Sirius XM $28 Million TCPA Settlement, What It Means and How to File Your Claim Before March 21, 2026
Sirius XM Radio LLC agreed to pay $28 million to settle a class action lawsuit alleging the company violated federal and state telemarketing laws by making repeated unwanted calls to consumers on do-not-call registries. If you received multiple unsolicited telemarketing calls from Sirius XM between April 27, 2019, and October 31, 2025, while not being a self-paying subscriber, you may qualify for compensation—but you must file your claim by March 21, 2026.
How the Law Works: Understanding TCPA Violations and Class Action Settlement Procedures
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), codified at 47 U.S.C. § 227, is a federal law that restricts unwanted telephone solicitation. Congress enacted the TCPA in 1991 to protect consumers from harassing telemarketing practices, including calls made using automated dialing systems or prerecorded messages. The law prohibits telemarketers from calling cell phones and residential lines without prior express consent and requires companies to honor the National Do Not Call Registry.
What Sirius XM Allegedly Did Wrong Under Federal Telemarketing Law
The class action lawsuit—Campbell et al. v. Sirius XM Radio Inc., Case No. 2:22-cv-02261, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois—alleged that Sirius XM placed telephone solicitation calls to promote its satellite radio subscriptions and related services to consumers who either registered their phone numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry or Sirius XM’s own internal do-not-call list. Plaintiffs Julie Campbell, Diana Bickford, and Kerrie Mulholland claimed they received repeated unwanted calls even after explicitly requesting to be removed from Sirius XM’s contact list.
The lawsuit alleged violations of the TCPA and state consumer protection laws. Under the TCPA, consumers can recover statutory damages of $500 per violation, or up to $1,500 per call if violations are willful or knowing. Courts can also grant injunctive relief requiring companies to change their telemarketing practices. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) enforces the National Do Not Call Registry provisions and can impose civil penalties up to $51,744 per violation as of 2025.
This isn’t Sirius XM’s first TCPA class action lawsuit. The company previously paid more than $60 million in earlier settlements for similar violations—including a $35 million settlement in 2016 for autodialer violations and a $25 million settlement in 2019 (Buchanan v. Sirius XM Radio Inc.) for calls to consumers on do-not-call registries. Plaintiffs in the current case argued that despite these prior settlements, Sirius XM “continued its illegal calls unabated” and failed to implement sufficient practice changes to comply with the TCPA.
How Class Action Settlements Work and What Dismissal With Prejudice Means
A class action allows one or more plaintiffs to sue on behalf of a large group of people—called the class—who suffered similar harm from the same defendant’s conduct. Rather than thousands of individual lawsuits, one case represents everyone, making litigation more efficient and ensuring consistent outcomes. Class actions are particularly useful for consumer protection cases where individual damages might be small but collective harm is substantial.
A settlement is an agreement where the defendant agrees to pay money or make changes to resolve the lawsuit without admitting wrongdoing, and plaintiffs agree to dismiss their claims and release the defendant from further liability. Settlements avoid the cost, uncertainty, and delay of going to trial. Under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 23, class action settlements require court approval to ensure they are “fair, reasonable, and adequate” for class members.
When a settlement receives final court approval, the case is typically dismissed “with prejudice.” This legal term means the lawsuit is permanently closed and cannot be refiled. The dismissal with prejudice protects the defendant from future lawsuits by class members over the same claims covered by the settlement. In exchange for this protection, the defendant pays the agreed settlement amount and implements any required business practice changes.
The Sirius XM settlement received preliminary approval in October 2025. The court scheduled a Final Approval Hearing for the week of March 31, 2026, where the judge will evaluate whether the settlement terms are fair and should be granted final approval. If approved, the case will be dismissed with prejudice, ending the litigation permanently.
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Common Scenarios: When TCPA Violations Occur and How Settlement Claims Work
Scenario 1: Multiple Unwanted Calls Despite Do-Not-Call Registry
A consumer tried a free Sirius XM trial when purchasing a new vehicle in 2020. After the trial ended, they did not subscribe. Their phone number was registered on the National Do Not Call Registry. Over the next three years, the consumer received numerous telemarketing calls from Sirius XM promoting subscription packages, despite never requesting contact. After the fifth call, the consumer explicitly told the representative to stop calling and add them to Sirius XM’s internal do-not-call list. The calls continued anyway—three more calls over the following six months.
This scenario describes potential TCPA violations. Under the settlement terms, this consumer would likely qualify as a class member because they: (1) received more than one telephone solicitation call in a 12-month period between April 27, 2019, and October 31, 2025, (2) their phone number was registered on the National Do-Not-Call Registry more than 31 days before receiving calls, and (3) they were not a self-paying Sirius XM subscriber when the calls occurred.
Scenario 2: Requesting Internal Do-Not-Call List Placement
A consumer leased a vehicle with a Sirius XM trial subscription in 2021. When Sirius XM called to offer a paid subscription after the trial ended, the consumer declined and asked to be placed on Sirius XM’s internal do-not-call list. Despite this explicit request, the consumer received two more telemarketing calls from Sirius XM within the next eight months.
