PFAS Settlement Amounts Per Person
- Last updated: April 17, 2025
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Contributor:
Sarah Miller
- Fact Checked By Our Attorneys
The PFAS settlement amounts per person can range from $75,000 to $500,000, depending on your health and exposure. These payments are designed to support individuals affected by PFAS exposure and contamination. If you’ve suffered health issues due to toxic chemicals in your water, food, or foam, you might be entitled to compensation.
Key Takeaways:
- People with serious health issues may get up to $500,000. Others may get between $75,000 and $300,000.
- A new PFAS settlement approved in April 2024 may pay $10.5 to $12.5 billion for water contamination.
- To get the maximum compensation for PFAS exposure, you need a good lawyer, medical records, and environmental test results.
Find out if you’re eligible and may be eligible for compensation. Get your Free Case Review and Maximize You Payout With the Help From Legal Claim Assistant.
Understanding PFAS Settlements
PFAS chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are synthetic substances found in a wide range of products. They’re designed to repel heat, water, and oil, making them common in items like firefighting foam, non-stick cookware, food packaging, and even protective gear for firefighters. A well-known example is aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), which is specifically used to put out liquid fuel fires. The troubling part? These chemicals linger in both the environment and our bodies for an extended period, which is how they earned the nickname “forever chemicals.”
The contamination from PFAS has been associated with a host of serious health issues, such as kidney and testicular cancer, liver damage, and problems with the immune system. Some individuals may require ongoing medical monitoring and extensive treatment. Research indicates that those who have consumed contaminated drinking water, worked in firefighting, or had direct exposure are at a heightened risk.
As a result, many individuals have participated in PFAS class action lawsuits or filed personal injury claims. These legal actions seek compensation for medical bills, funeral expenses, or lost wages. Victims include firefighters, individuals diagnosed with cancer, and communities grappling with polluted water sources. Notably, several PFAS class action settlements have already been reached, including a significant one in 2024 that exceeded $10 billion.
Do You Meet the PFAS Lawsuit Criteria?
You may qualify if:
- You were exposed to PFAS after 1970
- You or a loved one was diagnosed with:
- Testicular cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Thyroid cancer
- Liver cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Colon cancer
- Ulcerative colitis
- Or another type of cancer
- You or your loved one drank tap water at one of these places:
- A non-military home or community
- A military base or site
If you suspect that PFAS has contributed to your health issues, reaching out to a lawyer can be a wise step. While the legal process might seem daunting, with solid medical documentation, expert guidance, and the right legal representation, you could secure a fair settlement in your PFAS lawsuit.
At Legal Claim Assistant, we assist individuals in joining active PFAS cases and connect them with top PFAS attorneys who work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you only pay if you win.
PFAS Class Action Lawsuit vs Individual Personal Injury Claims Settlements
A PFAS class action lawsuit brings together a group of individuals who share similar health issues—like kidney cancer, immune system problems, or other serious conditions—into one big case. These lawsuits typically target the widespread contamination of PFAS from sources like water suppliers, firefighting foam (AFFF), or firefighting equipment. If the case goes well, everyone in the group gets to share in the final settlement.
On the other hand, an individual PFAS cancer lawsuit or personal injury claim zooms in on your specific situation. It takes into account your medical history, cancer diagnosis, medical bills, and how much PFAS you were exposed to. This route might lead to a bigger payout, especially if you’re dealing with serious health issues, direct exposure, or require extensive medical care.
Deciding which path to take really hinges on your health risks, the way you were exposed to these harmful chemicals, and how strong your legal support is. Whether your exposure came from film-forming foam (AFFF) or contaminated drinking water, understanding your legal options is crucial.
Average PFAS Settlement amounts per person
Most PFAS settlements are structured in tiers that correspond to the individual’s degree of harm and exposure. If you face more significant health risks or have higher medical costs, your settlement could be larger.
Here’s a quick overview of the typical PFAS settlement amounts for each person:
Tier 1 (severe cases like cancer or organ damage) may receive $200,000 to $500,000
Tier 2 (moderate health effects or long exposure) may receive $150,000 to $300,000
Tier 3 (lower health risks or limited exposure) may receive up to $75,000
These settlements could arise from a PFAS class action lawsuit or individual personal injury claims. They take into account your medical records, any medical monitoring, and evidence of exposure to harmful chemicals—whether that’s through drinking water, firefighting gear, or direct contact with AFFF used to put out liquid fuel fires.
