In September 2025, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), through its Bureau of Consumer Protection and in cooperation with other law enforcement agencies, distributed millions in refunds to consumers across the United States. These refunds addressed multiple cases involving deceptive practices, personal information misuse, and unfair online services that violated the FTC Act, Section 5 of the FTC Act, and related federal laws.
The refund program was handled by the refund administrator, Rust Consulting, Inc., under federal oversight. Consumers affected by misleading advertising, unlawful subscription traps, and data misuse received compensation through mailed checks and electronic payments, reinforcing the FTC’s ongoing commitment to protecting consumer rights. Such cases often involve violations of consumer protection law, which safeguards individuals from deceptive business practices and ensures accountability for unfair marketing or billing schemes.
Progressive Leasing Refunds
The Federal Trade Commission issued more than $27 million in refunds to customers who had used Progressive Leasing’s rent-to-own plans to purchase high-value items such as furniture, jewelry, and electronics.
Progressive Leasing was accused of deceptive practices that violated Section 5 of the FTC Act, including false claims about “no interest” and “same-as-cash” pricing. Many consumers ended up paying more than expected through misleading payment methods and long-term contracts.
This second wave of payments over 1.2 million refund checks was part of an ongoing refund program supervised by the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. Consumers are advised to cash checks within 90 days and to safeguard their personal information when confirming refund authenticity through the federal government.
Coaching Department Refunds
The FTC sent another series of refunds to individuals misled by the Coaching Department and Apply Knowledge, both accused of violating the Telemarketing Sales Rule.
These companies falsely promised participants they could earn large incomes through coaching services and online services that supposedly taught business development. In reality, victims faced unlawful billing practices, unauthorized charges, and false claims of guaranteed profits.
The most recent round of 8,000 refund checks totaled $252,000, following earlier distributions that reached nearly $29 million. Consumers should report any suspicious communication or identity theft attempts linked to refund claims to law enforcement or the FTC’s Consumer Sentinel Network.
Blueprint to Wealth Settlement
The FTC also provided over $666,000 in refunds to more than 4,200 consumers harmed by Blueprint to Wealth, a fraudulent gig work company that used dark patterns and deceptive marketing to sell costly “done-for-you” business opportunities.
The case was investigated under Section 5 of the FTC Act and the Restore Shoppers Confidence Act, addressing unwanted purchases and false advertising claims. Refunds are to be cashed within 90 days, while PayPal transfers must be accepted within 30 days.
This case exemplifies the FTC’s vigilance against scams that misuse consumer personal information and employ manipulative online interfaces that violate Web Content Accessibility Guidelines and consumer privacy protections.
Progressive Leasing Refunds
The Federal Trade Commission issued over $27 million in refunds. These refunds went to customers who used Progressive Leasing plans. Many customers bought furniture, jewelry, and electronics. However, the company misled them with false claims. It advertised “no interest” and “same-as-cash” pricing. In reality, customers paid much more over time. Therefore, the FTC took action under Section 5 of the FTC Act. This refund wave includes over 1.2 million checks. The FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection is managing the process. Consumers should cash checks within 90 days. They should also verify refund details through official sources.
Coaching Department Refunds
The FTC also sent refunds to affected consumers. These cases involved Coaching Department and Apply Knowledge. Both companies made false income promises. They claimed users could earn high profits through coaching programs. However, users faced unauthorized charges and false billing. Therefore, the FTC enforced the Telemarketing Sales Rule. The latest round includes 8,000 refund checks worth $252,000. Earlier payments reached nearly $29 million. Consumers should report suspicious messages quickly. They should also contact the FTC for support.
Blueprint to Wealth Settlement
The FTC issued over $666,000 in refunds in this case. More than 4,200 consumers received compensation. Blueprint to Wealth promoted fake business opportunities. It used deceptive marketing and dark patterns. As a result, many users made costly purchases. The FTC investigated the case under multiple laws. These include the FTC Act and consumer protection rules. Consumers must cash checks within 90 days. PayPal users must accept payments within 30 days. This case highlights risks in online business scams.
University of Phoenix Settlement
The FTC continued refund distribution in this case. It issued over $432,000 to more than 21,000 students. The university misled students through false claims. It said it partnered with companies like Microsoft and Adobe. However, those claims were not accurate. Therefore, the FTC took action against deceptive advertising. Previous settlements totaled $48.7 million. Students must cash checks within 90 days. They can also accept PayPal refunds within 30 days. This case also links to student debt oversight efforts.
Amazon Prime Settlement
The FTC reached a major settlement with Amazon. The total value reached $1.5 billion. The FTC found that Amazon enrolled users without consent. It also made cancellations difficult. Therefore, the agency accused the company of deceptive practices. Amazon used confusing interfaces and dark patterns. These actions violated consumer protection laws. The company must now change its billing systems. It must also pay a $1 billion penalty. Eligible users will receive refunds automatically. Payments will begin by December 2025. Additional claims will open in 2026.
Broader Consumer Protection Context
These cases show stronger FTC enforcement efforts. The agency is focusing on online safety and data protection. It is also targeting unfair business practices. Recent actions include cases against Epic Games and others. Therefore, the FTC continues to expand its oversight. It encourages consumers to verify refunds through official sites. Users should also monitor bank and credit statements. This helps detect fraud or unauthorized charges early.
FTC and Legal Frameworks
The FTC uses several laws to enforce consumer protection. These include Section 5 of the FTC Act. This law prevents unfair or deceptive practices. The agency also follows the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act. It regulates corporate mergers and acquisitions. In addition, COPPA protects children’s online data. California laws also support fair financial practices. Meanwhile, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau works with state agencies. Together, they ensure compliance and public safety.
About Ted Law
The Ted Law Firm, we stand with consumers who have suffered losses due to deceptive practices, privacy violations, or unfair corporate conduct.We serve families across Aiken, Anderson, Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta and Orangeburg.Whether you’ve been misled by online services, impacted by subscription traps, or affected by unlawful refund programs, we’re here to help.Contact us today for a free consultation
