The Target class action lawsuit — Brinkman v. Target Corporation — involves claims that the retail giant posted job openings in Washington State without disclosing salary ranges or benefits information, as required by state law. Target agreed to a settlement of up to $2.225 million to resolve these claims, with each qualifying class member guaranteed a minimum payout of $1,711.93. The deadline to file your claim is March 31, 2026.
If you applied for a job with Target in Washington State between January 1, 2023, and July 26, 2025, and the posting didn’t show pay information, you may have money waiting. This guide walks you through exactly who qualifies, how much you could get, and how to file before the deadline closes.
Quick Answer: Target settled a class action lawsuit over missing wage disclosures in Washington State job postings. The settlement is worth up to $2.225 million. Eligible job applicants can receive at least $1,711.93, with payouts potentially reaching $5,000. The claim deadline is March 31, 2026. File at epoasettlement-jan-02-2026.com. Cosmic Crisp Apple Lawsuit
Target Class Action Lawsuit Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Case Name | Brinkman v. Target Corporation |
| Case Number | 24-2-25091-3-SEA |
| Court | King County Superior Court, Washington |
| Judge | Judge Michael R. Scott |
| Settlement Amount | Up to $2.225 million |
| Minimum Payout | $1,711.93 per claimant |
| Maximum Payout | $5,000 per claimant |
| Claim Deadline | March 31, 2026 |
| Final Approval Hearing | May 5, 2026 |
| Settlement Administrator | Simpluris, Inc. |
| Official Settlement Website | epoasettlement-jan-02-2026.com |
What Is the Target Class Action Lawsuit About?
Background of the Lawsuit
Washington State’s Equal Pay and Opportunities Act (EPOA) requires employers to include wage scales, salary ranges, and a general description of benefits in job postings. The law was designed to close pay gaps and give workers the information they need to negotiate fair compensation before ever setting foot in an interview.
The lawsuit alleges Target systematically ignored this requirement. According to the plaintiffs, thousands of job postings on Target’s website for Washington State positions — from store team members to corporate roles — went live without any salary information attached. Applicants say they had no way to know if the position paid competitively, whether the benefits were worth it, or how the offered range compared to what they were worth on the market.
Target denies any wrongdoing, but agreed to the settlement to avoid the cost and risk of continued litigation. While no admission of guilt was made, the settlement creates real financial consequences for the alleged violations.
Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Jan. 1, 2023 | Washington EPOA takes effect | Requires wage/salary disclosure in job postings |
| 2023–2025 | Alleged violations occur | Target posts WA jobs without pay disclosures |
| 2024 | Class action filed | Filed in King County Superior Court |
| July 26, 2025 | Class period closes | Last date of alleged violations included in settlement |
| January 2, 2026 | Settlement notice period begins | Eligible class members receive mailed notices |
| March 31, 2026 | Claim deadline | Last day to file — no exceptions |
| March 31, 2026 | Opt-out/objection deadline | Same date as claim deadline |
| May 5, 2026 | Final approval hearing | Court decides whether to approve settlement |
| After May 2026 | Payments distributed | Checks mailed after final court approval |
Who Filed the Lawsuit?
Three lead plaintiffs — Landon Brinkman, Meghan McClendon, and Nicole Yount — filed the case on behalf of themselves and a class of similarly situated job applicants. They’re represented by the law firm Emery Reddy P.C. (attorneys Timothy W. Emery, Patrick B. Reddy, and Paul Cipriani). The case was filed in King County Superior Court, which covers the Seattle metropolitan area.
What Are the Allegations?
The plaintiffs argued that Target’s hiring practices in Washington violated state law in a straightforward but consequential way. Here’s what the lawsuit claims:
- Target omitted wage scales and salary ranges from job postings for Washington State positions, in violation of the EPOA
- Target failed to include general descriptions of benefits or other compensation alongside job listings
- Applicants were denied the information they needed to make informed decisions about whether to apply, accept an offer, or negotiate compensation
- The violations affected potentially thousands of applicants during a two-and-a-half-year window
- Target’s conduct was systemic, not an isolated mistake, impacting job seekers across the entire state
Who Qualifies for the Target Class Action Settlement?
