The API class action settlement is a significant legal resolution for employees who believe they were denied overtime wages. Allegations claim that API failed to pay overtime as required by law, leaving many workers shortchanged. This settlement, valued at approximately $1.05 million, offers affected employees a chance to recover lost wages through a pro rata distribution of the settlement fund. In this article, we’ll provide you with an in-depth look at the API class action settlement—from the detailed background of the dispute and key legal allegations to a step-by-step guide on how to file a claim, understand potential payouts, and know who is eligible. Whether you’re a current or former API employee or simply seeking justice for unpaid wages, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the claim process and ensure you exercise your rights under this settlement.

Detailed Background of the API Class Action Settlement

The API class action settlement emerged from claims that APi Inc.—a prominent industrial and commercial specialty contractor with locations nationwide—failed to pay its Pennsylvania workers proper overtime wages. According to the class action lawsuit, non-exempt employees at the Shell Cracker Plant in Monaca, Pennsylvania, were not compensated for mandatory pre- and post-shift work, which, in many instances, constituted overtime. The claim period spans from November 3, 2018, to November 27, 2022.

Workers allege that API’s practice of requiring employees to perform tasks before and after their regular shifts—such as equipment setup, safety briefings, and cleanup—was not factored into their overtime calculations. Under Pennsylvania law, all non-exempt employees must receive overtime pay for hours worked beyond the standard 40-hour workweek. The lawsuit asserts that API intentionally structured work schedules to minimize overtime payments and, in doing so, violated the Pennsylvania Minimum Wage Act.

Despite internal complaints and growing concerns among employees regarding unfair wage practices, API maintained that all wages were paid in compliance with the law. However, as more workers came forward with similar stories, the class action lawsuit consolidated their claims into a nationwide action. To avoid prolonged litigation and additional costs, API agreed to a settlement of $1.05 million. Although API has not admitted any wrongdoing, the settlement is intended to provide compensation to eligible employees based on the number of overtime hours they worked. According to the settlement details, class members can receive an estimated $33.73 for every 40 hours worked during the claim period. Payment amounts will vary depending on each employee’s documented overtime hours, and those who received settlement notices may already have an estimated payout value.

This API class action settlement aims to resolve widespread allegations of unpaid overtime wages and to provide relief to affected employees without the need for further litigation. By agreeing to the settlement, API intends to put an end to the legal dispute while addressing the grievances of its former and current employees. Although the payout per individual may seem modest when spread across thousands of claimants, the settlement represents a crucial step in enforcing fair labor practices and holding employers accountable for wage discrepancies.

Who Is Eligible to File a Claim

To qualify for the API class action settlement, you must be one of the following:

• Employment Criteria:
  You must be a non-exempt employee of APi Inc., APi Construction Co., or APi Group Inc.
• Work Location and Period:
  Your employment must have taken place at the Shell Cracker Plant in Monaca, Pennsylvania, between November 3, 2018, and November 27, 2022.
• Overtime Work:
  Your claim should relate to overtime hours worked for which you were not properly compensated, including mandatory pre- and post-shift duties.
• Documentation:
  You must be able to provide supporting documentation, such as time records or pay stubs, that verify the number of hours worked beyond the standard workweek.

Ensure you review the settlement FAQs on the official website to confirm your eligibility before filing your claim.

How Much You Can Receive

Under the settlement terms:

• Total Settlement Fund:
  API has allocated approximately $1.05 million for the settlement.
• Payout Distribution:
  Eligible class members will receive an equal share of the net settlement fund after deductions for administrative fees and attorney costs.
• Estimated Payment:
  Preliminary estimates suggest that each claim may yield a payout in proportion to the total number of claims submitted. The exact amount will depend on the final headcount of eligible claims.

Tip: Check for updated payout estimates on the official settlement website as more claims are processed.

How to File a Claim

Filing your claim in the API class action settlement is a straightforward process. Follow these steps:

• Visit the Official Settlement Website:
  Go to API Settlement Claims to access the claim form.
• Fill Out the Claim Form:
  Provide your contact details, employment information, and proof that you worked overtime without proper compensation.
  Each employee is allowed one claim.
• Submit Your Claim:
  You can submit the form online or mail a printed copy. Make sure your submission is postmarked by the claim deadline.
• Alternative Claim Processing:
  For added convenience, you may also use Sparrow to streamline your claim submission process.

Important Deadlines

Adhering to the settlement deadlines is critical. Note these key dates:

• Claim Form Submission Deadline:
  All claim forms must be submitted or postmarked by March 6, 2025.
• Exclusion/Objection Deadline:
  If you wish to opt out or object to the settlement, complete and send the required forms by March 6, 2025.
• Final Approval Hearing:
  The final approval hearing for the settlement is scheduled for March 19, 2025. Once approved, payments will be distributed shortly after the hearing.

Missing these deadlines may forfeit your rights to claim any benefits under the settlement.

Conclusion

The API class action settlement provides an important opportunity for employees who were allegedly denied overtime pay to claim compensation. With a total settlement fund of $1.05 million, eligible claimants can receive a fair share of the settlement after administrative costs are deducted. This article has outlined the critical steps to file your claim, the estimated payout, and the key eligibility criteria and deadlines. By understanding your rights and acting promptly, you can ensure that your overtime work is justly compensated.

Now is the time to review your records, confirm your eligibility, and submit your claim via the official settlement website or through Sparrow for a more streamlined process. This settlement not only addresses a specific wage dispute but also serves as a reminder of the importance of fair labor practices and robust employee rights. Claim your portion of the API class action settlement today and take a stand for fair compensation.