This scenario also describes qualifying conduct under the settlement. The settlement covers individuals who: (1) received more than one telephone solicitation call in a 12-month period between the class period dates, (2) on their telephone numbers made by or on behalf of Sirius XM, where such calls were received more than 31 days after registering with Sirius XM’s internal Do-Not-Call Registry, and (3) the person was not a self-paying subscriber at the time of the calls.
Scenario 3: How Settlement Payments Are Calculated
The $28 million settlement fund is “non-reversionary,” meaning all money not used for administration costs, attorneys’ fees, and service awards must be distributed to valid claimants—none returns to Sirius XM. After deducting court-approved attorneys’ fees (typically 25-33% of the settlement fund), settlement administration costs, and service awards for the named plaintiffs (usually $5,000-$15,000 each), the remaining funds will be divided among all class members who submit valid and timely claims.
The exact payment amount per person depends on how many people file valid claims. If 100,000 people file claims and approximately $18 million remains after deductions, each claimant would receive roughly $180. If only 50,000 people claim, payments double to approximately $360 per person. Payment amounts will be distributed on a pro rata basis—meaning proportionally based on the total number of approved claims.
What People Get Wrong About TCPA Settlements and Class Action Claims
Misconception 1: “All Sirius XM customers qualify for the settlement”
Not true. The settlement specifically excludes self-paying Sirius XM subscribers at the time they received the calls. Only individuals who received telemarketing calls while not actively paying for a Sirius XM subscription qualify. If you had an active paid subscription when Sirius XM called you, those calls likely don’t violate the TCPA because you had an established business relationship with the company.
Misconception 2: “You automatically get paid without filing a claim”
False. Class members must submit a claim form to receive payment. Unlike some settlements where class members are automatically identified and paid, this settlement requires affirmative action. You must file a claim online at SXMTCPASettlement.com or download a PDF claim form and mail it to the settlement administrator by March 21, 2026. If you don’t file a claim, you won’t receive any money, even if you’re eligible.
Misconception 3: “Filing a claim guarantees a specific payment amount”
The settlement doesn’t guarantee specific dollar amounts per claimant. While the TCPA allows statutory damages of $500-$1,500 per violation, settlement payments are almost always less than maximum statutory damages because the settlement amount is divided among all valid claimants. The final payment you receive depends on the total number of approved claims and the amount remaining after administrative costs and legal fees.
Misconception 4: “Opting out means you’ll get more money elsewhere”
Opting out of the settlement excludes you from receiving any settlement payment, but preserves your right to file an individual lawsuit against Sirius XM for TCPA violations. This strategy only makes sense if you have extensive documentation of many violations and are willing to hire your own attorney and pursue individual litigation—which could take years and has uncertain outcomes. For most consumers with a handful of unwanted calls, participating in the settlement provides guaranteed compensation without litigation costs.
What to Do If This Applies to You: Steps to File Your Claim and Protect Your Rights
How to Determine If You Qualify for Compensation
You may be eligible for the settlement if you fall into either of these categories:
Category 1—National Do-Not-Call Registry: All natural persons in the United States who (1) received more than one telephone solicitation call in a 12-month period between April 27, 2019, and October 31, 2025, on their landline, wireless, cell, or mobile telephone numbers made by or on behalf of Sirius XM, (2) where such calls were received more than 31 days after registering their telephone number with the National Do-Not-Call Registry, and (3) the person was not a self-paying Sirius XM subscriber at the time of the first call or before the start of the second call.
Category 2—Sirius XM Internal Do-Not-Call List: All natural persons in the United States who (1) received more than one telephone solicitation call in a 12-month period between April 27, 2019, and October 31, 2025, on their telephone numbers made by or on behalf of Sirius XM, where such calls were received more than 31 days after requesting to be added to Sirius XM’s internal do-not-call list, and (3) the person was not a self-paying subscriber at the time of the first call or before the start of the second call.
If more than one person in your household qualifies, each person may file a separate claim.
Step-by-Step Process to File Your Settlement Claim
Step 1: Gather required information. You’ll need to provide the phone number(s) on which you received Sirius XM telemarketing calls. Review your phone records, call logs, or memory to identify approximately when you received the calls and how many you received.
Step 2: Verify your Do-Not-Call Registry status. Check whether your phone number is registered on the National Do-Not-Call Registry by visiting DoNotCall.gov or calling 1-888-382-1222. If you’re relying on Sirius XM’s internal do-not-call list, recall when you requested to be added (this typically happens during a phone call when you decline an offer and ask not to be contacted again).
Step 3: File your claim online or by mail. The easiest method is filing online at SXMTCPASettlement.com. Alternatively, download the PDF claim form, complete it, and mail it to: SXM TCPA Settlement Administrator, Attn: Claim Form Submissions, 1650 Arch St., Suite 2210, Philadelphia, PA 19103. Claims must be submitted or postmarked by March 21, 2026.