Quick Answer: You qualify if you applied for a Target job in Washington State between January 1, 2023, and July 26, 2025, and the job posting didn’t include salary range or benefits information. You don’t need to have been hired. The deadline to file your claim is March 31, 2026.
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details | How to Verify |
|---|---|---|
| Location of job posting | Washington State position | Check application history or Target’s records |
| Application date range | January 1, 2023 – July 26, 2025 | Confirm dates against your own records |
| Missing wage disclosure | Posting lacked a salary range or wage scale | Based on Target’s own job listing records |
| Missing benefits disclosure | Posting lacked a general description of benefits/other compensation | Based on Target’s job listing records |
| Filed a valid claim | Must submit claim form by March 31, 2026 | File online or by mail |
The settlement administrator (Simpluris, Inc.) is cross-referencing Target’s hiring database to identify eligible class members. If you received a settlement notice in the mail, it means Target’s records already confirm you’re likely eligible.
You don’t need to dig up old documents or prove you applied — Target’s own records form the basis for eligibility. However, if you believe you qualify but haven’t received a notice, you can still contact the administrator directly.
Who Does NOT Qualify?
Not everyone who applied for a Target job is covered. You are NOT eligible for this settlement if:
- ❌ You applied for a Target job outside of Washington State
- ❌ You applied before January 1, 2023 or after July 26, 2025
- ❌ The job posting you applied to did include a salary range and benefits description
- ❌ You are a Target Corporation employee acting in a claims-management or administrative capacity for this settlement
- ❌ You applied for a corporate contract or independent contractor position not covered by the EPOA
- ❌ You opt out of the settlement (which forfeits your right to a payout from this case)
Do You Need Receipts or Proof of Application?
| Document Type | Why It Helps | Where to Find It | If You Don’t Have It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Settlement notice (mailed) | Contains your Notice ID and PIN — required to file online | Check your mailbox; check for letters from Simpluris | Contact administrator at 833-647-9003 |
| Application confirmation email | Backs up your eligibility if disputed | Check your inbox or spam folder | Not strictly required — Target’s records are primary source |
| Job posting screenshots | Proves the posting lacked pay info | Old browser history, Wayback Machine | Not required — administrator uses Target’s records |
| Personal ID | Confirms your identity | Government-issued ID | Standard documentation |
Here’s the bottom line: you don’t need a stack of paperwork to file. The most important thing you need is the Notice ID and PIN from the settlement notice Simpluris mailed to eligible class members. If you can’t find it, call 833-647-9003 or email info@EPOASettlement-Jan-02-2026.com and they’ll help you retrieve it.
How Much Money Can You Get from the Target Settlement?
Quick Answer: The guaranteed minimum payout is $1,711.93 per eligible claimant. Depending on how many people file claims, individual payouts could reach up to $5,000. The total settlement fund is up to $2.225 million.
Settlement Fund Breakdown
| Category | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Total Settlement Fund (Maximum) | $2,225,000 | Cap on what Target will pay |
| Minimum Settlement Fund | $1,463,183.85 | If fewer than 50% of class members file |
| Attorney Fees & Costs | Deducted from total fund | Typical court-approved fees |
| Administration Costs | Deducted from total fund | Simpluris claims processing |
| Net Fund Available to Claimants | Remaining after deductions | Divided equally among valid claimants |
How Your Payout Is Calculated
The settlement uses a sliding fund structure, which is unusual and actually works in claimants’ favor:
| Filing Scenario | What Happens | Estimated Per-Person Payout |
|---|---|---|
| Fewer than 50% of class members file | Minimum fund ($1.46M) distributed equally | $1,711.93 minimum (guaranteed) |
| More than 50% file | Fund increases by $1,711.93 per additional claimant | Stays near $1,711.93 |
| More than 910 claimants file | Fund increases by $2,500 per additional filer | Amount per person adjusts |
| Calculated amount exceeds $5,000/person | Excess donated to Legal Foundation of Washington and Washington Employment Lawyers Association | $5,000 maximum per claimant |
In plain terms: you’re guaranteed at least $1,711.93 if you file a valid claim. If fewer people file than expected, you won’t get less. If more file, the fund grows — and you still won’t get less than $1,711.93.
