment methods or special handling requests may involve processing fees, such as stop-payment requests, check reissuance fees, or optional mailed check delivery charges. Clients are encouraged to review their agreements and payment communications carefully for details specific to their account and settlement.
About Stripe and MCAG
1. What is Stripe?
Stripe is a global payment-services provider used by businesses to securely process and send electronic payments.
2. Why is MCAG partnering with Stripe?
MCAG is partnering with Stripe to provide clients with a secure and efficient way to receive settlement distributions electronically through ACH.
3. What role will Stripe play in my settlement distributions?
Stripe will securely collect the payment information needed to send your distribution via ACH and will process the payment.
4. Is Stripe replacing MCAG?
No. MCAG will continue managing your settlement recovery services. Stripe will only support the payment process for ACH distributions issued through the new system.
5. Will Stripe have access to my settlement claims or other MCAG account information?
Stripe will receive only the information reasonably necessary to establish you as an ACH payment recipient, verify required information, and process your distribution.
6. Does this change affect my relationship or agreement with MCAG?
No. This change does not alter your agreement with MCAG or affect the settlement claims MCAG manages on your behalf.
Choosing a Payment Method
7. What payment methods can I choose?
You may choose direct deposit through ACH or continue receiving a paper check by mail.
8. Am I required to receive distributions by ACH?
No. ACH is optional. You may continue receiving paper checks but MCAG now charges a fee of $4.00 per check for processing and distribution.
9. Can I continue receiving paper checks?
Yes. If you prefer not to provide banking information, you may receive a paper check.
10. What are the advantages of choosing ACH?
ACH generally delivers funds faster than a paper check and eliminates mailing delays, lost checks, and the need to deposit a check manually.
11. Is there a fee to receive a distribution by ACH?
No. MCAG does not charge clients a fee for selecting ACH.]
12. Is there a fee to receive a paper check?
Yes, MCAG deducts a fee of $4.00 per check for processing and distribution.
13. How do I select my preferred payment method?
If you want to receive your payment via ACH, respond to Stripe’s secure email invitation. If you want to receive your payment in a check, ignore the
Stripe invitation.
14. When do I need to make my selection?
We encourage you to make your selection promptly to avoid delaying future distributions.
15. What happens if I do not select a payment method?
If you do not respond to the Stripe invitation, you will receive your distribution by paper check.
16. Can I change my payment method later?
Yes. You will be able to update your preference for future distributions on the MCAG Client HUB. Changes made after a payment has been initiated may not affect that payment.
17. Will my payment preference apply to all future settlement distributions?
Yes, unless you change it or a particular settlement requires a different payment method.
Setting Up ACH
18. What information will I need to provide?
You will generally need your organization’s name, email address, bank routing number, bank account number, account type, and any information Stripe requires to verify the recipient.
19. Where do I enter my banking information?
Banking information should be entered only through the secure Stripe payment-setup page reached through MCAG’s instructions. Do not send banking information to MCAG.
20. Should I provide a checking or savings account?
Use a U.S. bank account that is authorized to receive ACH deposits. Follow the account-type options presented during the Stripe setup process.
21. Can I use a personal bank account?
The bank account should belong to the organization entitled to receive the settlement distribution.
22. Can I direct payments to more than one bank account?
Only one active bank account may be designated for each recipient account.]
23. Can different organizations or locations use different bank accounts?
Possibly. Each legal organization receiving settlement distributions may need its own payment instructions. Contact MCAG if you manage multiple organizations or need payments directed to different accounts.
24. Does the name on the bank account need to match my MCAG account?
The bank account should be owned by—or legally associated with—the organization entitled to the distribution. A mismatch could delay or prevent payment.
25. How will my bank account be verified?
Stripe may verify information electronically or request additional information. The exact process will depend on the information entered and the financial institution.
26. How long does ACH enrollment take?
Most clients should be able to complete the initial setup in a few minutes. Additional verification requirements could extend the process.
27. How will I know that my ACH setup is complete?
You should receive an on-screen confirmation or email after completing the Stripe process.
28. Can MCAG enter or update my banking information for me?
No. For your protection, clients should enter and update their own banking information through Stripe’s secure process.
Security and Privacy
29. Is it safe to provide my banking information through Stripe?
Stripe maintains technical, administrative, and organizational safeguards designed to protect personal and financial information. However, no electronic system can guarantee absolute security. Stripe Privacy Policy.
30. Will MCAG see or store my complete bank account information?
Stripe securely collects and stores your complete banking information. MCAG will have access only to limited information needed to support payments.
31. How will Stripe use and protect my information?
Stripe uses recipient and financial information to verify the account, process payments, prevent fraud, provide support, and meet legal and regulatory requirements. Stripe states that it does not sell financial-account information to marketers. Stripe Privacy Policy.
32. Will Stripe ever ask for my password or banking credentials by email?
Stripe will not ask you to send your password, bank credentials, or other sensitive information in an email. Sensitive information should be entered only on a verified, secure Stripe webpage. Stripe account-verification guidance.