The Environmental Protection Agency, along with other health organizations, is actively researching the health effects of widespread PFAS contamination. However, many cases already indicate a serious risk to human health. Victims—particularly firefighters and residents near water sources impacted by PFAS pollution—might be eligible for legal compensation.
Factors Affecting PFAS Lawsuit Settlement Amounts
The amount you could get from a PFAS lawsuit settlement really hinges on a few key factors. First and foremost, the severity of your health issues plays a huge role. If you’re dealing with serious conditions like kidney cancer, testicular cancer, or other major health problems tied to PFAS exposure, you’re likely to see higher payouts. These serious illnesses often come with hefty medical bills and long-term health expenses.
Next up is the duration and intensity of your exposure to PFAS chemicals. Those who have worked with aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) or lived near contaminated water sources are typically at a higher risk. The longer you’ve been exposed, the greater the chances of facing negative health effects, especially for firefighters or individuals near water suppliers impacted by widespread PFAS contamination.
Another important factor is how this exposure has affected your life. If PFAS-related illness has caused you to lose your job or income, or if you can no longer work, you might be entitled to a larger settlement. Additionally, some folks have experienced property damage due to toxic chemicals in their soil or water, which can also bolster their claims.
Finally, the expertise of your lawyer can make a significant difference. Experienced PFAS attorneys know how to craft compelling personal injury cases, linking medical records to serious health conditions and advocating for fair settlements. With strong legal support, your chances of securing a higher compensation increase.
Legal Claim Assistant is here to connect victims with top-notch PFAS attorneys who work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you only pay if you win.
Check here if you are eligible for PFAS compensation:
Companies Linked To PFAS Chemicals
A number of big-name companies have shelled out billions to settle lawsuits tied to PFAS contamination and the health risks posed by toxic substances like aqueous film forming foam (AFFF).
3M has committed to paying a whopping $10.3 billion over the next 13 years to help clean up drinking water supplies across the United States.
Chemours Co., DuPont, and Corteva have come together for a joint settlement totaling $1.185 billion.
Tyco Fire Products, a leading manufacturer of firefighting foam, has agreed to a $750 million settlement.
BASF Corporation is set to pay $312.5 million.
In addition, other significant PFAS class action lawsuits and multi-district litigation (MDL) have resulted in substantial payouts:
DuPont forked over $670.7 million to settle 3,550 lawsuits in Ohio related to health issues from PFAS.
3M, DuPont, Honeywell, and Saint-Gobain collectively paid $65 million to 2,500 residents of Hoosick Falls, New York, addressing property damage and health concerns stemming from PFAS exposure.
Cancers Linked to PFAS Exposure
Recent research has revealed that exposure to PFAS can increase the risk of various cancers. These so-called “forever chemicals” linger in our bodies for years and can lead to serious health issues over time. Those who are particularly vulnerable include firefighters, individuals using AFFF to put out liquid fuel fires, and residents living near contaminated water sources.
In response, some law firms and PFAS attorneys are stepping up to assist victims in filing claims against PFAS manufacturers, especially in cases where individuals are facing severe health challenges and mounting medical bills. As PFAS litigation continues to expand, more types of cancer are being associated with these harmful chemicals, thanks to ongoing research and the documented adverse health effects.
Here are the most common cancers now connected to PFAS contamination:
Thyroid cancer
Kidney cancer
Bladder cancer
Testicular cancer
Prostate cancer
Colon cancer
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with any of these, you may be eligible to file a PFAS lawsuit and hold manufacturers accountable for the health impacts.
What Types of Damages Can I Claim?
If you’ve suffered from PFAS exposure, you might be eligible to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. These damages represent the ways in which these harmful chemicals have impacted your body, health, work, and overall life.
Economic Damages
Economic damages refer to tangible costs that can be backed up with documents like bills or pay stubs. These typically include:
Medical expenses covers a range of medical treatments, including doctor visits, surgeries, hospital stays, chemotherapy, and medications.
