The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has moved aggressively in 2026, targeting predatory practices by banks, credit card companies, and financial technology firms. The result: over $2.1 billion in consumer restitution funds in the first four months of the year alone.
What the CFPB Is Going After
Junk Fees
The CFPB has made eliminating "junk fees" — unexpected charges that appear on bills and statements — a central priority. Actions in 2026 have targeted overdraft fees, late fees, account maintenance fees charged without disclosure, and "convenience" fees for basic account services.
Predatory Auto Lending
Multiple auto finance companies have settled CFPB enforcement actions for charging higher interest rates to minority borrowers, padding insurance products, and failing to disclose fees. Consumers who financed vehicles through these companies between 2019–2025 may be eligible for restitution.
Buy Now, Pay Later Abuses
BNPL providers have faced scrutiny for unclear disclosures, hidden fees, and inadequate dispute resolution. If you used a Buy Now, Pay Later service and experienced unexpected charges or disputes, you may have a pending claim.
How to Access CFPB Restitution Funds
Unlike class action settlements, CFPB enforcement payments are sometimes distributed automatically — but not always. Some programs require you to file a claim. SettlementRadar monitors CFPB enforcement actions and lists active claim programs in our Consumer Rights section.
Key difference from class actions: You cannot "opt out" of CFPB enforcement. If you're eligible, you should file. The average consumer who files a CFPB-related claim receives $127, according to 2025 CFPB data.