Factors That Affect Your Payout
Your final payout depends primarily on three things:
- Total number of valid claims filed — More claimants can actually increase the fund under this settlement’s structure
- Whether the settlement receives final court approval — Expected at the May 5, 2026 hearing
- Whether any appeals are filed after approval — Appeals delay payment distribution but don’t typically eliminate payouts
When Will You Get Paid?
| Stage | Timeframe | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Claim Submission | By March 31, 2026 | You file your claim |
| Claims Review | April–May 2026 | Simpluris processes and validates claims |
| Final Approval Hearing | May 5, 2026 | Judge decides whether to approve |
| Appeal Period | After May 5, 2026 | Any objectors may appeal |
| Payment Distribution | After final approval + any appeals | Checks mailed to valid claimants |
| Check Cashing Window | 180 days from issuance | You must cash your check within this window |
| Expected Receipt | Summer–Fall 2026 (estimated) | Based on typical post-approval timelines |
Important: Settlement payments are classified as non-wage damages for tax purposes. You may receive a 1099 tax form, meaning this income could be taxable. Talk to a tax professional if you have questions.
How to File Your Claim — Step by Step
⚠️ CRITICAL DEADLINE: You MUST file your claim by March 31, 2026. No extensions. No exceptions. If you miss this date, you will not receive compensation from the settlement, even if you’re fully eligible.
Step 1: Locate Your Settlement Notice
Check your mail for an official settlement notice from Simpluris, Inc. It will be addressed to you personally and include your Notice ID and PIN — the two pieces of information you need to file online.
Can’t find the notice? Don’t panic. Contact Simpluris directly:
- Phone: 833-647-9003
- Email: info@EPOASettlement-Jan-02-2026.com
- Mail: Brinkman v. Target Corp., c/o Simpluris, P.O. Box 26170, Santa Ana, CA 92799
Give them your full name and mailing address, and they’ll confirm your eligibility and help you get your credentials. Texas Roadhouse Lawsuit
Step 2: Go to the Official Claim Website
The official settlement website is:
epoasettlement-jan-02-2026.com
Only file through this official site. Do not submit through third-party websites — they cannot process your claim.
Step 3: Log In and Complete the Claim Form
Click “File a Claim” and enter your Notice ID and PIN when prompted. The online form will ask you to confirm:
- Your personal information (name, address, contact details)
- Confirmation that you applied for a Target job in Washington during the covered period
- Agreement that the posting didn’t include required pay disclosure
The form is straightforward and takes most people under 10 minutes to complete.
Step 4: Choose Your Submission Method
You have three options:
- Online (fastest): Submit through the settlement website
- Email: Send a completed claim form to the settlement administrator email
- Mail (must be postmarked by March 31, 2026): Send to Brinkman v. Target Corp., c/o Simpluris, P.O. Box 26170, Santa Ana, CA 92799
If mailing, don’t wait until the last day. Mail it at least a week early to make sure it’s postmarked in time.
Step 5: Save Your Confirmation
After submitting online, you’ll receive a confirmation number. Write it down. Screenshot the confirmation page. Save any confirmation email. You’ll want proof of submission if any questions arise later.
Step 6: Update Your Mailing Address If Needed
Payments are sent as physical checks via U.S. mail. Make sure your address on file with the settlement administrator is current. If you’ve moved since applying for the Target job, contact Simpluris to update your address before payments go out.
Step 7: Cash Your Check Within 180 Days
Once checks are mailed, you have 180 days to cash yours. That window sounds generous, but set a reminder anyway — uncashed checks after 180 days may be voided.
