Quick Answer: Target is paying up to $2.2 million to settle claims it failed to include wage scales in Washington State job postings. If you applied for a Target job in Washington between January 1, 2023 and July 26, 2025, you may be eligible for up to $1,711.93. The claim deadline is March 31, 2026.
Target got caught doing something that should infuriate every job seeker: posting job listings without telling you what the job actually pays.
In Washington State, that’s not just annoying – it’s illegal. The state’s Equal Pay and Opportunities Act requires employers to disclose wage scales in job postings. Target allegedly didn’t do that, and now they’re paying between $1.46 million and $2.2 million to settle a class action lawsuit.
Who Is Eligible for This Settlement?
You may be eligible if you:
- Applied for a job at Target in Washington State
- Applied between January 1, 2023 and July 26, 2025
- The job posting did not include wage scale information
It doesn’t matter if you got the job or not. It doesn’t matter if you withdrew your application. If you applied during that window in Washington, you’re potentially part of this class.
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Key Point: Target has not admitted any wrongdoing as part of this settlement. That’s standard legal language – companies settle to avoid litigation costs, not as an admission of guilt. Don’t let that stop you from claiming what you’re owed.
How Much Will You Get?
The settlement fund ranges from $1,463,183.85 to $2,225,000. Individual payments depend on how many people file claims, but the maximum payout is $1,711.93 per claimant.
Here’s the math: If fewer people claim, each claimant gets more. If more people claim, the pot gets divided further. This is how class actions work – the earlier and more aggressively you file, the better your odds of getting the full amount.
How to File Your Claim
- File online through the settlement administrator’s website
- Email: info@EPOASettlement-Jan-02-2026.com
- Phone: 833-647-9003
- Deadline: March 31, 2026
Important: Once you receive your settlement check, you must cash it within 180 days. Uncashed checks become void – and that money goes back into the pot for redistribution, not to you.
Your Options: Claim, Opt Out, or Object
File a Claim
- Receive your share of the settlement
- No cost to file
- Give up right to sue Target separately
Opt Out
- Keep right to sue Target individually
- Receive nothing from this settlement
- Deadline: March 31, 2026
For most people, filing a claim makes sense. Unless you have significant damages that warrant individual litigation (and the resources to pursue it), take the money.
Why Wage Transparency Laws Matter
Washington’s Equal Pay and Opportunities Act exists because employers historically held all the cards in salary negotiations. By forcing disclosure of wage scales upfront, job seekers can:
- Know if a job is worth their time before applying
- Negotiate from a position of knowledge, not weakness
- Identify employers who undervalue positions
- Compare opportunities fairly across companies
When large employers like Target ignore these requirements, it undermines the entire purpose of the law. That’s why class actions like this matter – they create real financial consequences for non-compliance.
Know what you’re worth before you apply. Companies that hide wage information are telling you something about how they’ll treat you as an employee.– Steve Rhode
Protecting Yourself as a Job Seeker
This settlement is a reminder that knowledge is power in the job market. Here are ways to protect yourself:
- Know your state’s laws: Several states now require wage disclosure (California, Colorado, New York, Washington, and others)
- Research salary ranges: Use Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary, and Bureau of Labor Statistics data before applying
- Ask directly: If a posting doesn’t include salary, ask before investing time in interviews
- Document everything: Screenshot job postings – they can be changed or removed
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Key Takeaways
- Target is settling for up to $2.2 million over missing wage scales in Washington job postings
- If you applied for a Target job in WA from Jan 1, 2023 – July 26, 2025, you may get up to $1,711.93
- Claim deadline is March 31, 2026 – don’t miss it
- Cash your check within 180 days or lose it
- Wage transparency laws exist to protect you – use them
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need proof that I applied to Target in Washington?
The settlement administrator will verify claims against Target’s records. However, having your own documentation (confirmation emails, screenshots of applications) can help if there are discrepancies. File your claim even if you don’t have records – Target should have the application data.
What if I got hired by Target – am I still eligible?
Yes. The settlement covers anyone who applied for a Target job in Washington during the eligible period, regardless of whether you were hired, rejected, or withdrew your application. Getting the job doesn’t disqualify you from the settlement.
Can I file if I applied to multiple Target positions?
You file one claim as a class member, not separate claims for each application. The settlement payment is per claimant, not per application. Multiple applications don’t increase your payout.
What happens if I miss the March 31, 2026 deadline?
You forfeit your right to any payment from this settlement. Class action deadlines are strict – there are no extensions or exceptions. Put it on your calendar now. Set a reminder for March 1st to give yourself buffer time.
Is this settlement taxable income?
Generally, employment-related settlements like this are considered taxable income. You may receive a 1099 form if your payment exceeds $600. Consult a tax professional about your specific situation – this is not tax advice.
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