A major data breach at Dakota Eye Institute in October 2023 exposed the personal and health information of 170,143 patients across the U.S. If you received a notice letter about the incident, you could be eligible for up to $6,000, plus two years of credit monitoring — but you must file a claim to get benefits.
Below is everything you need to know, broken down simply and clearly so you can take action fast.
Why is there a lawsuit?
A class action lawsuit alleged that Dakota Eye Institute failed to adequately protect patient data, leading to a cybersecurity incident discovered in October 2023. Plaintiffs claimed the breach caused financial harm and increased risk of identity theft.
Dakota Eye Institute denies wrongdoing but agreed to a $1,000,000 settlement to resolve the claims and avoid further litigation.
Who qualifies?
You may be eligible if all of the following are true:
You reside in the United States
Your personal or protected health information was compromised in the October 2023 data breach
You received a notice letter from Dakota Eye Institute about the incident
Only individuals who received the official notice are included.
How much can people get?
Eligible class members can claim one or more of these benefits:
Ordinary Out-of-Pocket Losses — Up to $1,000
For documented expenses caused by the breach. Examples include:
Credit monitoring or identity theft protection costs
Bank fees or card replacement fees
Other expenses tied to the incident
Extraordinary Losses — Up to $5,000
For documented monetary losses related to identity theft or fraud linked to the breach.
Two Years of Credit Monitoring
Includes:
Single-bureau monitoring
At least $1,000,000 fraud insurance
Identity theft protection tools
Alternate Cash Payment — $45 (Pro Rata)
Available only if you do not choose credit monitoring. Final amount adjusts based on the number of claims filed.
What Are Your Options?
| Option | What It Means | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Submit a Claim Form | Get reimbursement, credit monitoring, or the $45 cash payment | Jan. 12, 2026 |
| Exclude Yourself (Opt Out) | Keep your right to sue; receive no settlement benefits | Dec. 13, 2025 |
| Object | Tell the court why you disagree with the settlement | Dec. 13, 2025 |
| Final Approval Hearing | Court reviews settlement | Jan. 12, 2026 |
| Do Nothing | No benefits; you give up certain legal rights | N/A |
How to File a Claim
To receive any payment or credit monitoring, you must submit a claim form by January 12, 2026.
File Online: Use your claim number and PIN from the notice letter.
Mail Your Claim: Download or print your personalized form and send it to:
DED9 Settlement Administrator
P.O. Box 301132
Los Angeles, CA 90030-1132
Required Documentation
Depending on what you’re claiming, you may need:
Claim number and PIN (all claims)
Receipts, bank statements, invoices, or other proof for out-of-pocket or extraordinary losses
Police reports or fraud documentation (extraordinary losses)
Payout Options
Electronic payment
Paper check
The settlement administrator will issue payments and credit monitoring codes about 42 days after final approval is granted.
Final approval hearing date: January 12, 2026
Don’t miss out — you must submit your claim to receive payment or credit monitoring.
