Understanding what does ASO amount mean in BCBS settlement is key for those expecting a payout from the Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) antitrust lawsuit.
The term ASO, or Administrative Services Only, relates to specific fees in self-funded health plans.
This article explains the ASO amount, the settlement, and what claimants need to know in simple language.
Overview of the BCBS Settlement
The BCBS settlement is a $2.67 billion agreement from a 2013 class-action lawsuit. It accused BCBS plans of limiting competition, raising premiums. The settlement, finalized in 2024, benefits millions of claimants.
Eligible groups include individuals, insured groups, and self-funded accounts. Payments are expected to start in 2025. The settlement also includes reforms to increase market competition.
What Is an ASO Amount?
ASO stands for Administrative Services Only. In the BCBS settlement, it refers to fees paid by self-funded accounts for administrative services. These accounts are typically employer-sponsored plans where the employer covers claims.
The ASO amount is the total administrative fees paid to BCBS during the settlement period. It’s used to calculate payouts for self-funded claimants. Unlike premiums, ASO fees cover plan management, not insurance costs.
Types of BCBS Settlement Classes
The settlement has two main classes: Fully Insured (FI) and Self-Funded. Each has different eligibility and payout calculations. Understanding these helps clarify the ASO amount’s role.
Fully Insured (FI) Class
The FI class includes individuals and groups who paid premiums to BCBS from February 7, 2008, to October 16, 2020. Payouts are based on total premiums paid. This group receives $1.78 billion of the net settlement fund.
FI claimants don’t deal with ASO amounts. Their payments depend on premium contributions. Dependents and non-employees are not eligible.
Self-Funded Class
The Self-Funded class includes employers and employees in BCBS-administered plans from September 1, 2015, to October 16, 2020. Payouts are based on ASO amounts. This group shares $120 million of the settlement fund.
ASO amounts reflect fees for services like claims processing. These fees determine the payout for self-funded claimants. Government accounts are excluded.
How ASO Amounts Affect Payouts
What does ASO amount mean in BCBS settlement for payouts? For self-funded claimants, the ASO amount is key to calculating their share. The formula divides a claimant’s ASO fees by the total ASO fees paid by all self-funded claimants.
This ratio is multiplied by the $120 million self-funded settlement fund. Higher ASO amounts lead to larger payouts. Claimants with $0 ASO amounts likely belong to the FI class.
How to Check Your ASO Amount
Claimants receive emails with their ASO or premium amounts. These notices, sent on a rolling basis since 2024, allow verification or disputes. Check your spam folder, as emails may be flagged.
Log in to www.bcbssettlement.com to view your ASO amount. The deadline to dispute amounts is 30 days from the email date. Accurate ASO data ensures fair payouts.
Why ASO Amounts May Be Zero
Some claimants see $0 ASO amounts in their notices. This is common for FI class members who paid premiums, not administrative fees. If you’re in a self-funded plan, $0 may indicate missing data.
Dispute incorrect ASO amounts within 30 days. Contact the settlement administrator at (888) 681-1142 or info@BCBSsettlement.com. Provide documentation to support your claim.
Settlement Payout Process
Payments are expected to start in mid-to-late 2025. Claimants must have filed by November 5, 2021, to be eligible. The settlement administrator is reviewing claims and resolving disputes.
Payouts will be sent via direct deposit, paper checks, or digital wallets like PayPal. Update your contact details on the settlement website to avoid delays. Payouts under $5 are not issued.
Estimated Payout Amounts
Payouts vary based on class and contributions. FI claimants may receive $200–$300, though some could get more. Self-funded claimants typically receive less due to the smaller $120 million fund.
For example, if a claimant paid $1,000 in ASO fees, and total ASO fees are $1 billion, their payout is ($1,000 ÷ $1,000,000,000) × $120,000,000 = $120. Actual amounts depend on total claims. Businesses with high ASO fees may receive thousands.
Key Dates and Deadlines
The settlement was approved on August 9, 2022. Appeals were resolved by June 24, 2024, allowing payments to proceed. Claim determination notices are ongoing.
Dispute deadlines are 30 days from your notice email. Payments are expected in 2025, but no exact date is set. Check www.bcbssettlement.com for updates.
