:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/shutterstock_523483492-mcdonalds-5988b1ffc412440010f2d0b9.jpg "UTB Goldenband McDonald’s Meal Breaks Class Action Settlement Claims and Payouts")
Former McDonald’s hourly workers at UTB/Golenband locations with unpaid short meal breaks (Mar 8, 2014 – present) may claim up to $872.49 from a $3.55M settlement.
The UTB Goldenband McDonald’s Meal Breaks Class Action Settlement resolves wage-and-hour claims in South et al. v. Armstrong et al. against UTB Enterprises, LLC, Goldenband, LLC, Donald D. Armstrong, and Lori Armstrong — franchise owners/operators of McDonald’s restaurants in Oregon. Plaintiffs alleged that the defendants violated Oregon labor laws by failing to pay hourly employees for meal periods under 30 minutes during shifts of six hours or more. The defendants deny wrongdoing but agreed to settle to avoid further litigation.
This settlement is important for hourly workers and individuals searching for class action settlement payouts, meal break compensation, claim deadline, eligibility requirements, and how to file a claim after unpaid work periods at franchise restaurants.
Under the settlement terms, the parties agreed to contribute up to $3,550,000 to a settlement fund. All class members are entitled to a guaranteed payment of approximately $31.14 if they do nothing. Those who submit a valid claim and qualify may receive an extra payment based on the number of weeks they worked with unpaid short break periods, up to $872.49. Payments depend on employment dates and number of eligible workweeks.
While waiting for settlement benefits, many consumers strengthen their personal financial protection.
Who qualifies for this settlement?
Workers who were employed as hourly employees at McDonald’s franchises operated by UTB Enterprises, Goldenband, Donald D. Armstrong, or Lori Armstrong after March 8, 2014, and who had unpaid meal periods under 30 minutes during shifts, may qualify.
Do I need proof to file a claim?
Yes — claimants generally need to provide employment information, including dates and location where they worked, to verify eligibility for additional payments beyond the guaranteed amount.
How much money will I receive?
If you submit a valid claim and qualify, you may receive up to $872.49 based on eligible workweeks. If you do nothing, you’ll receive the guaranteed payment (~$31.14).
How will I get paid?
Payments are typically mailed by check to the address provided on the claim form after the settlement is approved and claims are processed.
What happens if I do nothing?
If you do nothing, you will still receive the guaranteed payment but will not be eligible for extra claimable money. You also release your rights to sue over the wage issues covered by this settlement
You are eligible if:
• You worked as an hourly employee at a McDonald’s franchise location operated by UTB Enterprises, Goldenband, Donald D. Armstrong, or Lori Armstrong.
• You worked after March 8, 2014.
• You had one or more meal periods under 30 minutes during shifts of six hours or more that were not paid.
• You submit a valid claim form by the deadline.
Excluded are government entities, defendants’ officers/agents, and individuals who timely opt out.
• Total Settlement Fund: Up to $3,550,000 contributed by defendants.
• Pro-Rata Explanation: If claims exceed funds, payouts adjust proportionally based on eligible workweeks.
• Cash Payments Only: No non-cash benefits.
• Payments are mailed by check after claims processing.
$30 - $850
March 8, 2026
50 days left
3.5 million
By clicking "Submit Claim Now", you will be directed to the official settlement website to file your claim directly with the settlement administrator.