Important Settlement Deadlines: Required Information for Injured Borrowers
If you were affected by the Wells Fargo home loan modification error between 2010 – 2018, you should know that time limitations apply to the Hernandez, et al. v. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Home Loan Modification Settlement. On this page, you will find a complete round-up of all key dates and requirements throughout the settlement process so that you are fully apprised of your rights, claims, and distribution of payments.
Default Enrollment, Initial Payment Deadline
For virtually all eligible claimants in the Original and Supplemental Classes, participation in the settlement was automatic. There was no action needed by eligible class members to receive their basic settlement payment. The deadline to update contact information to ensure delivery of your payment was June 15, 2023. Checks for the settlement started to mail in July 2023 and have been rolling out as contact information was confirmed. If your address has changed since then, we recommend that you take action immediately by contacting JND Legal Administration to prevent delays.
Deadline to Apply for “Extreme” Emotional Distress Claims
In addition to the automatic payment, a separate $1.45 million fund was created for compensating class members who suffered extreme emotional distress due to the denial of a requested loan modification or for the losses they incurred by losing their homes. To be eligible for compensation from this portion of the settlement, class members were required to file a Severe Emotional Distress Claim Form, along with other proof of distress, no later than September 30, 2023. Claims submitted after that date are not eligible for consideration. All claims will be reviewed by a Court-Appointed Special Master, and awards of compensation will differ depending on the extent of documented emotional distress.
Opt-Out and Objection Deadlines
If you wished to opt out of the settlement (file a request for exclusion from the settlement class) or object to the settlement, you were required to file any such request for relief with the Court and serve on all parties no later than May 20, 2023. No exclusion requests filed after that date were accepted for purposes of determining standing to object and being heard at or after the final approval hearing, and such persons are subject to the terms of the settlement. Likewise, objections to the settlement must have been filed with the court, and served on all parties no later than May 20, 2023. These procedures ensure all class members are given an opportunity to protect their interests and express any objections they may have.
Final Approval and Cash Payments Timetable
On July 7, 2023, the final approval hearing for the settlement was held. In August 2023, payments to eligible class members began after the court’s approval. Most checks were mailed within eight weeks after the final approval, but some payments may have been in the unclaimed property system and delayed due to address verification issues. If you have not received a settlement check yet, it may have been sent to your prior address or paid into the state unclaimed property division. We suggest checking with the office of unclaimed property where you resided.
What Happens If You Miss a Deadline?
If you missed a deadline, you usually won’t be considered for additional compensation or changes to your settlement status. However, if you think you were eligible and missed a payment due to a new address or administrative error, please call JND Legal Administration for help. Late claims are not accepted, but help is available on updating addresses and finding uncashed settlements.
Stay Informed & Seek Help
Class members are urged to periodically check this website for updates on any further settlement developments. Please direct any inquiries regarding your eligibility, payment status, or updates to contact information to the Settlement Administrator:
- Telephone: 1-877-545-0236
- Email: [email protected]
- Mail: Hernandez, et al. v. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., c/o JND Legal Administration, P.O. Box 91350, Seattle, WA 98111
JND Legal Administration is working around the clock to ensure that all eligible borrowers ultimately receive the compensation they deserve. Stay tuned to exercise your rights and ensure that you receive any future settlement notices. For more information, you may also visit the Frequently Asked Questions page or use the Contact Us form for direct assistance.