All Critical Deadlines in One Place
| Deadline | Date | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Claim Filing Deadline | March 31, 2026 | Last day to submit your claim form |
| Opt-Out Deadline | March 31, 2026 | Last day to exclude yourself from the settlement |
| Objection Deadline | March 31, 2026 | Last day to formally object to the settlement terms |
| Final Approval Hearing | May 5, 2026 | Court decides on settlement approval |
| Payment Distribution | After May 2026 | Checks mailed after all appeals resolved |
| Check Cashing Window | 180 days from issuance | Cash your check within this period |
Common Filing Mistakes to Avoid
People lose out on settlements they’re entitled to by making avoidable errors. Watch out for these:
- Waiting until March 31 to start — Technical issues happen. Give yourself a few days of buffer
- Using a third-party claim site — Only the official settlement website counts
- Not having your Notice ID and PIN ready — Look these up before you start, or contact Simpluris
- Filing if you don’t qualify — Submitting a fraudulent claim is considered perjury and harms legitimate class members
- Not saving your confirmation — You need proof that you filed if any dispute arises
- Forgetting to update your address — Checks go to the address on file
Current Lawsuit Status & 2026 Updates
Settlement Status as of March 2026
The settlement has received preliminary approval from King County Superior Court under Judge Michael R. Scott. The case is currently in the claims period, with the final approval hearing scheduled for May 5, 2026.
As of the current date, no major objections have been publicly reported. The settlement administrator (Simpluris) began mailing notices to eligible class members starting January 2, 2026. The settlement is on track for final approval in May, with payments expected to follow within a few months of that decision.
Recent Developments
The Target wage transparency settlement is part of a broader national trend of state attorneys general and private plaintiffs enforcing pay disclosure laws that have taken effect across the country. Several developments are worth noting:
- Washington’s EPOA remains in effect, meaning Target and other employers must now include salary ranges and benefits in all Washington job postings going forward
- Similar lawsuits are being filed or settled in California, Colorado, and New York, where comparable laws exist
- The NJ warehouse settlement — a separate Target case (Sadler v. Target Corp.) involving $4.6 million for New Jersey distribution center workers — had its final approval hearing in February 2026, showing Target is actively resolving multiple wage-related class actions simultaneously
What Happens Next
| Date | Expected Event |
|---|---|
| March 31, 2026 | Claim filing deadline closes |
| May 5, 2026 | Final approval hearing before Judge Scott |
| May–June 2026 | Appeal period (if any objectors pursue appeals) |
| Summer/Fall 2026 | Payment checks mailed to eligible claimants |
Target Class Action Settlement vs. Similar Cases
How This Settlement Compares
| Lawsuit | Settlement Amount | What It’s About | Per-Person Payout | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Target (WA wage transparency) | $2.225 million | Missing salary ranges in job postings | $1,711.93–$5,000 | Active — deadline March 31, 2026 |
| Target NJ Distribution (Sadler v. Target) | $4.6 million | Unpaid wages for warehouse workers | Pro-rata share (~$200–$500 est.) | Final hearing Feb. 24, 2026 |
| Amazon Wage & Hour (California) | $8.4 million | Unpaid breaks and overtime | Varies | Settled 2024 |
| Walmart Wage (California) | $65 million | Meal/rest break violations | Varies | Settled 2022 |
| SiriusXM TCPA | $28 million | Unwanted telemarketing calls | TBD | Deadline March 21, 2026 |
What Makes This Lawsuit Unique
The Target wage transparency lawsuit is notable for a few reasons:
- The sliding-scale settlement fund is unusual in class action settlements — it means the fund grows as more people file, rather than shrinking the per-person payout
- The guaranteed minimum payout ($1,711.93) is unusually specific and protective of class members, preventing payouts from becoming worthless if many people file
- The law being enforced (Washington’s EPOA) is relatively new and this case helps establish precedent for how employers must comply with wage disclosure requirements
- No proof of purchase or employment is required — you only need to have applied for the job, and Target’s own records are the primary evidence
Do You Need a Lawyer to File a Claim?
Quick Answer: No. You do not need a lawyer to file a claim in this settlement. The process is designed for individuals to handle on their own in under 10 minutes. However, free legal consultations are available if you have unusual circumstances.
Filing Without a Lawyer
This is a standard consumer class action claim process. The settlement website walks you through each step, and you just need your Notice ID, PIN, and basic personal information. The vast majority of people who file do so without any legal help.
Understanding how class action lawsuits work can be helpful if you’re new to the process, but it’s not necessary before filing. The form is self-explanatory.
