Many Years Ago
The NCAA told athletes: "This is about education." And for a while, it felt noble. Scholarships. Opportunities. Pride. The promise felt boundless.
But year after year, the players' value to the game grew while their compensation remained frozen and gave way to exploitation. Billions made by universities and conferences. Off their names. Their faces. Their performances.
And so, athletes sued. For their rights. For their earnings.
And the $2.78 billion compensation is finally here.
What is this?
The NCAA and major conferences agreed to a $2.78 billion settlement following years of antitrust litigation. This settlement compensates athletes who were historically denied earnings from their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL).
Three Consolidated Cases
- House v. NCAA: NIL compensation ($2.78B fund for athletes 2016-2024)
- Hubbard v. NCAA: Academic achievement awards ($200M fund)
- Carter v. NCAA: Direct payments for athletic services (future revenue sharing)
These payments are damages—legal reparations for economic harm—not gifts or scholarships.
Am I eligible?
You're eligible if:
- ✓ You competed in Division I NCAA sports
- ✓ You played between 2016-2024
- ✓ You have an NCAA Eligibility ID
All Division I sports are covered: Football, Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Track & Field, Volleyball, Swimming, and more.
Years played (select all that apply):
How much will I get?
Settlement amounts vary by sport, school, and years played.
Total Settlement Range:
$5,000 – $500,000+
See breakdown of the 4 payment components
Broadcast NIL
TV appearances compensation
$91K–$280K (Power 5 FB/MBB)
Video Game NIL
EA Sports royalties
$300–$4K
Lost Opportunities
Third-party endorsements
$5K–$17K (avg)
Academic Awards
Hubbard settlement
Up to $18K
Find Your Exact Claim Amount
When will I get paid?
You will be paid over 10 years, receiving one-tenth each year
Example Settlement Value:
$80,000
Annual Payment: $8,000
June 2025
First Payment
$8,000
June 2026
Year 2
$8,000
June 2027
Year 3
$8,000
June 2028
Year 4
$8,000
June 2029
Year 5
$8,000
June 2030
Year 6
$8,000
June 2031
Year 7
$8,000
June 2032
Year 8
$8,000
June 2033
Year 9
$8,000
June 2034
Final Payment
$8,000
What are my options?
Option 1: Annual Payments
If you're comfortable with the annual payments, no action is required. Your settlement will be paid out yearly, beginning when the appeals are resolved.
Option 2: Lump Sum Payment
If you'd prefer to receive your funds sooner, you can sell your claim to receive a lump-sum payment today.
This means you receive money now instead of waiting 10 years. However, you'll receive less than the full settlement value because the buyer is taking on the risk and waiting time.
How does the lump sum work?
The Math
When you sell your claim, the buyer calculates the "present value" of your future payments. Money today is worth more than the same amount in the future due to inflation, investment returns, and risk.
Example
If your settlement is $80,000 paid over 10 years:
- Annual payments: $8,000/year for 10 years
- Lump sum today: ~$35,000-$40,000 (varies by buyer)
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Money now, not later
- No 10-year wait
- Can invest or use immediately
- No risk of future payments being reduced or denied
Cons:
- Receive 40-50% less total
- Miss steady annual payments
- Cannot undo the decision
⚠️ Important Considerations
This is a major financial decision. Consider consulting with a financial advisor before selling your claim. The lump sum might make sense if you need money now, have high-interest debt, or have a solid investment plan. It might not make sense if you can wait and prefer the guaranteed annual income.
Questions about filing your claim?
Visit Official Settlement Website →