Panda Express may owe you more than just a free fortune cookie.

Customers who placed a delivery order may be Michael Schmidtentitled to compensation – either money or free food – after the  American Chinese fast food chain agreed to settle a class action lawsuit that claimed "hundreds of thousands" of customers paid hidden delivery fees with "false and misleading" disclosures.

Customers who placed a delivery order through the Panda Express website or app between July 17, 2020 and Feb. 16, 2022 with a service fee charge may be entitled to relief and can submit a claim online, according to the settlement administrator’s website.

Why was Panda Express sued?

The lawsuit alleges the company misrepresented the cost of delivery by advertising low-price deliveries – usually for $2.95 – but then tacking on a 10% “service charge” for delivery customers. 

Panda did not admit to any wrongdoing but agreed to settle the class action for $1.4 million. Spokespeople did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

How to submit a claim

The court will decide whether to approve the settlement on Nov. 8. While appeals may delay any payments, eligible customers who were charged a service fee should submit a claim no later than Jan. 10, 2024 to receive either a cash payment or up to two free medium entrée vouchers that can be redeemed on Panda Express’ website or app. 

The cash payments will vary, based on how many customers submit claims. The settlement administrator’s website says each recovery is expected to exceed $10.