When Legal Help Might Make Sense
For most people, legal help isn’t needed here. But you might want to consult an attorney if:
- You received a notice but are unsure whether the specific job you applied for qualifies
- You want to opt out of the settlement to pursue your own separate claim (this rarely makes sense for standard wage disclosure violations)
- You have multiple eligibility questions based on complex employment history in Washington
- Your claim is denied and you want to challenge that decision
How to Reach the Settlement Administrator
For free assistance with your claim:
- Phone: 833-647-9003
- Email: info@EPOASettlement-Jan-02-2026.com
- Mail: Brinkman v. Target Corp., c/o Simpluris, P.O. Box 26170, Santa Ana, CA 92799
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Target class action lawsuit about?
Quick Answer: Target allegedly failed to include wage ranges and benefits information in Washington State job postings, violating the state’s Equal Pay and Opportunities Act.
Washington law requires employers to disclose salary scales and benefits in job postings. According to the lawsuit (Brinkman v. Target Corporation), Target posted thousands of job openings in Washington without this required information between January 2023 and July 2025. Rather than fight the case through trial, Target agreed to pay up to $2.225 million to settle the claims.
Who is eligible for the Target settlement?
Quick Answer: Anyone who applied for a Target job in Washington State between January 1, 2023, and July 26, 2025, where the job posting didn’t include salary range or benefits information.
You qualify regardless of whether you were hired, rejected, or withdrew your application. Getting the job doesn’t disqualify you. And if you applied multiple times, you still file just one claim — you don’t get separate payments per application.
How much money will I receive?
Quick Answer: At minimum, $1,711.93. Depending on the number of valid claims, you could receive up to $5,000. The actual amount is finalized after the claims period closes.
The settlement uses a sliding-scale fund, so your payout stays near $1,711.93 regardless of how many people file. The fund adjusts to accommodate more claimants rather than cutting individual payouts. The maximum any single claimant can receive is $5,000. Byte Aligners Lawsuit
When is the deadline to file a claim?
Quick Answer: March 31, 2026. This is a hard deadline with no exceptions.
The opt-out deadline is also March 31, 2026 — the same date. Set a calendar reminder right now and don’t wait until the last day.
How do I file a claim?
Quick Answer: Go to epoasettlement-jan-02-2026.com, click “File a Claim,” enter your Notice ID and PIN from your settlement notice, and complete the form.
If you don’t have your Notice ID and PIN, call 833-647-9003 or email info@EPOASettlement-Jan-02-2026.com. You can also mail a paper claim form to Simpluris (P.O. Box 26170, Santa Ana, CA 92799) — just make sure it’s postmarked by March 31, 2026.
Do I need a lawyer to file?
Quick Answer: No. The process takes under 10 minutes and is designed for self-filing.
Most people complete the online form in less than 10 minutes. You don’t need legal experience or professional help to file this claim.
What documents do I need?
Quick Answer: Mainly your Notice ID and PIN from the settlement notice. That’s it for most people.
The settlement administrator verifies eligibility using Target’s own hiring records. You don’t need old job applications, receipts, or employment records. If you can’t find your notice, contact Simpluris and provide your name and mailing address.
What if I don’t have any records of my application?
Quick Answer: It doesn’t matter. Target’s records are the primary evidence — not yours.
File your claim anyway. The settlement administrator will cross-reference your information against Target’s hiring database. If Target’s records show you applied for a qualifying position during the covered period, you’re eligible.
When will I receive my payment?
Quick Answer: Payments are expected in Summer or Fall 2026, after the May 5, 2026 final approval hearing and any subsequent appeals.
After the court grants final approval and any appeal periods expire, Simpluris will mail checks to all eligible claimants at their address on file. Make sure your address is current.
How will I receive payment?
Quick Answer: By check, mailed to your address on file with the settlement administrator.
There’s no option for direct deposit or electronic payment in this settlement. Once you receive your check, you have 180 days to cash it. After that window closes, you may forfeit the funds.
What is the total settlement amount?
Quick Answer: Up to $2.225 million, with a guaranteed minimum fund of approximately $1.46 million.
If fewer than half of eligible class members file claims, the minimum fund kicks in and leftover money goes to charity. If participation is higher, Target’s contribution scales up to the $2.225 million cap.
Has the settlement been approved by the court?
