Settlement due from Microsoft

Worldwide computer software provider Microsoft Corporation will pay $1.1 billion to California Microsoft consumers and businesses as a result of a recent settlement. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit claimed that Microsoft violated California’s antitrust and unfair competition laws by overcharging consumers for software between Feb. 18, 1995 and Dec. 15, 2001.

People and businesses covered by the settlement are eligible for vouchers that may be redeemed for cash after buying eligible computer products. The deadline for mailing claims is this Saturday. The deadline won’t be extended.

Microsoft denies claims that it overcharged its customers. The company’s representatives said Microsoft developed and sold high quality and innovative software at fair and reasonable prices. The court didn’t decide in favor of the plaintiffs or Microsoft. Both sides agreed to the settlement.

Under the terms of the settlement, Microsoft will provide vouchers to eligible California users of its Windows, MS-DOS, Office, Excel, Word, Works Suite or Home Essentials 97 or 98 products to be redeemed for cash.

To file a claim or for more information, go to the Internet at www.microsoftcalsettlement.com/ or call (800) 960-5660.

No proof of purchase is required to file a claim, but, according to the claims administrator in the case, false or fraudulent claims will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

—Michael Picarella