Consumer Advisory Bulletin-Special for January 2003

Iowans Urged to File for CD Payments

Filing a claim is easy - and could result in payment up to $20

Attorney General Tom Miller is urging Iowans to file a claim for payment of up to $20 apiece in connection with an antitrust case filed by states alleging that major music distributors and retailers kept CD prices artificially high. The deadline for filing is March 3.

"It's quick, and it's easy," Miller said. "We urge Iowans to file a claim on-line, by phone, or by mail. No proof of purchase is needed."

• Consumers who bought recorded music from 1995 through 2000 can file a claim for payment up to $20. Consumers may file only one claim. If the number of claims filed would result in refunds less than $5 per claimant, there will be no cash distribution to individual consumers -- the money will go instead to non-profit, charitable, or public entities for music-related purposes or programs.
• On-line: File claims or get more information at www.MusicCDsettlement.com.
• Toll-free telephone: File claims or get more information at 1-877-347-4782.
  (The TDD/TYY toll-free number is 1-888-314-5051.)
  Mail: Request claim forms by writing to --
  Compact Disc Claims Administrator
  PO Box 1650, Faribault MN 55021-1650.
• It only takes a few minutes to file. Proof of purchase is not required. Claimants will be asked for their name and address, date of birth, and the last four digits of their Social Security Number. Information will be kept completely confidential. Claims also may be filed by businesses and on behalf of persons who have died. Claims must be filed by March 3.

The payments result from settlement of an antitrust case in which Iowa and other states alleged that the nation's top distributors of recorded music and three large retailers entered into illegal conspiracies to raise the price of CDs and other recorded music. The suit alleged the defendants acted illegally to stop other retailers from offering CDs at discount prices. The States' action was aimed at restoring competition in the industry.

"We urge Iowans to file a claim," Miller said. "It's easy, and there is a very good chance they will receive a payment. If claims are paid, we certainly are eager for Iowans to receive their share."

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