What Is Attestation?
Attestation is your signed promise that what you wrote on a claim form is true. Sometimes it stands in for proof.
An attestation is a signed statement on a claim form in which you confirm that the information you provided is true and correct, often under penalty of perjury. In many settlements, it allows you to claim certain benefits without submitting documents.
Why it matters when you file a claim
Attestation is what makes "no proof required" claims possible. Instead of uploading a receipt, you swear that you bought the product or were affected. That is convenient, but it is also a serious legal statement. Signing an attestation you know is false can lead to a denied claim and potential legal consequences.
What you're usually attesting to
- ✓That you meet the class definition.
- ✓That the dates, quantities or amounts you entered are accurate to the best of your knowledge.
- ✓That you haven't submitted another claim for the same benefit, unless allowed.
- ✓That you understand the administrator may audit your claim or ask for more information.
If a form asks how many units you bought and you can't remember exactly, a good-faith estimate is usually acceptable. Claiming purchases you didn't make is not.
A simple example
A settlement allows a payment per household without proof. The form asks you to confirm you bought the product during the class period and to check a box stating, under penalty of perjury, that this is true. You don't upload anything, but your signature carries legal weight.
Why administrators rely on attestations
Many consumer purchases happen in cash or leave no lasting record, especially for inexpensive items. Requiring receipts would exclude most legitimate class members. Attestations give honest people a way to claim, while the threat of penalties, audits and fraud screening discourages false claims. That balance is set in the settlement agreement and approved by the court, which is why the amount you can claim by attestation alone is often capped.
How it relates to other terms
Attestation is the alternative to proof of purchase and is part of nearly every claim form. For more on the risks, see lying on a class action claim form.
SettleScout only matches you to settlements based on brands and services you say you used, which helps you focus on claims you can honestly attest to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an attestation legally binding?
It is a sworn statement. When made under penalty of perjury, knowingly false statements can carry legal consequences.
Can I be audited after attesting?
Yes. Administrators may request documents or additional information to verify claims, and may deny claims that look suspicious.
Does attestation mean I'll definitely be paid?
No. The administrator still reviews the claim against the settlement rules before any payment.
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