Quick Answer: It has received preliminary approval. Final court approval is expected at the May 5, 2026 hearing.
Preliminary approval means the court has reviewed the settlement and found it reasonable enough to allow claim filing to proceed. Final approval is the binding step — expected May 5, 2026.
Can I opt out of the settlement?
Quick Answer: Yes, but you must do so by March 31, 2026. Opting out means you get nothing from this settlement but retain your right to sue Target independently.
Opting out rarely makes financial sense for wage disclosure cases like this one, since pursuing an individual lawsuit would likely cost more than the payout you’d receive. Only opt out if you have unique circumstances and are already working with your own attorney.
What if I already accepted another job or moved out of Washington?
Quick Answer: Doesn’t matter. Your eligibility is based on when you applied, not your current situation.
If you applied for a Target job in Washington between January 2023 and July 2025, you’re in the class period. It doesn’t matter whether you live in Washington now, whether you took a different job, or anything else that happened after your application.
Do I have to give up my right to sue Target separately?
Quick Answer: Yes, if you file a claim or don’t opt out, you release your right to bring individual wage disclosure claims against Target for this period.
By accepting the settlement benefit, you’re agreeing not to pursue individual legal action against Target for the same violations. This is standard in class action settlements. If you want to preserve your individual claims, opt out by March 31, 2026 and consult a private attorney.
What if I missed the deadline?
Quick Answer: There are no exceptions to the March 31, 2026 deadline. If you miss it, you cannot receive payment from this settlement.
Courts are firm about class action deadlines. The only recourse would be if the settlement administrator extends the deadline for everyone (which is rare and would be announced publicly) or if you can demonstrate extraordinary circumstances, which is extremely difficult to prove.
How do I check my claim status?
Quick Answer: Contact the settlement administrator: call 833-647-9003 or email info@EPOASettlement-Jan-02-2026.com.
Keep your confirmation number from your online submission handy when you call or write. The settlement website may also have a claim status lookup feature.
What if my claim is denied?
Quick Answer: Contact Simpluris for an explanation and to understand your options for correction or appeal.
If your claim is denied, the administrator will typically notify you with a reason. Common reasons include not meeting the eligibility criteria, submitting after the deadline, or submitting with incomplete information. You may be able to correct and resubmit if the deadline hasn’t passed.
Will this settlement affect my taxes?
Quick Answer: Possibly. Payments are classified as non-wage damages, so you may receive a 1099 form.
Unlike wage settlements (which generate W-2s), this payout is categorized as non-wage compensation. That means it may be reportable as income on your taxes. Talk to a tax professional if you receive a large payout or have questions about how this affects your specific tax situation.
Where can I find the official claim form?
Quick Answer: At the official settlement website: epoasettlement-jan-02-2026.com.
That’s the only legitimate place to file your claim online. You can also request a paper claim form by contacting Simpluris at 833-647-9003.
Is this the only Target class action lawsuit right now?
Quick Answer: No. There’s also a separate $4.6 million settlement for Target distribution center workers in New Jersey (Sadler v. Target Corp.).
The NJ case involves unpaid wages for warehouse employees — specifically, time spent on mandatory security screenings and walking before and after shifts. That settlement covers about 13,700 current and former distribution center employees in New Jersey. Unlike the WA settlement, the NJ case doesn’t require you to file a claim — eligible employees receive automatic payments.
What is Washington’s Equal Pay and Opportunities Act?
Quick Answer: It’s a Washington State law requiring employers to include wage scales, salary ranges, and benefits descriptions in job postings.
The EPOA was enacted to reduce pay inequity and give job seekers the information they need to negotiate fair compensation. Under the law, employers with 15 or more employees must include this information in all job postings. Target’s alleged failure to comply is exactly what this case is built around. Understanding employee rights under state wage laws can help you recognize similar violations in the future.
What if I’m a current Target employee — can I still file?
Quick Answer: Yes, if you applied for a new or different position within Target in Washington during the covered period and that posting lacked the required disclosures.
The settlement covers job applicants, not just people who weren’t hired. If you were already a Target employee who applied internally for another position through a posting that lacked required pay disclosures, you may qualify. Check your application history and contact Simpluris if you’re unsure.
