The RealReal “Junk Fee” Lawsuit
Quick Take
- A proposed class action filed in California challenges a $14.95 “Return Shipping and Processing Fee” applied by luxury reseller The RealReal.
- Plaintiffs say the charge is not shown at checkout, alleging violations of multiple California consumer-protection statutes.
- The case could impact millions of users and reflects broader scrutiny of undisclosed “junk fees.”
Allegations of an Undisclosed Return Fee
According to the complaint, customers first learn of the $14.95 “Return Shipping and Processing Fee” when they attempt to send an item back. The filing claims the fee is absent from the checkout page, rendering it a hidden cost that surfaces only after purchase.
Plaintiff’s Legal Claims
The lawsuit argues that the $14.95 charge exceeds The RealReal’s actual shipping or handling expenses and therefore functions as an additional revenue stream. Plaintiffs cite several California statutes—including the Consumer Legal Remedies Act and the Unfair Competition Law—contending that the undisclosed fee represents deceptive or unlawful conduct.
Potential Class Scope
The RealReal reports having more than 38 million registered users. Should the court grant class certification, any shopper who paid the $14.95 fee could become part of the class, potentially extending participation beyond California residents.
Part of a Broader “Junk Fee” Crackdown
The filing coincides with nationwide efforts—by regulators and private plaintiffs—to address surcharges added late in a transaction or lacking a clear service rationale. Similar lawsuits and policy initiatives have targeted fees in industries such as travel, entertainment, and financial services.
What Happens Next
The court will first decide whether the case satisfies requirements for class certification. It will then evaluate whether the alleged nondisclosure violates California law. The RealReal had not issued a public response at the time of publication.