Sponsored message
Audience-funded nonprofit news
radio tower icon laist logo
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Subscribe
  • Listen Now Playing Listen
News

Chipotle just settled a lawsuit over cashing out gift cards. Here's how to get a refund

A sign on a glass window that reads "Chipotle Mexican Grill."
Restaurant chain Chipotle has settled a lawsuit alleging it violated California law by not letting customers cash out gift cards with less than $10 left on them.
(
Spencer Platt
/
Getty Images
)

With our free press under threat and federal funding for public media gone, your support matters more than ever. Help keep the LAist newsroom strong, become a monthly member or increase your support today.

Topline:

Chipotle has agreed to settle a lawsuit alleging the restaurant chain broke California law by not allowing customers to cash in gift cards with less than $10 left on the balance.

Why it matters: California law allows consumers to redeem gift cards with balances of less than $10 for cash.

What's next: Chipotle denied any wrongdoing as part of the settlement. In addition to paying civil penalties, fines and investigative costs, Chipotle must also put up a website where customers can request a refund for any gift card carrying a balance of less than $10. They'll also have to make sure new gift cards and certificates include a notice explaining that the customer can redeem the gift card for cash if it's balance is less than $10 and directing them to the website where they can do so.

Sponsored message

How do I get a refund? Visit Chipotle's website here . You'll need to have the gift card's identifying information.

At LAist, we believe in journalism without censorship and the right of a free press to speak truth to those in power. Our hard-hitting watchdog reporting on local government, climate, and the ongoing housing and homelessness crisis is trustworthy, independent and freely accessible to everyone thanks to the support of readers like you.

But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.

We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.

Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief

Chip in now to fund your local journalism

A row of graphics payment types: Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay and PayPal, and  below a lock with Secure Payment text to the right