Settlement Makes Small Relief Available to Microsoft Users in D.C.

If you purchased Microsoft software or a Microsoft operating system between February 15, 1996 and December 31, 2002, you are likely eligible for a small voucher to use toward the purchase of various computer products. The software or operating system must have been purchased for use in the District, although it could have been purchased anywhere in the country.

The availability of these vouchers are the result of a settlement of a class action lawsuit against Microsoft. The plaintiffs in the suit alleged that Microsoft marketed its software and operating systems in a coercive way, with the result that consumers were given little if any choice in the software they wished to purchase. Although Microsoft has always vigorously denied these accusations, it decided recently to settle the case without admitting any guilt or liability.

The value of the vouchers is generally $5 for purchases of software (such as Microsoft Word, Excel, or Microsoft Office) and $10 for purchases of operating systems (such as Windows 95), whether purchased on their own or as pre-installed on hardware. The vouchers may be used toward the purchase of Microsoft or non-Microsoft computer products, and in some cases, may be redeemed for their cash value. To receive the voucher, claims must be submitted by August 2, 2004. Claim forms and further details on the settlement are available online at http://www.microsoftproductssettlement.com/districtofcolumbia/home.htm. §