The top 5 U.S. CD distributors and the three largest music retailers, have been accused of price fixing. It turns out music consumers have been overcharged an estimated $480 million between 1997 and 2000. So there is an
$143 million out of court settlement, and you are eligible if you bought a CD from a retailer between 1995 and 2000. The payout will be from $5 to $20, depending on how many file a claim. So your payout may be small, but it seems at least it's a chance to show the record companies we knew it all along.

Go to http://www.musiccdsettlement.com to file a claim, or read the story at http://www.wired.com/news/print/0,1294,57111,00.html

And the privacy clause says that no one else will be able to use the information submitted.

The claim has to be filed by March 3rd, 2003, and the only requirement is that you bought a CD between 1995 and 2000. You don't need a receipt. I've gone through the process and it was very easy to do.

Bump! This thing was easy as pie to sign up for. I heard there have been very few people signing up, so for a few minutes of time you can get $20. You can also sign up your family while you're at it.

Beakybird

If you are a member of a CD club, as I am, you should receive notice that you are considered part of the 'Settlement Group' ... as a club member, IF the settlement is agreed upon and approved, a club member will be entitled to 1 to 3 new CDs (depending on how many were purchased at the 'regular' price) at 50% off the regular price, no S&H charge. I believe the final hearing is set for May 22, in some Superior Court in Maine.
t.