If your serious health issues have caused you to miss work, you can claim the wages you lost during that time.
If your health conditions prevent you from returning to work, you may also be able to claim future lost income or a decrease in your earning potential.
In cases of death, families can claim expenses related to burial and memorial services.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages focus on the changes in your life. While these are harder to quantify, they are just as significant. They include:
Physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, and health consequences caused by PFAS exposure.
If serious health issues have taken away your ability to engage in activities you once loved—like sports or family gatherings.
For those who have lost a spouse or loved one due to illnesses related to PFAS.
These damages are relevant for victims of firefighting foam exposure, particularly firefighters affected by PFAS, as well as individuals exposed through contaminated water, soil, or industrial pollution. Lawsuits involving AFFF firefighting foam are becoming more common, as these chemicals were extensively used to put out liquid fuel fires, resulting in significant risks and widespread corporate negligence.
Every case is unique. That’s why it’s crucial to collaborate with experienced PFAS attorneys who understand the profound effects on the human body and can link your situation to other ongoing PFAS lawsuits.
When Will Defendants Pay PFAS Lawsuit Settlements?
A lot of folks dealing with health issues linked to PFAS are wondering the same thing: When can they expect to see that settlement money? Well, it really depends on a few factors, like the type of case, how things are moving through the court system, and which companies are involved.
In recent years, we’ve learned about the serious health risks faced by those exposed to AFFF firefighting foam, particularly firefighters who used it to put out liquid fuel fires. As more victims come forward with serious health problems, like kidney cancer or ulcerative colitis, the pressure is mounting on both companies and the courts to take action.
Some PFAS lawsuits have already reached settlement agreements. For instance, several water providers affected by contamination have managed to secure multi-billion dollar settlements. These funds are being rolled out gradually, and individuals might start seeing payments once all claims have been reviewed and approved.
For those filing individual claims—especially if they’re undergoing extensive medical treatment—payouts could take a bit longer. However, settlements are anticipated to start coming in phases between late 2024 and 2025, depending on the type of case and the court’s timeline.
How to Get the Most Out of Your PFAS Settlement
If you want to secure the best possible compensation from your PFAS lawsuit, having solid evidence and skilled legal support is crucial. Many individuals suffering from serious health issues due to PFAS exposure are already stepping forward to file claims, but those who come prepared tend to walk away with the largest settlements.
The very first thing you should do is find a law firm that focuses on PFAS cases. Seasoned attorneys understand the ins and outs of the legal process, can link your health issues to the recognized risks, and navigate the complicated science surrounding PFAS chemicals.
After that, it’s time to gather comprehensive evidence. This should include:
Medical records that detail your health issues, diagnoses, and treatments
Environmental tests that confirm your exposure
Documents that connect your illness to other PFAS lawsuits or contamination sites
Don’t forget to explain how your condition impacts your everyday life. This information is vital in illustrating the long-term health effects—not just the initial diagnosis. Individuals with other serious health conditions linked to PFAS, such as cancer or immune disorders, might find themselves in higher settlement brackets.
Steps to File a PFAS Claim
If you or a loved one is facing serious health problems from PFAS exposure, filing a claim can help you receive compensation for medical expenses, pain, and lost income. Here’s exactly what to do:
1. Check If You’re Eligible
Have you been exposed to PFAS chemicals through firefighting foam (AFFF), contaminated drinking water, or polluted soil? Many firefighters, veterans, and people living near water providers with PFAS contamination may qualify. If you’ve been diagnosed with a severe health condition like kidney cancer, thyroid issues, or immune system damage, you may have a case.
2. Gather Your Medical Records and Proof of Exposure
Strong PFAS litigation begins with clear proof. You’ll need:
Medical records showing your diagnosis and extensive medical treatment
Proof of AFFF exposure, especially if you worked with firefighting gear or helped extinguish liquid fuel fires
Information about your location and how you were exposed — through drinking water, firefighting foam, or other forever chemicals
3. Speak With an Experienced PFAS Lawyer
A skilled law firm can help you understand the legal process and how to claim the highest possible PFAS lawsuit settlement. A good lawyer will:
Review your documents
Explain your legal rights
File your claim before deadlines (statute of limitations)
4. File Your PFAS Claim
Once your evidence is reviewed, your attorney will officially file your claim. This may be part of a class action, an AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit, or an individual personal injury case. Every situation is unique, and your lawyer will guide you through every step.