Step 4: Keep confirmation records. If filing online, save your confirmation number or take a screenshot of the confirmation page. If mailing, consider sending via certified mail with return receipt to prove timely submission.
Step 5: Wait for payment distribution. If the court grants final approval at the hearing scheduled for the week of March 31, 2026, the settlement administrator will process claims and distribute payments. This typically takes 60-120 days after final approval, meaning payments may arrive in summer or fall 2026.
Understanding Your Options: Participate, Opt Out, or Object
You have three options as a class member:
Option 1—Do Nothing: If you take no action, you’ll remain bound by the settlement but receive no payment. You’ll also forfeit your right to sue Sirius XM separately for the claims covered by the settlement.
Option 2—File a Claim: Submit a claim form by March 21, 2026, to receive your share of the settlement. This is the recommended option for most people who qualify.
Option 3—Exclude Yourself (Opt Out): Request exclusion by the deadline specified in the settlement notice (typically the same as the claim deadline). If you opt out, you won’t receive settlement money but preserve your right to sue Sirius XM independently. Exclusion only makes sense if you have extensive documented violations and plan to pursue individual litigation.
Option 4—Object to the Settlement: Submit a written objection to the court explaining why you believe the settlement is unfair. You can object and still file a claim. The court will consider objections at the Final Approval Hearing. You cannot exclude yourself and also object—you must choose one or the other.
What Happens Next: Timeline for Settlement Approval and Payments
The court set a Final Approval Hearing for the week of March 31, 2026. At this hearing, the judge will:
- Review the settlement terms
- Consider any objections from class members
- Evaluate whether attorneys’ fees and costs are reasonable
- Determine whether to grant final approval
If the court approves the settlement, it will become effective after any appeals period expires (typically 30-60 days). The settlement administrator will then calculate individual payment amounts based on the number of valid claims and distribute payments. Based on typical timelines for class action settlements, expect payments in summer or fall 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Sirius XM TCPA Settlement
What is the deadline to file a claim for the Sirius XM TCPA settlement?
The claim deadline is March 21, 2026. You must submit your claim form online at SXMTCPASettlement.com or mail it postmarked by this date to the settlement administrator. Late claims will not be accepted.
How much money will I receive from the Sirius XM settlement?
The exact payment amount hasn’t been determined yet and depends on how many valid claims are submitted. The $28 million settlement fund will be divided among all approved claimants after deducting attorneys’ fees, administrative costs, and service awards. Individual payments could range from approximately $50 to several hundred dollars depending on participation rates.
Do I need proof that Sirius XM called me?
While documentation strengthens your claim, the claim form doesn’t require you to submit phone records or other proof. You must provide the phone number(s) that received the calls and certify under penalty of perjury that the information you’re providing is truthful. The settlement administrator may verify information or request additional documentation in some cases.
Can I file a claim if I currently have a Sirius XM subscription?
Yes, as long as you were not a self-paying subscriber when you received the unwanted telemarketing calls during the class period (April 27, 2019, to October 31, 2025). If you received calls while your subscription was inactive or before you became a subscriber, you may qualify even if you later became a paying customer.
What if I received both emails and phone calls from Sirius XM?
This settlement covers only telephone solicitation calls, not emails or text messages. If you received unwanted emails, those aren’t covered by this particular settlement. However, Sirius XM faces separate litigation over other consumer protection violations including hidden fees and cancellation difficulties.
Will Sirius XM stop calling people after this settlement?
Yes. As part of the settlement agreement, Sirius XM agreed to implement specific business practice changes to prevent future TCPA violations. These include enhanced procedures for honoring do-not-call requests and improved systems for maintaining internal do-not-call lists. The settlement also requires Sirius XM to follow specific practices when contacting consumers who purchase or lease vehicles with Sirius XM radios.
Last Updated: January 28, 2026
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about the Sirius XM TCPA class action settlement and should not be considered legal advice. Settlement terms are subject to final court approval, and payment amounts may vary. For specific questions about your eligibility or claim, visit the official settlement website at SXMTCPASettlement.com or contact the settlement administrator at 1-866-566-4210.
Take Action: If you received unwanted telemarketing calls from Sirius XM between April 27, 2019, and October 31, 2025, file your claim by March 21, 2026, at SXMTCPASettlement.com. Check your National Do-Not-Call Registry status at DoNotCall.gov. For questions about TCPA rights or other consumer protection issues, contact a consumer rights attorney or your state attorney general’s office.
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Citations:
- Campbell et al. v. Sirius XM Radio Inc., Case No. 2:22-cv-02261-CSB-EIL, U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois
- Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), 47 U.S.C. § 227
- Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 23 (Class Actions)
- Settlement Agreement filed October 3, 2025 [INSERT OFFICIAL SOURCE LINK]
- Court Order Granting Preliminary Approval [INSERT OFFICIAL SOURCE LINK]
- Federal Trade Commission Do Not Call Registry provisions, 16 CFR Part 310
About the Author
Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
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