A $4.5 million settlement has been reached with Hearthside Food Solutions following an investigation by the Illinois Attorney General and Department of Labor into alleged violations of state child-labor laws. Eligible individuals may now submit a claim to receive payment.
Why is there a lawsuit?
Illinois officials investigated Hearthside Food Solutions LLC after reports that minors—some younger than 16—had been employed at its manufacturing facilities between 2020 and 2024.
While young people can legally work limited hours in Illinois, the investigation alleged that Hearthside allowed minors to perform work or hours that went beyond those limits.
The company denies any wrongdoing but agreed to create a $4.5 million fund to resolve the matter and compensate affected workers.
Who qualifies?
Anyone who:
Worked at a Hearthside Food Solutions facility in Illinois
Between March 1, 2020 and Dec. 4, 2024
Was under 16 years old for some or all of the time employed
You may file even if you no longer work for Hearthside or its affiliates.
How much can people get?
Exact payment amounts haven’t been announced. Settlement funds will be divided among eligible claimants after administrative costs are paid.
The Claims Administrator will determine payments based on factors such as how long and when you worked during the class period.
What Are Your Options?
| Event | Deadline / Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Claim Form Deadline | November 20, 2026 | Submit online or by mail to receive a payment. |
| Final Hearing | February 2, 2026 | Court date noted, though no additional hearing is required for approval. |
| Opt-Out / Objection Deadlines | Not applicable | This settlement has no exclusion or objection process. |
How to File a Claim
You can file online or by mail—no proof of purchase or documentation is required at this time.
File Online here.
Or by Mail:
Hearthside Food Solutions Settlement
c/o Atticus Administration
P.O. Box 64053
St. Paul, MN 55164
[email protected]
800-410-0649
Individuals who were under 16 while working at a Hearthside Food Solutions facility in Illinois could be owed money from this $4.5 million fund.