5. Stay Informed While the Case Progresses
Some PFAS cases are being settled now. Others may take more time. While your claim is active, your lawyer may ask for updates, new medical documentation, or additional details about your exposure.
Ready to Start?
If you’ve been harmed by PFAS pollution, don’t wait. The sooner you file, the better your chances of receiving a fair settlement. At Legal Claim Assistant, we help victims of PFAS exposure firefighters, residents near water providers, and others facing health impacts connect with top-rated PFAS lawyers working on a contingency fee basis — so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About PFAS Lawsuits and Settlements
Applying for a claim can be pretty stressful, especially if you’re not sure what to do. We’ll connect you with the best lawyers to help you get the most out of your settlement. To help you out even more, here are some common questions that might pop up.
Law firm Napoli Shkolnik is actively handling PFAS cases, but a final payout date has not yet been announced. Like other large PFAS lawsuits, settlement timing depends on the court’s schedule, claim reviews, and eligibility checks. Individual payouts may begin in late 2024 or 2025, depending on claim complexity and exposure level.
In April 2024, 3M agreed to a $10.3 billion settlement to support water providers affected by PFAS contamination. These funds will be distributed over 13 years and are part of one of the largest PFAS agreements to date. Payouts to individual claimants will depend on eligibility and the type of claim filed.
Currently, there is no official PFAS settlement calculator. However, average settlement amounts depend on health severity, length of exposure, and medical documentation.
Tier 1: $200,000–$500,000 (severe illness like cancer)
Tier 2: $150,000–$300,000 (moderate health effects)
Tier 3: Up to $75,000 (low exposure or mild symptoms)
An attorney can help estimate your potential payout based on your specific case.
Yes, you may qualify for a claim even after a diagnosis. Many PFAS-related health issues, such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, or immune system disorders, take years to develop. The statute of limitations usually starts from the moment you first learned of your illness and its possible connection to PFAS exposure.
Several companies have reached large PFAS settlements:
BASF: Settled for $312.5 million
Chemours, DuPont, and Corteva: Paid $1.185 billion jointly
Tyco Fire Products: Reached a $750 million agreement
Wolverine Worldwide: Agreed to $54 million for water contamination in Michigan
These cases are part of broader multi-district PFAS litigation involving polluted water and firefighting foam.
Yes. The PFAS MDL (multi-district litigation) includes thousands of claims against companies like 3M, DuPont, and Chemours. These MDL cases allow similar lawsuits to be grouped together. Many have led to settlements, and more are expected as trials continue through 2024 and 2025.
A PFAS lawsuit can take several months to years. Group claims or class actions may settle faster, while individual personal injury cases can take longer due to medical reviews and case complexity. On average, settlements may be paid 12–24 months after the claim is approved.
In one major case, DuPont paid $670.7 million to settle 3,550 lawsuits in Ohio. That averages about $189,000 per person, but amounts varied by health condition, exposure level, and supporting medical evidence.
What are the criteria to file a PFAS lawsuit?
You may qualify if:
You were exposed to PFAS after 1970
You drank contaminated tap water or used firefighting foam
You were diagnosed with a condition like kidney cancer, testicular cancer, bladder cancer, or thyroid disease
You can provide medical records and proof of exposure
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently set a strict limit of 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and PFOS, two of the most harmful PFAS chemicals, in drinking water. Exceeding this limit may increase health risks, and could support a legal claim if exposure is proven.
Yes, veterans may be eligible for VA claims if their PFAS exposure happened during military service—especially if they worked with AFFF firefighting foam or were stationed at a contaminated military base. Benefits depend on your diagnosis and proof of exposure.
Speak to your doctor about blood testing for PFAS. While tests can’t show the exact amount of chemicals in your body over time, they may confirm PFAS exposure. Combine this with your medical records and exposure history to support a legal claim.
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