Table of BCBS Settlement Classes
| Class Type | Eligibility Period | Payout Basis | Fund Allocation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fully Insured (FI) | Feb 7, 2008 – Oct 16, 2020 | Premiums paid | $1.78 billion |
| Self-Funded | Sep 1, 2015 – Oct 16, 2020 | ASO fees paid | $120 million |
This table summarizes the two classes. FI claimants use premiums, while self-funded use ASO amounts. Check your notice to confirm your class.
Tips for Claimants
To ensure a smooth settlement process, follow these steps. They help avoid delays and maximize your payout. Here’s what to do:
- Check Emails: Look for notices from Notice@BCBSsettlement.com, including spam folders.
- Verify Amounts: Review your ASO or premium data and dispute errors within 30 days.
- Update Details: Ensure your contact and payment information is current.
- Contact Support: Call (888) 681-1142 for help with disputes or questions.
These tips keep you informed and prepared. Acting quickly on notices is crucial. Save all settlement-related emails for reference.
Common Issues with ASO Amounts
Some claimants find ASO amounts confusing. A $0 ASO amount may cause concern if you expected a self-funded payout. This often means you’re in the FI class.
Disputes arise if records are incomplete. Provide documentation, like pay stubs or plan statements, to correct errors. The administrator can clarify your status.
BCBS Settlement Reforms
Beyond payouts, the settlement includes changes to BCBS practices. These aim to increase competition and lower costs. Reforms include streamlined claims and transparent pricing.
Self-funded plans will benefit from improved administrative processes. These changes last five years after payments. They aim to prevent future antitrust issues.
Role of CVS in the Settlement
While CVS is not directly tied to the BCBS settlement, its pharmacy benefit management arm, CVS Caremark, may interact with BCBS plans. CVS pharmacies fill BCBS prescriptions, but this is unrelated to ASO amounts. Claimants use CVS for medications, not settlement processes.
Importance of the Settlement
The BCBS settlement addresses antitrust violations that may have raised costs. It compensates millions while promoting fairer competition. Understanding what does ASO amount mean in BCBS settlement helps self-funded claimants navigate payouts.
The $1.9 billion net fund benefits about 6 million claimants. Payments reflect premiums or ASO fees paid. Reforms ensure long-term market improvements.
How to Avoid Scams
Settlement emails come from Notice@BCBSsettlement.com or JND Legal Administration. Be wary of emails requesting personal information. Legitimate notices link to www.bcbssettlement.com.
Never share banking details with unverified sources. Check the settlement website for scam alerts. Report suspicious emails to the administrator.
Staying Informed
Visit www.bcbssettlement.com for updates on payments and disputes. The site posts claim status and FAQs. Emails or calls to (888) 681-1142 provide additional help.
Join the settlement’s mailing list for news. Monitor your claim status online. Staying proactive ensures you don’t miss deadlines.
Summary
Understanding what does ASO amount mean in BCBS settlement is vital for self-funded claimants in the $2.67 billion antitrust settlement.
ASO amounts are administrative fees paid by self-funded plans from September 1, 2015, to October 16, 2020, used to calculate payouts from a $120 million fund.
Fully insured claimants use premiums, not ASO amounts, for their $1.78 billion share. Check your notice, dispute errors within 30 days, and update contact details for payments expected in 2025. The settlement also brings reforms for fairer healthcare competition.
FAQ
What does ASO amount mean in BCBS settlement?
ASO stands for Administrative Services Only, fees paid by self-funded plans for BCBS services. These fees determine payouts for self-funded claimants. They apply to plans from September 1, 2015, to October 16, 2020.
Why is my ASO amount $0 in the settlement?
A $0 ASO amount likely means you’re in the Fully Insured class, not self-funded. Your payout is based on premiums paid. Dispute errors within 30 days if you believe you’re self-funded.
How are BCBS settlement payouts calculated?
Self-funded payouts divide your ASO fees by total ASO fees, then multiply by $120 million. Fully insured payouts use premiums and a $1.78 billion fund. Payouts vary based on total claims.
When will BCBS settlement payments be sent?
Payments are expected in mid-to-late 2025 after claim reviews. Notices are sent on a rolling basis. Check www.bcbssettlement.com for updates on your claim status.
How do I dispute my ASO amount?
Log in to www.bcbssettlement.com within 30 days of your notice email. Submit documentation to support your claim. Contact (888) 681-1142 for assistance.