33. Who should select a payment method for my organization?
The selection should be made by someone authorized to provide payment instructions and banking information on behalf of the organization.
Receiving Distributions
34. How will I know when a distribution has been issued?
MCAG will notify the appropriate account contacts when a settlement distribution is issued.
35. How long does an ACH distribution take?
ACH is generally faster than receiving and depositing a paper check. The exact timing depends on processing schedules and the recipient’s bank. Even after Stripe reports a payment as posted, the receiving bank may take additional time to release the funds.
36. How long will a paper check take to arrive?
Delivery times depend on processing and the U.S. Postal Service. Please allow the period stated in your distribution notice before contacting MCAG.
37. What name will appear on my bank statement?
The payment description may reference MCAG, Stripe, or the applicable settlement.
38. Can I view my payment status in the MCAG Client HUB?
Yes. The Client HUB’s Distributions page is designed to provide information about settlement distributions.
39. Can I view previous distributions in the Client HUB?
Yes. The Distributions page allows you to review available payment history associated with your MCAG account.
40. Will I receive information identifying the applicable settlement?
Yes. MCAG’s distribution information will identify the settlement associated with the payment.
41. Can multiple settlement distributions be combined into one payment?
Payments may be issued separately by settlement so that each distribution can be properly identified and reconciled.
42. Will every settlement distribution be available through ACH?
MCAG intends to use ACH for future distributions when operationally and legally available. Some settlements or circumstances may still require payment by check or another method.
43. Does selecting ACH guarantee that I am eligible for a distribution?
No. Selecting ACH only establishes how eligible future distributions should be paid. It does not establish eligibility, cure a claim deficiency, or guarantee that a settlement will issue a payment.
Problems and Changes
44. What happens if my ACH payment is rejected or returned?
MCAG will review the return reason and may ask you to verify or update your payment information before the payment is reissued. Incorrect or closed bank accounts and mismatched recipient information are common causes of returned payments.
45. What should I do if my bank account has changed or closed?
Update your banking information as soon as possible through the secure payment-management process. Do not wait until a distribution has been announced.
46. What if my organization’s name, ownership, or tax information has changed?
Update your MCAG account information and contact MCAG. Additional documentation may be needed before payment instructions can be changed.
47. What if a paper check is lost, damaged, or sent to the wrong address?
Contact MCAG immediately. We will determine whether the check can be stopped and reissued. Additional verification or processing time may be required.
48. What should I do if I do not recognize an ACH payment?
Review the Distributions page in the MCAG Client HUB. If you still cannot identify the payment, contact MCAG before taking further action.
49. What if the amount deposited differs from what I expected?
Contact MCAG with the settlement name, payment date, and amount received. Do not send complete banking information by email.
50. Can an ACH payment be canceled or redirected after initiation?
Usually not. Stripe may be able to cancel a payment before processing begins, but a posted payment generally cannot be redirected. Stripe notes that reversal attempts are time-sensitive and are not guaranteed.
51. Who should I contact if I have trouble?
Contact MCAG using the Payment Issue Portal. MCAG will determine whether the issue concerns your Client HUB account, settlement distribution, or Stripe payment setup.
Tax and Account Requirements
52. Do I need a current W-9 before receiving a distribution?
Yes. MCAG may require a complete and valid W-9 before it can release a distribution.
53. Does setting up Stripe replace the need to provide MCAG with a W-9?
No. Stripe payment setup and MCAG’s W-9 requirements are separate. Completing one does not complete the other.
54. Why is Stripe asking me to verify my identity or business?
Payment providers may be required to verify recipient information to protect accounts, prevent fraud, and comply with banking and regulatory requirements. The information requested can depend on the recipient, location, and payment method. Stripe recipient requirements.
55. Will Stripe issue tax documents?
Receiving a payment through Stripe does not by itself determine whether a tax form will be issued. Any required tax reporting will depend on the nature of the payment and applicable tax rules.
56. What if my Stripe information does not match my MCAG account or W-9?
A mismatch may delay payment or require additional verification. Make sure the organization’s legal name, tax information, and payment-recipient information are accurate and consistent.
57. Do I need a separate Stripe setup for each organization I manage?
Each separate legal organization will likely require its own payment-recipient record and bank instructions, even when the organizations are managed by the same person.
Upgrade Your Experience
What is MCAG RecoveryIQ?
MCAG RecoveryIQ is MCAG's premium settlement intelligence service designed for organizations that want greater visibility into litigation, settlements, and recovery opportunities that may affect their business.
MCAG RecoveryIQ Benefits
With RecoveryIQ, you receive:
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Early awareness of emerging settlements that could impact your organization.
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Regular litigation and settlement intelligence reports tailored to your industry.
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Deeper insights and analysis beyond our standard settlement notifications.
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Strategic planning information to help your team prepare for future recovery opportunities.
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Access to MCAG's expertise in evaluating settlement opportunities and trends.
Many organizations use MCAG RecoveryIQ to stay informed, reduce the risk of missing valuable recovery opportunities, and better understand how class action settlements may affect their operations and financial recovery efforts.
