Hilton & Marriott “Junk Fee” Update 2026, Hidden Resort Fee Settlements and Refund Status

As of March 2026, both Hilton and Marriott are under intense legal pressure regarding “drip pricing”—the practice of hiding mandatory resort, destination, and amenity fees until the final booking screen. While many state-level settlements (like those in Pennsylvania, Texas, and Nebraska) have forced these chains to show “all-in” pricing upfront, several private class action lawsuits remain active. If you were charged a hidden fee at a Hilton or Marriott property, you may be eligible for a refund or credit, though a nationwide “claim form” for a multi-million dollar fund has not yet been launched for all consumers.

Quick Facts

Feature	Hilton Updates	Marriott Updates
Primary Allegation	Hidden “Destination Fees” & “Junk Fees”	Deceptive “Resort Fees” & Price Fixing
Legal Status	Active Litigation (Jesse v. Hilton)	Settled in several states; ongoing in D.C.
Settlement Amount	TBD (Individual state fines paid)	$52M (Data Breach) / $225K (PA Fine)
Key Deadline	TBD	TBD
Who Qualifies	U.S. guests charged undisclosed fees	Nationwide guests (dates vary by state)
Official Site	TBD	Marriott.com (Pricing transparency update)

Is There a 2026 Marriott Resort Fee Refund?

Marriott has faced a string of legal losses and settlements over its “Resort Fees.” In 2024 and 2025, Marriott was forced by several State Attorneys General to change its website to show the total price, including all fees, on the very first page.

However, many consumers are asking about money back. In 2026, the focus is on:

• The Pennsylvania Compliance Fine: Marriott was recently fined $225,000 for failing to follow its previous agreement to be transparent.
• The D.C. Attorney General Lawsuit: This case is still seeking restitution (direct money back) for tens of thousands of District consumers who were “ambushed” by fees as high as $95 per night.
• Price-Fixing Allegations: A new 2026 update in Segal v. Marriott alleges that Marriott and Hilton used “Amadeus” software to fix room prices, potentially leading to even larger class action payouts.

What is the Status of the Hilton “Junk Fee” Lawsuit?

The case Jesse v. Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (Case No. 1:19-cv-04713) continues to move through the courts in 2026. The lawsuit claims Hilton “systematically cheats” customers by promising a low rate and then increasing it at checkout.

• “Forever Chemicals” in Bands? In a separate but related 2026 issue, some “all-inclusive” Hilton resort wristbands are being investigated for similar chemical concerns as other wearable tech (PFAS).
• Travelers United vs. Hilton: This advocacy group is currently pushing a case in D.C. that seeks statutory damages—which could mean a set amount of money (e.g., $1,500 per violation) for guests who were lied to about room rates.

Related article: FTC Mails $47.2 Million in Invitation Homes Refunds, What Renters Need to Know in 2026

“Missing” Things You Need to Know (Online Requests)

Many users are searching for these specific items in 2026. Here is what you need to provide to be ready for a claim:

• Folio/Receipt Records: You must have the itemized “Folio” from your stay. This is the only document that proves the “Resort Fee” or “Destination Fee” was charged separately from the room rate.
• Booking Screenshots: If you are booking now and see a price change at checkout, take a screenshot. This is the “drip pricing” evidence lawyers are currently looking for.
• The “Diamond” Exception: Hilton Diamond members are reporting that fees are sometimes waived but still appear on the final bill. Check your Honors account history to see if you were overcharged.

How to Dispute a Hidden Fee Right Now 

If you just stayed at a Hilton or Marriott and felt “swindled” by a fee, you don’t have to wait for a class action check:

1. Ask at the Front Desk: Point out that you did not use the amenities (like the gym or “free faxes”) and request the fee be removed.
2. The “Transparency” Argument: Tell the manager: “This fee was not included in the most prominent price on the first page of booking.” Many hotels will waive it to avoid a formal complaint.
3. Credit Card Dispute: If the hotel refuses, you can file a “Service Not as Described” dispute with your credit card company.
4. State AG Complaint: File a complaint with your State Attorney General. Many states (like Texas and California) now have specific “Junk Fee” task forces that will contact the hotel on your behalf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an official claim form for Hilton or Marriott yet?

No. There is no nationwide settlement website for resort fees yet. However, there was a $52 Million Marriott Data Breach settlement in late 2024/2025 that some users are still receiving payments for in 2026.

How much will the payout be if they settle?

Historically, these settlements result in either a full refund of the fees paid (ranging from $20 to $500 depending on stay length) or “Stay Credits” for future bookings.

Do these lawsuits cover Expedia and Priceline bookings?

Yes. The lawsuits allege that Hilton and Marriott provide deceptive data to third-party sites, meaning you are still a victim even if you didn’t book on the official hotel website.

When will I get my money?

If the active 2026 cases settle this year, expect a “Claim Period” in late 2026 with payments distributed in mid-2027.

Sources & References 

• Office of the Attorney General D.C.: Marriott Resort Fee Litigation

Last Updated: March 23, 2026

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. AllAboutLawyer.com is not a law firm. For legal advice regarding your specific hotel stay, consult a licensed attorney.