Jeunesse Global has agreed to a $2.5 million settlement to resolve a class-action lawsuit alleging the company operated a deceptive business opportunity. Plaintiffs James Aboltin and Pamela Knight initiated the suit in 2016, accusing the multi-level marketing company of misleading distributors into believing they could earn significant income.

The proposed settlement encompasses current and former Jeunesse affiliates who joined after January 1, 2010. Eligibility requires these affiliates to have purchased a Starter Kit, intended to build their business by selling Jeunesse products, never advanced in rank, and earned less in commissions than they paid for their Starter Kit and other company products.

Under the terms of the agreement, Jeunesse will contribute $2.5 million to a common fund. Affiliates who file a claim can also seek refunds for returned products, up to $2,500 per person. This provision extends to products purchased outside the standard 12-month return window, which are typically ineligible according to Jeunesse's Policies and Procedures. Refunds for discarded products will be issued at 50% of their purchase price.

Distributors wishing to return products beyond the usual return period or conditions may attempt to negotiate a separate agreement with Jeunesse. If a mutually agreeable solution cannot be reached, they retain the right to opt out of this settlement. Affiliates who choose to return products for a refund will be considered to have resigned their distributorship with Jeunesse.

After deducting attorney fees and incentive awards for lead plaintiffs James Aboltin (up to $1,000) and Pamela Knight (up to $2,500), the remaining settlement fund will be divided. Approximately 65% of the funds will be allocated for Starter Kit refunds, with the remaining 35% designated for product return refunds. If claims in one allocation exceed the available funds, and there are surplus funds in the other, those excess amounts will be transferred. Should total claims exceed the available funds, payments to affiliates will be adjusted on a pro-rata basis.

Following judicial approval of the settlement, a Claims Administrator will be appointed. This administrator will establish a dedicated website, providing a primary channel for Jeunesse affiliates to submit their claims. Alternative methods for claim submission will also be made available. The proposed settlement was filed on August 17th and is awaiting court approval. Preliminary approval was granted on September 12th, and a dedicated settlement website went live on October 10th. Qualifying affiliates have until December 31st, 2018, to file a claim.