If your organization wants a more proactive approach to settlement monitoring and litigation intelligence, MCAG RecoveryIQ can provide the information and insights needed to stay ahead of developments in this rapidly changing landscape.
Interested in learning more? Contact MCAG or visit the MCAG RecoveryIQ section of the Client HUB for additional information.
Troubleshooting & Issues
Filed on Your Own?
Clients are always free to file settlement claims on their own if they prefer. However, if you plan to do so, it is important that you notify MCAG in advance. If we are unaware of your intention to self-file, we may also prepare and submit a claim on your behalf under the terms of our agreement, which can result in a duplicate or conflicting claim. These conflicts can delay claim processing and create unnecessary administrative issues with the settlement administrator.
If you are an MCAG RecoveryIQ subscriber, we encourage you to contact us before filing. In many cases, we can provide valuable guidance on eligibility requirements, filing procedures, documentation requirements, and data collection strategies to help improve the accuracy and completeness of your submission. While the filing decision is yours, our goal is to help you avoid common pitfalls and maximize your opportunity for a successful recovery.
Duplicate or Conflicting Claims
A duplicate or conflicting claim occurs when more than one claim is submitted for the same organization, account, or eligible purchases in a settlement.
This most commonly happens when a client authorizes MCAG to file claims on their behalf and later submits a claim directly to the settlement administrator or engages another third-party filing company without notifying us. As a result, multiple claims may be submitted for the same recovery opportunity.
When you enroll with MCAG, you authorize us to identify, evaluate, and file eligible settlement claims on your behalf. If another claim is submitted for the same settlement, the settlement administrator may flag the claims as duplicates or conflicts and require additional documentation before determining which claim is valid.
Duplicate and conflicting claims can:
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Delay the processing of your claim.
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Require additional paperwork and verification.
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Increase the risk that a claim will be rejected or suspended pending review.
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Create confusion regarding who is authorized to act on your organization's behalf.
If you are considering working with another filing service or filing a claim yourself, we strongly encourage you to contact MCAG first. In many cases, we can help you avoid unnecessary delays and ensure that your recovery rights are protected.
If a duplicate or conflicting claim is identified, our team will work with you to determine the cause of the conflict and, whenever possible, assist in resolving the issue with the settlement administrator. The sooner we are notified, the easier it is to address the situation.
Incorrect Information
The best way to ensure your settlement claims are filed accurately is to keep your information up to date in the MCAG Client HUB. When MCAG files claims on your behalf, we rely on the information you provide and maintain in the HUB. Outdated or inaccurate information can lead to filing delays, claim rejections, payment issues, or additional requests for documentation.
We strongly encourage all clients to set up their HUB account and review their information regularly, especially:
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Legal entity name
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Tax Identification Number (TIN/EIN)
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Payee information
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Mailing address
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ACH payment information
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W-9 documentation
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Primary contacts and email addresses
Accurate tax and payee information are particularly important because they are often required by settlement administrators to validate claims and issue payments. An outdated or missing W-9 can delay both claim filing and payment processing.
If you discover incorrect information, simply log in to the MCAG Client HUB and update your records. If you need assistance, our Client Services team is available to help. Keeping your account current helps ensure that claims are filed correctly, payments are delivered to the proper recipient, and your organization receives the full benefit of the recovery opportunities available to it.
Returned Checks
Returned checks are usually the result of an outdated mailing address, a change in ownership or payee information, mail delivery issues, or a check sent to a location no longer monitored by your organization. If a settlement check is returned to the settlement administrator or cannot be delivered, the funds are generally not lost, but additional steps may be required before a replacement can be issued.
If you believe a check was returned or you have not received an expected payment, please visit the MCAG Payment Issue portal as soon as possible. Our team can help determine the status of the payment and guide you through the next steps. In many cases, you may be required to provide updated contact information, a current W-9, or other documentation before you can request a replacement check.
The best way to avoid returned checks is to keep your organization's information up to date in the MCAG Client HUB, including mailing addresses, payee information, tax identification numbers, and payment preferences. Clients who enroll in ACH (direct deposit) can often avoid many of the delays and issues associated with paper checks altogether.
Payment Issues
Your payment represents funds recovered through a class action settlement in which MCAG filed a claim on your behalf. The amount of your payment is based on the specific terms of the settlement and the data submitted in support of your claim, such as transaction volume, purchases, or other qualifying activity during the applicable time period. In many cases, settlements are distributed on a pro rata basis, meaning payments are calculated proportionally among all approved claimants after court-approved fees, costs, and other adjustments are applied. Please note that settlement payments can vary significantly from one case to another and may be issued in multiple rounds or distributions over time. Clients who have not received a payment marked as issued should submit a ticket on the Payment Issue Portal as soon as possible so we can verify the payment status, confirm contact information, and determine whether additional action is needed. In certain situations, a stop-payment and reissuance process may be required for lost, stale, or returned checks, which can extend the overall timeline.